Commodities Key Facts • S&P Global warned that a war involving the United States and Israel against Iran could result in the largest oil supply disruption in history. Geopolitics Key Facts • The United States, allied with Israel, launched military strikes against Iran. • The strikes resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. • The US Dollar Index surged above 98.50 due to a flight to safe-haven assets. Stocks Key Facts • Amazon announced a multi-year strategic partnership with OpenAI to deepen its AI footprint. • Amazon committed to investing up to $50 billion in the creator of ChatGPT. • An initial tranche of $15 billion will be followed by an additional $35 billion contingent on certain conditions. Crypto Key Facts • Bitcoin experienced a crash of over 40% driven by the convergence of three liquidity drains. • Key drivers include the unwinding of the yen carry trade, TGA rebuilding, and margin hikes. • HTX analysis indicates that macro factors now dominate the pricing of digital assets. Forex Key Facts • The US dollar rallied on safe-haven demand following the eruption of the US-Iran conflict. • US ISM Manufacturing PMI showed growth for the second consecutive month, with the prices index hitting its highest level since 2022. • Japanese CPI fell below the BoJ's 2% target, dampening expectations for near-term rate hikes. Macro Economy Key Facts • Energy experts warn that the global economy faces severe, long-term damage due to U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran. • Investors are failing to grasp the scale of economic fallout even if the conflict ends abruptly. Central Banks Key Facts • New York Fed President John Williams stated that cooling inflation could allow for future interest rate cuts. • Williams forecasts steady moderate economic growth alongside declining unemployment and inflation this year. Bonds Key Facts • The 3-month Treasury bill rate stood at 3.59%, while the 2-year note yield was at 3.38%. • Data shows a slight inversion/flatness in the yield curve between short-term and medium-term maturities. Key Facts • QatarEnergy announced a complete halt to LNG production. • Iranian drone strikes targeted Ras Laffan and Mesaieed Industrial Cities. • The shutdown is considered a seismic event for global energy markets due to the critical nature of the damaged infrastructure. Key Facts • WTI crude oil jumped over 6% to surpass the $75 psychological mark. • Fears of oil supply disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz are rising due to military tensions. Key Facts • Brent’s premium to the Dubai benchmark widened to its highest level since 2022 due to supply disruption fears. • Brent crude rose 7% to $83–$84 per barrel, while Dubai crude remained stagnant near $68. • The Brent-Dubai EFS spread surged above $6 per barrel, up from less than $2 just last week. 1 sources Key Facts • Iraq has begun curtailing oil production at key southern fields, including Rumaila. • West Qurna 2 is shutting in roughly 460,000 barrels per day. • Regional tensions stalled tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, pushing storage tanks to critical levels. 1 sources Key Facts • QatarEnergy suspended production following military attacks on its facilities in Ras Laffan and Mesaieed Industrial Cities. • Indian gas marketing companies informed industrial customers of reduced gas supplies following the Qatari suspension. • Qatar is the world's second-largest LNG exporter. 1 sources Key Facts • Brent crude prices surged toward USD 79–80 per barrel. • Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz is effectively halted, disrupting Oil and LNG flows. • Commerzbank analysts note significant risks to the Eurozone due to these disruptions. Key Facts • Crude oil hauling rates from the Middle East to China have reached an all-time high. • Leading maritime insurers have dropped war risk cover for vessels operating in the Persian Gulf. • The conflict between the U.S. and Iran is the primary driver disrupting key shipping routes. Key Facts • Natural gas prices peaked at $30.72 per MMBtu on January 23, 2026. • Prices collapsed to $3.13 by February 23, 2026, representing a massive decline within a single month. Key Facts • China is set to unveil its next five-year plan at its annual parliamentary meeting starting this Thursday. • The plan will outline Beijing's economic ambitions and specify which sectors are slated for funding and policy support. Key Facts • Airlines suspended flights following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, leading to a halt in physical gold shipments. • Dubai is a key supplier of gold to Switzerland, Hong Kong, and India, and gold relies entirely on air transport for security reasons. • Gold futures jumped 3% on Monday morning in response to these geopolitical developments. Key Facts • Oil prices reached their highest levels in more than a year due to supply crunch fears. • Traders are increasingly concerned that supplies will be affected by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Key Facts • The U.S. government spends approximately $900 billion annually on defense, with $10 trillion expected to flow through defense production lines over the next five years. • Advanced military systems including fighter jets, missiles, and naval vessels depend entirely on magnet-grade metals derived from rare earths. • China dominates the critical industrial step of converting rare-earth oxide into magnet-grade metal, a process North America largely abandoned decades ago. Key Facts • Zhejiang Petrochemical Corp (ZPC) is shutting down a 200,000-barrel-per-day refining unit. • The decision is a response to the impact of the Middle East conflict on crude supply. • Zhejiang Petrochemical Corp is backed by Saudi Aramco. Key Facts • Brazil aims to become the world's fourth-largest oil producer by the end of the decade. • Brazil officially joined the OPEC+ alliance in early 2025. • Joining OPEC+ represents a significant strategic shift in President Lula da Silva's government policy. Key Facts • Indicated and inferred resources totaled 15.9 million tonnes, up from 8.8 million in 2024. • The site is now ranked as Europe's largest rare earth deposit. 