Public Markets 8-Hour Briefing
×Markets & Deals
The S&P 500 fell 1.2% marking its first two-week loss since June, reflecting heightened geopolitical risk. Entrata is working with Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan on an IPO, signaling continued private equity activity. Meanwhile, Blackstone is positioning Liftoff Mobile for an IPO, though specific details remain limited. Gold wagers hit a 16-week high as risk-off sentiment grew, driven by Middle East tensions. Polymarket saw $529 million traded on contracts tied to the Iran strikes, highlighting market speculation.
Macro & Policy
Japan may intervene to buy yen amid speculation, while the Tony Blair Institute calls for labour market dynamism, advocating easier firing rules for high earners and lower minimum wages. The US is not planning to tap strategic reserves as Iran war risks oil surge, according to the Financial Times. Ecuador is eyeing a $4B bond sale return, though specific terms remain unclear.
Geopolitics & Risk
The US-Israel strikes on Iran killed hundreds of civilians, according to a top Iranian diplomat. Trump’s tweets claiming Obama would start a war with Iran to distract from domestic issues have resurfaced, complicating diplomatic efforts. Dubai defense systems repelled Iranian drones and missiles, though explosions and smoke were visible in the city-state. US Job Growth is seen moderating after robust January figures, returning to a more sustainable pace.
Market Reactions
Bloomberg analysts reacted to the US-Israel strikes, while Cher’s son faces assault charges at a New Hampshire private school. CNN’s Wolf Blitzer made an ominous prediction live on air. Private credit stocks signal more pain is coming, with falling income and loan markdowns pressuring investors. Online travel agencies may emerge as AI winners, per Morgan Stanley analysis.