Finance

Intel Corporation experienced its best trading day since 1987, with shares soaring over 23% after reporting first-quarter results that significantly exceeded analyst expectations. The company's performance reignited leadership in the chip sector and helped pull competitors like AMD and Nvidia higher.

Policymakers have held the federal funds rate stable at a target range of 3.5% to 3.75%, emphasizing a data-dependent approach due to persistent inflation and energy price volatility. Current market expectations for interest rate cuts in 2026 have been reduced, with most analysts now anticipating a maximum of one reduction by year-end.

Digital assets ended the week on firmer ground as Bitcoin traded near $78,100, supported by sustained institutional inflows. While Bitcoin maintains high dominance at over 58%, altcoins like Ethereum and Solana showed resilience despite broader regulatory uncertainty regarding US crypto frameworks.

Ongoing conflict involving Iran and disruptions near the Strait of Hormuz have kept oil prices volatile, though major stock indexes have recently shrugged off these concerns. Market participants remain cautious as any sudden escalation could trigger a safe-haven surge in gold, which is currently testing major resistance levels.

The industrial sector has demonstrated a 12.4% return over the past six months, significantly outperforming the broader S&P 500 during that period. However, the Dow Jones Industrial Average lagged other major indexes on April 24, closing slightly lower as cyclical and blue-chip stocks faced renewed pressure.