Stock Market Rebounds on Iran Peace Talks and Hormuz Blockade US stocks edged higher on Monday as optimism grew over potential peace talks with Iran, despite President Trump’s threats to enforce a US blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.1%, while the S&P 500 gained 0.4% and the Nasdaq Composite surged 0.7%, driven by software stocks and renewed hopes for a Middle East ceasefire. Oil prices dipped slightly below $100 a barrel, easing concerns about inflation and global growth risks. The market’s rebound followed Trump’s announcement that Iran had contacted his administration to discuss a deal. The president had earlier ordered a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, threatening to destroy Iranian ships obstructing the critical waterway. Iran vowed to retaliate against Persian Gulf ports if its energy infrastructure was targeted. The geopolitical tensions, which had previously pressured oil prices and global markets, appeared to ease as investors weighed the possibility of deescalation. Goldman Sachs (GS) opened earnings season with strong profits, though its shares fell 2% after the report. The bank’s second-highest quarterly profit ever underscored Wall Street’s resilience, but analysts noted that broader market sentiment remained cautious. First-quarter results from major banks like Bank of America (BAC), JPMorgan Chase (JPM), and Morgan Stanley (MS) were expected to follow, with earnings growth projections at 12.6% for the S&P 500. Software stocks led the Nasdaq’s gains, with the iShares software ETF (IGV) surging to its best performance in nearly a year. Companies like Microsoft (MSFT), Oracle (ORCL), and Salesforce (CRM) drove the rally, reversing earlier bearish signals.#us #iran #strait_of_hormuz #delta_air_lines #goldman_sachs
Indian Shares Decline Amid Failed U.S.-Iran Talks and Rising Oil Prices Indian stock markets experienced a downturn on Monday, following the collapse of weekend U.S.-Iran peace negotiations and a surge in global oil prices above $100 per barrel. The decline mirrored broader Asian market trends as geopolitical tensions escalated, raising concerns about economic growth and corporate profits. Investors grew wary as the unresolved standoff between Washington and Tehran intensified, with U.S. President Donald Trump announcing plans to deploy the Navy to block the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil shipping route. The Nifty 50 index, a key benchmark for Indian equities, fell 1.78% to 23,620, while the Sensex, another major indicator, dropped 1.83% to 76,139.90. These declines marked a reversal from the previous week’s strong performance, where both indices had surged over 6%, their best weekly gain in more than five years. The rebound had been driven by optimism surrounding a fragile U.S.-Iran ceasefire, which now appeared to be unraveling. Global oil prices also rose sharply, with Brent crude climbing 7.3% to $102 per barrel. This increase pressured Indian energy stocks and amplified fears of reduced corporate margins. Asian markets, including Japan and South Korea, saw declines of around 1.2%, reflecting widespread investor caution. Domestically, all 16 major sectors in India’s stock market closed in the red, with small-cap and mid-cap indices falling approximately 1.5% each. Analysts attributed the downturn to the combination of geopolitical uncertainty and rising input costs. Aakash Shah, a technical research analyst at Choice Equity Broking, noted that the failed talks and higher crude prices had triggered a broad sell-off in global equities.#us #iran #strait_of_hormuz #sensex #nifty_50
Oil Prices Surge Past $100 as US Threatens to Blockade Iranian Ports Following Failed Peace Talks Oil prices climbed above $100 a barrel on Monday as global energy markets reopened in Asia, driven by renewed tensions between the United States and Iran after failed peace talks and President Donald Trump’s announcement of a potential blockade of Iranian ports. The surge came amid growing concerns that the ongoing conflict in the region could deepen the global energy crisis. Brent crude, the international benchmark, rose 8.5% to $102.37, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) gained 9% to $105.34. The price rebound followed a weekend of stalled negotiations between Washington and Tehran, which had previously agreed to a conditional ceasefire deal. The failed talks marked a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape, with Trump’s threat to blockade Iranian ports intensifying fears of further disruption to oil supplies. The decision to escalate tensions came after weeks of uncertainty over the viability of the earlier ceasefire agreement, which had included the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz—a critical chokepoint for global energy trade. The strait, through which approximately 20% of the world’s oil shipments pass, has become a focal point of the conflict. Iranian officials had previously warned that any attempt to use the waterway would be met with retaliation, a stance that has now been reinforced by the US military’s explicit threat to enforce a blockade. The current crisis has its roots in the broader Iran war, which began on February 28 when Iran retaliated against US-Israeli strikes by threatening to attack vessels attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz. Since then, the strait has been a flashpoint for conflict, with shipping activity largely halted.#us #iran #strait_of_hormuz #president_donald_trump #central_command
