Stock Market Today: Iran Volatility Reignites, GOOGL & MRVL Deal, ASTS Sells #shorts

Schwab Network (ex‑TD Ameritrade Network)
Schwab Network (ex‑TD Ameritrade Network)Apr 20, 2026

Why It Matters

Geopolitical volatility and AI chip developments are reshaping risk sentiment and tech investment, while AST SpaceMobile’s setback highlights execution risk in the emerging satellite broadband sector.

Key Takeaways

  • Russell 2000 up ~0.6%, only index gaining momentum.
  • US‑Iran cease‑fire expires; talks slated in Pakistan this week.
  • Alphabet negotiating AI chip partnership with Marvell, two new designs.
  • Marvell hits record high while Google shares slip over 1%.
  • AST SpaceMobile shares drop 5.3% after Bluebird‑7 deorbit failure.

Summary

The market wrap highlighted a stalled rally, with the Russell 2000 the only index posting a modest 0.6% gain while the S&P and Nasdaq slipped. Geopolitical tension resurfaced as the two‑week U.S.–Iran cease‑fire nears expiration, prompting scheduled talks in Pakistan this week.

Crude oil settled near $86 a barrel, reflecting the renewed risk premium. In tech, Alphabet disclosed discussions with Marvell to co‑develop two AI‑optimized chips, sending Marvell to an all‑time high even as Google’s shares fell more than 1%. Meanwhile, AST SpaceMobile tumbled 5.3% after its Bluebird‑7 satellite entered a lower‑than‑planned orbit, rendering its thrusters ineffective.

President Trump posted that he was under “no pressure to strike a deal,” underscoring the political backdrop. The Bluebird‑7 deorbit issue illustrates the challenges of commercial space broadband ventures, while the AI chip partnership signals growing demand for specialized hardware.

Investors will watch how the cease‑fire outcome influences oil and risk assets, and whether the Alphabet‑Marvell collaboration accelerates AI chip adoption. The AST setback may temper enthusiasm for satellite‑based internet until technical hurdles are resolved, and upcoming earnings from UnitedHealth, GE Aerospace, and United Airlines could further shape market direction.

Original Description

Uncertainty reemerges between the U.S. and Iran. The Information reports that Alphabet (GOOGL) is eyeing Marvell (MRVL) to design some custom chips for the Mag 7 company. AST Spacemobile (ASTS) comes back to Earth after de-orbiting a recent launch. Marley Kayden carries investors through the top stories of the trading session.
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