Public Markets 3 Hours

Last updated: July 9, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

Deal-Making and AI Investments Surge

Global deal-making has reached a decade high, with $3.2 trillion spent in the first six months of the year, fueled by the artificial intelligence boom spurred by AI. This frenzied activity has seen Tera Wulf Inc. preparing to raise $3.5 billion in debt for a Kentucky data center, while Apollo Global Management’s $35 billion credit deal for Broadcom and Anthropic is set to trade. Investors are becoming more adept at navigating AI's risks and rewards, according to JPMorgan Asset Management. Computacenter shares rose as the hardware reseller capitalizes on data center infrastructure demand.

Energy Market Dynamics and Geopolitical Tensions

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission is blocking CME Group Inc.’s plan for 24/7 oil futures trading. Meanwhile, Iran has accelerated oil exports, sending approximately 11 million barrels of crude in the past 24 hours amid heightened tensions with the US. The global oil market is unprepared for a potential end to the Iran ceasefire, with US crude inventories nearing critical levels and gasoline and diesel exports approaching records. Qatar has paused efforts to boost liquefied natural gas production following an attack on a tanker in the Strait of Hormuz. London marine insurers are reporting fewer inquiries for transit through the Strait of Hormuz, signaling increased caution from shipowners. U.S. natural gas futures remain subdued due to adequate supply and above-average storage levels held back.

Corporate Strategies and Economic Outlooks

Pepsi Co CEO Ramon Laguarta is focusing on smaller-portion products and teas for mental focus amidst inflation and the rise of GLP-1 drugs. Bank of Nova Scotia has re-entered the precious metals trading business after exiting in 2020 re-enters business. Germany's new reform package is viewed as a step in the right direction but not a significant economic game-changer, according to Fitch Ratings. Seven & i Holdings, owner of 7-Eleven, raised its annual guidance as gasoline earnings boosted its North American convenience store business. Polestar, majority-owned by China's Geely, faces a US sales ban on new EVs next year, leading its chief to declare an end to globalization for automakers. European Commission has launched a probe into alleged dumping of subsidized Peking duck, escalating trade tensions with China.

Other Market Developments

The return of the 30-year US Treasury yield above 5% is prompting investors to reassess attractive levels, according to PGIM’s Gregory Peters. Qiagen NV, a European molecular testing company, is attracting early takeover interest from firms like EQT AB and Advent. Mavik Capital Management is seeking $1 billion to acquire distressed commercial real estate assets. Nigeria’s $22 billion pension industry is considering plans for an infrastructure fund. SK Hynix Inc. is guiding investors to price its US listing at $149 per American depositary receipt. A Los Angeles school for gifted children plans to sell $32 million in municipal bonds. US jobless claims were little changed last week, indicating limited layoffs.