1 sources Key Facts • Global lithium demand is projected to exceed 13 million tonnes by 2050. • Wood Mackenzie anticipates supply gaps emerging by 2028. • Growth in the EV and energy storage sectors is the primary driver of global consumption. 1 sources Key Facts • U.S. intervention in Venezuela removed the Maduro regime, paving the way for a revitalization of its oil sector. • Ecuador’s oil industry, already struggling with structural issues, faces a significant threat from competition with Venezuelan heavy crude. • The government in Quito has been struggling for over a decade to resurrect its failing oil production. 1 sources Key Facts • Gold prices jumped due to geopolitical turmoil in the Middle East. • Gold is viewed as a safe-haven investment during turbulent times. Key Facts • Gold and silver prices are facing significant selling pressure in the markets. • The US Dollar Index (USDX) is experiencing a strong surge, negatively impacting dollar-denominated commodities. • Rising bond yields increase the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding metals. Key Facts • Devon Energy and Coterra Energy agreed to merge, creating a $58 billion giant in the shale sector. • The deal is an all-stock transaction aimed at increasing multi-year drilling opportunities across multiple basins. • The merger reflects the ongoing consolidation wave in the U.S. shale patch to enhance efficiency. Key Facts • Gold spiked as a safe-haven asset in response to the Iranian strike. • Gold successfully passed its 'stress test' by behaving as expected during geopolitical turmoil. • There are questions among investors whether this spike is temporary or the start of a long-term trend. Key Facts • QatarEnergy's production halt has caused a supply shock that lifted European TTF gas prices. • Rabobank noted that Europe faces renewed energy security risks due to deteriorating Middle Eastern LNG reliability. Key Facts • Qatar awarded a new LNG mega-contract signaling a full strategic turn towards Western partners. • LNG has become the key global emergency energy source since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022. • The crucial importance of LNG to the global energy balance has increased as sanctions hit Russian oil and gas exports. Key Facts • The UK Treasury is holding talks with producers to potentially scrap the Energy Profits Levy (EPL) before its 2030 expiry. • The total tax burden on the North Sea oil and gas sector has reached 78%, leading to a slowdown in investment. • Major firms including Harbour Energy, BP, and Shell have scaled back investment plans or cut jobs due to the current tax regime. Key Facts • Russian President Vladimir Putin described the assassination of Ayatollah Khamenei as a 'cynical murder' and a blatant violation of international law. • The assassination occurred as part of a US-Israeli military operation named 'Operation Epic Fury'. • The Kremlin confirmed it is in constant contact with Iranian leadership following massive bombing raids on Tehran. Key Facts • The CIA assesses that Khamenei's replacement will likely be a more hardline figure from the IRGC. • Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was reportedly killed in a joint US-Israeli strike in Tehran. • Iran reportedly rejected a ceasefire proposal from President Trump and continues to target US bases. Key Facts • China's Foreign Ministry urged all parties to cease military operations and ensure safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. • China imports about 80% of Iran's oil exports, equivalent to approximately 1.6 million barrels per day. • Reports indicate shipping in the Strait of Hormuz is paralyzed amid threats from Iran's Revolutionary Guards and drone strikes on Gulf energy infrastructure. Key Facts • Analysis warns of a catastrophic scenario for oil prices if a conflict with Iran affects the Strait of Hormuz. • The Strait of Hormuz is considered the most important transit point for global oil, and any closure would lead to a supply shock. Key Facts • US President Donald Trump warned that the "big wave" of strikes against Iran is yet to come. • Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated the US is preparing for a major uptick in attacks in Iran over the next 24 hours. • The United States urged Americans to evacuate amid expectations of military escalation. Key Facts • Major shipping lines including Maersk, MSC, and CMA CGM have suspended or diverted vessel services in the Persian Gulf. • Iran targeted UAE ports, including Jebel Ali, and tankers in the Strait of Hormuz following a joint US-Israel attack. • CMA CGM announced an Emergency Conflict Surcharge of up to $4,000 per refrigerated container. Key Facts • US forces destroyed IRGC command facilities since the start of the joint offensive on Saturday. • Targets destroyed included Iranian air defense and missile launch sites. • The military operation is a joint effort between the United States and Israel. Key Facts • JPMorgan urged investors to 'buy the dip' despite the outbreak of conflict between the US and Iran. • Economist Mohamed El-Erian warned of stagflation risks resulting from the war. • Gary Black diverged from El-Erian's view regarding long-term economic growth for 2026. Key Facts • President Trump has less than 30 days to resolve the Iran conflict to avoid losing the battle against inflation. • Markets are anticipating a 'Venezuela II' scenario where order returns and oil prices drift lower. Key Facts • Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase, warned that banks could be targets for cyberattacks and terrorist incidents. • The warnings follow US-Israel strikes on Iran, which Dimon described as a necessary move. • Dimon stated that the odds of retaliatory attacks are now meaningfully higher for financial institutions. Key Facts • President Macron announced a "forward deterrence" policy involving European allies in nuclear drills. • France plans to deploy nuclear-capable Rafale jets to allied countries, with potential implications for Ukraine. • This shift is one of the most significant changes in French nuclear doctrine since the end of the Cold War. Key Facts • Emirates and Etihad Airways have begun a partial resumption of flights following a 3-day regional airspace closure. • The shutdown was triggered by US–Israeli strikes on Iran, which upended global air travel. • Emirates is still not taking connecting traffic, prioritizing passengers already in the emirate. Key Facts • S&P 500 target set at 7,700-8,000 by year-end 2026 despite near-term volatility. • Iran-related risks may drive short-term market corrections of 5-8%. • There is a 20-25% probability of a deeper 10% market pullback. 2 sources Key Facts • President Trump expressed disappointment with UK PM Keir Starmer for his initial refusal to allow the use of the Diego Garcia base for strikes against Iran. • Starmer later agreed to allow the base's use for specific and limited defensive purposes to destroy missiles at their source. • The Diego Garcia base is considered a vital strategic hub for long-range operations in the Middle East and the Indo-Pacific. Key Facts • The war against Iran is pushing up global energy prices. • The impact on inflation and the U.S. economy has been modest so far, according to economists. • There are warnings that a prolonged conflict could worsen the economic damage. Key Facts • Israel used the laser-based 'Iron Beam' system for the first time to intercept Hezbollah rockets. • The cost per laser shot is only a few dollars, compared to approximately $100,000 for a traditional Iron Dome interceptor missile. • The system was developed by Rafael and is designed to intercept short-range threats such as rockets, mortars, and drones. Key Facts • Two Amazon Web Services (AWS) data centers in the UAE were directly struck by drones. • A facility in Bahrain was taken offline after being damaged by a nearby drone strike. Key Facts • The British RAF Akrotiri air base in Cyprus was hit by an Iranian drone strike, resulting in minor damage. • Wreckage of the drone contained a Russian-made 'Kometa' anti-jamming satellite navigation module. • The Russian module integrated Western components, specifically GNSS signal receivers from the Irish company Taoglas. Key Facts • The U.S. attack supports U.S. assets in the long term. • There is a potential for a generational 'peace dividend' in the Middle East resulting from geopolitical shifts. • The analysis downplays the temporary oil spike in favor of future structural stability. Key Facts • Dow Jones Industrial Average futures fell by more than 800 points ahead of the market open. Key Facts • The Phase 3 CYPRESS study evaluating ampreloxetine failed to meet its primary endpoint in patients with symptomatic neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (nOH). • The board is accelerating a strategic review and announced an organizational restructuring to reduce the cost base by approximately 60% (around $70 million). • The company expects a cash balance of approximately $400 million by the end of Q1 2026, shifting focus to its growing COPD product, YUPELRI. Key Facts • Warner Bros. Discovery's (WBD) board supports a revised cash bid from PSKY at $31 per share. • The new proposal includes stronger financial terms and added deal protections compared to previous offers. Key Facts • Netflix stock experienced a 5-day winning streak, with total gains reaching 28%. • The company's market capitalization increased by approximately $89 billion over 5 days, reaching $411 billion. • Investors are focusing on the potential of the ad-supported tier growth to push the stock past target levels. Key Facts • Korean equities suffered their worst losses since August 2024 with a 7% tumble. • International investors led the exodus after two days of net selling. Key Facts • Central Asia Metals shares fell approximately 20% to 191.1p. • The expected lifespan of the Sasa zinc-lead mine was reduced by five years, now ending in 2034. • The company will face a non-cash impairment charge of up to US$120 million due to the new life-of-mine plan. Key Facts • Lockheed Martin (LMT) stock has risen 38% year-to-date as of March 2, 2026. • The strong rally in the stock price is backed by real earnings growth rather than speculation. • The stock gained 1% over the past week despite general market concerns in the U.S. Key Facts • First Solar (FSLR) shares dropped 12.7% following the release of its Q4 earnings report. • The company issued weak sales guidance for 2026, causing investor concern. • Solar ETFs, such as the Invesco Solar ETF (TAN), are in focus due to the negative sector impact. Key Facts • CoreWeave reported a Q4 2025 net loss of $452 million, nearly double market estimates. • The company is facing a securities fraud class action lawsuit alleging concealment of operational failures. • The lead plaintiff deadline for the class action is set for March 13, 2026. Key Facts • Micron started shipping samples of the 256GB SOCAMM2 module, the industry's highest-capacity LPDRAM. • The new module consumes 1/3 the power and has 1/3 the footprint compared to standard RDIMMs. • The memory provides 2.3 times faster performance for Large Language Model (LLM) inference. Key Facts • Arcus Biosciences beat EPS and revenue estimates for FY25 despite having no commercial products and high R&D