Latest Business News
U.S. stocks extend record run as Dell surges on AI demand
U.S. equities opened higher, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq extending a record-setting rally as strong earnings and AI optimism outweighed inflation worries and conflict-related risks. Dell jumped about 33% after reporting better-than-expected profits and lifting its outlook on strong demand for AI servers.
Brent crude eases as ceasefire hopes cool energy-market pressure
Brent crude fell 1.8% to about $92.10 a barrel, while U.S. benchmark crude also declined as reports suggested the U.S. and Iran were working toward extending the ceasefire arrangement. The move helped ease some inflation concerns after recent volatility tied to the conflict and shipping disruptions.
War-driven inflation continues to pressure incomes and consumer spending
Bloomberg reported that U.S. consumer spending edged up only modestly in April as inflation tied to the war sapped incomes and pushed the saving rate to an almost four-year low. The report highlights how higher costs are weighing on household budgets even as the broader economy keeps expanding.
Tariff reinstatement adds fresh uncertainty to global trade
A court decision reinstating tariffs under President Trump is creating new waves of market uncertainty, according to a business report on the decision’s immediate impact. The development raises the risk of higher import costs and renewed volatility for companies exposed to global supply chains.
Micron shares rise after analyst lifts price target to Street high
Micron Technology advanced after Susquehanna raised its price target sharply, calling for much stronger upside than before. The move reflects growing bullishness around memory-chip demand, with AI infrastructure continuing to support semiconductor sentiment.
Gap plunges after lowering sales outlook
Gap shares fell sharply after the retailer cut its sales outlook, signaling weaker near-term demand and ongoing merchandising challenges. The company has been struggling with its product mix as it tries to win back shoppers.
Gold hits fresh highs as investors seek safety
Gold rose to around $4,556 an ounce, gaining about 1.4% in the session as investors continued to favor defensive assets. The move reflects persistent demand for safe havens amid geopolitical tension, inflation concerns, and market volatility.
Treasury yields stay steady as lower oil prices ease inflation fears
The 10-year U.S. Treasury yield held near 4.45% after oil prices retreated, reducing some immediate pressure on inflation expectations. Traders appeared to balance easing energy costs against broader uncertainty from war, tariffs, and strong equity markets.
European airline stocks move higher on improving sentiment
EasyJet shares rose more than 7% intraday in London before easing back, indicating stronger investor appetite for travel names. The move came amid a broader rebound in risk assets as energy prices softened and market stress moderated.
Markets close May near highs despite recession concerns
Major U.S. indexes were positioned to finish May with solid gains, even as investors worried about inflation and the economic fallout from the Iran conflict. Broader confidence remains fragile, with some analysts and banks still assigning material recession risk for next year.