US Stocks Rise on Iran Conflict Hopes, Upbeat Jobs Data

Nasdaq leads gains as tech stocks rebound, oil prices ease after Trump offers tanker protection

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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US stocks opened higher on Wednesday following a report that Iran has indirectly approached the US to discuss terms for ending the escalating conflict in the Middle East, as well as stronger-than-expected private sector job growth data. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite led the gains, rising around 0.8%, while the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average both picked up about 0.4% after closing lower on Tuesday.

Why it matters

Geopolitical tensions around the Iran conflict have been driving volatility in US stocks, with investors closely watching for any signs of de-escalation. The upbeat jobs data also sets the stage for the closely watched monthly employment report from the government on Friday, which could influence the Federal Reserve's interest rate decisions.

The details

In three separate incidents since July, police said 45-year-old San Francisco resident Walker Reed Quinn has been damaging Waymo autonomous vehicles by removing and swinging his belt, placing a cone on the car's sensors, damaging tires and mirrors, and stomping on the windshield. Waymo has faced some backlash and vandalism incidents as one of the most visible self-driving companies operating in the city.

  • On July 4, Quinn allegedly dove onto the hood of a Waymo vehicle and covered sensors.
  • On July 29, Quinn allegedly damaged a Waymo's tires and driver's side mirror.
  • On August 11, Quinn allegedly stomped on a windshield while someone was inside.

The players

Waymo

An American autonomous driving company and a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., Google's parent company.

Walker Reed Quinn

A 45-year-old San Francisco resident who has a history of vandalism and was out on bail for prior cases related to Waymo vehicles.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.