Finance

U.S. oil prices retreated toward $94 per barrel as investors reacted to potential breakthroughs in diplomatic talks between the U.S. and Iran. Despite the recent pullback, regional gasoline prices remained near seasonal highs, and supply disruptions in the Middle East continue to drive long-term price concerns for commodities like coal and natural gas.

Bond yields edged lower on Friday after the Justice Department announced it was closing its criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. The 10-year Treasury yield settled around 4.31%, reflecting a slight easing of the recent upward pressure caused by persistent inflation risks and the ongoing blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.

The cryptocurrency market capitalization consolidated at approximately $3.5 trillion as Bitcoin remained resilient around the $77,700 level. Traders are closely monitoring the digital asset's performance against an $80,000 resistance barrier, with the weekend's diplomatic efforts in Pakistan serving as a primary catalyst for risk sentiment.

New government data released following the April deadline indicates that federal tax refunds are up 17% compared to last year, totaling $296 billion so far in 2026. The average refund has increased to $3,275, primarily due to recent tax law changes that expanded deductions for overtime and senior citizens.