Podcasts about financial markets

US futures mixed as the Dow trades lower and the Nasdaq slightly higher. Bond markets are mixed: the U.S. 10-year yield is up 1 bp at 4.6%, gilts have risen 2 bps to 5%, and bunds are steady at 3.2%. The dollar is softer. Oil has given back earlier gains, with WTI crude little changed just below $82 per barrel. Gold is lower, industrial metals are down, and bitcoin is weaker. Ongoing Middle East tensions leaving a cautious tone for equity markets. US ramped up strikes against Iran on the weekend. Protraction in hostilities a complication for European macro outlook given impact on inflation and demand. Market moving off earlier lows with oil pulling back from session highs, highlighting sensitivity to energy price developments.Companies Mentioned: Segro, Samsung Biologics, Advanced Medical Solutions Group, PolyPeptide Group

Renewed tensions in the Middle East are testing markets. In this week's Market Take, Ehsan Khoman, Investment Strategist at the BlackRock Investment Institute, explains why we remain pro-risk despite a more fragile macro backdrop.General disclosure: This material is intended for information purposes only, and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation or an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any securities, funds or strategies to any person in any jurisdiction in which an offer, solicitation, purchase or sale would be unlawful under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. The opinions expressed are as of the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Reliance upon information in this material is at the sole discretion of the reader. Investing involves risks. BlackRock does and may seek to do business with companies covered in this podcast. As a result, readers should be aware that the firm may have a conflict of interest that could affect the objectivity of this podcast.In the U.S. and Canada, this material is intended for public distribution.In the UK and Non-European Economic Area (EEA) countries: this is Issued by BlackRock Investment Management (UK) Limited, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered office: 12 Throgmorton Avenue, London, EC2N 2DL. Tel:+ 44 (0)20 7743 3000. Registered in England and Wales No. 02020394. For your protection telephone calls are usually recorded. Please refer to the Financial Conduct Authority website for a list of authorised activities conducted by BlackRock.In the European Economic Area (EEA): this is Issued by BlackRock (Netherlands) B.V. is authorised and regulated by the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets. Registered office Amstelplein 1, 1096 HA, Amsterdam, Tel: 020 – 549 5200, Tel: 31-20- 549-5200. Trade Register No. 17068311 For your protection telephone calls are usually recorded.For Investors in Switzerland: This document is marketing material.In South Africa: Please be advised that BlackRock Investment Management (UK) Limited is an authorised Financial Services provider with the South African Financial Services Board, FSP No. 43288.In Singapore, this is issued by BlackRock (Singapore) Limited (Co. registration no. 200010143N). This advertisement or publication has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. In Hong Kong, this material is issued by BlackRock Asset Management North Asia Limited and has not been reviewed by the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong. In Australia, issued by BlackRock Investment Management (Australia) Limited ABN 13 006 165 975, AFSL 230 523 (BIMAL). This material provides general information only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation, needs or circumstances. Before making any investment decision, you should assess whether the material is appropriate for you and obtain financial advice tailored to you having regard to your individual objectives, financial situation, needs and circumstances. Refer to BIMAL's Financial Services Guide on its website for more information. This material is not a financial product recommendation or an offer or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any financial product in any jurisdictionIn Latin America: this material is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice nor an offer or solicitation to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any shares of any Fund (nor shall any such shares be offered or sold to any person) in any jurisdiction in which an offer, solicitation, purchase or sale would be unlawful under the securities law of that jurisdiction. If any funds are mentioned or inferred to in this material, it is possible that some or all of the funds may not have been registered with the securities regulator of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Uruguay or any other securities regulator in any Latin American country and thus might not be publicly offered within any such country. The securities regulators of such countries have not confirmed the accuracy of any information contained herein. The provision of investment management and investment advisory services is a regulated activity in Mexico thus is subject to strict rules. For more information on the Investment Advisory Services offered by BlackRock Mexico please refer to the Investment Services Guide available at www.blackrock.com/mx©2026 BlackRock, Inc. All Rights Reserved. BLACKROCK is a registered trademark of BlackRock, Inc. All other trademarks are those of their respective owners.BII0726-5760873-EXP0727

