On April 22, 2026, U.S. stock indexes experienced positive movement, with the S&P 500 up 0.65%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average up 0.70%, and the Nasdaq 100 rising 0.79%. Notably, the Nasdaq 100 reached a new record high driven by strong corporate earnings from companies like GE Vernova, Boeing, and Masco, which all exceeded Q1 revenue estimates. U.S. MBA mortgage applications also rose by 7.9% for the week ending April 17, reflecting increased purchasing and refinancing activity.
In geopolitical news, President Trump announced the indefinite extension of a ceasefire with Iran, affecting global markets and crude oil prices, which remain volatile due to tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. The situation was further complicated by Iran’s seizure of two ships in the area, which could threaten about 20% of the world’s oil transit through the strait.
Internationally, European markets were mixed, with the Euro Stoxx 50 declining by 0.09% while Japan’s Nikkei index closed at an all-time high, up 0.40%. Additionally, Germany’s government has revised its 2026 GDP forecast down to 0.5% amid concerns over the economic effects of the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict.
