Stock Market Updates
On March 24, 2026, traders gathered on the New York Stock Exchange floor as the opening bell signaled the start of the day.
Stock futures saw an uptick on Wednesday, accompanied by a decline in oil prices, following news that the United States had proposed a plan to Iran aimed at resolving an ongoing conflict.
S&P 500 futures rose by 0.8%, while Nasdaq 100 futures climbed 1%. Dow Jones Industrial Average futures experienced a boost of 398 points, or 0.9%.
This upward movement came after President Donald Trump stated on Tuesday that negotiations with Iran were “currently underway.” He characterized the Iranian government as “reasonable,” hinting that they might be willing to agree on a peace deal.
According to reports, two unnamed officials indicated on Tuesday afternoon that the U.S. had sent a peace proposal—a 15-point plan—delivered through Pakistan.
In the oil market, prices dropped significantly on Wednesday. West Texas Intermediate futures decreased by 5%, reaching $87.73 per barrel, and International Brent fell by the same percentage to $99.12.
Michael Kantrowitz, chief investment strategist at Piper Sandler, commented on Tuesday during CNBC’s “Closing Bell: Overtime,” saying, “We continue to see this as just a single oil-driven volatile market. Oil and interest rates are influencing the stock market. So far, I think the market has adjusted quite well. We will keep responding as things develop.”
Kantrowitz also mentioned, “I’m not overly concerned about the economy. I believe the U.S. can manage oil prices around $90 to $100. However, I do have some worries about interest rates and the possibility of sustained inflation affecting capital multiples.”
Stocks rebounded on Tuesday, recouping some losses from Monday, with all three major indices rising more than 1%. This followed Trump’s social media posts claiming that the U.S. and Iran were engaging in “a very good and productive dialogue” about resolving conflicts in the Middle East. Nonetheless, Iranian state media contradicted these claims, denying the existence of direct negotiations.
Additionally, Chewy and Paychex are expected to report their earnings before the market opens on Wednesday. Traders will also be watching for February’s export and import price index figures.
