Markets are cautious after a week of record highs, with U.S. futures dipping amid investor jitters over geopolitical tensions and economic data. Asian and European markets show mixed results following China’s steady lending rates and ongoing aviation cyber disruptions. Gold surges as safe-haven demand rises, while tech stocks react to major M&A and regulatory developments.
U.S. President Trump confirms major deal to acquire TikTok’s U.S. operations involving top billionaires including the Murdochs, Michael Dell, and Larry Ellison, signaling significant media and tech consolidation.
$3,708 – Gold prices reach all-time peak amid global tensions.
Major Western nations including the UK, Canada, and Australia formally recognize the state of Palestine, escalating geopolitical tensions and causing sharp criticism from Israeli leadership and U.S. Republicans.
Tensions rise amid disruptions at major European airports following a widespread cyberattack affecting check-in systems, causing sustained flight cancellations and operational chaos.
Ericsson Secures $1.33 Billion 5G Contract From VodafoneThree
Ericsson scores a massive $1.33 billion deal to expand 5G infrastructure with VodafoneThree, boosting its footprint in next-gen telecom technology.
More on reuters.com
Trump administration’s surprise $100,000 fee on H-1B visas sends shockwaves through U.S. tech and Indian IT sectors, forcing urgent responses from workers and companies amid widespread confusion.
Charlie Kirk’s memorial service in Arizona draws massive crowds with tributes from President Trump and prominent MAGA figures; emotional addresses emphasize Kirk’s legacy and faith-based forgiveness from his widow.
Trump’s $100K H-1B Visa Fee Sparks Industry Chaos, Indian IT Sector Reels
The surprise $100,000 fee on H-1B visas disrupts U.S. tech hiring and threatens India’s $280 billion IT services industry, triggering scrambling and confusion globally.
More on ft.com
Gold prices soar to new all-time highs fueled by geopolitical tensions and tariff concerns, marking a bullish surge in precious metals as investors seek safe-haven assets amid market uncertainties.
Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway exits its stake in Chinese EV maker BYD, reflecting shifting dynamics in China’s cutthroat electric vehicle sector amid competitive pressures and market changes.
The Trump administration’s new $100,000 H-1B visa fee policy introduces significant hurdles for skilled foreign workers, triggering industry-wide disruption and legal uncertainty.
BBVA aggressively raises its takeover bid for Sabadell in a protracted battle, signaling intensified consolidation moves in Spain’s banking sector with a valuation topping €17 billion.
Asia-Pacific markets show mixed performance following China’s decision to keep lending rates steady, reflecting cautious investor sentiment amid global economic uncertainties and recent U.S. Federal Reserve moves.
This is a pivotal moment redefining technology ownership and geopolitical influence.
— Senior White House Official on TikTok Deal
European Commission’s controversial plan to fund next budget with corporate and tobacco levies faces strong opposition from EU member states, reflecting tensions over fiscal policies and tax burdens.
Ericsson secures $1.33 billion 5G contract from VodafoneThree, highlighting increased investment in advanced telecommunications infrastructure and expansion of next-gen network capabilities.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk executes largest insider purchase to date, buying $1 billion in stock amidst volatile market conditions, signaling strong confidence in company’s growth and valuation.
Trump ramps up campaign against political enemies with calls for Attorney General Bondi to fast-track investigations, intensifying partisan and legal tensions in Washington.
Bitcoin and major cryptocurrencies plunge amid selloff, entering the fear zone with investors digesting Fed rate cuts, showing nervous market sentiment and speculative volatility.
U.S. stock futures edge lower following record highs, reflecting cautious investor positioning ahead of key economic data and ongoing geopolitical uncertainties.
Japan’s prime minister contender supports Bank of Japan’s cautious monetary policy approach while the PBOC holds lending rates steady, underscoring delicate balancing amid global economic shifts.
U.S., Japan, and South Korea set to hold trilateral talks in New York focusing on export diversification and regional strategic cooperation amidst rising geopolitical tensions.