Equities
U.S. equity markets opened higher on Wednesday, driven by stronger-than-expected earnings from major technology names. The S&P 500 gained 0.4% as investors shrugged off mixed economic data and focused on corporate profit strength. The Nasdaq Composite added 0.3%, led by semiconductor and software stocks. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.2%, supported by healthcare and consumer staples sectors.
Fixed Income
Treasury yields edged higher as investors digested the Federal Reserve’s latest meeting minutes. The 10-year yield climbed 2 basis points to 4.52%, reflecting expectations that the Fed will maintain its patient approach to rate cuts. Corporate bond spreads remained stable, indicating healthy risk appetite in credit markets.
Energy
Oil prices advanced amid OPEC+ supply discipline and signs of improving global demand. WTI crude rose 0.6% to $78.43 per barrel, while Brent crude held steady near $82. Natural gas prices dipped on smaller-than-expected inventory draws. Energy stocks in the S&P 500 outperformed, with the sector adding 0.8%.
Currencies
The U.S. dollar weakened against most major currencies, with USD/JPY falling 0.1% to 151.82 as traders assessed the Fed’s cautious stance. The euro held steady against the dollar after ECB official comments reaffirmed the central bank’s commitment to fighting inflation. The British pound edged higher following strong UK employment data.
