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Latest Business News

đź“…May 26, 2026 at 1:00 PM
Global markets are digesting Iran-related tensions, oil volatility, semiconductor rallies, and major Asia-Pacific equity shifts, while company-specific developments add pressure and momentum.
1

US strikes in southern Iran shake global markets

Shares were mixed in Europe and Asia after the U.S. military said it carried out “self-defense” strikes in southern Iran, including on missile launch sites and boats placing mines. Investors are also watching whether the fighting could disrupt shipping and energy flows near the Strait of Hormuz.Source 5

2

Oil prices rebound on renewed Middle East risk

Brent crude rose sharply after the U.S. strikes, trading at $96.45 a barrel, while U.S. benchmark crude fell to $92.97. The move reversed part of Monday’s drop and reflected continued uncertainty over whether a U.S.-Iran deal will stabilize the region.Source 5

3

Wall Street futures edge higher after holiday

U.S. futures were up about 0.5%, suggesting a firmer open after the Memorial Day holiday. The move came as investors balanced signs of geopolitical escalation against hopes for a broader diplomatic breakthrough with Iran.Source 5

4

South Korea leads Asia with a sharp stock rally

South Korea’s Kospi jumped 2.6% after returning from a holiday, making up ground on the broader regional move. The gain reflected a catch-up trade as investors reacted to stronger risk appetite and regional tech momentum.Source 5

5

Taiwan overtakes India as the world’s fifth-largest stock market

Taiwan’s market capitalization rose to about $4.9 trillion, pushing it past India and into fifth place globally. The advance was driven by gains in TSMC and the broader AI-linked semiconductor boom.Source 2Source 4

6

China chip stocks surge on Huawei tech optimism

Chipmakers in Hong Kong and mainland China gained on hopes of a Huawei-related technology breakthrough. Traders said the development could narrow the gap between Chinese chip firms and global leaders, supporting a broad rally in semiconductor shares.Source 1Source 4

7

Samsung faces internal pushback over wage deal

A Samsung union is reportedly seeking to block or challenge a tentative wage agreement that would deliver large bonuses to chip employees. The dispute highlights continuing labor tension inside one of the world’s most important semiconductor manufacturers.Source 4

8

Apple supplier and memory-chip stocks benefit from AI demand

Semiconductor names tied to memory and AI demand continued to strengthen, with commentary pointing to rising high-bandwidth memory demand. Bloomberg Intelligence said earnings outlooks are improving as the AI super-cycle supports the sector.Source 2

9

Shanghai stock exchange to review Money Tree robotics IPO

The Shanghai Stock Exchange plans to review the IPO application of Chinese robotics startup Money Tree next week. The company had previously said it aimed to raise about $620 million in a STAR Market listing.Source 1

10

Ferrari falls after new €550,000 EV design disappoints

Ferrari shares came under pressure after investors reacted negatively to the styling of its new €550,000 electric vehicle. The move shows how even premium automakers can see valuation swings when design or product strategy misses expectations.Source 1