spending. • The company holds a $1.01B cash position, providing a financial runway into at least the second half of 2028. • Casdatifan, a next-generation HIF-2α inhibitor, is a primary valuation driver due to its superior efficacy and safety profile in ccRCC. Key Facts • Tian Ruixiang announced a 1:50 reverse stock split effective March 16. • The company completed due diligence for a 30,000 Bitcoin infusion and an AI insurance brokerage acquisition. • The closing of these transactions is targeted for Q2–Q3 2026. Key Facts • The U.S. FDA has accepted the New Drug Application (NDA) for brepocitinib for the treatment of dermatomyositis. • The FDA granted Priority Review to the application, with a PDUFA target action date in the third quarter of 2026. • If approved, brepocitinib would be the first targeted therapy approved for dermatomyositis. Key Facts • Azure's cloud market share rose from 14% in 2021 to a projected 21% in 2025. • Microsoft plans to double its data centers by 2027 to alleviate current capacity constraints. • Integration with OpenAI is viewed as a key strategic driver for long-term growth. Key Facts • Lanteris Space Systems, a subsidiary of Intuitive Machines, was selected by L3Harris to develop spacecraft platforms. • The company will design, build, and deliver 18 advanced spacecraft platforms to support missile tracking capabilities. • The project is part of the Space Development Agency’s (SDA) Tranche 3 Tracking Layer of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture. Key Facts • United States Antimony Corporation (USAC) completed an initial resource engineering study on its 100% owned Fostung Tungsten Property in Ontario, Canada. • The inferred resource value of the deposit exceeds $4.6 billion. • The company is the only fully integrated antimony company outside China and Russia and will file the final SK 1300 Technical Report with the SEC. Key Facts • Planet Labs PBC was selected as a prime contractor by the U.S. Missile Defense Agency. • The SHIELD (Scalable Homeland Innovative Enterprise Layered Defense) contract has a ceiling of $151 billion. • The contract is an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) vehicle aimed at delivering innovative defense solutions. Key Facts • The FDA supported the Phase 3 design for BPL-003, an intranasal psychedelic-derived therapy for treatment-resistant depression. • Atai Life Sciences successfully concluded an end-of-phase 2 meeting with US regulators. • The drug targets millions of patients for whom standard antidepressants have failed. Key Facts • Credo Technology CEO projects a 50% growth pace for the full year. • The company posted a strong quarterly report that caught investor attention. Key Facts • Preliminary Q4 2025 revenue reached $27–29 million, surging nearly sixfold year-over-year. • Full-year 2025 revenue exceeded prior expectations by 23%, reaching $47.6–49.6 million. • Backlog entering 2026 surpassed $65 million, nearly triple the levels seen in Q3. Key Facts • Target expects sales to rebound this year as the retailer tries to rally investors around its new CEO. • Target's stock surged toward a one-year high on Tuesday following the report of quarterly results and outlook. Key Facts • CME Group's average daily volume (ADV) reached 37.6 million contracts in February, a 14% year-over-year increase. • Record ADV was achieved in interest rate products, including U.S. Treasury futures and options. • International ADV hit a record high of 11.6 million contracts. Key Facts • Brink's Company (BCO) proposed to acquire NCR Atleos (NATL) via a cash and share offer. • The initial offer was valued at $50.40 per share, but declined to $49.81 due to a drop in Brink's stock price. • NATL stock still trades below the implied offer value, leaving room for speculation or competing offers. Key Facts • Nascent Exploration, a subsidiary of Fortescue, received notice that the review under the Investment Canada Act (ICA) is complete. • No further review will be made for the transaction between Alta Copper and Fortescue under the Investment Canada Act. • Closing of the transaction is expected to occur by no later than March 13, 2026. Key Facts • Roots Corporation's Board of Directors initiated a review of strategic alternatives. • The review includes evaluating a range of alternatives, including a potential sale of the company. • The goal of the move is to identify opportunities to maximize value for all shareholders. Key Facts • Oracle's cloud revenue jumped 34% year-over-year. • The company secured $4 billion in new AI deals. • The AI backlog strengthens revenue visibility and growth outlook for fiscal 2027. Key Facts • Analysts suggest SpaceX could go public in 2026. • SpaceX stock is expected to exhibit extreme volatility, potentially exceeding that of Tesla. Key Facts • Ford and GM risk becoming relics if they fail to catch up with Chinese automakers and tech firms in EV and self-driving technology. Key Facts • MongoDB's stock price fell sharply following the release of its earnings report. • The company announced the exit of two sales leaders as part of a planned transition, rattling investors. • The company's performance is seen as a signal of potential tough times ahead for the broader software sector. Key Facts • Vistra management projects Free Cash Flow (FCF) per share of up to approximately $25 by 2030. • Adjusted EBITDA per share is projected to reach up to $41 by 2030 based on a 60% conversion rate. • The growth strategy relies on long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and expanded gas and nuclear capacity. Key Facts • Comfort Systems' gross margins exceeded 25% for the first time in the company's history. • Margin growth was driven by disciplined bidding and a focus on high-value mechanical, electrical, and mission-critical projects. • The company maintained solid