May 2026 – Optimism around artificial intelligence outweighs geopolitical risks

The global financial markets advanced further in May, mainly on enthusiasm for artificial intelligence and ongoing investment in technology infrastructure. Despite concerns about U.S.-Iran tensions and their potential impact on the world economy, the markets continued to be buoyed by solid corporate earnings, particularly in the technology and semiconductor sectors. 

The markets also rose on growing hopes of de-escalation of the Middle East conflict, with investors expecting the ceasefire in the region to be extended. At the same time, oil prices came down significantly from their recent highs.