Stocks Slump as Bond Yields Jump, Oil Climbs—Walmart Sinks

U.S. stocks fell on Wednesday as bond yields rose and crude oil prices climbed. The moves put pressure on major indexes, with investors weighing higher borrowing costs and energy inflation risks. The yield on the 10-year Treasury note increased, reflecting expectations that the Federal Reserve may keep interest rates higher for longer. Meanwhile, oil prices extended gains, adding to concerns about persistent price pressures. In corporate news, Walmart dropped sharply after reporting weaker-than-expected earnings. The retail giant cited cautious consumer spending and ongoing cost pressures, dragging its shares and weighing on the broader market sentiment. The combination of rising yields, firmer crude, and disappointing retail results dampened investor appetite, leaving Wall Street in a defensive mood.