U.S. equity markets delivered a relatively steady performance last week, with the S&P 500 rising about 0.7%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average gaining roughly 0.8%, and the Nasdaq Composite also finishing modestly higher.

Economic data pointed to continued resilience, as durable goods orders increased approximately 0.4% month-over-month and initial jobless claims held steady, signaling a gradual cooling in the labor market rather than deterioration. However, consumer confidence declined slightly, indicating some pressure on household sentiment. Geopolitical tensions tied to the Iran conflict remained a key overhang, keeping inflation concerns elevated and contributing to intermittent volatility despite otherwise stable fundamentals.

Looking ahead, markets are entering a shortened trading week due to Good Friday, which may result in lighter volumes and amplify reactions to key data releases. The economic calendar is dense, with the nonfarm payrolls report and unemployment rate taking center stage, alongside ISM manufacturing and services PMIs, JOLTS job openings, and factory orders. These indicators will provide insight into economic momentum at the start of the second quarter. Ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Iran continue to influence energy prices and inflation expectations, while a sensitive rate environment and late-stage earnings reports from select retail and industrial companies may further shape market direction.

Given this economic backdrop, let us see how this impacts the performance of various investment strategies.