US Stocks Approach Records as Earnings Optimism Revives Risk Appetite

US equities moved back toward record territory on Monday, August 3, as easing oil prices helped reduce inflation concerns and investors turned toward a heavy slate of corporate earnings. The S&P 500 gained 1.5%, ending roughly 0.1% below its record high, while technology shares remained a key source of momentum. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/f8e5f81b45c83878f5b7f69832bb0c95?utm_source=openai))

The market’s focus is shifting from valuation worries and geopolitical risk toward evidence that corporate earnings can support elevated equity prices. Palantir was scheduled to release second-quarter results after the close, while Advanced Micro Devices and SpaceX were among the closely watched companies reporting during the week. ([investing.com](https://www.investing.com/news/stock-market-news/palantir-earnings-outlook-high-growth-high-valuation-ahead-of-august-3-report-93CH-4814769?utm_source=openai))

The rally remains concentrated in growth and artificial-intelligence-linked names, leaving markets sensitive to earnings surprises, guidance changes and renewed concern over expensive technology valuations. Strong results could extend the advance, but disappointing outlooks may prompt sharper reversals after the recent gains.