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Willkommen bei der Katalysator-Beobachtung von Seeking Alpha - eine Analyse einiger wichtigen Ereignisse der nächsten Woche. Es werden einige Ereignisse erwähnt, die möglicherweise den Aktienkurs beeinflussen könnten.

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Okay, here’s a 600-word summary of the text, followed by the German translation:

Summary (600 words)

The pharmaceutical and biotechnology sector is experiencing a significant acceleration in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity year-to-date, building upon a recovery observed in 2025. This surge is driven by a strategic focus on portfolio expansion, continuous pipeline innovation, and, increasingly, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in drug discovery. Oncology and immuno-oncology companies remain prime acquisition targets, but a broader range of companies are actively pursuing licensing agreements and collaborations to bolster their product offerings.

Several major players are spearheading this M&A wave. Eli Lilly (LLY) has been particularly active, recently acquiring Centessa Pharmaceuticals for $7.8 billion to gain access to their orexin-based therapies for sleep disorders and neurological conditions. Lilly also acquired Orna Therapeutics, focused on in vivo immune cell engineering, and Ventyx Biosciences, specializing in oral therapies for inflammatory diseases.

Swiss pharmaceutical giant Novartis (NVS) is also aggressively pursuing acquisitions. They recently acquired Excellergy Inc. to strengthen their immunology pipeline focused on food allergies, and are securing a PI3Kα inhibitor program from Synnovation Therapeutics targeting HR+/HER2- breast cancer. Novartis also acquired Avidity Biosciences, boosting their neuromuscular pipeline with an AOC platform.

Merck & Co. (MRK) completed an acquisition of Terns Pharmaceuticals for approximately $6.7 billion to bolster its oncology and hematology portfolio, primarily through Terns’ key asset, TERN-701.

Gilead Sciences (GILD) is leveraging acquisitions to diversify its portfolio, most recently acquiring Ouro Medicines, which offers a bispecific T-cell engager, and Arcellx, a company specializing in a late-stage CAR-T therapy for multiple myeloma. This reflects a move to reduce reliance on its HIV franchise and explore new immunology applications.

Biogen Inc. (BIIB) has made a significant move by acquiring Apellis Pharmaceuticals for $5.6 billion, expanding its presence in immunology and rare diseases, especially with the commercialized drugs Empaveli and Syfovre.

GSK acquired RAPT Therapeutics, adding ozureprubart, a long-acting anti-IgE monoclonal antibody, to their immunology pipeline.

The overall trend indicates consolidation within the industry, driven by factors like patent cliffs and the need to diversify revenue streams. Acquisitions are seen as a more efficient and less risky strategy than internal R&D, especially with the increasing pace of innovation. Companies with strong cash reserves and embracing technologies such as AI are poised to remain active in the M&A market. Smaller biotech firms, often constrained by funding, are particularly attractive targets.

Looking ahead to 2026, analysts predict continued robust M&A activity, fueled by ongoing technological advancements and a desire for market stability. The combination of strategic acquisitions and innovative technologies will continue to reshape the landscape of the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors.

German Translation (600 words)

Zusammenfassung (600 Wörter)

Der Pharmasektor und der Biotechnologiebereich erleben derzeit eine signifikante Beschleunigung von Fusionen und Übernahmen (M&A), die auf dem Wiederaufschwung von 2025 aufbauen. Dieser Anstieg wird durch einen strategischen Fokus auf Portfolioerweiterungen, kontinuierliche Pipeline-Innovationen und zunehmend durch die Integration von Künstlicher Intelligenz (KI) in die Arzneimittelentwicklung vorangetrieben. Onkologie- und Immuno-Onkologie-Unternehmen sind weiterhin die Hauptzielobjekte, aber auch eine breitere Palette von Unternehmen verfolgt Lizenzvereinbarungen und Kooperationen, um ihr Produktportfolio zu stärken.

Mehrere große Player treiben diesen M&A-Hype voran. Eli Lilly (LLY) ist besonders aktiv und hat kürzlich Centessa Pharmaceuticals für 7,8 Milliarden Dollar erworben, um Zugang zu ihren orexin-basierten Therapien für Schlafstörungen und neurologische Erkrankungen zu erhalten. Lilly hat auch Orna Therapeutics und Ventyx Biosciences übernommen, die sich auf In-vivo-Zell-Engineering und orale Therapien gegen Entzündungen spezialisiert haben.

Das Schweizer Pharmaunternehmen Novartis (NVS) verfolgt ebenfalls aggressiv Akquisitionsstrategien. Sie hat Excellergy Inc. erworben, um ihre Immunologie-Pipeline zu stärken, die auf Lebensmittelallergien und andere IgE-vermittelte Erkrankungen fokussiert ist, und sichert einen PI3Kα-Inhibitor-Programms von Synnovation Therapeutics für HR+/HER2- Brustkrebs. Novartis hat auch Avidity Biosciences erworben, was ihre Neuromuskulär-Pipeline mit einer AOC-Plattform verstärkt.

Merck & Co. (MRK) hat eine Übernahme von Terns Pharmaceuticals für rund 6,7 Milliarden Dollar abgeschlossen, um ihr Onkologie- und Hämatologie-Portfolio, insbesondere durch Terns’ Schlüsselasset, TERN-701, zu stärken.

Gilead Sciences (GILD) nutzt Übernahmen, um ihr Portfolio zu diversifizieren, zuletzt durch den Erwerb von Ouro Medicines, das einen bispezifischen T-Zell-Engager bietet, und Arcellx, ein Unternehmen, das sich auf eine Phase-I/II-CAR-T-Therapie gegen Myelom spezialisiert hat. Dies spiegelt einen Schritt zur Reduzierung der Abhängigkeit von ihrem HIV-Franchise und zur Erforschung neuer Immunologie-Anwendungen wider.

Biogen Inc. (BIIB) hat einen bedeutenden Schritt unternommen, indem es Apellis Pharmaceuticals für 5,6 Milliarden Dollar übernommen hat, seine Präsenz in der Immunologie und der Seltenheitsmedizin, insbesondere mit den kommerziell erhältlichen Medikamenten Empaveli und Syfovre, erweitert.

GSK hat RAPT Therapeutics erworben, um ozureprubart, ein langfristiges Anti-IgE-monoklonales Antikörper, in ihre Immunologie-Pipeline zu integrieren.

Der allgemeine Trend deutet auf eine Konsolidierung innerhalb der Branche hin, die durch Faktoren wie Patentverluste und die Notwendigkeit zur Diversifizierung von Umsatzzahlen angetrieben wird. Übernahmen werden als eine effizientere und weniger riskante Strategie angesehen als interne Forschung und Entwicklung, insbesondere mit dem zunehmenden Tempo der Innovation. Unternehmen mit starken Bilanzen und denen, die Technologien wie KI umsetzen, sind gut positioniert, um in der M&A-Branche aktiv zu bleiben. Kleinere Biotech-Firmen, die oft durch fehlendes Finanzierungsaufkommen eingeschränkt sind, sind besonders attraktive Zielobjekte.

Ausblick auf 2026: Analysten prognostizieren anhaltend robuste M&A-Aktivitäten, die durch technologische Fortschritte und den Wunsch nach Markenstabilität vorangetrieben werden. Die Kombination aus strategischen Übernahmen und innovativen Technologien wird weiterhin das Erscheinungsbild der Pharmaindustrie und des Biotechnologiebereichs verändern.