Key US-Iran Talks In Pakistan Today Could End The War The long-awaited U.S.-Iran peace talks are set to take place in Islamabad today, marking a critical moment in the ongoing conflict. Iranian officials have emphasized the importance of the meeting, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf leading the 70-member delegation. The Iranian side has expressed cautious optimism, though they remain skeptical of U.S. intentions. Qalibaf stated that Tehran’s willingness to engage is clear, but trust in American commitments remains low. As a result, Iran has proposed several conditions for the talks, including halting Israeli aggression in Lebanon, ceasing military expansion in the Middle East, and addressing concerns over Iran’s nuclear program. The U.S. delegation includes Vice President JD Vance, Special Envoy Steve Witty, and Jared Kushner, Donald Trump’s son-in-law, who is expected to play a key role in negotiations. Both sides have agreed to a two-week ceasefire, creating a window for dialogue. However, tensions remain high, with Iran demanding guarantees that the U.S. will not escalate military actions in the region. The talks are expected to focus on Iran’s nuclear activities, the security of the Hormuz Strait, and broader regional stability. Pakistan has taken extensive security measures to ensure the safety of the delegates. Thousands of police and military personnel have been deployed, with strict checkpoints and curfews in place. Schools, colleges, and markets have been closed, and private vehicles are banned in designated “red zones” near key government buildings, embassies, and hotels. The Pakistani government has also declared official holidays on Thursday and Friday to facilitate the talks. Despite the logistical efforts, skepticism persists.#pakistan #us #iran #abbas_araghchi #mohammad_bagher_qalibaf
Gold-Silver Rate Fall: Sudden Drop in Silver Price, Gold Falls 11 Rupees per 10 Grams On Thursday, gold and silver prices experienced a sharp decline following a dramatic surge the previous day. Silver prices plummeted by over ₹4,700 per kilogram, making it 2.04 lakh rupees cheaper than its peak level. Gold also saw a drop, with 10 grams of 24 karat gold falling by 11 rupees. The sudden fall came after a previous surge driven by tensions between the United States and Iran, which had pushed silver prices to a high of ₹4,39,337 per kilogram. The drop was immediate, with silver prices opening at ₹2,35,133 per kilogram on Thursday, down from ₹2,39,918 per kilogram on Wednesday. This decline made silver 4,785 rupees cheaper than its previous day's closing price. Analysts noted that the price swing was influenced by the easing of geopolitical tensions, which had previously driven demand for safe-haven assets like gold and silver. Gold also saw a decline, with the 10-gram 24-karat gold price falling to ₹1,50,647 on Thursday, down from ₹1,51,776 on Wednesday. This marked a drop of 1,129 rupees compared to the previous day's closing price. The metal's price is now 52,337 rupees below its lifetime high of ₹2,02,984 per 10 grams. The market reaction was swift, with silver prices dropping by 2.04 lakh rupees per kilogram from their peak. This decline highlights the volatility of precious metals, which are often sensitive to global economic shifts and geopolitical events. The initial surge in prices on Wednesday was attributed to fears of a potential conflict between the US and Iran, which briefly drove demand for gold and silver as investors sought safe-haven assets. However, the market quickly adjusted, with traders selling off their holdings as tensions eased.#us #silver #gold #iran #precious_metals
Stock Market Likely to Rise on US-Iran Ceasefire and Oil Price Drop The Indian stock market is expected to open higher on Wednesday, with the Sensex and Nifty poised for a gap-up rally following a significant geopolitical development. The agreement between the United States and Iran to suspend military operations for two weeks has eased tensions in the region, while oil prices fell below $100 per barrel after Iran announced the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. These factors have bolstered investor sentiment, with markets anticipating a positive reaction to the reduced geopolitical risks and the decline in energy prices. The GIFT Nifty, a key indicator of the Nifty 50’s performance, surged by 3.5% or over 750 points to 23,857.50 in early trading. This sharp