Corporate Earnings Highlights

Palantir ($PLTR): Released Q3 2026 results reporting an adjusted EPS of $0.44 (vs. $0.41 expected) and revenue of $2.31B (vs. $2.17B expected).
The company also issued strong forward guidance, projecting Q4 revenue at $2.65B and raising full-year commercial revenue expectations.

Geopolitical Updates & Middle East Developments

Iran & U.S. Diplomacy: Vice President JD Vance noted positive progress regarding potential diplomatic talks with Iran, stating that a deal is under discussion and no deadlines have been set to resume strikes.
Meanwhile, former President Trump indicated in a separate interview that there is no rush to restart a conflict, while reports noted ongoing Qatari-mediated discussions in Tehran.
Security Reports: State media reported that explosions were heard near Qeshm Island, though official confirmation is pending.

Oil Drop: Brent Crude futures settled down 7.63% at $104.77 per barrel, and WTI Crude December futures settled down 7.36% at $96.46 a barrel.
Comments surrounding potential diplomatic progress with Iran contributed to the sharp downward movement in oil prices.

QRA Estimates: The U.S. Treasury released its Quarterly Refunding Announcement (QRA), estimating privately held net marketable borrowing at $739 billion for the July–September 2026 quarter (assuming an end-September cash balance of $950 billion)—about $68 billion higher than May projections primarily due to lower net cash flows.