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Zusammenfassung (600 Wörter)

Am Donnerstag schlossen sich die wichtigsten US-Leitindizes gemischt, was auf die Reaktionen der Anleger auf die Ansprache von Präsident Trump und die anhaltenden Entwicklungen im Nahen Osten hindeutet. Der Nasdaq Composite stieg um einen moderaten 0,1 %, während der S&P 500 und der Dow Jones Industrial Average jeweils um 0,1 % sanken. Der Gesundheitssektor, insbesondere durch den XLV-Index repräsentiert, verzeichnete jedoch eine deutliche Steigerung von etwa 2 % für die Woche, angetrieben von wichtigen Entwicklungen für mehrere Unternehmen.

Mehrere Gesundheitsunternehmen erlebten signifikante Gewinne, was die sektorbezogene Aktivität widerspiegelt. Charles River Laboratories International (+5,30 %), Centene (+4,62 %), Eli Lilly (+4,30 %) und Incyte (+3,98 %) waren die Top-Performer, begünstigt durch verschiedene Faktoren, einschließlich der Übernahme von Apellis Pharmaceuticals. UnitedHealth Group profitierte ebenfalls von einem bemerkenswerten Anstieg (+3,44 %) nach einer Aufwertung durch Raymond James.

Ein wichtiger Katalysator für die positive Entwicklung des Sektors war die Ankündigung der Übernahme von Apellis Pharmaceuticals durch Biogen. Biogen erklärte sich bereit, 41 US-Dollar pro Aktie für Apellis zu zahlen, eine Transaktion im Wert von 5,6 Milliarden US-Dollar. Diese Übernahme brachte Apellis' Produkte Empaveli und Syfovre in Biogens Portfolio und erweiterte dieses erheblich, insbesondere in der Behandlung von Augenerkrankungen. Die Transaktion beinhaltet ein Optionsrecht mit contingenter Bewertung (CVR), das potenziell weitere 2 US-Dollar pro Aktie generieren könnte, wenn bestimmte Umsatzziele für Syfovre erreicht werden. Die Apellis-Aktie stieg nach der Ankündigung um rund 135 %.

Eine weitere wichtige Entwicklung war die geplante Übernahme von Eli Lilly von Centessa Pharmaceuticals. Lilly wird bis zu 47 US-Dollar pro Aktie für Centessa zahlen, einschließlich einer Bareinzahlung von 38 US-Dollar und einem Optionsrecht mit contingenter Bewertung (CVR), das bis zu 9 US-Dollar pro Aktie liefern könnte, wenn bestimmte Meilensteine erreicht werden, was einen potenziellen Gesamtwert von bis zu 47 US-Dollar pro Aktie ergibt. Centessa ist auf die Entwicklung neuer Medikamente zur Behandlung von übermäßiger Tagesschläfrigkeit spezialisiert.

Darüber hinaus erhielt UnitedHealth Group eine positive Bewertungserhöhung von Raymond James, die eine Gewinnsteigerung und erwartete Verbesserungen der Betriebskosten und des Gewinnsparens prognostizierte.

Schließlich kündigte Präsident Trump neue Zölle auf Pharma- und Biotechnologieunternehmen an, die noch keine "most favored nation" (MFN)-Abkommen mit der US-Regierung unterzeichnet haben, mit dem Ziel, billigere Medikamente für Amerikaner zu sichern. Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, eines der wenigen Unternehmen, die noch keine Vereinbarung getroffen haben, wird von diesen Zöllen betroffen sein. Diese Maßnahme unterstreicht den anhaltenden Streit um Arzneimittelpreise und staatliche Eingriffe in die Pharmaindustrie.

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Zusammenfassung

Diese Woche im Biotechnologie-Sektor war von einer signifikanten Welle von Zulassungen, wichtigen klinischen Studienergebnissen und mehreren strategischen Akquisitionen geprägt, hauptsächlich in Nordamerika und Europa. Die vielfältigen therapeutischen Bereiche, die betroffen waren – darunter Psoriasis, Asthma, Krebs und seltene Krankheiten – verdeutlichen die Dynamik der Branche.

Zulassungen & Ablehnungen:

Mehrere wichtige Zulassungen wurden erhalten, was den Fortschritt bei der Behandlung verschiedener Erkrankungen zeigt. ARS Pharmaceuticals erhielt die FDA-Zulassung für ihren Epinephrin-Nasenspray, Neffy, wodurch seine Verwendung auf alle Personen über 33 kg erweitert wurde. Novo Nordisk erhielt die FDA-Zulassung für Awiqli, ein wöchentlich wechselndes Basalinsulin für Typ-2-Diabetes, nachdem eine erfolgreiche Resubmission vorlag. Lupin erhielt eine vorläufige FDA-Zulassung für eine generische Version von Sugammadex-Injektion, einem Medikament zur Umkehrung von neuromuskulärer Blockade. Teva erhielt die FDA-Zulassung für sein Biosimilar von Amgens Prolia und die FDA und EMA akzeptierten Tevas Einreichung für ein Biosimilar von Xolair (Ombrelta). Bayer erhielt die Genehmigung der Europäischen Kommission, die Verwendung seines Herzinsuffizienz-Medikaments, Kerendia, für Patienten mit Ausscheidungsfraktionen von 40 % oder höher zu erweitern. GSK erhielt die Genehmigung in China für Exdensur, eine Erhaltungsbehandlung für schweren eosinophilen Asthma. Schließlich erhielt Biogen die FDA-Zulassung für ein hochdosiertes SPINRAZA-Regimen für spinale Muskelatrophie (SMA) auf der Grundlage positiver klinischer Daten.

Strategische Deals & Akquisitionen:

Über Zulassungen hinaus haben bedeutende Deals die Biotechnologie-Landschaft verändert. Eli Lilly gab die Akquisition von Centessa Pharmaceuticals bekannt, wobei der Zugang zu einem vielversprechenden Pipeline-Programm zur OX2R-Agonisten für Schlaf-Wach-Störungen ermöglicht wurde, für einen Gesamtbetrag von etwa 6,3 Milliarden Dollar. Biogen gab ebenfalls die Übernahme von Apellis Pharmaceuticals bekannt, wobei ihre Position in der Immunologie, der seltenen Erkrankung und der Nierenerkrankung gestärkt wurde. Dieser Deal, der sich auf etwa 5,6 Milliarden Dollar einstellte, umfasste die Rechte an Apellis’ SYFOVRE-Behandlung für IgA-Nierenerkrankung. Aurinia Pharmaceuticals vollendete die Akquisition von Kezar Life Sciences, einem klinisch-stadiums Biotechnologie-Unternehmen, für 6,955 Dollar pro Aktie und ein nicht übertragbares Contingent Value Right (CVR).

Klinische Studienergebnisse:

Positive klinische Studienergebnisse untermauerten viele dieser Zulassungen. Insbesondere unterstützten die Daten aus dem ONWARD Phase 3a-Programm die FDA-Zulassung von Novo Nordisks Awiqli. Bayer’s Erweiterung der Verwendung von Kerendia wurde durch positive FINEARTS-HF-Ergebnisse gestützt. Biogens hochdosiertes SPINRAZA-Regimen zeigte verbesserte Motorergebnisse bei SMA-Patienten. GSK’s Exdensur erhielt die Unterstützung von Phase-III-Daten.

Ausblick:

Diese Entwicklungen deuten auf weiterhin Innovationen und Wettbewerb in der Biotechnologiebranche hin. Die Zulassungen und Akquisitionen dürften zu erweiterten Behandlungsoptionen und verstärkten Forschungsbemühungen über eine Reihe von Krankheiten führen. Die Zeitpläne für die Lilly- und Biogen-Deals sind für Ende 2026 bzw. 2026 festgelegt, was die bedeutende, langfristige Investition widerspiegelt, die in diesen Unternehmen getätigt wird.

