U.S. and Iran signed an interim peace accord on Wednesday, sparking a broad market bounce on Thursday after months of volatility. The Nasdaq surged 1.9% while the S&P 500 rose 1.1% and the Dow added 0.1%, or 72 points. All three gauges closed the week at least 0.7% higher, with the Nasdaq up 2.4% for the period, even as inflation concerns linger.

Brent crude settled near flat at $79.85 a barrel, roughly $7.50 below the week‑opening price and edging toward the pre‑war level of $72.50. The dip translated into pump relief; AAA reported the national average slipped below $4 per gallon for the first time in over two months, boosting consumer sentiment. The lower oil price also eased input costs for airlines and logistics firms, underpinning sector optimism.

President Trump signed the preliminary deal Wednesday, citing a desire to stave off an economic catastrophe and preserve recent market gains. The agreement removes a major geopolitical risk, allowing investors to refocus on earnings and rate‑sensitive sectors. With the holiday‑shortened week ending on a rally, traders entered the long weekend on a stronger footing. Analysts note the rally may mask underlying earnings pressure, but the immediate risk premium has narrowed sharply.