Public Markets 3 Hours

Last updated: June 26, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

Regulatory & AI Developments

The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission has launched an investigation into Polymarket, a move that tests the regulator's authority and signals a potentially broader crackdown on prediction markets. This action follows the CFTC's prior decision to dismiss an inquiry into the same company for serving U.S. customers. In a related development, the Trump administration has eased restrictions on Anthropic's Mythos AI model, de-escalating a previous clash over the company's advanced artificial intelligence systems. However, market participants express unease regarding Washington's ad hoc regulatory approach to AI development, suggesting a lack of clear guidance persists.

Emerging Markets & Fiscal Policy

China's industrial enterprises reported an 18.8% year-on-year expansion for the January-May period, indicating continued strength in the manufacturing sector. Meanwhile, the Philippine government plans to increase its budget by 6% to 7.2 trillion pesos ($117 next year, signaling a commitment to expanding public spending. In South America, Bolivia is transitioning to a flexible exchange-rate system after 15 years, a move aimed at bolstering macroeconomic stability as announced by its Finance Ministry.

Geopolitical Influences & Aid

Two U.S. military ships, previously part of a blockade, have redirected toward Venezuela carrying rescue teams, equipment, and medical aid. This deployment comes in response to devastating environmental events and underscores a shift in U.S. engagement with the Maduro government, focusing on humanitarian assistance rather than solely pressure.