U.S. stocks rose on March 16, 2026, led by tech gains and strong volume, despite Middle East tensions.

U.S. stock markets closed higher on Monday, March 16, 2026, with all three major indices gaining, led by technology stocks and strong trading volume. The NASDAQ rose 1.22% to 22,374.18, the S&P 500 climbed 1.01% to 6,699.38, and the Dow added 0.83% to 46,946.41, reflecting investor confidence despite ongoing Middle East tensions. Globally, European markets rose, while Asian indices were mixed, with Hong Kong and India advancing but Australia, China, and several Southeast Asian markets declining. South Africa’s market led global gains with a 2.54% surge, while Egypt’s dropped sharply.