U.S. Treasury yields rose on Monday, May 18, 2026, as global bond markets sold off amid renewed inflation fears. The yield on the 10-year U.S. Treasury note, a key benchmark, increased by more than 2 basis points to above 4.5%, according to market data.
The move was part of a broader global bond rout, with yields in Europe and Asia also climbing. Investors reacted to stronger-than-expected economic data and comments from Federal Reserve officials suggesting that interest rates may need to stay higher for longer to combat persistent price pressures.
Analysts cited concerns that inflation, which had moderated in early 2026, could be resurging due to rising energy costs and supply chain disruptions. The selloff pushed bond prices lower, driving yields higher.
The 2-year Treasury yield, which is more sensitive to Fed policy expectations, also rose, trading near 4.8%. The yield curve remained inverted, a signal that some investors expect economic slowdown.