rise reflects optimism about the ceasefire and the potential for lower crude oil prices to ease inflationary pressures. Analysts noted that the market will closely monitor the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) repo rate announcement later in the day, as the central bank’s stance on monetary policy could influence investor behavior. While the RBI is expected to maintain its current interest rate, the commentary surrounding the decision and its implications for inflation will be critical. Global markets also showed strong momentum, with the US index futures surging over 2% and Asian markets gaining between 3-5%. The rally is attributed to improved sentiment from the US-Iran ceasefire and the sharp decline in Brent crude prices, which fell 13% to below $95 per barrel. The easing of tensions in the Gulf region has raised hopes for stable energy supplies, further supporting investor confidence. Domestically, the focus will shift to the RBI’s credit policy announcement, which is scheduled for 10 am.#us #iran #gift_nifty #bse_sensex #reserve_bank_of_india
US and Iran trade threats to unleash 'hell' as search for missing US airman continues The United States and Iran escalated tensions with mutual threats of catastrophic retaliation as the search for a missing American airman continued. US President Donald Trump intensified his rhetoric, warning that "all hell would rain down on" Iran if it failed to meet his demands, while Iranian officials vowed to turn the entire region into "hell" if hostilities persisted. The conflict, which has seen a series of military strikes and missile attacks, has drawn international attention due to its potential to destabilize the Middle East. On Saturday, Iran launched a barrage of missiles at the Gulf States, Iraq, and Israel, with intercepted projectiles causing damage from falling debris. Meanwhile, US and Iranian forces were actively searching for a missing American crew member after a US F-15 fighter jet was shot down over southern Iran on Friday. The pilot was reportedly rescued, according to US media, but the search for the missing crew member remains a critical priority. Iranian officials have urged citizens to locate the individual "alive" and are offering rewards for his capture. A US A-10 Warthog aircraft, part of the search-and-rescue mission, was also shot and damaged, though its pilot was rescued. The incident highlights the escalating risks of aerial confrontations in the region. Trump, who had previously announced a 10-day pause on attacks on Iranian energy infrastructure to pressure Tehran into negotiations, reiterated his threats on Truth Social. He warned that "all Hell will reign down on them" if Iran did not comply with his demands, including reopening the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours.#us #iran #donald_trump #international_atomic_energy_agency #khatam_al_anbiya
Stock Market Rises Amid Hope for U.S.-Iran War Resolution Stocks surged on Wednesday as optimism grew that a resolution to the U.S.-Iran conflict was nearing, with the S&P 500 climbing 1.2%, the Nasdaq Composite gaining 1.8%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average rising 452 points, or 1%. Oil prices dipped, with West Texas Intermediate futures falling 2% to trade above $99 per barrel and Brent crude futures declining 3% to near $100 a barrel. The market’s optimism was fueled by President Donald Trump’s claim that Iran’s leader had requested a ceasefire, though the U.S. would only consider the offer if the Strait of Hormuz remained “open, free, and clear.” Trump added that until then, the U.S. would continue its military actions against Iran. The president’s remarks came after he told reporters at the White House late Tuesday that U.S. forces would withdraw from Iran in “two or three weeks.” Analysts noted that the market was “sniffing out” a potential resolution, with Patrick Ryan, chief investment strategist at Madison Investments, stating that the market was “kind of just sniffing out that there’s probably some type of resolution in the next couple of weeks.” However, Ryan warned that volatility could persist unless there was an “all-clear announcement” on the war’s path forward. Investors were set to receive further clarity on Wednesday evening, when Trump was scheduled to address the nation to provide an update. The stock market’s rally was also bolstered by other developments. Five S&P 500 stocks hit new 52-week highs, including Pfizer, Ross Stores, Equinix, Sempra, and Entergy, while 10 stocks reached new lows, such as Nike, Visa, and Global Payments. Nike’s shares fell 14.#us #iran #spacex #donald_trump #ism_manufacturing_index
