Business & Markets — August 5, 2026

S&P 500 returns to record highs. The S&P 500 booked its 25th record close of 2026, ending a 42-day drought, as AI optimism and hopes for a Hormuz deal powered stocks higher.

The milestone follows what MarketWatch described as a recent momentum crash, a stretch of selling that tested investor patience during the index's more-than-six-week run without a new peak. The outlet noted that investors who held their positions through that downturn are now seeing gains, with enthusiasm around artificial intelligence and prospects for an agreement on Hormuz cited as the forces behind the rebound.

MarketWatch · Read more →

Chipotle pulls jalapeños amid salmonella outbreak. Chipotle removed jalapeños from some restaurants after health officials linked the peppers to a salmonella outbreak that has sickened more than 100 people; other restaurants may also be affected.

USA Today · Read more →

McDonald's calls dropped menu offer a 'bad trade.' McDonald's said overlapping value promotions confused staff and customers, and its new $3 value menu disappointed. Still, the chain posted a profitable quarter.

Fast Company · Read more →