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Eli Lilly LLY announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire U.K.-based Centessa Pharmaceuticals CNTA. Per the terms, the pharma giant will acquire all outstanding shares (including American Depositary Shares) of CNTA for $38 per share in cash, aggregating to about $6.3 billion.

In addition, Centessa’s shareholders will receive one non-tradable contingent value right (CVR) per share. This CVR entitles holders to an additional cash payment of up to $9 per share, contingent on achieving FDA approvals of either of its two pipeline drugs (cleminorexton and ORX142) across narcolepsy type II and idiopathic hypersomnia (IH) indications over the next few years. Including the CVR, the total potential deal value reaches approximately $7.8 billion.

Post this acquisition, Lilly will add Centessa’s pipeline of orexin receptor 2 (OX2R) agonists for treating people with sleep-wake disorders. This includes the lead drug, cleminorexton (formerly ORX750), which is being evaluated in a mid-stage study for two types of narcolepsy (type I and II) and IH. Last year, CNTA reported initial results from this study, which Lilly describes as demonstrating “a potential best-in-class profile” for the drug.

Another drug in Centessa’s pipeline is ORX142, which is being evaluated in an early-stage study for neurological and neurodegenerative disorders. A third candidate, ORX489, is currently in preclinical development and is being developed for neuropsychiatric disorders.

The transaction, which was approved by the board of directors of both companies, is expected to be closed in the third quarter.

CNTA & LLY Stock Performance

Following this news on Tuesday, shares of Centessa increased 44%, while Lilly rose about 4%.

Year to date, CNTA stock has risen 59%, while that of LLY has lost more than 14%. During the same time frame, the industry has gained 1%.Zacks Investment Research

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

How Does CNTA Buyout Benefit LLY?

Unlike some of its peers, such as Bristol Myers and Sanofi, which are under pressure from investors to pursue deals for new drugs, Lilly’s top line continues to reach new heights. The tremendous success of GLP-1 drugs, Mounjaro (for diabetes) and Zepbound (for obesity), has helped make it the first pharmaceutical company to reach a market capitalization of $1 trillion.

The rationale behind the deal is clear — Lilly intends to strategically diversify its pipeline across therapeutic areas. Recent approvals in immunology (Omvoh and Ebglyss), oncology (Jaypirca) and neuroscience (Kisunla) highlight Lilly’s intent to diversify beyond obesity and diabetes. A potential deal for Centessa fits this trend.

Story Continues

The transaction benefits CNTA, which lacks the commercial infrastructure and global scale required to bring advanced therapies to market, areas where LLY is already well established.

Once closed, this will be the third acquisition deal signed by Lilly so far this year. Earlier in January, it signed a $1.2 billion deal to buy Ventyx Biosciences to deepen its exposure to oral small-molecule therapies targeting inflammatory-mediated diseases. In February, LLY announced its intent to acquire Orna Therapeutics for up to $2.4 billion, which will add a broad portfolio of in vivo CAR-T pipeline.

Recent M&A Transactions in the Pharma Space

While broader macroeconomic concerns — including Trump-era tariffs and leadership shifts at the FDA — have weighed on deal-making last year, Big Pharma continues to pursue strategic assets in key growth areas.

Recently, Biogen BIIB announced its intent to acquire Apellis Pharmaceuticals for an upfront cash payment of about $5.6 billion to strengthen its immunology and rare disease portfolio. Through this transaction, BIIB intends to add two FDA-approved therapies — Empaveli and Syfovre. While Empaveli is approved for paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and two rare kidney diseases, Syforve is indicated for geographic atrophy. Biogen expects to close this deal in the second quarter of 2026.

Gilead Sciences GILD is another company that has been involved in an acquisition spree since the start of this year. Last month, GILD entered into a deal worth $2.2 billion to acquire Ouro Medicines to strengthen its push into innovative therapies for autoimmune diseases. In February, Gilead announced its intent to acquire the clinical-stage biotechnology company Arcellx for an implied equity value worth $7.8 billion to boost its oncology portfolio.

These transactions highlight Big Pharma's continued interest in small biotechs with promising and innovative assets.

Eli Lilly and Company PriceEli Lilly and Company Price

Eli Lilly and Company price | Eli Lilly and Company Quote

Centessa Pharmaceuticals PLC Sponsored ADR PriceCentessa Pharmaceuticals PLC Sponsored ADR Price

Centessa Pharmaceuticals PLC Sponsored ADR price | Centessa Pharmaceuticals PLC Sponsored ADR Quote

LLY & CNTA Zacks Rank

Both Eli Lilly and Centessa Pharmaceuticals currently carry a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

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Biogen Inc. (BIIB) : Free Stock Analysis Report

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This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com).

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Quick Read

Stocks were higher across all major indices, as hopes for a speedy end to the Iran war remain in place. Short covering and end-of-quarter “window dressing” were cited as two reasons that aided the massive rally. With first-quarter earnings slated to start in just over a week, the bulk of Wall Street’s attention will be focused on the results. A recent study identified one single habit that doubled Americans’ retirement savings and moved retirement from dream, to reality. Read more here.

Pre-Market Stock Futures:

Futures are trading higher after an explosive rally on Tuesday, sparked by the President's comments that he wants to end the war soon. While this is hardly the final straw for the war, it appears that President Trump, who is finally getting some support from NATO members and Persian Gulf allies in the fight against Iran and its paid proxies, may be making some progress. Add in the fact that Iran's infrastructure and weaponry have been devastated, and many of the military and Revolutionary Guard leaders have been killed. Toss in the massive short interest, and it all adds up to Tuesday's huge rally, with the Nasdaq as the big winner, closing up a stunning 3.83% at 21,590, and the small-cap Russell 2000 not far behind, finishing the session at 2,496, up 3.41%. The S&P 500 closed Tuesday at 6,528, up 2.91%, and the Dow Jones Industrial finished the clean sweep of winners, closing at 46,341, up 2.49%.

Treasury Bonds:

Yields were lower across the curve, except at the very short T-bills and the long end, as buyers returned, as they did on Monday. Some of the same reasons we have cited recently for bond prices rising (and yields falling) were again driven by safe-haven demand amid intensified Middle East conflict. Investors shifted from fears of inflation to concerns about slower global growth, prompting a "bull steepening" of the yield curve and a rebound after a month of heavy selling. The 30 year long bond was last seen at 4.91%, while the benchmark 10 year note closed the day at 4.31%.

Read: Data Shows One Habit Doubles American’s Savings And Boosts Retirement

Most Americans drastically underestimate how much they need to retire and overestimate how prepared they are. But data shows that people with one habit have more than double the savings of those who don’t.

Oil and Gas:

Prices were mixed across the energy complex, which experienced severe intraday volatility, initially dropping on reports of a potential de-escalation in Iran but remaining supported by lingering anxieties over supply disruptions, particularly after a tanker was hit near Dubai. Toss in futures contract expirations, and the stage was set for a crazy end to the quarter. Brent Crude closed up 4.94% at $118.30, while West Texas Intermediate closed down at $101.50, down 1.33%. Natural Gas finished the day at $2.84, dowm 0.10%.

Story Continues

Gold:

The precious metals joined in on the rally as gold, which has traded in a tight range for the better part of the first quarter, had an impressive day, closing trading up a whopping 3.49% at $4,667, while Silver really had some momentum buying and was last seen on Tuesday at $75, up a strong 7.18%. Wall Street analysts attributed the big moves higher to the recent decline to market overreaction, as investors moved to buy the dip. This rebound suggests a resilient bullish sentiment, even as the market grapples with rising oil prices, inflationary pressure, and weakening consumer confidence.

