The Nasdaq Composite finished August with a 3.93% gain, recovering from back-to-back monthly declines as technology earnings helped lift sentiment, according to Yahoo Finance market data.
The rebound was led by several high-growth names. Palantir Technologies PLTR surged 50% during the month, while Strategy 
MSTR gained 42%. Space Exploration Technologies SPCX advanced 32%, and Sandisk SNDK rose 29%.
The broader market also absorbed renewed uncertainty late in the month. Rising oil prices and fresh U.S.-Iran tensions pressured stocks, while expectations for Federal Reserve policy shifted after hawkish comments from Chair Kevin Warsh. Markets were pricing in more than a 60% probability of a September rate increase.
August’s advance followed declines of 3.2% in July and 2.8% in June. Investors now face a potentially tougher backdrop in September as inflation, crude prices, labor-market data and monetary policy remain key market drivers.
What it means for stocks: The Nasdaq enters September with stronger momentum, but higher rate expectations and geopolitical risks could make the next leg of the rally more volatile.