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đź“…May 7, 2026 at 1:00 PM
Global stocks rally on US-Iran deal hopes reopening Strait of Hormuz; oil holds above $100; China pauses refiner loans; Nikkei hits record high amid AI boom.
1

Global Stocks Rally on US-Iran Peace Hopes as Oil Hovers Above $100

Equity markets hit fresh highs with Tokyo's Nikkei surging nearly 6% to a record, fueled by optimism over a US-Iran deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude dipped but settled at $101.27, trading around $102 despite volatility. Investors eye potential end to conflict boosting energy flows Source 2Source 4Source 7.

2

US and Iran Weigh Fresh Proposal to End War

President Trump seeks offramp from Iran conflict as US awaits Tehran's response to deal allowing oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials call some provisions unacceptable, but optimism drives global stock gains. Trump notes Iran agrees it cannot have nuclear weapons Source 2Source 3Source 6.

3

China Orders Banks to Pause New Loans to Sanctioned Refiners

China advises largest banks to suspend loans to five US-sanctioned refiners tied to Iranian oil, reversing guidance from days ago. Move comes amid US-Iran talks and falling Brent prices. Impacts refiners' access to funding Source 3Source 6.

4

Japan's Nikkei 225 Surges 6% to New Record High

Nikkei jumps over 3,300 points to 63,086 following holidays, up 70% in a year on AI-driven tech boom. Chip firms like Tokyo Electron (+9%) and Advantest (+6.8%) lead gains. Hang Seng up 1.7%, Kospi hits record Source 7.

5

Lufthansa Expects Robust Demand to Offset €1.7B Fuel Cost Rise

Airline anticipates strong demand will counter sharp increase in fuel bills due to elevated oil prices from Middle East conflict. Remains optimistic on financial outlook despite energy pressures Source 1.

6

Siemens Healthineers Cuts Full-Year Sales Forecast

German medical equipment maker lowers outlook due to structural changes in China's diagnostics market and higher inflation. Reflects weaker demand in key regions amid global economic strains Source 6.

7

Asian Markets Boom: Korea, Taiwan Capitals Surge

Korean market surpasses Canada as 7th largest globally; Taiwan 6th. Gains tied to tech strength and US-Iran deal optimism boosting equities across region Source 6.

8

Up to 150 Former WHSmith Stores to Close in UK

Modella Capital, owner of rebranded TGJones chain, plans closures of up to 150 high street stores as part of turnaround. Hundreds of jobs at risk in restructuring Source 4.

9

Hedge Fund Founder Ken Griffin Slams NYC Mayor's Wealth Tax

Citadel's Griffin calls Mamdani's 'tax the rich' video 'creepy,' vows to focus on Miami over Manhattan. Escalating feud highlights tensions over New York policies Source 4.

10

Mozambique Eyes Swapping Dollar Debt for Yuan in China Talks

African nation considers shifting dollar debt to yuan amid financial pressures. Part of broader economic maneuvers as discussed in regional news Source 2.

11

Maersk Reports Amid Iran War Disruptions

Shipping giant updates operations as conflict impacts volumes, with Qatar business offline due to missile strikes. Seeks to regain capacity post-peace hopes Source 3Source 6.

12

Ryanair CEO Calls for Airport Drink Limits

Michael O’Leary urges ban on early-morning pints and two-drink limit to curb passenger misbehavior. Part of push for better air travel conduct Source 4.