US-Israel-Iran Conflict Escalates Amid Regional Diplomatic Efforts The Middle East has seen a dramatic escalation in hostilities as the United States, Israel, and Iran continue their military confrontations, with regional powers like Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan attempting to mediate the crisis. The conflict, which began on February 28, 2026, with US-Israeli strikes on Iran that killed its supreme leader, has expanded to involve Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels and raised global concerns over energy markets and trade routes. Iran confirmed on March 29, 2026, that its Revolutionary Guards commander, Alireza Tangsiri, had been killed in an Israeli air strike, marking another significant loss in the ongoing conflict. The attack, which occurred days after Israel claimed to have targeted Tangsiri, intensified fears of further retaliation. Iran’s state media reported that the strike left Tangsiri with severe injuries, while Israeli forces continued their aerial campaigns against Iranian military and infrastructure targets. The war has already claimed over 3,000 lives, with casualties stretching across Iran, Israel, and Gulf Arab states. On March 29, Iranian missile shrapnel struck a major industrial facility in Neot Hovav, a chemical plant hub in southern Israel, triggering a hazardous materials incident and prompting evacuations. The attack, which injured at least one person, highlighted the growing risk of collateral damage in the region. Meanwhile, Iran accused the United States of secretly planning a ground invasion despite ongoing diplomatic efforts. Iran’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, alleged that Washington was using negotiations as a cover for military operations, citing the arrival of a US warship with 3,500 troops in the Middle East.#us #iran #israel #saudi_arabia #houthi_rebels
As US troops sail to Middle East, how likely is Trump to order boots on the ground? US military units are being deployed to the Middle East as part of a strategy that could involve direct confrontation with Iran, raising questions about the likelihood of a large-scale ground operation under President Donald Trump’s leadership. While the administration has emphasized diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis, the movement of thousands of troops suggests a readiness to escalate tensions if negotiations fail. The deployment includes marines from the 31st and 11th expeditionary units and paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne, who are trained for rapid global deployment and could be used for parachute assaults in the region. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated the administration’s position that the US can achieve its objectives without a full-scale ground war, but the presence of troops in the region has raised concerns about potential military action. Trump has hinted at using force to pressure Iran, particularly to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route. However, the limited number of troops and lack of heavy armored units may restrict the US’s ability to sustain a prolonged conflict, potentially prolonging a stalemate with severe economic consequences. Kharg Island, a small coral outcrop off Iran’s coast, has emerged as a key target. The island serves as a major hub for Iran’s oil exports, with about 90% of its crude oil passing through the area. Losing control of Kharg could significantly weaken Iran’s economic and military capabilities. Trump has long expressed interest in attacking the island, a plan he first proposed in the 1980s. However, the operation would be complex, requiring an amphibious assault under potential enemy fire.#us #iran #middle_east #strait_of_hormuz #marco_rubio
Life on the Rooftops of Tehran Amid War and Crisis The night sky over Tehran has become a canvas of explosions, its once-starry expanse now lit by the fiery trails of missiles streaking toward the ground. For months, the city has been caught in the crossfire of two wars—one launched by Israel with U.S. support, the other a joint effort between two foreign powers. Civilians, already reeling from the violence, have been forced to endure the aftermath of government crackdowns on protests that erupted in January, which saw thousands killed or injured for demanding an end to corruption, economic collapse, and political repression. The Internet, a lifeline for many, has been nearly severed, leaving people isolated and desperate for information. Even basic necessities like reliable communication have become luxuries, as checkpoints and militia forces patrol the streets, instilling fear in every corner of the city. As the war drags on, the author recounts the daily reality of survival. Oil facilities have been bombed, their smoke rising like a dark veil over the horizon, obscuring the sun and the sky. Writing under the threat of death, the author questions the value of documenting their experiences. What purpose does it serve to note the lingering bitterness of morning coffee or the habit of retreating to rooftops to escape the chaos of explosions? The author laments the loss of ordinary life, the way knowledge of military technology and geopolitical systems has become a burden rather than a tool. They yearn for the simplicity of literature and art, for the poetry of Ferdowsi and Rumi, which once offered solace from the regime’s extremist rhetoric. Now, those dreams feel distant, replaced by the grim reality of survival. The author’s personal connections to the crisis deepen as they describe the toll on friends and neighbors.#us #iran #israel #tehran #ferdowsi