Andy Burnham is set to enter No. 10 later today to become the UK's fifth prime minister in 4 years. We are live at Downing Street for the latest. Brent crude surpasses $90 per barrel, up 2.9 per cent in session as the U.S. targets Iran for a ninth consecutive night. Three U.S. troops have been confirmed dead following Iranian retaliatory strikes in Jordan and Iraq. Ryanair posts a miss for the first quarter, down by more than a third on the year. Passenger revenue slumps and jet fuel spikes with prices trending lower in the current quarter. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stewart Alsop sits down with investor and entrepreneur Adnan Hassan on the Crazy Wisdom Podcast to explore his thesis on creating a small state asset class, using evolutionary insights from asteroids, dinosaurs, and mycelium as a framework for understanding resilient systems. Hassan brings his background in Silicon Valley technology, New York and Washington finance, and sovereign funds—including senior leadership roles at the World Bank—to explain why 162 of the world's 200 states are actually small states with populations under 12 million, and why these distributed, autonomous entities might be best positioned to survive the coming global shocks from AI, currency disruption, and the wobbling international order. For more information about Hassan's work, visit www.sac-holding.com (SAC stands for Small State Asset Class), where you can find two-minute videos explaining his approach to building this new financial architecture.Timestamps00:00 Introduction and the asteroid, dinosaur, mycelium thesis as a framework for understanding evolutionary survival patterns across billions of years05:00 Global order institutions are wobbling while currency systems evolve and AI emerges, creating simultaneous shocks that favor adaptable networked systems over large centralized structures10:00 Small states defined as populations under 12 million represent 162 of 200 global economies, contradicting assumptions that most nations are large centralized powers15:00 States behave as selfish entities seeking regulatory control while individuals seek autonomy, creating tension as the Westphalian system undergoes fundamental transformation20:00 Cooperation versus competition in human systems, examining how KYC requirements and state surveillance are expanding globally including in America and Argentina25:00 Small states are most interested in rule-based global order because they need protection from larger powers, unlike powerful nations that prefer unconstrained action30:00 Of the twenty richest countries by per capita GDP, seventeen are small states, yet no small state asset class exists in financial markets35:00 Uncorrelated assets provide diversification protection for investors, while small states offer geographic distribution across Caribbean, Africa, Europe, Gulf, and Pacific regions40:00 Cross-border family business collaboration between small states will increase, leading to knowledge sharing and a proposed Davos for small states event45:00 The individual sits at the core of this framework, with AI enabling creative minds in small places to access world-class resources previously impossible50:00 Demonstration of accessible technology costing only ten dollars shows how AI removes barriers, allowing creativity to become the distinguishing factor for entrepreneurs globallyKey Insights1. Adnan Hassan presents a thesis grounded in billions of years of evolutionary data, arguing that systems which survive major shocks share common characteristics: they are autonomous, networked, cooperative, resilient, and lack single points of failure. He uses the asteroid strike that killed the dinosaurs as his central metaphor, noting that while massive dinosaurs went extinct, smaller organisms like mycelium, ants, bees, and marsupials survived because of their distributed and adaptable nature. Hassan believes we are currently experiencing a similar asteroid-level shock to our global systems through the simultaneous disruption of the rule-based global order, currency systems, and artificial intelligence, all happening at once over the next three to five years.2. Hassan identifies 162 out of 200 global states and economies as small states, defined as having populations under 12 million people. This number surprises most people, including sophisticated observers who typically guess around 60 or 70. Even more striking, 17 of the 20 richest countries by per capita GDP are small states, representing 85 percent of the wealthiest nations. These small states have disproportionate resources to deploy internationally and the greatest interest in maintaining a rule-based global order since they have the most to lose from chaos and cannot rely on size or military power for protection.3. The current global institutional framework established after World War Two, including the UN, IMF, World Bank, and WTO, is fundamentally wobbling and reaching the end of an era. Hassan argues that states are inherently selfish creatures addicted to regulatory sovereignty and control, but the systems designed to give these states structure and credibility are now failing. This represents the first major restructuring of the global order since the post-World War Two period, which itself followed 400 years of colonial systems. The transition period will be characterized by significant chaos and convulsions throughout the global system.4. Hassan advocates for creating a new small states asset class in financial markets, which does not currently exist despite small states representing the majority of countries and the wealthiest per capita economies. This asset class would provide large institutional investors like pension funds and sovereign wealth funds with globally diversified, potentially uncorrelated assets while simultaneously supporting political and economic structures that embody the evolutionary principles of survival through distributed, autonomous, networked cooperation. The small states asset class represents both sound evolutionary strategy and pragmatic investment opportunity.5. Technology without philosophy is efficiency without purpose, a concern Hassan raised as early as 1994 when he helped prototype the first electronic trading market on the internet. He witnessed the naive optimism of Silicon Valley technologists who believed simply throwing tools over the wall would create a better world, but this approach made both good and bad activities more efficient. Social media demonstrated this danger by efficiently creating disruption and loss of trust in political systems. Hassan warns that the same mistake is being made with AI, where powerful tools are being deployed without adequate philosophical framework or consideration of consequences.6. Small states and their leading families will find more common language and shared understanding with each other across geographic boundaries than with larger neighboring states. A family business in Montevideo has an easier conversation with counterparts in Singapore or New Zealand than with businesses in Sao Paulo because small state actors recognize each other's unique realities and circumstances. Hassan plans to create a Davos for small states in 2027 to facilitate this knowledge sharing among the mycelium colony, allowing different nodes to exchange innovations and strategies across the distributed global network of small state actors.7. The optimistic future involves unleashing individual creativity globally by giving people access to AI-enabled tools that provide world-class legal, financial, and consulting advice in their language of choice. The solopreneur can now become a conglomerate, with individuals no longer constrained by lack of access to execution machinery. Hassan envisions young people in places like Gabon, Swaziland, or Uruguay having the same access to sophisticated business infrastructure as those in traditional power centers, with the distinguishing factor being creativity of mind rather than geographic or institutional privilege. Small states can pivot faster on regulatory frameworks, sometimes achieving in a dinner meeting what takes large states three years of legislative, executive, and judicial wrangling.

