U.S. markets rise as S&P 500 gains 1.46% amid Middle East tensions

U.S. markets were set to open higher, with the S&P 500 advancing 1.46% to 7,365.12, and the Nasdaq Composite rising 2.02% to 25,838.94, closing at record highs. Overnight, the Dow Jones Industrial Average increased by 612.34 points, or 1.24%, closing at 49,910.59. In the Asia-Pacific region, Japan's Nikkei 225 and Australian S&P/ASX 200 futures indicated upward movement, while West Texas Intermediate crude rose 0.92% to $95.95 per barrel. Market reactions followed President Trump's warnings concerning Iran and the potential for a peace agreement, which could impact geopolitical stability and energy prices.