revenue growth during the fourth quarter. Key Facts • Roblox posted Q4 2025 revenues of $1.4 billion, representing a 43% year-over-year increase. • Bookings surged 63% to reach $2.2 billion. • Growth was driven by broad-based momentum across regions, age groups, and content types. Key Facts • NIO deliveries increased by 57.6% year-over-year in February. • Li Auto deliveries topped 26,000 units during the month. • XPeng is expanding its P7+ model globally. Key Facts • IonQ acquired Seed Innovations to bolster its quantum computing capabilities. • IonQ signed a $1.8 billion deal with SkyWater Technology. • The moves aim to build a vertically integrated, enterprise-grade quantum platform. Key Facts • CrowdStrike is scheduled to report its fourth-quarter results on Tuesday. • Investors are focusing on how the company is addressing disruption risks posed by AI. • The firm is pushing to address emerging cybersecurity threats. Key Facts • GE Vernova reported Q4 revenue of $11 billion, a 4% year-over-year increase. • The company saw a massive 65% organic order growth and doubled its free cash flow. • The company forecasts 2026 revenue between $44–$45 billion, targeting a 20% adjusted EBITDA margin by 2028. Key Facts • AeroVironment (AVAV) shares decreased by 17.4% in a single day. • Raymond James downgraded the stock, negatively impacting investor confidence. • There are growing concerns surrounding the Space Force SCAR program. Key Facts • Target reported Q4 adjusted EPS of $2.44, surpassing the consensus estimate of $2.16 by 13%. • The company generated $4.48 billion in free cash flow, strengthening the case for continued dividend payments. Key Facts • Credo (CRDO) announced a partnership with TensorWave to power production-grade AI clouds. • The new clusters are powered by AMD AI technology. • Credo's revenue guidance significantly exceeded prior expectations due to surging demand for Active Electrical Cables (AEC). Key Facts • Fenebrutinib reduced relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS) relapses by 51% in a Phase III study. • The drug is an oral BTK inhibitor aiming to provide a high-efficacy therapy option. Key Facts • SoftBank Group's PayPay is targeting a $13.4 billion valuation for its U.S. initial public offering. • The IPO aims to bolster SoftBank's cash reserves to support its massive investments in artificial intelligence. Key Facts • Palantir's Foundry and Gotham platforms are driving accelerated enterprise AI adoption. • The company achieved a 93% surge in U.S. commercial revenues. Key Facts • AMD is launching the world's first Copilot+ desktop chips to challenge Intel's market position. • The AI PC market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 30% between 2025 and 2034. • The market value is expected to surge from $91.2 billion in 2025 to nearly $967 billion by 2034. Key Facts • J.M. Smucker Co. (SJM) stock soared over 9% following a strong earnings report. • The company delivered a double beat on earnings and revenue and maintained its full-year adjusted EPS outlook. • Weakness in the Hostess segment is noted as a potential cloud over the company's outlook. Key Facts • Hyperscale Data holds approximately 610.9188 Bitcoin valued at about $40 million as of March 1, 2026. • The company holds approximately $41.5 million in cash and restricted cash. • Total cash and Bitcoin holdings represent approximately 141.93% of the company's market capitalization. Key Facts • Thales reported annual core profits slightly higher than expected. • Growth was driven by the main defense business and demand for avionics and space activities. • The company predicted higher profit margins for the current year 2026. Key Facts • Target is expected to report fiscal fourth-quarter earnings and share its outlook for the year ahead. • The company will hold an investor meeting at its Minneapolis headquarters to discuss a turnaround plan. • This marks the first quarterly report since Michael Fiddelke took over as CEO in early February. Key Facts • Surging oil prices are increasing operational costs for cruise lines. • The company provided disappointing earnings guidance, spooking investors. • The stock is facing what is described as a 'perfect storm' of simultaneous negative factors. Key Facts • Fitch Ratings downgraded Paramount's credit rating. • The proposed deal with Warner Bros. Discovery is valued at $81 billion. • Fitch cited high complexity and credit risks associated with the deal as reasons for the downgrade. Key Facts • US stock benchmarks gapped lower at the open as conflict began in the Middle East. • Stocks bounced higher significantly after the initial drop despite ongoing geopolitical tensions. • Investor sentiment remains elevated overall despite the geopolitical risks. Key Facts • KYV-101 achieved 81% clinically meaningful improvement in Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS) trials. • The company plans to file a Biologics License Application (BLA) in the first half of 2026. • The company has a $279M cash runway extending into 2028, reducing near-term dilution risk. Key Facts • Trio Petroleum shares surged 173% intraday before falling 8.8% in after-hours trading. • The primary driver for the rally was concerns regarding Middle East oil supply. Key Facts • The antitrust trial against Live Nation and its subsidiary Ticketmaster has begun in New York. • The U.S. claims the company dominates the live event market in ways that harm artists, venues, and fans. Key Facts • Berkshire Hathaway released its first earnings report since Warren Buffett stepped down from leadership. • The company's stock (BRK/B) experienced a sell-off following the report despite strong results. • New CEO Greg Abel provided optimistic commentary pointing to a strong outlook for the company for over 20 years. Key Facts • Fresnillo reported a jump in earnings driven by record prices for gold and silver. • The company delivered its highest dividend payout since its listing in 2008. Key Facts • Sabre (SABR) unveiled a once-in-a-generation rebuild of its technology and architecture at ITB Berlin 2026. • The new platform features a unified, AI-native cloud-based architecture for intelligent retailing and autonomous workflows. • The launch marks the culmination of a multiyear rebuild of the company's operating foundations. 