U.S. Stocks Extend Winning Streak While Markets React to Trade and Oil Shifts

Wall Street Surges as Jobs Data Beats Expectations

U.S. equities are on a historic tear, with the S&P 500 closing higher for a ninth consecutive session — a feat not seen since 2004. Investor confidence soared following a stronger-than-expected U.S. jobs report, which showed 177,000 new positions added in April. This figure outpaced analyst expectations and reassured markets that the economy remains resilient despite geopolitical pressures and recent tariff threats from the Trump administration.

This rally was further supported by optimism around corporate earnings, particularly in technology and industrial sectors, which outperformed as trade tensions showed signs of easing. Investors have largely shrugged off tariff risks, betting on continued growth momentum. Federal Reserve officials, meanwhile, are expected to hold interest rates steady at 4.25%–4.5%, attempting to balance strong employment figures with persistent inflationary concerns.

Oil prices, however, took a hit. West Texas Intermediate crude dropped to $56 a barrel, marking the largest monthly decline since November 2021. OPEC+’s decision to raise output quotas and concerns over Chinese demand have contributed to the sell-off. For more detailed insight, MarketWatch breaks down the energy sector’s reaction.

Adding to market drama, Warren Buffett announced he will step down as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway at the end of 2025, with Greg Abel named as his successor. The leadership transition has been long anticipated and did not rattle investors, thanks to Buffett’s consistent succession planning.

Asia and Europe Trade Cautiously Amid Volatility

International markets had a mixed reaction. In India, the BSE Sensex climbed 260 points as traders bet on local growth and strong domestic earnings. Investors in Asia appear to be cautiously optimistic despite global uncertainties. Meanwhile, in Europe, sentiment remains subdued due to fears over prolonged trade conflicts and fluctuating energy prices.

Safe-haven demand returned in some parts of the world. Gold prices in India bounced back, with rates hovering around ₹92,629 per 10 grams as investors sought protection from market turbulence and currency fluctuations. Silver also saw a boost in pricing. Zee Business offers a full breakdown of recent precious metals movement.

While some global indices recovered April losses, others remain flat as markets digest ongoing U.S. policy shifts and earnings season outcomes. Overall, global sentiment appears cautious but stable, awaiting further direction from central banks and geopolitical developments.

In the short term, all eyes remain on the Federal Reserve’s upcoming meeting and whether inflation data will lead to a shift in monetary policy tone. As U.S. leadership changes and global supply dynamics evolve, volatility may continue to define market behavior in the weeks ahead.