Track the evolution of major financial and economic events
PayPal is attracting takeover interest from potential buyers after a significant decline in its stock price, which has wiped out nearly half of the company's market value. Shares surged nearly 7% following reports of acquisition talks, including interest from fintech startup Stripe. However, shares fell 4% after reports indicated that PayPal is not in talks to sell itself, adding to the challenges the company faces in the digital payments market.
Gold prices (XAU/USD) have recorded their highest-ever weekly close, staying above the $5,100 mark. Fears of trade wars and geopolitical risks have driven strong demand for the precious metal. Additionally, a weaker US Dollar has supported the rise in gold prices, which reached $5,260 per ounce. Geopolitical tensions and uncertain trade policies remain key factors driving gold prices higher.
Kyndryl is facing legal challenges following a significant decline in its stock price. A securities class action lawsuit has been filed against Kyndryl Holdings on behalf of investors who acquired securities between August 2024 and February 2026, with the stock plummeting by 55% on February 9, 2026. Negative disclosures included delayed financial filings, internal control weaknesses, and the departure of three key executives, leading the company to admit that its disclosure controls and internal financial reporting were ineffective during 2025.
Rolls-Royce shares reached a record high of 1,353p ahead of financial results, with reports suggesting a new share buyback program worth approximately £1.5 billion. The stock has surged 120% over the past year, boosting its market capitalization to over $152 billion. The company announced a multi-year share buyback program of up to $12 billion, along with upgraded financial targets for 2028, aimed at significantly enhancing shareholder returns.
The US Dollar Index (DXY) is wavering following a surprise in the Non-Farm Payrolls (NFP) data. Traders are reassessing Federal Reserve rate expectations based on the new data. There is anticipation of potential rallies in GBP/USD and EUR/USD amid shifting sentiment towards the dollar. The DXY is facing pressure near the 97.65 level due to new 15% tariff threats.
On February 27, OpenAI closed a massive $110 billion funding round, setting a new record for private tech companies. The round was backed by tech giants including Amazon, Nvidia, and Softbank. This funding surpasses the company's previous record of $40 billion raised last year. On March 4, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang stated that the $30 billion investment in OpenAI might be the last of its kind.
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse expressed optimism about the potential passage of a US crypto bill. On March 1, he stated that a deal regarding the CLARITY Act may be imminent, as the door for negotiations is open.
Warren Buffett adjusted his investment portfolio ahead of retirement, with Berkshire Hathaway reducing its stake in Amazon by 77% during the fourth quarter of 2025. He also sold 75% of the company's stake in Apple before officially retiring on December 31, with Greg Abel taking over as CEO. Furthermore, Form 13F filings revealed that Buffett had been accumulating shares in a consumer-facing company for six consecutive quarters prior to his departure.
Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) rates have surged, reaching $170,000 per day, tripling since the start of 2026. This increase is driven by soaring demand from India and fears of a potential U.S. military action in Iran. Shipping rates on the key Middle East-to-China route have hit a six-year high, with VLCC charter rates reaching between $200,000 and $208,000 per day.
Nvidia is anticipating strong financial results amid negative sentiment towards major tech stocks, particularly in the artificial intelligence sector. The company's stock has increased by 40% over the past twelve months, currently trading at 25 times the estimated earnings for FY'27. Despite broader fears in the AI sector, Wall Street analysts remain bullish on Nvidia, which reported $68 billion in revenue last quarter, with expectations of revenue growth to $78 billion in the next quarter.
On February 23, Bitmine increased its Ethereum holdings to 4.42 million ETH, controlling 3.66% of the total circulating supply. By March 2, the holdings rose to 4.47 million ETH, representing 3.71% of the total supply. On March 9, the company further increased its treasury to 4.535 million ETH, despite the ongoing 'mini-crypto winter'.
The Bitcoin market is facing challenges amid ETF dynamics and price fluctuations. US spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded five consecutive weeks of net outflows, totaling $3.8 billion during this period. Last week alone saw $315.9 million leaving the ETFs, pushing Bitcoin's price down to around $67,349, leaving buyers approximately 20% underwater relative to previous cost bases.
Warner Bros. and Paramount are exploring merger opportunities amid market changes. On February 27, Netflix announced its withdrawal from bidding for Warner Bros., stating the deal was no longer financially attractive. On the same day, Warner Bros. designated Paramount's bid as 'superior' to Netflix's offer, leading to a rise in Netflix's shares following the announcement.
OPEC+ is considering an oil output increase of 137,000 barrels per day for April 2026, following a three-month pause in production increases. This move aims to prepare for peak summer demand and market share strategies for key members like Saudi Arabia. Amid geopolitical tensions, Saudi Arabia has started increasing oil output as a contingency plan in case of a U.S. attack on Iran, reinforcing its role as a reliable supplier.
Gold and silver prices have experienced significant fluctuations due to economic data and geopolitical tensions. Gold price rose to around $5,250 per ounce after previously suffering declines. Silver prices increased by 2.13% to near $86.50, driven by rising geopolitical risks in Iran. Traders are looking for strong support at the $83 level for silver, while the strength of the US Dollar is exerting downward pressure on gold prices.
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) is under increasing pressure to change its patient stance on interest rates. Forecasts for NZD/USD and NZD/JPY are being influenced by the potential for a monetary policy shift. The market is awaiting upcoming central bank decisions.
Oil prices experienced significant volatility due to inventory changes and geopolitical concerns. On February 23, Brent crude surpassed $71 per barrel, influenced by developments in U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations. As fears of supply disruptions rose, prices reached a seven-month high, prompting traders to take protective measures. On February 25, the U.S. Department of Energy reported a substantial increase in inventories, heightening concerns about oversupply.
The US Dollar has shown stability as market focus shifts to economic indicators. The USD/JPY surged due to fading expectations of a Bank of Japan rate hike, while stronger US economic data bolstered the dollar's strength. Additionally, the Australian Dollar rose following robust inflation data from Australia, increasing bets on the Reserve Bank of Australia's tightening monetary policy.