Crypto:

The cryptocurrency market endured a turbulent session marked by sharp price swings but demonstrated solid resilience, holding firm at key support levels amid heightened geopolitical tensions. Developments heavily influenced risk sentiment across the broader crypto space, as traders responded swiftly to shifting headlines. Bitcoin led the volatility, surging to an intraday high of $68,300 in early trading after reports emerged of potential peace negotiations between Iran and Israel briefly lifted market optimism. However, the rally proved short-lived, with the crypto giant retracing to a consolidation range of $67,000–$67,800 as uncertainty resurfaced and profit-taking set in. The speed of the reversal underscored how sensitive the market remains to geopolitical developments, with algorithmic trading and leveraged positions amplifying the intraday swings. At 8 AM EDT, Bitcoin was trading at $68,680 while Ethereum was quoted at $2,135.

24/7 Wall St. reviews dozens of analyst research reports daily to identify new investment ideas for both investors and traders. Some of these daily analyst calls cover stocks to buy. Other calls cover stocks to sell or avoid. Remember that no single analyst call should ever be used as a basis to buy or sell a stock.

Here are some of the top Wall Street analyst upgrades, downgrades, and initiations seen on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

Upgrades:

Formula One Group (NASDAQ: FWONK) was raised to Buy from Neutral at Bank of America, which has a $105 price target for the shares. Rivian Automotive Inc. (NASDAQ: RIVN) was upgraded to Neutral from Underperform at DA Davidson, with a $14 target price. United Health Group Inc. (NYSE: UNH) was upgraded to Outperform from Market Perform at Raymond James, which posted a $330 target price objective. Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS) was raised to Outperform from Market Perform at Raymond James, which has a $115 target for the entertainment giant. Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) was upgraded to Buy from Hold at HSBC, with a $94 target price.

Downgrades:

Apellis Pharmaceutical Inc. (NASDAQ: APLS) was downgraded to Hold from Buy at Stifel with a $41 target price as Biogen is acquiring the company. Centessa Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ: CNTA) was downgraded to Market Perform from Outperform at Leerink, with a $40 target, as Eli Lilly is acquiring the company. First Citizens Bancshares Inc. (NASDAQ: FCNCA) was cut to Neutral from Overweight at JPMorgan, which dropped the target price for the shares to $2,200 from $2,450. Nike Inc. (NYSE: NKE) was downgraded to Neutral from Overweight at JPMorgan, which slashed the target price for the sports apparel and shoe giant to $52 from $86. PPG Industries Inc. (NYSE: PPG) was downgraded to Neutral from Buy at Citigroup, which trimmed the target price for the stock to $113 from $132.

Initiations:

Boeing Company (NYSE: BA) was initiated with an Overweight rating at Wells Fargo, which has a $250 target price for the aerospace giant. Datadog Inc. (NASDAQ: DDOG) was started with a Buy rating at Benchmark, with a $150 target price. Northrop Grumman Corp. (NYSE: NOC) was started with an Overweight rating at Wells Fargo, with an $800 target price objective. Rocket Lab Corp. (NASDAQ: RKLB) was initiated with an Equal Weight rating at Wells Fargo, with a $60 target price. ServiceNow Inc. (NYSE: NOW) was initiated with a Buy rating at Benchmark with a $125 target price.

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The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) on Tuesday closed up +2.91%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) closed up +2.49%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) closed up +3.43%.  June E-mini S&P futures (ESM26) rose +2.88%, and June E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQM26) rose +3.42%.

Stock indexes rallied sharply on Tuesday in hopes that an end to the Iran war is near.  The Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday that President Trump signaled he was willing to end the US military campaign against Iran even if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed.  The report said Mr. Trump believes the US should wind down hostilities while pressuring Iran diplomatically to reopen the Strait.  If that fails, the US will press allies in Europe and the Gulf to take the lead on reopening the waterway.  US and Israeli forces pressed ahead with attacks on Iran on Tuesday, while Iran hit a Kuwaiti oil tanker off Dubai in a drone attack, and the UAE reported a drone attack. Join 200K+ Subscribers: Find out why the midday Barchart Brief newsletter is a must-read for thousands daily.

Stocks added to their gains, and crude oil prices tumbled Tuesday afternoon after Iran signaled openness to resolving the war.  Iranian President Masoud Pezeskhian said his country had the "necessary will to end this war," provided that hostilities end on all fronts and that Iran's sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz is recognized.

Falling bond yields are also supportive of stocks, as the 10-year T-note yield dropped to a 1-week low of 4.28% on Tuesday.  Bond yields declined amid hopes that an end to the Iran war will lower energy prices, easing inflation concerns.  Stocks also found support on Tuesday after the US Mar consumer confidence index unexpectedly rose.

The US Jan S&P CaseShiller composite-20 home price index rose +1.18% y/y, weaker than expectations of +1.38% y/y and the smallest pace of increase in 2.5 years.

The US Mar MNI Chicago PMI fell -4.9 to 52.8, weaker than expectations of 55.0.

The Conference Board US Mar consumer confidence index unexpectedly rose +0.8 to 91.8, stronger than expectations of a decline to 87.9.

US Feb JOLTS job openings fell -358,000 to 6.882 million, weaker than expectations of 6.890 million.

Hawkish comments on Tuesday from Kansas City Fed President Jeff Schmid were negative for stocks, as he said he's "more focused on the risks to inflation at this time" and that he's concerned inflation will get stuck closer to 3% as the recent surge in energy prices will likely feed through to core inflation.

Signs of strength in China’s economy are supportive for global growth prospects and stocks.  The China March manufacturing PMI rose +1.4 to 50.4, better than expectations of 50.1 and the strongest pace of expansion in a year.  Also, the China March non-manufacturing PMI rose by +0.6 to 50.1, better than expectations of 49.9.

Crude oil prices (CLK26) fell from a 3-week high on Tuesday but remain supported despite President Trump signaling he is willing to end the war with Iran, as the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed.  The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which about a fifth of the world’s oil and natural gas flows, has choked off oil and gas flows due to Iran’s attacks on shipping in the waterway and forced Gulf producers to cut output because they can’t export from the region.  Iran is also seeking to control ship transit through the Strait of Hormuz, asking vessels to provide lists of crew and cargo, along with voyage details and bills of lading if they want to travel through the waterway.  Goldman Sachs warns that crude prices could exceed the 2008 record high of close to $150 a barrel if flows through the Strait of Hormuz remain depressed through March.

The International Energy Agency said last Monday that more than 40 energy sites across nine countries in the Middle East have been "severely or very severely" damaged, potentially prolonging disruptions to global supply chains once the war in Iran ends.

The markets are discounting a 3% chance for a +25 bp FOMC rate hike at the April 28-29 policy meeting.

Overseas stock markets settled mixed on Tuesday.  The Euro Stoxx 50 closed up +0.50%.  China's Shanghai Composite fell from a 1-week high and closed down -0.80%.  Japan's Nikkei Stock 225 fell to a 3-month low and closed down -1.58%.

Interest Rates

June 10-year T-notes (ZNM6) on Tuesday closed up by +7.5 ticks.  The 10-year T-note yield fell -4.1 bp to 4.307%.  June T-notes rose to a 1-week high on Tuesday, and the 10-year T-note yield fell to a 1-week low of 4.283%.  T-notes moved higher on Tuesday in hopes that an end to the Iran war will lower energy prices and ease inflation concerns.  T-notes fell from their best level after the US Mar consumer confidence index unexpectedly rose and after Kansas City Fed President Jeff Schmid said he's "more focused on the risks to inflation at this time."

European government bond yields moved lower on Tuesday.  The 10-year German bund yield fell -3.1 bp to 3.004%.  The 10-year UK gilt yield fell -1.9 bp to 4.916%.