Iran Israel US War News | Tehran Under Fire, Iran Rejects US' 'Pause' Narrative Even as US President Donald Trump speaks of a “pause” and possible deal, the ground reality in Tehran tells a very different story. Fierce airstrikes have hit multiple locations across the Iranian capital and surrounding areas, marking one of the most intense phases of the conflict so far. Iran has pushed back strongly against Washington’s claims, with officials indicating they have neither sought a ceasefire nor agreed to negotiations on US terms. Instead, Tehran is signalling defiance, insisting any resolution will be on its own conditions. While backchannel communication continues through intermediaries, the conflict is escalating, not slowing down. Reports of fresh US troop deployments and continued strikes by the Israel Defense Forces further underscore the widening scale of the war — raising fears that diplomacy remains distant even as global stakes climb.#us #iran #israel #tehran #israel_defense_forces
US-Israel-Iran War Escalates Amid Diplomatic and Military Tensions The conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran has intensified, with significant military actions and renewed diplomatic efforts as regional and global powers seek to address the crisis. Israel has launched strikes against Iran’s nuclear facilities, including the Arak Heavy-Water Plant and the Ardakan Yellowcake facility, while Iran has vowed retaliation. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has ordered workers at industrial sites linked to American or Israeli interests to evacuate, signaling an imminent escalation. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has intensified its public stance, demanding a role in any U.S.-Iran negotiations, with Secretary General Jasem AlBudaiwi warning that the conflict poses a direct threat to Gulf security, shipping, and the global economy. He accused Iran of imposing tolls on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil trade. Meanwhile, Pakistan reported that indirect U.S.-Iran talks are underway through intermediaries, with a 15-point U.S. proposal currently under Iranian review. Turkey, Egypt, China, and Canada have also expressed support for de-escalation and diplomatic solutions. Military operations continue to disrupt the region. Israel claimed it killed IRGC Navy commander Alireza Tangsiri in an airstrike and launched fresh attacks in Isfahan, while Iranian missiles wounded six Israelis. In the Gulf, debris from a missile interception in Abu Dhabi killed two people, highlighting the conflict’s spillover into neighboring states. Hezbollah has pledged to maintain its confrontation with Israel, and an Israeli soldier was killed in south Lebanon.#us #iran #israel #gulf_cooperation_council #iranian_red_crescent
US-Israel-Iran War Live: Rubio Says US Expects Conflict to End in Weeks The Middle East conflict continues to escalate with no signs of de-escalation, as fresh strikes and retaliatory attacks unfold across Iran, Israel, and Lebanon. Israel has launched targeted strikes on key infrastructure within Iran, including sites critical to weapons production, while Iranian missiles have struck Israel and the UAE, killing at least two people in the latter. Israeli forces also claimed to have killed Alireza Tangsiri, the commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) navy, in a strike. Meanwhile, Israel intensified its operations in Lebanon, where smoke rose over Beirut following pre-dawn attacks that reportedly killed two people. On the diplomatic front, US President Donald Trump stated that Iran’s leaders are seeking a deal to end the conflict, though he warned Washington could escalate further if necessary. The administration has paused strikes on Iran’s energy sites until April 6 and proposed a 15-point peace plan, with Pakistan acting as a mediator. However, Iran has rejected the offer as “one-sided and unfair,” with its response to the proposal expected to be delivered later on Friday. The United Nations has taken steps to address the humanitarian fallout of the war, announcing the creation of a task force to ensure aid and agricultural supplies can pass through the Strait of Hormuz. The initiative, modeled after previous UN operations in Gaza and Yemen, will involve representatives from the organization’s trade, maritime, and commerce agencies. UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric emphasized the urgency of mitigating the conflict’s impact on regional populations and critical infrastructure.#us #iran #israel #un #lebanon
