Stock Market Updates: Futures Rise Amid Iran War Developments
On the morning of March 31, 2026, S&P500 futures saw a slight increase following a positive day for all three major indexes, fueled by optimism regarding a potential end to the Iran war. Futures connected to this broad market index were up by about 0.5%. Meanwhile, Nasdaq 100 futures experienced a rise of around 0.6%, and Dow Jones Industrial Average Futures climbed by 243 points, or 0.5%.
Tuesday evening, President Donald Trump shared his expectation with reporters at the White House, suggesting that U.S. troops could withdraw from Iran within “two to three weeks.”
During the regular trading session, the Dow gained over 1,100 points, or roughly 2.5%, while the S&P500 and Nasdaq showed increases of 2.9% and 3.8%, respectively. This marked the best daily performance for all three major averages since May.
The optimism stemmed from unverified reports indicating that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian might be open to negotiating an end to the war, provided certain guarantees were met. Earlier this month, he remarked that the conflict, viewed as a result of U.S. aggression, would only cease if Iran’s rights were acknowledged and reparations were paid.
Despite the apparent easing of tensions, it has been reported that President Trump is willing to conclude the conflict, even if the Strait of Hormuz remains largely shut for the foreseeable future. He expressed confidence that the situation at the strait would be resolved by countries other than the U.S.
However, some investors remain skeptical about the sustainability of the current bull market. Karen Finnerman, co-founder and CEO of Metropolitan Capital Advisors, noted that high oil prices could indicate ongoing uncertainties. Brent crude oil futures for May delivery jumped 4.94%, reaching $118.35 a barrel—its highest close since June 2022.
“I have a tendency to think oil reflects the true situation, suggesting some of this rally may have been oversold,” she commented on CNBC’s “Fast Money,” adding that while the current quarter has been tough, its end could bring some relief, though it’s unclear if this will impact future results.
As the month and quarter wrapped up on a downward note for the three major indexes, traders will soon shift their focus to upcoming earnings reports from companies like ConAgra, Ram Weston, and Karmaine Foods, which are expected before the market opens on Wednesday. Additionally, the market is anticipating reports on February retail sales, the March ADP private sector employment figures, and the March ISM manufacturing index.