Eurozone Mar CPI rose +2.5% y/y, the most in 14 months, but below expectations of +2.6% y/y.  Mar core CPI rose +2.3% y/y, weaker than expectations of +2.4% y/y.

German Feb retail sales unexpectedly fell -0.6% m/m, weaker than expectations of a +0.3% m/m increase.

ECB Governing Council member Madis Muller said, "The ECB can't rule out changes in interest rates already in April if energy prices remain at a high level for a long time."

Swaps are discounting a 55% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at its next policy meeting on April 30.

US Stock Movers

The Magnificent Seven technology stocks are climbing today, helping lift the overall market.  Meta Platforms (META) closed up more than +6%, and Nvidia (NVDA) and Alphabet (GOOGL) closed up more than +5%.  Also, Tesla (TSLA) closed up more than +4%, and Amazon.com (AMZN) and Microsoft (MSFT) closed up more than +3%.  In addition, Apple (AAPL) closed up more than +2%.

Marvell Technology (MRVL) closed up more than +12% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100 and chip stocks after Nvidia said it is investing $2 billion in the company.  Also, ON Semiconductor (ON) closed up more than +11% to lead gainers in the S&P 500, and Sandisk (SNDK) and ARM Holdings Plc (ARM) closed up more than +10%.  In addition, Western Digital (WDC), Intel (INTC), Seagate Technology Holdings Plc (STX), and Microchip Technology (MCHP) closed up more than +7%, and KLA Corp (KLAC) and Lam Research (LRCX) closed up more than +6%.  Finally, Applied Materials (AMAT), Broadcom (AVGO), and ASML Holding NV (ASML) closed up more than +5%, and Micron Technology (MU), Analog Devices (ADI), and NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI) closed up more than +4%.

Airline stocks surged on Tuesday as crude oil prices fell by more than -1% in hopes that an end to the Iran war is near.  United Airlines Holdings (UAL) closed up more than +8%, and Alaska Air Group (ALK) closed up more than +7%.  Also, American Airlines Group (AAL) and Delta Air Lines (DAL) closed up more than +5%, and Southwest Airlines (LUV) closed up more than +3%.

Home builders and building suppliers moved higher on Tuesday after the 10-year T-note yield fell to a 1-week low, which lowers mortgage rates and supports housing demand. Builders Firstsource (BLDR) and Toll Brothers (TOL) closed up more than +4%, and DR Horton (DHI) and Pulte Group (PHM) closed up more than +3%.  Also, Lennar (LEN) and KB Home (KBH) closed up more than +2%.

Energy producers and energy service providers moved lower on Tuesday after WTI crude oil fell from a 3-week high, dropping by more than 1%.  APA Corp (APA) and Devon Energy (DVN) closed down more than -2%, and Chevron (CVX) closed down more than -1% to lead losers in the Dow Jones Industrials. Also, Occidental Petroleum (OXY), Exxon Mobil (XOM), Phillips 66 (PSX), and Valero Energy (VLO) closed down more than -1%.

Apellis Pharmaceuticals (APLS) closed up more than +135% after being acquired by Biogen for $5.6 billion, or about $41 a share.  Biogen (BIIB) closed down more than -2% on the news.

Centessa Pharmaceuticals (CNTA) closed up more than +44% after Eli Lilly agreed to buy the company for about $7.8 billion or $38 a share, plus a further $9 a share if three milestone targets are met.

Scholar Rock (SRRK) closed up by more than +14% after it resubmitted its Biologics License Application for apitegromab, a muscle-targeted therapy for spinal muscular atrophy.

Nebius Group NV (NBIS) closed up more than +12% after saying it plans to build a 310-megawatt server facility in Finland.

Caterpillar (CAT) closed up more than +6% to lead gainers in the Dow Jones Industrials after Barclays raised its price target on the stock to $700 from $625.

FactSet Research Systems (FDS) closed up more than +6% after reporting Q2 revenue of $611 million, better than the consensus of $604.9 million, and raising its full-year revenue forecast to $2.45 billion to $2.47 billion from a previous estimate of $2.42 billion to $2.45 billion, above the consensus of $2.45 billion.

Phreesia (PHR) is down more than -26% after cutting its 2027 revenue forecast to $510 million to $520 million from a previous forecast of $545 million to $559 million, well below the consensus of $550.9 million.

Constellation Energy (CEG) closed down more than -6% to lead losers in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 after forecasting 2026 adjusted operating EPS of $11 to $12.00, the midpoint below the consensus of $11.72.

McCormick & Co (MKC) closed down more than -6% after agreeing to acquire Unilever’s Food business for $15.7 billion in cash and $29.7 billion of stock.

Earnings Reports(4/1/2026)

Conagra Brands Inc (CAG), Lamb Weston Holdings Inc (LW), MSC Industrial Direct Co Inc (MSM). On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.

More news from Barchart

Stock Index Futures Rally on Prospect of End to Middle East Conflict, U.S. Economic Data and Fed Speak in FocusStocks Set to Open Higher as Bond Yields Fall on Fading Rate-Hike Bets, U.S. Jobs Data and Powell’s Remarks AwaitedIran, Oil Prices and Other Key Things to Watch this WeekMeta Platforms Just Cut Jobs. Does That Make META Stock a Buy, Sell, or Hold Before Q2 Starts?

The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Haftungsausschluss: Der Text wurde mit Hilfe einer KI zusammengefasst und übersetzt. Für Aussagen aus dem Originaltext wird keine Haftung übernommen!

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) on Tuesday closed up +2.91%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) closed up +2.49%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) closed up +3.43%.  June E-mini S&P futures (ESM26) rose +2.88%, and June E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQM26) rose +3.42%.

Stock indexes rallied sharply on Tuesday in hopes that an end to the Iran war is near.  The Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday that President Trump signaled he was willing to end the US military campaign against Iran even if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed.  The report said Mr. Trump believes the US should wind down hostilities while pressuring Iran diplomatically to reopen the Strait.  If that fails, the US will press allies in Europe and the Gulf to take the lead on reopening the waterway.  US and Israeli forces pressed ahead with attacks on Iran on Tuesday, while Iran hit a Kuwaiti oil tanker off Dubai in a drone attack, and the UAE reported a drone attack.

More News from Barchart

Stocks Climb on Hopes for an End to Iran War Stock Index Futures Rally on Prospect of End to Middle East Conflict, U.S. Economic Data and Fed Speak in Focus Meta Platforms Just Made Entergy a Top Stock to Buy... and It Pays a 2.49% Dividend Tired of missing midday reversals? The FREE Barchart Brief newsletter keeps you in the know. Sign up now!

Stocks added to their gains, and crude oil prices tumbled Tuesday afternoon after Iran signaled openness to resolving the war.  Iranian President Masoud Pezeskhian said his country had the "necessary will to end this war," provided that hostilities end on all fronts and that Iran's sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz is recognized.

Falling bond yields are also supportive of stocks, as the 10-year T-note yield dropped to a 1-week low of 4.28% on Tuesday.  Bond yields declined amid hopes that an end to the Iran war will lower energy prices, easing inflation concerns.  Stocks also found support on Tuesday after the US Mar consumer confidence index unexpectedly rose.

The US Jan S&P CaseShiller composite-20 home price index rose +1.18% y/y, weaker than expectations of +1.38% y/y and the smallest pace of increase in 2.5 years.

The US Mar MNI Chicago PMI fell -4.9 to 52.8, weaker than expectations of 55.0.

The Conference Board US Mar consumer confidence index unexpectedly rose +0.8 to 91.8, stronger than expectations of a decline to 87.9.

