The U.S. stock market experienced a significant rise on Friday, reaching new record highs, bolstered by a robust report on the job market that exceeded economists’ expectations. The S&P 500 climbed 0.8%, achieving an all-time high, partly due to a report showing U.S. employers added 115,000 more jobs than they cut in the previous month. This upturn in hiring, although slightly slower than March’s figures, nearly doubled economists’ projections. Meanwhile, the Dow Jones Industrial Average inched up by 12 points, less than 0.1%, while the Nasdaq Composite surged 1.7% to set its own record.
The market’s upward trajectory since late March has been fueled by optimism that the ongoing conflict with Iran may not severely impact the global economy. Investors are hopeful that the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for oil tankers, will be re-established for trade. Nevertheless, recent hostilities, including U.S. forces disabling two Iranian oil tankers, have thrown doubt on the stability of a month-old ceasefire purportedly still in effect.
The price for a barrel of Brent crude oil rose by 1.2%, closing at $101.29, a stark contrast to the higher prices seen during the conflict, which peaked above $119. These current price levels remain significantly elevated compared to the approximately $70 mark noted in late February before hostilities began, contributing to ongoing economic uncertainty.
Corporate earnings have also played an influential role in the market’s performance, with many firms reporting strong profits for the first quarter of 2026. Notably, Monster Beverage’s stock soared by 13.6% after exceeding analysts’ expectations for profit and revenue. The company’s growth was particularly strong in international markets, which accounted for about 45% of its total net sales—the highest proportion recorded to date.
In the global arena, South Korea’s Kospi index also achieved a new all-time high, reflecting a broader trend of market resilience. On the bond market front, Treasury yields moderated, with the yield on the 10-year Treasury note falling to 4.36%, down from 4.41% noted late Thursday, and well below highs seen earlier in the week. This decline in yields could potentially lower borrowing costs for mortgages and other loans, providing a boost to economic activity.
Despite this positive news, consumer sentiment in the U.S. remains cautious. A preliminary University of Michigan report indicated that consumer confidence is hovering near its lowest levels since 2022, with concerns primarily stemming from high gasoline prices and trade tariffs. However, expectations for inflation have slightly softened, providing a nuanced outlook amid the prevailing economic challenges.
The mixed signals from consumer sentiment and ongoing geopolitical tensions are poised to continue influencing market dynamics in the near future.
