U.S. stocks posted solid gains during the month and quarter, setting record highs amid signs of progress in trade tariff talks. After falling over 19% to an April 8 low from its previous all-time high in mid-February, the S&P 500 rose to new records just two months later as investors’ worst growth and inflationary fears associated with President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs mostly evaporated. It hasn’t been clear sailing however, as Wall Street has had to digest slowing consumer spending trends, artificial intelligence competition from China, and pronounced U.S. escalation during the short 12-day Israel-Iran conflict.