US Feb JOLTS job openings fell -358,000 to 6.882 million, weaker than expectations of 6.890 million.

Hawkish comments on Tuesday from Kansas City Fed President Jeff Schmid were negative for stocks, as he said he's "more focused on the risks to inflation at this time" and that he's concerned inflation will get stuck closer to 3% as the recent surge in energy prices will likely feed through to core inflation.

Story Continues

Signs of strength in China’s economy are supportive for global growth prospects and stocks.  The China March manufacturing PMI rose +1.4 to 50.4, better than expectations of 50.1 and the strongest pace of expansion in a year.  Also, the China March non-manufacturing PMI rose by +0.6 to 50.1, better than expectations of 49.9.

Crude oil prices (CLK26) fell from a 3-week high on Tuesday but remain supported despite President Trump signaling he is willing to end the war with Iran, as the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed.  The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which about a fifth of the world’s oil and natural gas flows, has choked off oil and gas flows due to Iran’s attacks on shipping in the waterway and forced Gulf producers to cut output because they can’t export from the region.  Iran is also seeking to control ship transit through the Strait of Hormuz, asking vessels to provide lists of crew and cargo, along with voyage details and bills of lading if they want to travel through the waterway.  Goldman Sachs warns that crude prices could exceed the 2008 record high of close to $150 a barrel if flows through the Strait of Hormuz remain depressed through March.

The International Energy Agency said last Monday that more than 40 energy sites across nine countries in the Middle East have been "severely or very severely" damaged, potentially prolonging disruptions to global supply chains once the war in Iran ends.

The markets are discounting a 3% chance for a +25 bp FOMC rate hike at the April 28-29 policy meeting.

Overseas stock markets settled mixed on Tuesday.  The Euro Stoxx 50 closed up +0.50%.  China's Shanghai Composite fell from a 1-week high and closed down -0.80%.  Japan's Nikkei Stock 225 fell to a 3-month low and closed down -1.58%.

Interest Rates

June 10-year T-notes (ZNM6) on Tuesday closed up by +7.5 ticks.  The 10-year T-note yield fell -4.1 bp to 4.307%.  June T-notes rose to a 1-week high on Tuesday, and the 10-year T-note yield fell to a 1-week low of 4.283%.  T-notes moved higher on Tuesday in hopes that an end to the Iran war will lower energy prices and ease inflation concerns.  T-notes fell from their best level after the US Mar consumer confidence index unexpectedly rose and after Kansas City Fed President Jeff Schmid said he's "more focused on the risks to inflation at this time."

European government bond yields moved lower on Tuesday.  The 10-year German bund yield fell -3.1 bp to 3.004%.  The 10-year UK gilt yield fell -1.9 bp to 4.916%.

Eurozone Mar CPI rose +2.5% y/y, the most in 14 months, but below expectations of +2.6% y/y.  Mar core CPI rose +2.3% y/y, weaker than expectations of +2.4% y/y.

German Feb retail sales unexpectedly fell -0.6% m/m, weaker than expectations of a +0.3% m/m increase.

ECB Governing Council member Madis Muller said, "The ECB can't rule out changes in interest rates already in April if energy prices remain at a high level for a long time."

Swaps are discounting a 55% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at its next policy meeting on April 30.

US Stock Movers

The Magnificent Seven technology stocks are climbing today, helping lift the overall market.  Meta Platforms (META) closed up more than +6%, and Nvidia (NVDA) and Alphabet (GOOGL) closed up more than +5%.  Also, Tesla (TSLA) closed up more than +4%, and Amazon.com (AMZN) and Microsoft (MSFT) closed up more than +3%.  In addition, Apple (AAPL) closed up more than +2%.

Marvell Technology (MRVL) closed up more than +12% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100 and chip stocks after Nvidia said it is investing $2 billion in the company.  Also, ON Semiconductor (ON) closed up more than +11% to lead gainers in the S&P 500, and Sandisk (SNDK) and ARM Holdings Plc (ARM) closed up more than +10%.  In addition, Western Digital (WDC), Intel (INTC), Seagate Technology Holdings Plc (STX), and Microchip Technology (MCHP) closed up more than +7%, and KLA Corp (KLAC) and Lam Research (LRCX) closed up more than +6%.  Finally, Applied Materials (AMAT), Broadcom (AVGO), and ASML Holding NV (ASML) closed up more than +5%, and Micron Technology (MU), Analog Devices (ADI), and NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI) closed up more than +4%.

Airline stocks surged on Tuesday as crude oil prices fell by more than -1% in hopes that an end to the Iran war is near.  United Airlines Holdings (UAL) closed up more than +8%, and Alaska Air Group (ALK) closed up more than +7%.  Also, American Airlines Group (AAL) and Delta Air Lines (DAL) closed up more than +5%, and Southwest Airlines (LUV) closed up more than +3%.

Home builders and building suppliers moved higher on Tuesday after the 10-year T-note yield fell to a 1-week low, which lowers mortgage rates and supports housing demand. Builders Firstsource (BLDR) and Toll Brothers (TOL) closed up more than +4%, and DR Horton (DHI) and Pulte Group (PHM) closed up more than +3%.  Also, Lennar (LEN) and KB Home (KBH) closed up more than +2%.

Energy producers and energy service providers moved lower on Tuesday after WTI crude oil fell from a 3-week high, dropping by more than 1%.  APA Corp (APA) and Devon Energy (DVN) closed down more than -2%, and Chevron (CVX) closed down more than -1% to lead losers in the Dow Jones Industrials. Also, Occidental Petroleum (OXY), Exxon Mobil (XOM), Phillips 66 (PSX), and Valero Energy (VLO) closed down more than -1%.

Apellis Pharmaceuticals (APLS) closed up more than +135% after being acquired by Biogen for $5.6 billion, or about $41 a share.  Biogen (BIIB) closed down more than -2% on the news.

Centessa Pharmaceuticals (CNTA) closed up more than +44% after Eli Lilly agreed to buy the company for about $7.8 billion or $38 a share, plus a further $9 a share if three milestone targets are met.

Scholar Rock (SRRK) closed up by more than +14% after it resubmitted its Biologics License Application for apitegromab, a muscle-targeted therapy for spinal muscular atrophy.

Nebius Group NV (NBIS) closed up more than +12% after saying it plans to build a 310-megawatt server facility in Finland.

Caterpillar (CAT) closed up more than +6% to lead gainers in the Dow Jones Industrials after Barclays raised its price target on the stock to $700 from $625.

FactSet Research Systems (FDS) closed up more than +6% after reporting Q2 revenue of $611 million, better than the consensus of $604.9 million, and raising its full-year revenue forecast to $2.45 billion to $2.47 billion from a previous estimate of $2.42 billion to $2.45 billion, above the consensus of $2.45 billion.

Phreesia (PHR) is down more than -26% after cutting its 2027 revenue forecast to $510 million to $520 million from a previous forecast of $545 million to $559 million, well below the consensus of $550.9 million.

Constellation Energy (CEG) closed down more than -6% to lead losers in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 after forecasting 2026 adjusted operating EPS of $11 to $12.00, the midpoint below the consensus of $11.72.

McCormick & Co (MKC) closed down more than -6% after agreeing to acquire Unilever’s Food business for $15.7 billion in cash and $29.7 billion of stock.

Earnings Reports(4/1/2026)

Conagra Brands Inc (CAG), Lamb Weston Holdings Inc (LW), MSC Industrial Direct Co Inc (MSM).

On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Barchart.com

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Haftungsausschluss: Der Text wurde mit Hilfe einer KI zusammengefasst und übersetzt. Für Aussagen aus dem Originaltext wird keine Haftung übernommen!

