Public Markets 8 Hours

Last updated: July 15, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

Global Equities Rally on Inflation Hopes, Oil Surges on Iran Blockade

Asian stocks gained Wednesday as markets dialed back U.S. rate-hike expectations following an unexpectedly upbeat inflation print. U.S. stock futures were largely higher in early European trade, buoyed by positive market sentiment after lower-than-expected inflation data. The dollar fell in wake of the softer U.S. inflation data, dampening expectations for a Federal Reserve rates hike. Meanwhile, oil prices rose after the U.S. reinstated its naval blockade on Iran, with Brent crude trading just shy of $86 a barrel. This action also fueled gains in Asian markets.

Tech Sector Sees Mixed Fortunes Amid AI Boom and Dealmaking

Shares in chipmaking equipment supplier after the company raised its forecasts, citing the durable boom in AI demand. AI developer shares in Shanghai next year, seeking funds for costly research in a race with U.S. rivals. However, the IT sector received a warning as IBM shares plunged, with AI demand starting to crowd out other forms of spending. In a significant move, payments startup Stripe and private equity group Advent for PayPal, an offer representing a 28% premium to Tuesday’s closing share price.

UK Property and Utilities Face Scrutiny Amid Financial Pressures

UK housebuilder Barratt Redrow after investor pressure and activist warnings. The company reported a pretax profit increase for the fiscal year, driven by rising house sales and prices, and buyback program. Separately, utility company Thames Water, stating it can survive 12 months but cautioning that liquidity may fall short before recapitalization.

Resource Markets React to Geopolitical Tensions and Demand Shifts

Gold fell after more than 2% in the previous session, as investors balanced softer U.S. inflation data against risks from higher energy prices. The U.S. naval blockade on Iran as global oil reserves are lower and shipping risks are heightened. China's export controls on rare earths and other niche metals are distorting markets and fueling resource nationalism. Mining company Antofagasta backed its guidance on expectations of higher copper output in the remainder of the year, though second-quarter production held broadly steady.

European Markets Navigate Regulatory Shifts and Sector Valuations

The EU capital requirements for banks, following the lead of the U.S. and UK. Brussels risks a row with member states over how emissions trading scheme revenues are spent, as Europe faces a fight over directing a carbon levy to green industry as part of a push. The valuation of German startup Helsing, with its fundraise giving it a higher revenue multiple than many peers. Luxury goods company Richemont on booming jewelry demand, outperforming rivals with consecutive quarters of double-digit growth.

Company News and Market Developments

The House Daylight Saving Time, though the bill faces an uncertain future in the Senate. Wall Street banks have unveiled record quarterly profits, but risks loom for the sector. The UK's public markets could receive a boost as Airtel Africa for a potential IPO of its mobile money business, which could raise around $1.5bn. The Consumer Price Index fell to a 3.5 percent annual increase in June, marking the biggest monthly drop since 2020.