Public Markets 8 Hours

Last updated: August 11, 2026, 2:39 PM ET

Equities

U.S. stock futures edged higher on Tuesday as oil prices pared earlier gains, with traders eyeing key inflation data for clues on Fed policy. The S&P 500 swung between small gains and losses, while a buying opportunity may be forming around the skepticism keeping animal spirits subdued despite the index sitting at a record, according to Bloomberg. Systematic buyers, per Citadel Securities, are preparing to reload on levered stock bets after a massive unwind.

In corporate news, Nasdaq agreed to acquire off-exchange execution venue Leve L Markets, advancing its vision for always-on markets. Lionsgate is facing pressure from activist Anson Funds to put itself up for sale. Intel investors are betting on a comeback fueled by AI demand, while On Holding tempered its outlook after running-shoe sales underwhelmed. Volatility tumbled as the Vix fell to prewar levels even as oil rose, with investors warning of complacency. Turkish funds urged a crackdown on rogue trading that threatens MSCI status.

Fixed Income & Credit

Bond yields are expected to remain at multiyear peaks as picky buyers shift the Treasury buyer base toward value-oriented funds, according to Barclays. The stakes for this week’s CPI report are elevated, as trend-chasing funds hold record short bets against global bonds. The SEC is weighing direct funding for a controversial market-tracking database after Citadel Securities won a lawsuit.

In corporate debt markets, Blue Owl Capital is selling $750 million of high-grade debt after receiving large investor orders. Intercontinental Exchange kicked off a bond sale for its $6 billion Market Axess takeover. Gainwell Technologies started the bond leg of a $5.8 billion debt overhaul. Brazil’s CSN pushed through a $1 billion debt exchange for financial relief. Bond traders dialed back credit risk measures on Nvidia after the CEO clarified a $500 billion financing plan. Private-credit firms are clamping down on loan sweeteners over fear of “shadow defaults.” Air Baltic outlined a turnaround plan including a debt-for-equity swap, while JBS seeks margin recovery with a new CEO.

Commodities & Energy

Oil pared early gains as optimism over Iran talks rose, though the US expects war-related supply disruptions of about 600,000 barrels per day through 2027, per a Bloomberg report. A dozen ships continue to shuttle oil through the Strait of Hormuz despite attacks. Russia’s crude exports tumbled to the lowest since May as refiners boosted runs.

European gas prices neared Iran-war highs as heatwaves and a solar eclipse fueled demand. US natural gas futures held steady on a hotter weather outlook. Chile cut its copper production forecast again as mine woes persist, while metals trader Radiant World is seeking to sell a $150 million aluminum stash. Smithfield Foods cut its outlook as sales fell. A chicken surplus is squeezing poultry companies.

Currencies & Rates

The US dollar edged higher amid concerns about Hormuz negotiations, while the yen gained on hints of coordinated US-Japan action.

Economy & Consumer

US household delinquencies improved slightly in the second quarter, per the New York Fed, though credit-card delinquency rates remain elevated due to stale, charged-off loans. Small business confidence rose to 99.8 in July, its highest since August 2025. Texas power demand forecasts were trimmed after a pause on data center projects. Chobani cut its annual earnings forecast due to rising material costs. Cardinal Health reported mixed sales and sees growth in the new year.

Deals, M&A & Activism

Ari Emanuel’s new venture Mari acquired theatre group ATG Entertainment for £4.5bn, a bet on live events requiring regulatory approval. The US Justice Department opened an in-depth antitrust review of Kone’s €29.4 billion purchase of TK Elevator. Curaleaf plans a $272 million hostile bid for Aurora Cannabis. Uber exited its Serve Robotics stake as the delivery alliance unraveled. Barrick tapped Bock to lead its ex-North America unit ahead of an IPO.

Regulation & Policy

Italy’s Deputy PM Salvini proposed a windfall tax on bank profits. Food companies largely dodged a crackdown in RFK Jr.’s additive transparency rule. Trump is redirecting wind energy funds to boost US gas. Hawaii tapped the muni market to finish the first US driverless rail line, while Atlanta Airport launched a $1.1 billion mega bond sale.

Tech & AI

Target hired its first chief AI officer in retail’s latest tech push. OpenAI COO Brad Lightcap stepped down to “start something new.” The AI data center boom is “maxing out” P&C insurers, per the AIG CEO. Wall Street’s race to pour billions into AI is raising risks. UK letting agents are under pressure from AI-assisted tenant complaints. Robots that walk and talk are coming to car factories. Flock cameras are dividing US cities over civil liberties.

Other Corporate & Sector News

Phillips 66 announced a $5 billion pipeline from Texas. G.M.’s “car guy” Mark Reuss discussed EVs and China. A clean energy darling, Bloc Power, is at risk of collapse. South Africa vowed Eskom won’t weaken after restructuring. Veritas-backed Gainwell launched a bond part of a $5.8 billion deal. Buc-ee’s trademark blitz sparked backlash. FlightAware sued Kalshi over flight cancellation prediction markets.