2 sources Key Facts • Rubico (RUBI) stock surged 31.68% in after-hours trading to reach $1.33. • The company disclosed a Net Asset Value (NAV) of $94.2 million. • The CEO highlighted strong fleet cash flow. Key Facts • Berkshire Hathaway's new CEO Greg Abel identified four 'forever' stocks: Apple, American Express, Coca-Cola, and Moody’s. • Abel omitted Bank of America and Chevron from the list of core long-term holdings in his inaugural shareholder letter. • Abel emphasized a more concentrated investment approach as the company transitions into the post-Warren Buffett era. Key Facts • Sea Limited reported Q4 revenue of $6.9 billion, up 38.4% year-on-year. • Target Corporation reported Q4 net sales of $30.5 billion, meeting company expectations. • Pet Valu raised its quarterly dividend by 8% following a 12% increase in 2025 net income. Key Facts • Honeywell filed a Form 10 registration statement with the SEC for the planned spin-off of its Aerospace division. • The new company is expected to trade on Nasdaq under the ticker 'HONA' in the third quarter of 2026. • An Investor Day is scheduled for June 3, 2026, to provide details on value creation strategy and financial outlook. Key Facts • Zurich Insurance confirmed the takeover of Beazley in a deal valued at $11 billion. • The announcement ends a period of uncertainty following the extension of the deadline to make a firm offer to this week. Key Facts • Best Buy forecast annual sales below Wall Street estimates. • Customers are pulling back on high-margin purchases such as TVs and home appliances due to budget constraints. • Tariff uncertainty is clouding the company's supply chain outlook. Key Facts • Elliott Investment Management has invested $1 billion in Pinterest. • Pinterest plans to use the investment to repurchase its own shares. Key Facts • John Wood Group shares surged 11% to 28.63p following confirmation that the takeover is nearing completion. • The takeover by the Lebanese engineering group Sidara is valued at £216 million. • The deal is on track to be finalized next week. Key Facts • Blackstone's flagship private-credit fund experienced higher-than-usual investment redemptions. • The outflows are seen as a sign of the broader stress currently facing the private credit industry. Key Facts • Target stock rose after reporting earnings that beat analyst expectations. • The company provided strong forward guidance, boosting investor confidence. • The first investor day under new CEO Michael Fiddelke is scheduled for later Tuesday. Key Facts • The Nasdaq 100 index broke below its key technical support level, the 200-day Moving Average. • Tech stocks saw a significant decline in pre-market trading, shifting market sentiment to bearish. Key Facts • MercadoLibre stock fell sharply following its latest earnings report. • The company is investing heavily in growth and new products, which has pressured profit margins. • The company continues to report high growth rates despite the stock price decline. Key Facts • Esperion Therapeutics announced a definitive agreement to acquire Corstasis Therapeutics. • The acquisition includes Enbumyst™, the first and only FDA-approved nasal spray loop diuretic for edema associated with congestive heart failure. • The acquisition is expected to accelerate double-digit revenue growth by leveraging Esperion's established commercial infrastructure. Key Facts • Akamai announced the acquisition of thousands of NVIDIA Blackwell GPUs to bolster its global distributed cloud infrastructure. • The initiative aims to create a unified platform for AI R&D, fine-tuning, and post-training optimization. • The architecture is designed to reduce latency and data egress issues associated with centralized data centers. Key Facts • Blackstone is exploring a potential bid for the British aerospace supplier Senior Plc. • Blackstone is among several suitors interested in the company. Key Facts • QatarEnergy stopped production of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and associated products on March 2, 2026. • QatarEnergy announced on March 3 the stoppage of downstream products including aluminium, urea, polymers, and methanol. • Norsk Hydro is assessing the potential impact of the shutdown on aluminium production at the Qatalum smelter. Key Facts • GitLab is scheduled to release its Q4 fiscal 2026 earnings results on March 3, 2026. • Analysts estimate earnings per share (EPS) to be $0.23. Key Facts • Target (TGT) is expected to report an EPS of $2.17, representing a 9.96% year-over-year decrease. • AutoZone (AZO) shows a 2026 P/E ratio of 25.24 ahead of its report. • Other notable companies reporting include Best Buy (BBY) and Thor Industries (THO). Key Facts • Circle stock jumped 60% following a strong earnings report showing significant USDC growth and rising revenue. • The GENIUS Act boosted investor confidence by providing clear stablecoin regulations in the United States. Key Facts • CME Group now commands 75% of the total crypto futures market capitalization. • CME's expansion includes XRP, providing regulated institutional access to the asset. • The expansion aims to deliver institutional-grade access to the bulk of digital assets. Key Facts • Bitcoin reached $67,000 as market sentiment improved from extreme fear to fear. • Bitcoin ETFs saw $458.2 million in net inflows on Monday. • Market liquidations stood at $398.33 million