The US earnings season is in full swing, with investors scrutinizing whether the billions poured into artificial intelligence infrastructure are translating into tangible financial returns.
Not all technology giants are delivering convincing results, creating a divergence in sentiment across the sector.
This performance gap is testing the market's patience with high-growth valuations that have been sustained by AI optimism.
Global equity markets opened in mixed territory on Friday, reflecting the cautious balance between corporate fundamentals and external risks.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average posted a modest gain, but broader sentiment remains fragile.
Traders are closely monitoring crude oil prices, which remain sensitive to geopolitical developments in West Asia.