Finance

Elevance Health and UnitedHealth reported first-quarter results that surpassed analyst expectations, with both companies raising their full-year guidance. In the industrial sector, Wabtec Corporation posted double-digit sales and earnings growth, while the market maintains a close watch on high-profile upcoming reports from firms like Tesla and Boeing.

The 10-year U.S. Treasury yield held steady near 4.3% after rising in previous sessions due to stronger-than-expected retail sales data and persistent inflation concerns. Markets are also weighing comments from Fed Chair nominee Kevin Warsh, whose pledge to maintain central bank independence and focus on reforms was interpreted by some investors as a more hawkish stance than anticipated.

Cryptocurrency markets have responded positively to the reduction in international tensions, with Bitcoin climbing as high as $78,378, its highest level in nearly three months. Despite this surge, analysts note a period of short-term indecision as the asset tests critical resistance levels while institutional interest in digital assets continues to mature.

Oil prices declined on Wednesday morning, with Brent crude falling below the $98 mark as the extension of the Iran ceasefire reduced the immediate threat to global energy supplies. While the cooling of conflict has deflated the risk premium associated with the Strait of Hormuz, prices remain elevated compared to pre-war levels, keeping inflation a primary concern for global central banks.

New business activity in the U.S. saw a significant rebound in March 2026, with over 580,000 new formations recorded nationwide. This represented a 10% increase from the previous month and a similar gain year-over-year, suggesting growing entrepreneurial confidence despite broader macroeconomic uncertainties.