Prospect of US-Iran talks puts Netanyahu under pressure The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel has intensified as tensions rise over potential U.S.-Iran negotiations, putting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu under mounting pressure. Recent missile strikes and retaliatory air attacks have escalated the violence, with Iran targeting northern and southern Israel overnight after Israel launched dozens of strikes inside Iran, hitting command centers of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) and the Intelligence Ministry in Tehran. The attacks left significant damage in residential areas, including collapsed walls and shattered glass in Tel Aviv, where six people were reportedly injured in an Iranian missile strike that narrowly missed apartment buildings. Residents described the chaos of the attack, with one man recounting how he fled his apartment in bare feet as the blast tore through his neighborhood. The incident has fueled speculation about the U.S. administration’s intentions, as President Donald Trump’s push for renewed talks with Tehran has raised questions about whether the White House is seeking a diplomatic resolution or using negotiations as a cover for military escalation. Thousands of U.S. marines are currently deployed to the Middle East, adding to the complexity of the situation. Netanyahu faces a dilemma as he balances his commitment to the war effort with the growing possibility of U.S. diplomatic engagement. Analysts argue that Trump’s approach may diverge from Netanyahu’s goals, with the Israeli leader insisting the conflict is necessary to eliminate existential threats to Israel. “Netanyahu wants to continue the war,” said Michael Milstein, a former military intelligence officer, noting the gap between Trump’s desire for a negotiated end and Netanyahu’s insistence on military victory.#us #iran #israel #donald_trump #benjamin_netanyahu
Gold Vs. Bitcoin: XAUUSD Strength Builds While BTC Attempts Rebound Gold maintains its defensive position as Bitcoin struggles to recover from a recent sharp decline. The two assets, though influenced by similar macroeconomic factors, exhibit stark differences in their market behavior. Gold serves as a traditional safe-haven asset, while Bitcoin, a high-risk growth asset, faces volatility tied to liquidity and risk appetite. The divergence between the two became evident after the US-Iran conflict, with gold rebounding following President Trump’s comments on a potential ceasefire, while Bitcoin remained under pressure. Macroeconomic forces continue to shape the dynamics between gold and Bitcoin. Rising US Treasury yields, which have surpassed 4.30%, are limiting gold’s upside potential in the short term. A strong US dollar also exerts downward pressure on both assets, though gold benefits from geopolitical uncertainty and safe-haven demand. Meanwhile, Bitcoin’s performance is more sensitive to liquidity conditions, dropping when risk appetite wanes and recovering as liquidity improves. Bitcoin’s technical analysis reveals a complex pattern. Since December 2022, the cryptocurrency has formed an ascending broadening wedge, indicating heightened volatility. The price surged above $120,000 before reversing, forming a rounded top pattern that signaled distribution at higher levels. A subsequent bear flag triggered a sharp decline to the $75,000 level, with further support at $50,000 to $60,000. If this support holds, Bitcoin may attempt a recovery toward $100,000. A breakout above this level would be critical to sustain bullish momentum. The Bitcoin-to-gold ratio highlights the relative weakness of Bitcoin against gold. The ratio broke below a long-term trendline at 25 in October 2025, confirming Bitcoin’s underperformance.#us #gold #bitcoin #iran #president_trump
Day 27 of Middle East conflict — US extends pause on Iran energy strikes, Trump says ‘talks are ongoing’ The United States has extended a pause on military strikes against Iranian energy infrastructure for another 10 days, as President Donald Trump stated that “talks are ongoing” with Tehran. The initial pause was set to expire on Friday, but the decision to prolong it reflects the ongoing diplomatic efforts between the two nations. Despite this, Trump has emphasized that it is up to Iranian leaders to convince him to halt the conflict, indicating a lack of urgency on his part to reach a deal. Iranian state media has expressed skepticism about Washington’s willingness to negotiate, calling into question the sincerity of the current talks. Meanwhile, the death of Iran’s navy chief, a key figure in the near-total blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, has added another layer of tension to the already volatile situation. According to Israel’s defense minister, the commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps navy has been killed, which could shift the balance of power in the region. Investors across Asia are deeply concerned about the potential end of the war, as markets in the region continue to decline following a significant drop in the United States. The uncertainty surrounding the conflict has disrupted energy shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway that carries about 20% of the world’s oil and natural gas. The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has raised its inflation forecasts for major economies, predicting an average rate of 4% for G20 nations this year, while also lowering its global growth forecast to 2.9% from 3.3%.#us #iran #donald_trump #strait_of_hormuz