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is up +1.02%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) is up +0.67%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is up +1.10%.  June E-mini S&P futures (ESM26) are up +1.10%, and June E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQM26) are up +1.15%.

Stock indexes are moving sharply higher today after the Wall Street Journal reported that President Trump had signaled he was willing to end the US military campaign against Iran even if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed.  The report said Mr. Trump believes the US should wind down hostilities while pressuring Iran diplomatically to reopen the Strait.  If that fails, the US will press allies in Europe and the Gulf to take the lead on reopening the waterway.  US and Israeli forces pressed ahead with attacks on Iran today, while Iran hit a Kuwaiti oil tanker off Dubai in a drone attack, and the UAE reported a drone attack. Join 200K+ Subscribers: Find out why the midday Barchart Brief newsletter is a must-read for thousands daily.

Falling bond yields are also supportive of stocks, as the 10-year T-note yield dropped to a 1-week low of 4.30% today.  Bond yields are declining amid hopes that an end to the Iran war will lower energy prices, easing inflation concerns.  Stocks also found support today after the US Mar consumer confidence index unexpectedly rose.  Stock indexes fell back from their best levels as crude prices rose more than +1% to a 3-week high.

The US Jan S&P CaseShiller composite-20 home price index rose +1.18% y/y, weaker than expectations of +1.38% y/y and the smallest pace of increase in 2.5 years.

The US Mar MNI Chicago PMI fell -4.9 to 52.8, weaker than expectations of 55.0.

The Conference Board US Mar consumer confidence index unexpectedly rose +0.8 to 91.8, stronger than expectations of a decline to 87.9.

US Feb JOLTS job openings fell -358,000 to 6.882 million, weaker than expectations of 6.890 million.

Signs of strength in China’s economy are supportive for global growth prospects and stocks.  The China March manufacturing PMI rose +1.4 to 50.4, better than expectations of 50.1 and the strongest pace of expansion in a year.  Also, the China March non-manufacturing PMI rose by +0.6 to 50.1, better than expectations of 49.9.

Crude oil prices (CLK26) rose to a 3-week high today and remain supported despite President Trump signaling he is willing to end the war with Iran, as the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed.  The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which about a fifth of the world’s oil and natural gas flows, has choked off oil and gas flows due to Iran’s attacks on shipping in the waterway and forced Gulf producers to cut output because they can’t export from the region.  Iran is also seeking to control ship transit through the Strait of Hormuz, asking vessels to provide lists of crew and cargo, along with voyage details and bills of lading if they want to travel through the waterway.  Goldman Sachs warns that crude prices could exceed the 2008 record high of close to $150 a barrel if flows through the Strait of Hormuz remain depressed through March.

The International Energy Agency said last Monday that more than 40 energy sites across nine countries in the Middle East have been "severely or very severely" damaged, potentially prolonging disruptions to global supply chains once the war in Iran ends.

The markets are discounting a 3% chance for a +25 bp FOMC rate hike at the April 28-29 policy meeting.

Overseas stock markets are mixed today.  The Euro Stoxx 50 is up +0.83%.  China's Shanghai Composite fell from a 1-week high and closed down -0.80%.  Japan's Nikkei Stock 225 fell to a 3-month low and closed down -1.58%.

Interest Rates

June 10-year T-notes (ZNM6) today are up by +8 ticks.  The 10-year T-note yield is down -2.8 bp to 4.321%.  June T-notes rose to a 1-week high today, and the 10-year T-note yield fell to a 1-week low of 4.295%.  T-notes are climbing today on hopes that an end to the Iran war will lower energy prices and ease inflation concerns.  T-notes fell from their best level after the US Mar consumer confidence index unexpectedly rose.

European government bond yields are moving lower today.  The 10-year German bund yield is down -0.6 bp to 3.029%.  The 10-year UK gilt yield is down -2.0 bp to 4.914%.

Eurozone Mar CPI rose +2.5% y/y, the most in 14 months, but below expectations of +2.6% y/y.  Mar core CPI rose +2.3% y/y, weaker than expectations of +2.4% y/y.

German Feb retail sales unexpectedly fell -0.6% m/m, weaker than expectations of a +0.3% m/m increase.

ECB Governing Council member Madis Muller said, "The ECB can't rule out changes in interest rates already in April if energy prices remain at a high level for a long time."

Swaps are discounting a 50% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at its next policy meeting on April 30.

US Stock Movers

The Magnificent Seven technology stocks are climbing today, helping lift the overall market.  Nvidia (NVDA) and Meta Platforms (META) are up more than +3%, and Amazon.com (AMZN), Tesla (TSLA), and Alphabet (GOOGL) are up more than +2%.  In addition, Microsoft (MSFT) is up more than +1%, and Apple (AAPL) is up +0.48%.

Marvell Technology (MRVL) is up more than +8% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100, and chip stocks are higher after Nvidia said it is investing $2 billion in the company.  Also, ARM Holdings Plc (ARM) is up more than +6%, and Western Digital (WDC), ON Semiconductor (ON), and Sandisk (SNDK) are up more than +5%.  In addition, Seagate Technology Holdings Plc (STX) is up more than +4%, and Lam Research (LRCX), Broadcom (AVGO), Intel (INTC), and Microchip Technology (MCHP) are up more than +3%.  Finally, NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI), KLA Corp (KLAC), Applied Materials (AMAT), and ASML Holding NV (ASML) are up more than +2%.

Home builders and building suppliers are moving higher today after the 10-year T-note yield fell to a 1-week low, which lowers mortgage rates and supports housing demand. Builders Firstsource (BLDR) and Toll Brothers (TOL) are up more than +2%.  Also, Lennar (LEN) and Pulte Group (PHM) are up more than +1%, and KB Home (KBH) is up more +0.42%, and DR Horton (DHI) is up +0.40%.

Apellis Pharmaceuticals (APLS) is up more than +136% after being acquired by Biogen for $5.6 billion, or about $41 a share.  Biogen (BIIB) is down more than -4% on the news.

Centessa Pharmaceuticals (CNTA) is up more than +44% after Eli Lilly agreed to buy the company for about $7.8 billion or $38 a share, plus a further $9 a share if three milestone targets are met.

Scholar Rock (SRRK) is up by more than +12% after it resubmitted its Biologics License Application for apitegromab, a muscle-targeted therapy for spinal muscular atrophy.

FactSet Research Systems (FDS) is up more than +7% to lead gainers in the S&P 500 after reporting Q2 revenue of $611 million, better than the consensus of $604.9 million, and raising its full-year revenue forecast to $2.45 billion to $2.47 billion from a previous estimate of $2.42 billion to $2.45 billion, above the consensus of $2.45 billion.

Nebius Group NV (NBIS) is up more than +5% after saying it plans to build a 310-megawatt server facility in Finland.

Phreesia (PHR) is down more than -26% after cutting its 2027 revenue forecast to $510 million to $520 million from a previous forecast of $545 million to $559 million, well below the consensus of $550.9 million.

Constellation Energy (CEG) is down more than -8% to lead losers in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 after forecasting 2026 adjusted operating EPS of $11 to $12.00, the midpoint below the consensus of $11.72.

McCormick & Co (MKC) is down more than -6% after agreeing to acquire Unilever’s Food business for $15.7 billion in cash and $29.7 billion of stock.

Colgate-Palmolive (CL) is down more than -2% after TD Cowen downgraded the stock to hold from buy.

Earnings Reports(3/31/2026)

FactSet Research Systems Inc (FDS), McCormick & Co Inc/MD (MKC), nCino Inc (NCNO), NIKE Inc (NKE), PVH Corp (PVH), RH (RH), TD SYNNEX Corp (SNX). On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.

