Global Market Brief – January 30, 2026 **US Markets Mixed as Big Tech Diverges** Wall Street closed the week on a divided note as major earnings split investor sentiment. The **Dow Jones** managed to edge higher, adding **0.11%** to reach **49,071**, while the **S&P 500** slipped **0.13%** to **6,969**. The tech-heavy **Nasdaq** led the declines, falling **0.72%** to **23,685**. **Tech Earnings Volatility** **Microsoft** suffered its worst day in years, plunging nearly **10%** after cloud growth slowed, wiping out over **$350 billion** in market cap. In sharp contrast, **Meta Platforms** surged over **10%** on a strong AI-driven outlook. **Apple** shares rose **0.6%** in extended trading after beating revenue expectations, though warnings about rising costs kept gains in check. **Fed Chair Nomination Imminent** Markets are pricing in the likely nomination of **Kevin Warsh** as the next Federal Reserve Chair by President Trump. Treasury yields climbed on the news, contributing to the pressure on tech stocks. The current Fed funds rate holds steady at **3.75%**, with markets watching for future rate path signals under new leadership. **Crypto Sell-Off** **Bitcoin** led a broad retreat in digital assets, dropping to approximately **$84,000**. The sell-off erased nearly **$800 million** in value across the crypto market, driven by risk-off sentiment in high-growth sectors and rising yields. **Commodities: Gold Cools, Oil Steady** After hitting a record high near **$5,600** earlier in the week, **Gold** pulled back to trade around **$5,342**. Despite the dip, the metal is up nearly **24%** in January, fueled by geopolitical tensions and safe-haven demand. **Crude Oil** remained subdued, with WTI trading near **$65** per barrel and Brent around **$69**, facing headwinds from ample supply projections for 2026.