Global Markets Weekly Update
Date: April 10, 2026
Market Sentiment Improves Amid U.S.-Iran Ceasefire Agreement
U.S. stock indexes recorded solid gains for the second consecutive week, driven by a ceasefire agreement between the U.S. and Iran, which alleviated geopolitical tensions and led to a drop in oil prices. The Nasdaq Composite led the way with a 4.68% gain, while the S&P 500 saw positive returns across most sectors, except for energy.
Economic Indicators
The consumer price index (CPI) rose 3.3% year-over-year in March, primarily due to rising gasoline prices. Core CPI increased modestly to 2.6%. Meanwhile, GDP growth for Q4 2025 was revised down to 0.5% from 0.7% due to lower investment levels.
Sector Performance
| Index | Friday's Close | Week's Change | % Change YTD |
|---|---|---|---|
| DJIA | 47,916.57 | 1,411.90 | -0.31% |
| S&P 500 | 6,816.89 | 234.20 | -0.42% |
| Nasdaq Composite | 22,902.90 | 1,023.71 | -1.46% |
| S&P MidCap 400 | 3,522.63 | 114.47 | 6.58% |
| Russell 2000 | 2,630.59 | 100.54 | 5.99% |
Regional Updates
Europe
The STOXX Europe 600 Index rose 3.05% as markets reacted positively to the ceasefire. However, the EU warned of potential cuts to growth forecasts due to rising inflation and low growth.
Japan
The Nikkei 225 Index surged 7.15% amid relief from the ceasefire. However, concerns about energy supply disruptions remain, and inflation pressures are evident in producer prices.
China
Chinese markets also saw gains, with the CSI 300 Index up 4.41%. Producer prices turned positive for the first time in over three years, indicating rising cost pressures.
Conclusion
Overall, the market sentiment has shifted towards a "risk-on" environment following the ceasefire agreement, although caution remains due to ongoing geopolitical risks and economic uncertainties.