More news from Barchart

Apellis Pharma Skyrockets on Biogen Deal. Is It Too Late to Chase APLS Stock?Is GameStop Buying Best Buy? And If So, Does That Make GME Stock a Buy?Bank of America Is Betting That Billionaires Could Help Take TripAdvisor Stock 50% HigherGE Vernova Stock Outlook: Should You Buy the Dip in GEV or Wait?

The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Haftungsausschluss: Der Text wurde mit Hilfe einer KI zusammengefasst und übersetzt. Für Aussagen aus dem Originaltext wird keine Haftung übernommen!

The S&P 500 Index ($SPX) (SPY) today is up +1.33%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average ($DOWI) (DIA) is up +1.10%, and the Nasdaq 100 Index ($IUXX) (QQQ) is up +1.45%.  June E-mini S&P futures (ESM26) are up +1.48%, and June E-mini Nasdaq futures (NQM26) are up +1.59%.

Stock indexes are moving sharply higher today after the Wall Street Journal reported that President Trump had signaled he was willing to end the US military campaign against Iran even if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed.  The report said Mr. Trump believes the US should wind down hostilities while pressuring Iran diplomatically to reopen the Strait.  If that fails, the US will press allies in Europe and the Gulf to take the lead on reopening the waterway.  US and Israeli forces pressed ahead with attacks on Iran today, while Iran hit a Kuwaiti oil tanker off Dubai in a drone attack, and the UAE reported a drone attack. Join 200K+ Subscribers: Find out why the midday Barchart Brief newsletter is a must-read for thousands daily.

Falling bond yields are also supportive of stocks, as the 10-year T-note yield dropped to a 1-week low of 4.30% today.  Bond yields are declining after WTI crude oil prices fell from a 3-week high today and are little changed, easing inflation concerns.

Signs of strength in China’s economy are supportive for global growth prospects and stocks.  The China March manufacturing PMI rose +1.4 to 50.4, better than expectations of 50.1 and the strongest pace of expansion in a year.  Also, the China March non-manufacturing PMI rose +0.6 to 50.1, better than expectations of 49.9.

Crude oil prices (CLK26) remain supported despite President Trump signaling he is willing to end the war with Iran, as the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed.  The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which about a fifth of the world’s oil and natural gas flows, has choked off oil and gas flows due to Iran’s attacks on shipping in the waterway and forced Gulf producers to cut output because they can’t export from the region.  Iran is also seeking to control ship transit through the Strait of Hormuz, asking vessels to provide lists of crew and cargo, along with voyage details and bills of lading if they want to travel through the waterway. Goldman Sachs warns that crude prices could exceed the 2008 record high of close to $150 a barrel if flows through the Strait of Hormuz remain depressed through March.

The International Energy Agency said last Monday that more than 40 energy sites across nine countries in the Middle East have been "severely or very severely" damaged, potentially prolonging disruptions to global supply chains once the war in Iran ends.

The markets are discounting a 3% chance for a +25 bp FOMC rate hike at the April 28-29 policy meeting.

Overseas stock markets are mixed today.  The Euro Stoxx 50 is up +0.60%.  China's Shanghai Composite fell from a 1-week high and closed down -0.80%.  Japan's Nikkei Stock 225 fell to a 3-month low and closed down -1.58%.

Interest Rates

June 10-year T-notes (ZNM6) today are up by +10 ticks.  The 10-year T-note yield is down -4.6 bp to 4.303%.  June T-notes rose to a 1-week high today, and the 10-year T-note yield fell to a 1-week low of 4.295%.  T-notes are climbing today after WTI crude oil prices fell from a 3-week high and were little changed, easing inflation concerns.

European government bond yields are moving lower today.  The 10-year German bund yield is down -2.1 bp to 3.014%.  The 10-year UK gilt yield is down -3.9 bp to 4.895%.

Eurozone Mar CPI rose +2.5% y/y, the most in 14 months, but below expectations of +2.6% y/y.  Mar core CPI rose +2.3% y/y, weaker than expectations of +2.4% y/y.

German Feb retail sales unexpectedly fell -0.6% m/m, weaker than expectations of a +0.3% m/m increase.

ECB Governing Council member Madis Muller said, "The ECB can't rule out changes in interest rates already in April if energy prices remain at a high level for a long time."

Swaps are discounting a 50% chance of a +25 bp ECB rate hike at its next policy meeting on April 30.

US Stock Movers

The Magnificent Seven technology stocks are climbing today, helping lift the overall market.  Meta Platforms (META) is up more than +3%, and Amazon.com (AMZN), Microsoft (MSFT), Nvidia (NVDA), and Tesla (TSLA) are up more than +2%. Also, Alphabet (GOOGL) is up more than +1%, and Apple (AAPL) is up +0.81%.

Marvell Technology (MRVL) is up more than +7% to lead gainers in the Nasdaq 100, and chip stocks are higher after Nvidia said it is investing $2 billion in the company.  Also, ARM Holdings Plc (ARM) is up more than +4%, and Lam Research (LRCX) is up more than +3%. In addition, Western Digital (WDC), Seagate Technology Holdings Plc (STX), NXP Semiconductors NV (NXPI), KLA Corp (KLAC), Applied Materials (AMAT), ASML Holding NV (ASML), and Microchip Technology (MCHP) are up more than +2%.

Home builders and building suppliers are moving higher today after the 10-year T-note yield fell to a 1-week low, which lowers mortgage rates and supports housing demand. Builders Firstsource  (BLDR) and Lennar (LEN) are up more than +4%, and Toll Brothers (TOL) is up more than +2%.  Also, DR Horton (DHI), Pulte Group (PHM), and KB Home (KBH) are up more than +1%.

Apellis Pharmaceuticals (APLS) is up more than +136% after being acquired by Biogen for $5.6 billion, or about $41 a share.

Centessa Pharmaceuticals (CNTA) is up more than +45% after Eli Lilly agreed to buy the company for about $7.8 billion or $38 a share, plus a further $9 a share if three milestone targets are met.

Scholar Rock (SRRK) is up by more than +14% after it resubmitted its Biologics License Application for apitegromab, a muscle-targeted therapy for spinal muscular atrophy.

Nebius Group NV (NBIS) is up more than +7% after saying it plans to build a 310-megawatt server facility in Finland.

FactSet Research Systems (FDS) is up more than +4% after reporting Q2 revenue of $611 million, better than the consensus of $604.9 million, and raising its full-year revenue forecast to $2.45 billion to $2.47 billion from a previous estimate of $2.42 billion to $2.45 billion, above the consensus of $2.45 billion.

Phreesia (PHR) is down more than -23% after cutting its 2027 revenue forecast to $510 million to $520 million from a previous forecast of $545 million to $559 million, well below the consensus of $550.9 million.

McCormick & Co (MKC) is down more than -5% to lead losers in the S&P 500 after agreeing to acquire Unilever’s Food business for $15.7 billion in cash and $29.7 billion of stock.

Constellation Energy (CEG) is down more than -5% to lead losers in the Nasdaq 100 after forecasting 2026 adjusted operating EPS of $11 to $12.00, the midpoint below the consensus of $11.72.

Colgate-Palmolive (CL) is down more than -1% after TD Cowen downgraded the stock to hold from buy.

Earnings Reports(3/31/2026)

FactSet Research Systems Inc (FDS), McCormick & Co Inc/MD (MKC), nCino Inc (NCNO), NIKE Inc (NKE), PVH Corp (PVH), RH (RH), TD SYNNEX Corp (SNX). On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. For more information please view the Barchart Disclosure Policy here.

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