US Stock Market LIVE Updates: S&P 500 flat but stays on track for weekly gains; Dow falls 253 points

HomeMarket NewsUS Stock Market LIVE Updates: S&P 500 flat but stays on track for weekly gains; Dow falls 253 points

US Stock Market LIVE Updates: US stocks opened Friday’s session higher after March inflation data largely met expectations, even as energy prices surged sharply. Investors are also watching if upcoming weekend talks can bring more clarity to the fragile Iran ceasefire.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose about 0.3%, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite also gained around 0.3% each at the open.

Data released by the Labour Department showed consumer prices rose 0.9% month-on-month in March, while annual inflation stood at 3.3%. Economists had expected a 3.4% yearly rise and a similar monthly increase.

The spike in inflation was largely driven by energy costs. The gasoline index alone jumped 21.2%, accounting for nearly three-fourths of the monthly increase. It also marked the sharpest rise in the series since 1967, highlighting how disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz are feeding into prices.

More data, including durable goods orders and consumer sentiment, is expected later, which could offer cues on how the economy is holding up.

Part of the support has come from easing geopolitical worries. US President Donald Trump has paused military action against Iran for two weeks, giving room for negotiations. But the situation is far from settled. Iran has flagged continued Israeli activity in Lebanon, while Israel has said there is no formal ceasefire in place. Talks over the weekend are expected to offer more clarity.

Oil prices have cooled from recent highs but are still elevated. Both Brent and WTI crude are holding below the $100 per barrel mark, as uncertainty around the Strait of Hormuz continues to linger.