Mixed Tech Earnings and Federal Reserve Rate Pause Shift Global Markets
Mixed tech earnings and a Federal Reserve rate pause have shifted market risk pricing. Investors are reassessing demand for hard assets as the dollar weakens.
Insights:
Mixed results from the technology sector and a steady interest rate decision by the U.S. Federal Reserve have influenced global equity, currency, and commodity markets. While Microsoft Corporation saw its shares slide 6.5% in extended trading following its results, Meta Platforms, Inc. raised its 2026 revenue outlook and capex guidance, sending its shares up 8% after hours and adding approximately $140 billion to its market value. These moves occurred just as investors awaited results from Apple Inc. , for which JPMorgan has raised its end-2026 price target to $315 from $305 in expectation of a consensus beat.
The U.S. Federal Reserve kept interest rates on hold during its latest meeting, a move described as widely expected. Fed Chair Jerome Powell jerome powell stated that the economic outlook was clearly improving and highlighted broad committee support for the pause. However, jerome powell declined to say whether he would remain as a governor after he steps down as Chair in May. Following these remarks, investors reduced the probability of another policy easing by the US 
US central bank in April to 26%, now viewing June as the next likely window with a 61% probability.
US central bank in April to 26%, now viewing June as the next likely window with a 61% probability.
