On April 14, 2026, U.S. stock indices saw significant gains: the S&P 500 Index rose by 0.87%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average increased by 1.33%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index climbed by 0.86%. These upticks mark new all-time highs for the S&P 500 and Nasdaq, with the Dow reaching a seven-week high. The rally was influenced by speculation surrounding a potential peace agreement between the U.S. and Iran, which could entail the U.S. releasing $20 billion in frozen Iranian assets in exchange for Iran curtailing its enriched uranium stockpile.
Crude oil prices plummeted by over 10% after Iran announced the Strait of Hormuz is now fully open for commercial shipping, easing inflation concerns and contributing to a decrease in the 10-year T-note yield, which fell by 6 basis points to 4.25%. The ongoing talks between the U.S. and Iran are set to continue in Pakistan on Sunday, following President Trump’s remarks indicating Iran’s concessions in negotiations to end the seven-week war.
European equities also performed well, with the Euro Stoxx 50 rising by 2.01%. Meanwhile, Q1 earnings for the S&P 500 are projected to rise by 12% year-over-year, although excluding the tech sector, earnings are expected to increase by just 3%, the lowest growth rate in two years.
