On April 21, 2026, the S&P 500 Index and the Dow Jones Industrial Average each fell by 0.13%, while the Nasdaq 100 Index saw a slight increase of 0.02%. The mixed performance followed a rebound in WTI crude oil prices, which rose over 2%, amid uncertainty surrounding Iran’s participation in peace talks before a ceasefire deadline on Wednesday.
Key economic indicators released today included a 1.7% rise in March retail sales, exceeding expectations of 1.4%, marking the largest increase in a year. Additionally, pending home sales rose by 1.5%, surpassing the 0.5% forecast. This positive economic outlook contributed to stock market movements, with notable gains from UnitedHealth Group, which reported a Q1 adjusted EPS of $9.23, significantly beating expectations.
In other news, Kevin Warsh’s confirmation hearing for the new Fed Chair is set today, facing scrutiny from Senator Thom Tillis. On the geopolitical front, U.S. military preparations to board Iran-linked tankers could heighten tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil supply.
