Markets across the Americas opened on a positive note today, with broad-based gains signaling a rebound in investor risk appetite. From small caps to blue chips, equities are advancing, while volatility eases and the U.S. dollar softens, lending further support to risk assets. U.S. Equities Push Higher Across the Board The U.S. market saw green at the open, with all major benchmarks posting gains:

• The Russell 2000 led with a sharp +1.26% climb to 2,379.61, suggesting improving sentiment toward small-cap and domestically oriented stocks.
• The Nasdaq rose +0.47% to 21,810.50, supported by strength in technology and growth shares.
• The S&P 500 advanced +0.35% to 6,525.15, with broad participation across sectors.
• The Dow 30 added +0.17% to 45,701.03, extending its steady climb despite more modest gains compared to growth-heavy peers.

The strong move in the Russell 2000 points to a rotation back into small caps, often viewed as a sign of confidence in the domestic growth outlook. Canada and Brazil Extend Gains Elsewhere in the Americas, Canada’s S&P/TSX Composite Index gained +0.56% to 29,077.70, lifted by strength in commodities and financials. Brazil’s IBOVESPA advanced +1.10% to 142,528.81, continuing its rally on optimism around local growth dynamics and capital inflows. Volatility Eases, Dollar Retreats Sharply The VIX, Wall Street’s “fear gauge,” fell -2.94% to 14.85, signaling easing investor concerns after a stretch of elevated volatility. Meanwhile, the U.S. Dollar Index dropped -0.69% to 97.67, its sharpest move in recent sessions. A weaker dollar often supports commodities and risk assets globally, adding fuel to today’s equity rally. Key Takeaways from Today’s Open

• Broad-based equity strength with small caps and emerging markets outperforming.
• Russell 2000 surged, reflecting renewed investor confidence in domestic growth.
• Canadian and Brazilian markets extended gains, highlighting regional momentum.
• Volatility cooled while the U.S. dollar weakened, creating a favorable setup for risk assets.

Investor Outlook The combination of a softer dollar, easing volatility, and synchronized equity gains across the Americas points to an improved risk environment. With small caps and emerging markets taking the lead, traders appear more willing to look past near-term macro risks and position for growth. If dollar weakness persists, the momentum could extend, though caution remains warranted given recent volatility spikes.