U.S. and Iran pause attacks as stock markets show mixed results

The United States and Iran stopped their military attacks on Monday, and peace talks began again. The pause in fighting quickly affected energy markets. Oil prices dropped 6% during the day, because traders felt less worried about supply problems.

Stock markets were less clear. The S&P 500 finished the day almost flat, rising less than 0.1%. Shares moved between small gains and losses for most of the session. All three major stock indexes are still on track to finish the month lower overall.

Higher oil prices had been a concern for many months, since conflict between the two countries raised fears about disruptions to supply. Cheaper oil can reduce costs for businesses and consumers across the economy.