Finance

While broader markets faltered, energy stocks saw gains driven by a surge in oil prices due to supply concerns in the Persian Gulf. Brent crude moved above the $110 mark, providing a boost to major producers like Exxon Mobil and Chevron even as high energy costs fueled fears of global inflation.

The tech-focused Nasdaq Composite sank 2.15% on Friday, extending its retreat into correction territory as investors questioned high expenditures in artificial intelligence. Major firms including Nvidia, Meta, and Amazon faced heavy selling pressure, with some megacaps dropping as much as 4% in a single session.

In late March 2026, the Federal Reserve opted to hold interest rates steady within the 3.5% to 3.75% range but lowered expectations for future cuts. Mounting inflation pressures and high crude prices have led market participants to now price in a 52% probability of a rate hike before the year's end.

Digital assets have entered what analysts describe as a macro-dominated capitulation phase, with Bitcoin struggling to maintain support levels above $70,000. The broader crypto market cap has contracted significantly from its 2025 peaks as institutional sentiment shifts toward extreme fear following hawkish central bank signals.

The 10-year Treasury yield reached its highest level since mid-2025, reflecting growing investor anxiety over persistent inflation and slowing growth. This upward movement in yields has placed additional pressure on equity valuations and raised the cost of borrowing across the U.S. economy.