RIL rejects reports of buying Iranian crude, calls claims baseless Reliance Industries Limited on Thursday denied media allegations that it had purchased crude oil from Iran, describing the claims as baseless and misleading. In a statement, the company clarified that it had not engaged in any such transactions and urged media outlets to verify facts before publishing reports. The statement came in response to recent media coverage that had suggested the company had acquired Iranian crude, which sparked controversy in the energy sector. The allegations were first reported by Reuters, which cited three sources familiar with the matter. According to the report, Reliance Industries, which operates the world’s largest refining complex, had purchased approximately 5 million barrels of Iranian crude oil. This purchase occurred days after the U.S. temporarily eased sanctions on Iranian oil, allowing certain transactions to proceed under a 30-day waiver. The waiver applied to oil cargoes loaded on vessels, including tankers subject to sanctions, on or before March 20 and discharged by April 19. The U.S. administration’s decision to issue the waiver was part of a broader effort to manage the global oil market amid geopolitical tensions. The report noted that other Asian refiners, including Indian state-run companies, were evaluating whether they could take advantage of the limited waiver window to purchase Iranian oil. However, a senior executive at China’s Sinopec stated that the company had no intention of buying Iranian crude, highlighting the cautious approach many firms were taking. The situation has raised questions about the implications of U.S. sanctions policy on international energy trade.#us #iran #reliance_industries_limited #sinopec #reuters
China boycotts top AI conference after ban on papers from US-sanctioned entities China’s largest federation for science and technology professionals announced a boycott of the Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS), a leading artificial intelligence conference, following a policy change by the California-based foundation that organizes the event. The decision to exclude submissions from entities under U.S. sanctions, including Chinese tech companies like Huawei and SMIC (0981.HK), sparked significant backlash in China, which is engaged in a fierce competition with the United States to advance cutting-edge AI technologies. NeurIPS, a key platform for global researchers to share peer-reviewed work and recruit talent, now faces criticism for its new stance, which aligns with U.S. legal requirements. The Chinese Association for Science and Technology (CAST) stated it would halt funding applications for members wishing to attend NeurIPS and redirect them to domestic or internationally recognized conferences that respect the interests of Chinese academics. CAST also clarified that research papers accepted at NeurIPS would no longer qualify as valid outputs for its funding programs, though they would still be acknowledged for their academic impact if evaluated by Chinese academic societies. This move underscores the growing influence of geopolitical tensions on AI research, as both the U.S. and China leverage state power to shape each other’s technological capabilities. The U.S. has intensified scrutiny of Chinese scientists at American universities, investigating alleged ties to entities in mainland China. Sanctions have been imposed on hundreds of Chinese universities and companies, restricting their access to advanced U.S. technology.#us #china #cast #neurips #huawei
Reports of a US peace plan for Iran send oil prices lower Jon Cheigh, President and Chief Investment Officer at Cohen and Steers, says he believes the US and Iran are heading toward a de-escalation process, although he estimates it will be a multi-week to month-long process to reach a resolution. The development has led to a decline in oil prices, reflecting market concerns over potential shifts in geopolitical tensions. Analysts suggest that the proposed plan could reduce the risk of further conflicts, prompting investors to adjust their positions in energy markets. While the exact details of the peace initiative remain unclear, the anticipation of diplomatic efforts has already begun influencing global commodity prices. Financial experts are closely monitoring the situation, as any breakthrough could have significant implications for international trade and energy security.#us #iran #oil_prices #cohen_and_steers #jon_cheigh
