U.S. equities rose as a stronger-than-expected payrolls report overshadowed Middle East geopolitical risks, lifting investor sentiment.
The S&P 500 closed the week higher, driven by a rally in technology stocks after the latest nonfarm payrolls data signaled resilience in the U.S. labor market. The report eased concerns about an economic slowdown despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Analysts had anticipated a modest jobs gain, but the print exceeded expectations, reinforcing confidence in domestic growth. The index had struggled earlier in the week amid escalating global risks but rebounded as investors shifted focus to fundamentals.
Major indices extended gains into Friday’s close, with tech shares leading the advance. The move suggested a rotation back into risk assets as macroeconomic data outweighed external uncertainties.