Markets Cautiously Upbeat as Tech Surge Offsets Muted Iran Relief

Equity futures firmed with tech stocks driving sentiment after President Trump extended the Iran ceasefire, though oil prices barely eased near $100/bbl Brent amid persistent risks. Intel shares have surged ~50% in April on AI demand, boosting South Korean, Japanese and Taiwanese markets to new highs, while Tesla and Intel earnings loom. Fed-nominee Kevin Warsh's hearing left Treasuries and dollar steady with under 50% odds of easing this year; resilient U.S. retail sales and UK CPI at 3.3% reinforce no-rush policy stance. Geopolitical caution tempers gains but tech momentum dominates.