Yesterday, equity indices closed with strong gains. The S&P 500 rose by 1.02%, while the Nasdaq 100 strengthened by 1.23%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.63%.

Index futures rallied significantly after the cash session, reflecting investors' upbeat sentiment. At the same time, oil prices fell in response to US President Donald Trump's remarks that he is prepared to resume talks with Iran. That news boosted expectations of a possible deal that could ease tensions in the Middle East, a key region for global energy supplies.

Confidence that dialogue with Iran can be restored, fueled by the US president's comments, prompted market participants to reprice risk. Reduced geopolitical tensions typically ease concerns about supply disruptions, which puts downward pressure on crude prices. Market participants likely believe a diplomatic resolution could stabilize the situation and, consequently, increase oil availability in global markets.

At the same time, the rise in equity index futures indicates that investors see scope for further upside in stock markets. A more stable geopolitical backdrop, absence of sudden shocks, and the potential easing of commodity price pressures could create favorable conditions for corporate earnings growth.

The MSCI All Country World Index rose by 0.4%, marking an eighth consecutive day of gains — the longest streak since September. Asian indices followed Wall Street higher, led by technology companies, with the regional index up 1.5% amid optimism that easing tensions will push oil prices lower and support growth.

Brent crude fell by 0.9% to $98.44 per barrel on signs that Washington and Tehran may resume peace talks even after the US announced a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. The US dollar weakened against most G10 currencies. Treasury yields rose, while the 10-year yield slipped one basis point to 4.28% as cheaper oil helps contain inflation. Gold recovered after two days of declines and traded around $4,765 per ounce, while Bitcoin climbed to about $74,300. Copper reached its highest level in more than a month.

Recall that yesterday, Trump ordered a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz after talks in Islamabad over the weekend produced no results. Iran called the US restrictions illegal and an act of piracy, and threatened regional ports if its own facilities are targeted.

As for the S&P 500 technical picture, the primary task for buyers today will be to overcome the nearest resistance level of $6,896. That would help the index gain upside momentum and could pave the way for a thrust to $6,914. Equally a priority for bulls will be control above $6,930, which would strengthen buyers' positions. In the event of a downside move amid reduced risk appetite, buyers must assert themselves around $6,883. A break below that level would quickly push the instrument back to $6,871 and could open the way to $6,854.