Finance

Intel shares rose significantly in extended trading following better-than-expected first-quarter earnings and a strong outlook. The semiconductor industry remains a dominant force in the current market, with the iShares Semiconductor ETF recording its 17th consecutive day of gains.

Bitcoin remained resilient near the $78,000 level, while Ethereum experienced a pull-back due to short-term profit-taking. Traders are preparing for high volatility today as over $10 billion in cryptocurrency options for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana are set to expire.

Energy markets saw renewed pressure as Brent crude briefly jumped above $107 per barrel due to ongoing security concerns in the Strait of Hormuz. Despite some dips in previous sessions, oil prices remain elevated, driving mixed performance across the energy sector and contributing to sticky core inflation data.

A sharp 11% decline in consumer sentiment this month reflects widespread public concern over the impact of geopolitical conflicts on gas prices and asset values. Market participants are closely monitoring retail sales data for signs of whether consumer spending can maintain momentum under persistent inflationary pressure.

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission is expected to formally seek public comment on a proposal to move from mandatory quarterly to half-year financial reporting. Although backed by the current administration to reduce short-termism, many analysts believe most firms will maintain quarterly reporting to avoid hurting their valuations.