Finance

Intel Corporation recorded its best single-day performance since 1987, with shares soaring nearly 24% after a blowout profit report that surpassed analyst expectations. This breakout quarter not only boosted Intel's own market value but also ignited a broader rally across the semiconductor industry, which marked an 18-day winning streak.

U.S. Treasury yields held steady near 4.3% as market participants weighed ongoing tensions in the Middle East against hopes for renewed diplomatic talks between the U.S. and Iran. The path for Federal Reserve leadership also appeared to clear as the Justice Department ended a probe into the current chair, potentially easing some political uncertainty surrounding future interest rate policy.

In the cryptocurrency market, Bitcoin remained resilient above $77,000 as investors awaited the outcome of high-stakes weekend talks involving U.S. and Iranian officials. Despite recent hacker attacks on decentralized finance platforms that drained an estimated $290 million, broader institutional interest in tokenization continues to support long-term market sentiment.

The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index dropped to a record low in April 2026 as high energy costs and international conflict weighed heavily on public outlook. Manufacturers are also reporting increased supply-side stress from tariffs and fuel prices, leading to the highest cost pressure readings seen in nearly four years.