Episode Details

US equity futures are lower, with the S&P down 1%. Bonds are firmer: the US 10‑year -3bp, Bunds -2bp, and gilts -1bp. The dollar is mostly weaker, notably versus the yen and franc; the risk‑sensitive AUD underperforms. Oil gains — WTI up two point eight percent near a hundred dollars per barrel. Gold and industrial metals are lower, while Bitcoin is slightly higher. Middle East headlines remain volatile. After earlier signs of diplomatic progress, new reports say the US and Iran have developed plans for an intensive three‑day operation before the midterms. At the same time, the US is reducing its regional presence amid renewed conflict risks and ongoing Saudi‑Houthi fighting. A Wednesday drone strike at Saudi Aramco’s Shaybah oil field in the Eastern Province caused fatalities.

Companies mentioned: Intel, Abbott Laboratories, Meta