over the past 24 hours. Key Facts • XRP price is targeting the $2 level amid intensifying conflict in the Middle East. • The functional closure of the Strait of Hormuz has led to a surge in safe-haven assets like gold and oil. Key Facts • The Bank of Japan has launched a new blockchain settlement sandbox to test moving central bank reserve money on-chain. • There is strong speculation regarding the potential selection of the XRP Ledger (XRPL) due to Japan's deep ties with Ripple. Key Facts • Ondo Finance's tokenized stocks platform received regulatory approval in Abu Dhabi. • The approval will allow UAE-based financial institutions to deal in tokenized equities on Binance's regulated trading venue. Key Facts • Bitcoin derivatives open interest reached $43.75 billion across major venues. • Options markets show a tilt toward call options, indicating bullish trader sentiment. • Bitcoin price was recorded at $66,705 on March 3, 2026, amid high trading volumes. Key Facts • Ripple acquired 'Rail' for $200 million to unify fiat and stablecoin payment rails. • Ripple's stablecoin (RLUSD) has reached a market capitalization of $1 billion. • The processed volume on the Ripple Payments platform has exceeded $100 billion. Key Facts • Ripple is upgrading its Ripple Payments platform to become a unified service for businesses combining traditional finance and digital assets. • Ripple is moving beyond being just a transfer tool, introducing features acquired through the purchase of Palisade and Rail. 1 sources Key Facts • YZi Labs, backed by Binance founder CZ, invested $100 million into Hash Global’s BNB fund. • The fund aims to enable institutions to allocate capital to BNB through an institutional-grade structure. 2 sources Key Facts • Bitcoin touched the key psychological price level of $70,000. • Markets experienced a strong bounce back despite ongoing tensions in the Middle East. Key Facts • Public bitcoin miners are rotating capital from their bitcoin treasuries into AI infrastructure. • This shift signals an end to the 'HODL' strategy for public mining entities. • The move is expected to result in increased selling pressure on Bitcoin. 1 sources Key Facts • Whale traders on the Hyperliquid platform with volumes exceeding $50 million are currently strongly bullish on Bitcoin. • The total backing from these 'leviathan' traders amounts to $257.49 million according to CoinGlass data. Key Facts • Major Bitcoin mining companies have started liquidating their BTC treasuries. • Companies are rewriting corporate strategies to facilitate massive balance sheet sell-offs. • This move comes as Bitcoin continues to trade below the $70,000 threshold. Key Facts • Global stock markets are experiencing a meltdown due to the outbreak of war in Iran. • Bitcoin has not reached new lows this week despite sharp declines in the preceding months. Key Facts • XRP price is retesting the bottom of its trading range amid continued selling pressure. • Open interest has crashed by 70%, indicating a massive flush-out of positions. • The $1.30 support level is the primary focus for traders currently. Key Facts • Hyperliquid surpassed Coinbase International's derivatives volume in 2025 according to CoinGecko data. • The platform is now viewed as a leading candidate to challenge Binance's dominance in the crypto derivatives market. Key Facts • Digital asset investment products recorded approximately $1 billion in inflows over the past week. • These inflows ended a 5-week streak of outflows that began in mid-January. • Bitcoin (BTC) funds led the rebound in investment inflows. Key Facts • Vitalik Buterin unveiled a new roadmap for Ethereum's block building process aimed at curbing builder dominance. • The proposed roadmap includes technologies such as Fork-Choice Inclusion Lists (FOCIL) and encrypted mempools. • These updates come as part of the preparation for the 'Glamsterdam' protocol upgrade to enhance privacy and decentralization. Key Facts • The judge granted a full dismissal of the long-running class action lawsuit against Uniswap regarding scam tokens. • Plaintiffs failed to state a viable legal claim despite being given multiple opportunities to amend their complaint. Key Facts • A U.S. federal court dismissed all remaining claims against Uniswap Labs with prejudice, permanently ending the case. • The UNI token price gained 6% following the court's decision. Key Facts • Ripple Prime has gained fresh regulatory approval, opening access to massive institutional volume for the XRPL. • Post-trade activity will be moved to the XRPL via a link with the National Securities Clearing Corporation (NSCC). • This development stems from Ripple's acquisition of Hidden Road several months ago. Key Facts • NEAR token price jumped 17% following the launch of a private execution layer called 'Confidential Intents'. • The new feature aims to curb Maximal Extractable Value (MEV) and front-running. • The token recorded a 40% weekly rally, outpacing the privacy-focused tokens sector. Key Facts • Ripple's acquisition of Hidden Road could significantly enhance the utility of the XRP token. • The Depository Trust and Clearing Corporation (DTCC) announced that Hidden Road is now live on the National Securities Clearing Corporation (NSCC). Key Facts • Riot Platforms reported record annual revenue of $647 million. • The company is pushing into AI and High-Performance Computing (HPC) sectors. • Starboard Value estimated that the new focus on AI and HPC could be worth as much as $21 billion. Key Facts • XRP's 30-day realized volatility reached 1.16 on Binance, the highest level since March 2025. • Whale wallets accumulated 1.3 billion XRP tokens within a 48-hour window. Key Facts • Bitmine purchased over 50,000 ETH worth approximately $103 million. • Ethereum price rebounded to break above the $2,000 psychological support