Public Markets 3 Hours

Last updated: July 22, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

Energy & Commodities

Equinor surged on earnings as higher energy prices, fueled by Middle East tensions, boosted second-quarter adjusted operating income by over 75%. Meanwhile, copper near $14,000 as traders awaited potential U.S. tariff announcements. Wheat gained Black, with corn also reaching a two-month high, while the European heatwave. Insurers are in safer regions as competition rises.

Financial Institutions & Deals

Santander posted lower, with a 36% drop attributed to restructuring charges from recent deals involving TSB and Poland. In private capital markets, a reversal from recent years while private equity misses out. Grant Thornton is as it aims to re-enter the market for large UK audits after retreating due to past shortcomings.

Global Markets & Currencies

The Japanese yen slid to ¥163 to the dollar for the first time in nearly 40 years, prompting Tokyo to vow "bold" action. U.S. Treasury yields as investors weighed higher oil prices against hopes for de-escalation in U.S.-Iran hostilities. In Australia, Lynas Rare Earths Ltd. shares dropped five-month after reporting quarterly sales that missed analyst expectations.

Corporate & Tech News

Nike is in China as part of a sales overhaul in a market where it has struggled. French AI startup Mistral is with Samsung, which could invest as much as €1bn at a €20bn valuation, seeking a leading alternative to U.S. tech giants.

Geopolitics & Economic Policy

South Africa's finance chief amid ongoing corruption concerns at the state pension fund manager. Saudi Arabia has reached a deal with the U.S. that could permit nuclear fuel enrichment, though U.S. lawmakers and Israeli officials have expressed opposition. Japan's 40-year government bond auction since March 2025, attracting investors with higher yields.