Story perspectives

S&P Hits Record as Earnings Surge, Oil Prices Rise

4/24/2026

Summary

S&P 500 Soars

The S&P 500 closed at a record 7,137.90 on Wednesday.
15% of S&P 500 firms reported Q1, with 80% beating estimates and earnings 14% higher YoY.
Analysts forecast 20% profit growth for the S&P 500 in Q2, citing strong earnings and AI demand.
Brent crude settled at $105.07 for June and $99.35 for July.
Strait of Hormuz closed after Iran seized two ships and a U.S. Navy blockade.

Summary

UK Equities Rise

UK equities’ cash returns are projected to reach about £130 billion in 2026, above the BoE base rate and the 10-year gilt yield.
The market shows breadth across HALO sectors and asset-light software.
Russ Mould said one-fifth of FTSE All-Share cap and earnings come from miners/oil and another fifth from healthcare/consumer-staples, delivering £180 billion to investors via dividends and buybacks.
The FTSE 100 has risen about 5.3% in 2026, outpacing U.S. averages.

History

Historical Context

The Great Recession, officially lasting from December 2007 to June 2009, was marked by a severe financial crisis triggered by the subprime mortgage collapse and excessive household debt. The Federal Reserve's quantitative easing injected trillions into the economy, aiding recovery. By 2023, the S&P 500 reached a record close of 7,137.90, reflecting a significant rebound from the recession's aftermath and highlighting the lasting effects of financial crises on market dynamics.

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S&P 500 Soars

The S&P 500 closed at a record 7,137.90 on Wednesday.
15% of S&P 500 firms reported Q1, with 80% beating estimates and earnings 14% higher YoY.
Analysts forecast 20% profit growth for the S&P 500 in Q2, citing strong earnings and AI demand.
Brent crude settled at $105.07 for June and $99.35 for July.
Strait of Hormuz closed after Iran seized two ships and a U.S. Navy blockade.

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