Public Markets 3 Hours

Last updated: July 13, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

Inflation Concerns and Fed Policy

Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller, stating that the central bank may need to raise interest rates again if core inflation persists at high levels. Waller emphasized the need for several months of lower inflation data before he would feel confident about the economic outlook. This sentiment comes as to 57 million barrels during a brief lull in U.S. naval blockades, potentially impacting global oil market dynamics. Meanwhile, Russia's oil to its lowest in at least two and a half years, largely due to Ukrainian attacks on its energy infrastructure.

Corporate Dealmaking and Legal Challenges

The proposed $110 billion acquisition of Paramount by Warner Bros. faces significant, with California and 11 other states filing a lawsuit to block the deal. The states allege the merger would lead to higher consumer prices and diminished quality in the entertainment industry. In a separate development a strategic exit from its UK payments subsidiary, Vocalink, by selling a majority stake. Shell, meanwhile for $1.8 billion to Aditya Birla Renewables, as the energy major refocuses on oil and gas.

Financial Markets and Investment Trends

Royal Bank of Canada is operations in the U.S. and Europe, anticipating increased demand for hedging as artificial intelligence investments surge. Goldman Sachs is to investors for their private funds, aiming to bridge the gap between investor commitments and capital deployment. The California Public Employees’ Retirement System (Calpers) for its latest fiscal year, primarily driven by its stock and private equity holdings. The first public fusion company, General Fusion Group Ltd., surged in its market debut after merging with a special purpose acquisition company.

Regulatory Scrutiny and Debt Concerns

Federal authorities are involving federal agents in Biddeford, Maine, and the Department of Justice has reportedly turned over evidence in related Minnesota D.H.S. shootings. Appeals courts linking Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism and ADHD, overturning previous dismissals. The International Monetary Fund an "explosive" path if it does not address its sovereign debt issues and public finances. In Connecticut as bonds are used to finance a leveraged buyout.