U.S. stocks remain on firm ground despite a pullback tied to higher oil prices, rising Treasury yields and renewed Middle East tensions. The broader trend is encouraging, with major indexes recently reaching record highs while cooler inflation has eased concerns about another Fed rate hike.

Corporate earnings have also been strong, with most S&P 500 companies beating expectations. Economic growth remains steady, adding support to the market outlook.  At the same time, gains are spreading across more sectors rather than staying concentrated in a narrow group of stocks.

Geopolitical risks, inflation concerns and seasonal weakness may keep volatility elevated. Still, solid earnings and broader market…