Ethan Black

On Tuesday, oil prices experienced a more than 1% increase, bouncing back after a sharp decline in the previous session. The uptick in prices followed a technical rebound and buying activity on dips, triggered by concerns over OPEC+'s decision to accelerate production increases. This decision, made over the weekend, has led to fears of an oversupply in the global oil market, pushing both Brent crude and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) prices to their lowest levels since February 2021. The market’s reaction to these changes continues to raise questions about the future direction of oil prices amid growing concerns about supply-demand imbalances.

Alphabet Inc. $GOOGL, the parent company of Google, is set to face a critical antitrust trial in September, which could have far-reaching implications for its advertising business. The case stems from antitrust concerns raised by U.S. regulators about Google's dominance in the ad tech sector. Specifically, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has proposed that Google sell a significant portion of its advertising technology assets to alleviate concerns of anti-competitive practices. With the trial set to take place in Alexandria, Virginia, this case represents a pivotal moment not only for Google but also for the broader tech industry.

Spain’s second-largest lender, BBVA $BBVA, exceeded first-quarter earnings expectations thanks to resilient domestic performance, but signaled potential turbulence ahead. The bank issued a cautionary note regarding the impact of recent U.S. tariffs on its Mexican operations, which have long served as a growth engine. With global trade friction rising, BBVA is reconsidering its emerging markets exposure, particularly in Mexico and Turkey, in favor of a stronger focus on European markets.

In a strategic move signaling the deepening synergy between Gulf developers and global branding, UK-listed Dar Global $DAR.L and Qatari state-owned Qatari Diar are set to announce a high-profile real estate deal involving the Trump brand. According to a source familiar with the matter, the development—featuring a Trump International golf course and branded villas—will mark the Trump Organization’s debut in Qatar’s real estate sector.

Merck KGaA $MRK.DE has taken a major step in expanding its oncology division by acquiring U.S.-based biotech firm SpringWorks Therapeutics, Inc. $SWTX for approximately $3.9 billion. The move is part of the German pharmaceutical giant’s broader strategy to deepen its presence in the rare tumor treatment market, an increasingly competitive segment of the healthcare industry.

Revolut, the London-based fintech innovator, reported impressive pre-tax profits soaring by 149% to reach £1.1 billion (US$1.46 billion) last year. This significant growth reflects how the company capitalized on the surge in cryptocurrency trading while benefitting from increased interest margins and higher card payment revenues. The robust performance highlights the evolving dynamics of global finance, where digital innovation and traditional revenue streams merge to propel corporate growth.

BE Semiconductor Industries (Besi) $BESI.AS, a leading provider of advanced tools for semiconductor manufacturing, announced a notable increase in orders during the first quarter. This surge is primarily driven by Asian subcontractors ordering more applications related to data centers and artificial intelligence (AI). Investors are optimistic about Besi's hybrid solutions for bonding and the company's first-mover advantage in the rapidly growing AI technology space.

A Delta Air Lines $DAL aircraft experienced a serious incident on Monday at Orlando International Airport in Florida, where a fire broke out in one of its engines. The Airbus A330 $AIR.PA, carrying nearly 300 passengers, was destined for Atlanta when the engine ignited around 11:15 AM EST, prompting an emergency evacuation via the plane's slides. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced that it will conduct an investigation into the incident.

On Monday morning, significant shifts in international aviation unfolded as the second Boeing $BA aircraft, originally intended for a Chinese carrier, began its journey back to the United States. This move comes as a direct consequence of the bilateral tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump amid a global trade war. Data from AirNav Radar confirms that the Boeing 737 MAX departed from the manufacturing facility in Zhoushan, near Shanghai, and set its course towards Guam—a U.S. territory.

Raiffeisen Bank International $RBI.VI has recently reaffirmed its plan to divest a major portion of its Russian operations—a decision that comes amidst shifting global political pressures. Contrary to earlier media reports suggesting a halt in the process, the bank confirmed that negotiations regarding the sale continue actively. This move underscores the complex interplay between international politics and financial strategy, especially in light of sanctions and heightened regulatory scrutiny from both sides of the Atlantic.

On Thursday, the Bank of Korea sent a clear message to financial markets by maintaining its key interest rate at 2.75%—a move largely anticipated by analysts. Yet, attention quickly shifted to Governor Rhee Chang Yong’s comments, as he signaled the central bank’s willingness to cut rates in May and left the door open for further monetary easing. This stance primarily reflects growing global risks, especially those stemming from the sweeping tariff initiatives pursued by former US President Donald Trump.

Recent months have seen Chinese exporters face a dramatic spike in tariffs when shipping goods to the United States. With rates hitting an astonishing 145%, companies producing everything from lunch boxes to small kitchen appliances are rapidly reassessing their export-driven models. Many are shifting focus to domestic sales and exploring innovative ways to reach Chinese customers.