War in the Middle East shifted focus to oil prices and could trigger volatility and a flight to perceived safety. Trading might be turbulent until ramifications grow clearer.
Crude oil futures (/CLJ26) finished the week on a high note with prices touching their highest levels since early August amid reports that U.S.-Iranian nuclear talks have been disappointing.
War in the Middle East sent major indexes down 1% early Monday, and crude oil surged 7%. Volatility rose and could lead to choppiness, but markets didn't exhibit signs of panic.
Inflation appears a lingering issue after the Producer Price Index for December showed wholesale prices rose 0.5%, above expectations, suggesting the next PCE report might be hot.
Nvidia's results, and to a lesser extent earnings from Salesforce, are the main focus this morning after a tech-led rally to two-week highs yesterday. PPI looms early Friday.
Nvidia results after the close dominate the news cycle barring outside events. Salesforce also reports this afternoon following a revival for software stocks in yesterday's rally.
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