Latest Business News
Iran Declares Strait of Hormuz Open for Business During Ceasefire
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araqchi announced the Strait of Hormuz is fully open for the remaining 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. Vessels can pass along routes coordinated by Iran's Ports and Maritime Organization.
This follows its closure due to the US-Israeli war on Iran, a critical oil route.
NATO Coalition Plans Mission to Secure Hormuz Navigation
A coalition of mainly NATO countries met in Paris, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron, to plan resumption of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. The mission includes military ships, mine-clearing, and radar capabilities.
This addresses the waterway choked off by regional conflict.
Trump Claims Strait of Hormuz is 'Open For Business'
President Trump stated the Strait of Hormuz is open, prompting reactions on its impact on global business. Representative Jake Auchincloss expressed disbelief during discussions on Balance of Power.
The claim intersects with politics and effects on small businesses from Middle East tensions.
UBS Declares Trump's Housing Market Solution Dead on Arrival
UBS analysts criticized the Trump administration's housing deregulation plan as unlikely to fix the affordability crisis. The US faces a shortage of roughly 10 million homes, higher than UBS's 7 million estimate.
The strategy is well-intentioned but lacks the needed 'adrenaline shot' for the market.
Austin Housing Market Correction Highlights Deregulation Risks
Austin home values fell over 11% from 2022 peaks, ranking low among US metros amid market correction. Trump's plan cites Texas deregulation successes that turned into boom-bust volatility.
Analysts warn deregulation alone fails without demand management.
US Small Businesses Brace for Middle East Conflict Impact
US Chamber of Commerce's Neil Bradley discussed small businesses preparing for effects from Middle East conflict, including Hormuz issues. The conflict disrupts global supply chains and energy prices.
Discussions highlighted intersections with politics and trade.
UBS Praises Aspects of Trump's Housing Strategy
UBS called Trump's dual supply-demand housing approach encouraging and a step forward. Suggestions include manufacturing innovation, streamlining building, and consumer protections.
However, it won't quickly address shortages before midterms.
White House Eyes Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac to Boost Housing
UBS recommends ramping up Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac mortgage-backed securities purchases to lower rates quickly. A prior attempt briefly pushed 30-year rates below 6%.
This is seen as more tractable than broad deregulation.
Hormuz Opening Expected to Impact Oil and Gas Markets
Analyst Mike McGlone shared insights on how the Strait of Hormuz reopening will affect oil and gas sectors. The development eases prior chokepoints on global energy flows.
Discussions tied it to broader financial stories of the day.
Euronews Covers Global Business Amid Hormuz Developments
Euronews reported on latest business news tied to the Strait of Hormuz reopening on April 18, 2026. Coverage includes world business impacts from the ceasefire and navigation plans.
It highlights key routes for international trade resumption.
Trump's Hormuz Statement Sparks Debate on Iran Strategy
President Trump's Hormuz claim led to talks on Iran strategy and FISA vote reactions. Rep. Auchincloss discussed implications for US policy and navigation realities.
It underscores ongoing Middle East tensions affecting business.
Housing Shortage Estimates Rise in US Economic Report
The Economic Report of the President estimates a 10 million home shortage, per UBS analysis. This exceeds prior figures and underscores affordability challenges.
Trump's plan aims to address it but faces Wall Street skepticism.