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Last updated: July 12, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

Geopolitical Tensions Drive Oil Prices Higher

Oil futures surged on Monday as escalating U.S.-Iran hostilities threatened to disrupt crude flow through the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. Central Command forces at 5 p.m. ET to degrade its ability to attack commercial ships. President Trump claimed the waterway is open while Tehran asserted it would remain closed until further notice. This follows an earlier agreement that Iran stated gave it control of the vital waterway, now seeing violent assertions of authority by Iran's military as detailed in new analysis.

Merger Mania Faces Regulatory Hurdles and Competitive Bids

States are preparing to file a lawsuit as early as this week to block the $111 billion merger between Paramount and Warner Bros., posing a significant obstacle to the deal. Meanwhile, in the gold mining sector, Regis Resources announced it will not match a $3.9 billion bid for Vault Minerals from Genesis Minerals, indicating the planned merger no longer meets its strategic thresholds.

Market Sentiment Mixed Amid Political Uncertainty and Economic Trends

The U.S. dollar's strength is creating a challenging environment for bond investors, who are navigating ways to mitigate the impact. In New Zealand, the government for its first liquefied natural gas import facility before the November election, betting on cheaper global LNG prices.

Political Landscape Shaken by Senator Graham's Death and Recovery

Senator Lindsey Graham, just months before his re-election bid. His passing triggers a special Republican primary election on August 11, with the state's governor empowered to appoint a replacement. This event has also renewed focus on the age issue within the Senate. Separately, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell from a fall and has moved to a rehabilitation center, denying reports of a heart attack.

Disney's Box Office Woes and Industry Predictions

Disney's live-action remake of 'Moana', earning approximately $43 million in North America over the weekend, falling about 30% short of expectations and casting doubt on the studio's traditional formula.

Other News

A devastating fire in a Bangkok bar, raising serious concerns about fire safety standards. In business news, FIFA's prediction-market partner, ADI Predictstreet, has reportedly faced criticism from users over a bungled World Cup ticket giveaway.