Public Markets 8-Hour Briefing
×Cryptocurrency & Digital Assets
Bitcoin has recovered above $67,000 as markets continue to digest the implications following Khamenei's death. The cryptocurrency's resilience in the face of geopolitical uncertainty suggests growing institutional adoption.
Geopolitical Impact on Markets
Trump's War on Iran threatens to drive up oil prices and inflation, with the disruption to Middle East energy exports potentially having far-reaching economic consequences.
The US administration is holding 'no discussions' about tapping strategic reserves to soothe energy markets despite the risks of a potential oil surge.
Economic Indicators & Policy
South Korea's export momentum continues to accelerate in February, reinforcing the central bank's view that solid semiconductor demand is helping cushion the economy. Meanwhile, Thailand is implementing tough new rules governing retail gold-trading from March 1, hoping to curb speculative activity that's fueled gains in the baht.
Technology Sector Developments
UBS reports that AI adoption in fashion is moving faster than the market realizes, while Bank of America warns of several AI-related risks that could challenge the rally in EU stocks. The week saw the 'dreaded AI jobs wipeout get real' after Block CEO Jack Dorsey announced his fintech firm was laying off 4,000 people, raising concerns that other companies would follow suit.
Asia Markets
China's Policy Summit kicks off its most important annual political meeting next week, with investors seeking clarity on how Beijing intends to press ahead with its tech ambitions while reviving a fragile consumer economy. Meanwhile, a top Iranian diplomat told the UN Security Council that US-Israel strikes killed hundreds of civilians, potentially escalating Middle East tensions further.