S&P 500 and Nasdaq open higher as investors assess prospects for ending Middle East conflict

The S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite opened higher on Monday, following their largest weekly gains in four months in the previous session, as investors weigh the prospects of an end to the conflict in the Middle East.

In contrast, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell at the open by 32.5 points, or 0.07%, to reach 46,472.2 points.

The S&P 500 rose by 5 points, or 0.08%, to reach 6,587.66 points at the opening.

The Nasdaq Composite also climbed by about 60.6 points, or 0.28%, to reach 21,939.8 points at the opening bell.

Axios reported that the United States, Iran, and a group of regional mediators are discussing terms for a potential 45-day ceasefire that could lead to a permanent end to the war, although the chances of reaching a partial agreement before Tuesday's deadline appear slim. However, the 45-day truce is just one of several ideas currently being considered.

Reuters also reported that Iran and the United States received a plan to end hostilities, which, if agreed upon, would lead to an immediate ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. According to a source familiar with the matter cited by the agency, this proposed framework was prepared by Pakistan and could take effect as of Monday.

Trump had warned on Sunday that the United States would strike power plants and bridges in Iran if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened by Tuesday.

In a post on the Truth Social platform, he said: “Tuesday will be Power Plant Day and Bridge Day in Iran, all in one day. There will be nothing like it!”