US-Iran clashes near Hormuz spike oil prices; Trump's tariffs ruled unlawful; China shifts on Iran ahead of Trump-Xi meet; markets eye payrolls and PMIs.
1
US and Iran Forces Clash Near Strait of Hormuz, Oil Wavers
US forces clashed with Iran near the Strait of Hormuz, jolting markets as oil prices waver below $95/barrel while awaiting Tehran's response on a potential war-ending deal. Tensions escalate with Trump demanding a deal from Tehran.
2
Federal Court Deems Trump's 10% Global Tariffs Unlawful
A federal trade court ruled President Trump's 10% tariffs on global imports unlawful in a narrow decision for certain plaintiffs, putting the policy at risk. Treasuries remain steady ahead of key data.
3
Markets Brace for April Payrolls Report
Investors await the April payrolls report as Veronica Clark of Citi provides outlook; treasuries hold steady with yields down slightly. Dollar index dips versus strong sterling and yen.
4
China Makes 'Stunning Reversal' on Iran Ahead of Trump-Xi Meeting
Fox News analyst Michael Pillsbury argues China has betrayed Iran with lavish preparations for Trump's visit, signaling a policy shift. Trump-Xi meeting remains on track despite concerns.
5
US Fires on Iran Targets, Demands Deal from Tehran
Overnight flare-up sees US striking Iran targets; Trump pushes for deal amid rising tensions impacting global markets and currencies.
6
Yen Strengthens as Japan Suspected of $55B Forex Intervention
Yen gains ground, with estimates of a second Japanese forex intervention totaling $55 billion to support it, preventing break below 155. Offshore yuan dips below 680 handle.
7
SoftBank Downsizes $10B Margin Loan Plans for OpenAI Stake
SoftBank scales back ambitious $10 billion margin loan backed by its OpenAI stake, signaling caution around AI investments amid market volatility.
8
Clashes Near Hormuz Send Oil Prices Higher
Oil surges following US-Iran clashes near Hormuz, with Jeffrey Gundlach warning on private credit risks in the broader economic context.
9
Singapore Tightens Property Rules to Cool Hot Market
Singapore implements new curbs on home flipping and property after price jumps; additional measures announced to temper market overheating.
10
Key PMIs Beat Expectations: UK Composite at 52.6, Japan Services at 53.4
S&P Global Composite PMI Final for UK hits 52.6 (consensus 52.0); Japan Services PMI Final at 53.4. Strong data supports economic resilience amid global tensions.
11
China Foreign Exchange Reserves at $3.342T, Vehicle Sales Down 0.6% YoY
China's FX reserves stand at $3.342T (prior $3.4T); vehicle sales decline 0.6% YoY. Data highlights pressures ahead of Trump-Xi talks.
12
Fed's Mary Daly Downplays Policy Divisions
San Francisco Fed President Mary Daly minimizes rifts over recent policy statements amid Iran tensions and economic data releases.