US Market

The Strait of Hormuz is the key driver of oil prices and, by extension, the direction of global markets amid escalating geopolitical risk.

Private credit, a roughly $2 trillion market that grew rapidly as banks retreated from lending after 2008, is now facing its first real test as rising interest rates, investor withdrawals, and signs of borrower stress expose liquidity and valuation risks built during years of cheap money.

Solid results and guidance push Oracle shares higher, but business risks linger and the technical outlook remains unfavourable.

Rising Middle East tensions are driving defensive positioning, with Newmont, Lockheed Martin and BP highlighted as potential diversification plays tied to gold, defence spending and oil volatility.

Lockheed Martin, Northrop and other military contractors can benefit from the conflict, which can enhance spending amid already ballooning security budgets, but supply and macro risks linger.

A weak US labour report and a surge in oil prices toward $119 have revived fears that financial markets may be entering a stagflationary environment of slowing growth alongside persistent inflation.

This FXCM AlphaTrack highlights potential trade opportunities in Newmont Corporation, Lockheed Martin, and BP based on bullish technical momentum as geopolitical tensions lift safe-haven and energy demand signals

Netflix loses the chance to acquire an entertainment giant and extend its leadership, but the bid came with significant risks and costs, and the stock could benefit from the withdrawal.

Nvidia posted solid results and guidance as hyperscalers continue to invest heavily in AI infrastructure, but rising competition, concentration risks and China remain key challenges.

In early 2026, equal-weight stocks are outperforming mega-caps, signalling a clear rotation away from tech dominance. Broader participation suggests healthier market breadth, but the shift remains macro-dependent.

Shares of Netflix slump 18% this year, but the streaming leader appears well positioned to renew business momentum as technical signals hint at stock rebound potential.