Finance

U.S. Treasury yields remained largely steady at the end of the week, with the 10-year note holding near 4.31% and the 30-year yield finishing at 4.91%. Investors are closely monitoring the ongoing naval blockade and tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, which continue to influence bond market sentiment. Despite robust domestic retail data, the yield curve has remained relatively flat as traders await further clarity on Federal Reserve interest rate policy.

The cryptocurrency market showed notable strength as Bitcoin surged toward the $79,000 mark, driven by sustained spot ETF inflows and eased geopolitical concerns. Analysts are watching the $80,000 level as a critical resistance zone for the next potential leg higher. Meanwhile, Ethereum held firm above $2,300, benefiting from renewed interest in decentralized finance and blockchain applications.

Heading into the peak of the first-quarter earnings season, Nvidia remains the primary driver of growth for the 'Magnificent 7' group and the broader S&P 500. Projections indicate that without Nvidia's contribution, the earnings growth for major tech leaders would drop significantly below the broader market average. Investors are now focused on upcoming reports from Microsoft and other hyperscalers to verify if heavy AI infrastructure spending is translating into commercial traction.

Gold prices traded in a range near $4,714 per ounce as persistent inflationary pressures and fiscal deficits provided a floor for precious metals. Crude oil prices dipped slightly to approximately $94.40 per barrel on April 24, reflecting structural demand weakness despite the risk of supply disruptions. Market participants remain sensitive to developments in U.S.-Iran relations, which could cause immediate volatility in energy costs.