Public Markets 8 Hours

Last updated: June 25, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

Global Markets React to Tech Earnings, Geopolitical Shifts

U.S. stock futures pointed higher as Micron Technology's stronger-than-expected earnings report reignited enthusiasm for artificial intelligence, potentially reversing earlier tech sector jitters. Gains in semiconductor-heavy markets were led by Asian stocks, with Micron’s results easing AI fears after a recent selloff. In parallel, SK Hynix ADRs are seen driving 30% upside as the gap with U.S. rival Micron narrows, spurred by the company's plans for a U.S. listing. Meanwhile, Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. shares slid to a 16-month low in Hong Kong after Anthropic PBC accused the Chinese tech giant of illicitly accessing its AI models.

Energy & Commodities

Oil prices fell toward prewar levels as Gulf shipping routes resumed activity, with Brent crude dropping to $72.48 a barrel, the level seen before the Iran conflict began. This decline in crude prices also impacted palm oil futures, which posted their biggest drop in a month, tracking losses in crude and soy oil. Qatar has joined other Persian Gulf nations in reviving crude sales to Asia, signaling a broader return to normalcy in regional energy flows following an interim peace deal between the US and Iran. In contrast, Iraq warned it might quit OPEC if the group does not accommodate its request for a higher oil production quota.

Fixed Income & Currencies

Japanese government bonds saw the weakest demand in over a year for their 20-year sale, as investor appetite was dented by inflation concerns and fiscal policy worries related to a $2.3 trillion investment plan. The yen, meanwhile, continues to hover at historic lows, potentially handing Japanese carmakers a $5.8 billion profit windfall this year, despite government signals of willingness to intervene. Hungary's bonds have rallied significantly, with yields approaching those in the UK, indicating investor confidence in the new government's economic plans and potential euro accession.

M&A and Corporate Activity

Germany's mergers and acquisitions market is experiencing a robust year, with deals surpassing $120 billion driven by transactions in the engine and elevator sectors. In the UK, H.B. Fuller Co. is nearing a £628 million deal to acquire Advanced Medical Solutions Group Plc, a maker of tissue-healing products. Easy Jet Plc's board has rejected a revised takeover offer from Castlelake, valuing the airline at $6.49 billion, though talks are ongoing. Separately, Prosus is investing €400 million in health insurer Alan, valuing the company at $6.3 billion.

Regional Economic Developments

Australia's housing downturn has wiped A$185 billion ($128 off the value of its top two markets this quarter, a development expected to impact consumer wealth. In China, domestic rating firms have been urged to curb AAA rating concentration in the bond market to better assess credit risks. The Hong Kong dollar is heading toward the weak end of its trading range due to low volatility and cheap borrowing costs.

Other Market Movers

Chinese banks are curtailing retail gold trading services amid volatility in precious metals markets, as multiyear rallies in gold and silver have reversed. The Chicago Mercantile Exchange is planning to launch wind derivatives across the U.S., Europe, and Australia, reflecting the growing importance of renewable energy. Bitcoin faces pressure from a massive options expiry that could exacerbate struggles with fading institutional demand and macroeconomic headwinds.