Wall Street capped the first quarter of 2026 with one of its strongest sessions in months. The Dow Jones Industrial Average surged more than 1,100 points, or roughly 2.5%, while the S&P 500 climbed nearly 3% and the Nasdaq Composite jumped almost 4%. Gains were broad, with energy and financial names leading as investors bet on progress toward ending the U.S.-Iran conflict and lower oil prices.
April opens with fresh optimism — earnings season in focus
After Tuesday’s big rebound, attention shifts to the new month. Analysts at CFRA say April could bring a favorable countertrend move for stocks, powered by upcoming corporate earnings that many expect to beat lowered forecasts. Traders are also watching any updates on tariffs and the broader geopolitical picture as markets digest the Q1 rally.
Oil pulls back, VIX eases after wild quarter
Crude prices eased from recent highs on hopes the Strait of Hormuz situation normalizes in coming weeks. The VIX, Wall Street’s fear gauge, also moderated from elevated levels, signaling some calm returning after weeks of volatility tied to the Middle East conflict.
What traders are eyeing right now
Futures were pointing to a steady open following the Q1 fireworks, with focus on any overnight headlines from Washington on tariffs or Iran talks. No major U.S. economic data drops today, so corporate news and global developments will set the tone through the session. Markets remain sensitive to oil moves and any fresh comments from the Trump administration.
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