NEW YORK — The Dow Jones Industrial Average soared more than 500 points on Wednesday, closing at a record 49,810.58 as investors embraced easing Middle East tensions, strong corporate earnings and renewed optimism about the economic outlook, delivering one of the strongest daily gains of 2026.

The blue-chip index rose 512.33 points, or 1.04%, marking its highest close ever and extending a rebound that began earlier in the week. The S&P 500 climbed 1.12% while the Nasdaq Composite gained 1.35%, reflecting broad participation across sectors as risk appetite returned to Wall Street.

The surge came after several days of volatility tied to developments in the Strait of Hormuz. Reports of successful U.S.-escorted tanker transits and signs of diplomatic progress helped calm energy markets, with oil prices pulling back from recent highs and easing inflation concerns.

Earnings and Economic Optimism Drive Rally

Strong quarterly results from major companies provided additional fuel. Several Dow components, including financial giants and industrial firms, reported better-than-expected profits and raised guidance, boosting confidence in corporate resilience amid higher interest rates. Technology and consumer discretionary stocks also participated, as investors rotated back into growth names.

Economists noted improving sentiment around the Federal Reserve's........

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