Stock market today: Dow, S&P 500 and Nasdaq futures slide as US-Iran uncertainty persists, Tesla slips after-hours

April 23, 2026 - 04:16

Major U.S. stock indices stepped back from recent record levels on Tuesday, pressured by a combination of disappointing corporate results and simmering geopolitical uncertainty. The Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all closed lower, with futures pointing to further weakness.

The market's retreat was fueled in part by key earnings reports released after the closing bell. Notably, Tesla shares fell in extended trading following the electric vehicle giant's quarterly results, casting a shadow over the influential tech sector that has been a primary driver of the market's rally. This after-hours slump signaled potential volatility ahead for Wednesday's session.

Investors also remained cautious amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East. The persistent uncertainty surrounding the conflict between the U.S. and Iran continues to inject a note of caution into the market, prompting some traders to take profits after the recent climb to all-time highs. The dual headwinds of corporate performance and global instability prompted a broad pullback, interrupting the market's upward momentum as participants reassess the risk landscape.