level. • Market risk-on sentiment improved, contributing to a 7% surge in ETH price. Key Facts • TD Securities views the NYSE's tokenized-equities plan as a significant 'market structure' moment. • Analyst Reid Noch sees the move as a sign that Wall Street is taking tokenization seriously. Key Facts • Jan van Eck, CEO of VanEck, believes Bitcoin has reached its price bottom. • Institutional investors are stepping in to offset the market slump experienced in Q1 2026. • VanEck predicts an upcoming rally in the cryptocurrency market. Key Facts • 38% of altcoins are currently trading near their all-time lows. • The current regression level has surpassed the post-FTX collapse levels of 37.8% seen in 2022. Key Facts • A 'death cross' technical pattern has appeared on the Bitcoin price chart, sparking fears of a market downturn. • Historically, BTC price has dropped by an average of 35% over one month following similar trend line crossovers. Key Facts • Bitcoin dominance (BTC.D) Bollinger Bands have hit their tightest squeeze in seven years. • The squeeze indicates an imminent high-volatility move that could lead to either an 'Altcoin Season' or extended Bitcoin dominance. • Altcoins including SOL, LINK, TAO, and SEI are at a critical crossroads due to this technical setup. Key Facts • Visa is expanding its partnership with Stripe’s Bridge to offer stablecoin-backed cards in over 100 countries. • The two firms previously launched stablecoin-backed cards for 18 countries in April. Key Facts • XRP experienced a price pump driven by high leverage. • Bitcoin extended its gains by 18% relative to silver. • Binance listed 5 major trading pairs, including Litecoin (LTC) and Zcash (ZEC). Key Facts • The integration of Ripple Prime with DTCC infrastructure aims to bridge traditional clearing with blockchain settlement. • The move is viewed as a significant step in connecting Wall Street to the XRPL network. Key Facts • Donald Trump warned of a looming major event ('The Big One'), fueling speculation of a massive Bitcoin price surge. Key Facts • The Swiss Franc reached decade highs against the Euro driven by safe-haven demand. • US-Israeli military strikes on Iran triggered a broad flight to safety in global markets. • Threats of intervention from the Swiss National Bank (SNB) helped cool the CHF rally. Key Facts • GBP/USD reached a three-month low. • The U.S. dollar is gaining support from safe-haven flows due to escalating tensions in the Middle East. Key Facts • The US Dollar is being characterized as the only viable investment option currently available in the forex market. Key Facts • The energy trade ledger has flipped, forcing the foreign exchange market to realign currency valuations based on new energy dynamics. Key Facts • Euro area inflation rose to 1.9% in February, exceeding expectations. • Core inflation reached 2.4%, which was also above previous estimates. • Commerzbank attributes this rise to an oil price shock affecting the outlook. Key Facts • The EUR/USD pair plummeted 0.85% to reach approximately 1.1585 during the European session. • The pair is on track to test its three-month low of 1.1575. • The decline is driven by a US Dollar rally amid a general risk-aversion mood in the markets. Key Facts • Geopolitical concerns are expected to dominate forex market movements in March 2026. • Historical seasonal patterns for March may be less reliable due to global tensions. Key Facts • RBA Governor Michele Bullock stated that a rate hike at the March meeting is a 'live' possibility. • AUD/JPY broke through recent highs with a technical target of 113.22. • Bullock warned markets against assuming a hold on rates, prompting a re-evaluation of expectations. Key Facts • Credit Agricole suggests the SNB likely intervened to limit CHF gains after EUR/CHF hit a low of 0.9025. • The 0.90 level for EUR/CHF is highlighted as a key 'line in the sand' for the SNB. • The Swiss franc is currently at its strongest level on a real basis since 2011. Key Facts • The Eurozone flash Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) data for February is scheduled for release. • This data is considered a key driver for European Central Bank (ECB) monetary policy expectations. Key Facts • The outlook for USD/JPY and EUR/USD is being analyzed based on energy market dynamics and upcoming labor market data. • The 'Labour Market Test' suggests that upcoming US employment data is a key driver for the USD. Key Facts • Wall Street is tracking for a sharply lower open on Tuesday. • Oil prices are spiking on concerns regarding supply disruptions. 2 sources Key Facts • Interest on the $38.8 trillion national debt has tripled since 2020. • Interest costs now exceed spending on both national defense and Medicaid. • CBO projections suggest interest costs will soon surpass Medicare spending. Key Facts • UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered the 2026 Spring Statement regarding fiscal policy. • The statement included special coverage from Bloomberg Economics to analyze economic implications. Key Facts • Trump's attacks or aggressive policies toward Iran could lead to an increase in the costs of goods and services generally. • This potential price surge contradicts Trump's campaign promises to improve affordability for consumers. Key Facts • The U.S. housing supply gap widened to 4.03 million homes in 2025, up from 3.8 million in 2024. • Approximately 1.41 million households were formed in 2025, compared with only 1.36 million housing starts. • There are 1.82 million young households missing from the market due to affordability constraints. Key Facts • Nomura’s research team notes that the Bank of England’s March interest rate cut decision is now a 'close call' or finely balanced. • Higher oil prices and stronger-than-expected UK economic data have contributed to the shift in expectations.