Stock market news for March 24, 2026
CNBC • • general
Key Points:
- The S&P 500 declined 0.37% to 6,556.37 on Tuesday, retreating after sharp gains the previous day amid rising crude oil prices and ongoing tensions in the Iran conflict.
- President Trump indicated the U.S. is negotiating with Iran, suggesting both sides want a deal, though Iranian media denied direct talks, fueling investor uncertainty as hostilities between Israel and Iran continue.
- Oil prices surged again, with Brent crude up 4.55% to $104.49 per barrel and WTI crude rising 4.79% to $92.35, driving energy stocks higher and making the energy sector the only S&P 500 segment with month-to-date gains exceeding 9%.
- The Pentagon plans to deploy around 3,000 troops to the Middle East, though no decision has been made about ground forces in Iran, contributing to market volatility and cautious investor sentiment.
- Pakistan has offered to facilitate talks between the U.S. and Iran, providing a potential diplomatic avenue amid the ongoing conflict and market uncertainty.
