Stocks Hit Records as Oil Slides on Iran Progress

On August 4, 2026, major indexes closed at record highs after Caterpillar and others issued upbeat forecasts. Brent crude fell over 5%, settling at $79.45 the next day as Iran-talk progress eased supply-risk premia — the extra price markets charge for potential disruption. Lower oil pressures inflation down, which could eventually flow through to mortgage and loan rates.