Latest Business News
US and Iran Plan Second Round of Peace Talks
The US and Iran are seeking a second round of talks in the coming days amid ongoing conflict, with President Trump stating the war is 'close to over.' Markets are optimistic, with Chinese stocks recouping losses on deal hopes. This follows initial ceasefire discussions as geopolitical tensions ease.
ASML Raises 2026 Sales Forecast to 30-9 Billion Euros
Chip equipment maker ASML reported strong earnings, projecting 2026 sales between 30 and 9 billion euros, with Q2 net sales at 8.4-9 billion euros exceeding estimates of 9.07 billion. The update highlights robust demand in semiconductors despite global uncertainties.
IMF Downgrades 2026 Global Growth Projection
The IMF has lowered its 2026 global growth outlook, citing risks from the Iran war and geopolitical tensions. IMF Chief Kristalina Georgieva will unveil policy priorities at a press conference ahead of Spring Meetings.
Asian Stocks Rally on US-Iran Peace Optimism
Asian markets, including Tokyo, Seoul, and Sydney, opened higher tracking Wall Street gains, with Korean tech stocks leading amid fading Iran risks. Taiwan stocks hit a record high as risk rally builds.
JPMorgan Reports Solid Earnings Amid War Concerns
JPMorgan's earnings beat expectations, offering reassurance on private credit despite US banks warning of extended Iran war impacts. Bank results show little alarm over economic pressures.
S&P 500 Nears All-Time High as Futures Hold Steady
US stock futures are flat while the S&P 500 approaches its record of 7,002.28 from January, buoyed by risk-on sentiment. Oil prices climb amid stabilizing markets post-Iran drop.
ECB's Lagarde Warns of Iran War's Economic Impact
ECB President Christine Lagarde states the EU economy sits between baseline and adverse scenarios due to the Iran conflict. She discussed impacts in exclusive interviews as rate cut delays loom.
China's Xi Warns of Global Turmoil and Disarray
President Xi Jinping cautioned of international order in disarray and global turmoil amid escalating tensions. His remarks coincide with market recoveries in Asia.
Japan Core Machine Orders Surge 24.7%
Japan's core machine orders rose sharply by 24.7%, signaling industrial strength. The BOJ is considering raising its inflation outlook in response.
Oil Prices Steady After Sharp Drop on Ceasefire Hopes
Oil steadied following a drop as markets price in US-Iran ceasefire progress, with six ships turning back from Hormuz blockade. Energy sector watches for further de-escalation.
Chicago Fed's Goolsbee: Iran War May Delay Rate Cuts
Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee indicated the Iran war could postpone anticipated interest rate reductions. This aligns with broader central bank caution on geopolitics.