US equity futures are lower, Asian markets are sharply lower while European equities are mostly weaker. Markets remain focused on the ongoing unwind in momentum and semiconductor trades, with profit-taking and concerns around elevated capex continuing to weigh on sentiment. Geopolitical risks remain a secondary overhang, with Middle East tensions and broader policy uncertainty contributing to a cautious tone, while expectations for central bank policy are stabilising as inflation pressures show signs of easing. Attention is now turning to upcoming corporate developments and macro data for further direction on growth and rate expectations.Companies Mentioned: PayPal, BP, ConocoPhillips, Array Technologies

Asian markets suffer a sell-off as jitters over the AI rally persist Stateside. The U.S. hits Iran for a sixth consecutive day, targeting bridges in the south while Tehran retaliates with a barrage of missile strikes at U.S. positions across the Gulf. The handover process of power within the UK Labour party begins today with Andy Burnham set to take over as Prime Minister on Monday.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

US equity futures are modestly higher, Asian markets were mostly lower, while European equities are mixed. Markets remain focused on ongoing rotation dynamics, with continued pressure on momentum and semiconductor trades alongside strength in large-cap tech and select cyclicals. Geopolitics continues to influence sentiment, with US-Iran tensions elevated but expectations still leaning toward eventual diplomatic resolution, keeping risk premia contained. Cooling inflation signals have provided some support to equities, while attention is turning to upcoming US data and policy signals. Investors also await President Trump's address to the nation later today for clarity on both military and policy trajectories.Companies Mentioned: Uber, Delivery Hero, AtaiBeckley, Eli Lilly, DCC

Taiwanese chip giant TSMC smashes another record with an 80 per cent surge in Q2 net profits on the building wave of demand for its AI processors. Further exchanges of fire between the U.S. and Iran in the Persian Gulf could reportedly prompt President Trump to expand operations in the region. Trump remains confident the conflict can be concluded in the near future. Sterling hits a yearly high despite reports incoming prime minister Andy Burnham is set to make Shabana Mahmood Chancellor of the Exchequer as Sir Keir Starmer attends his final PMQs. UK GDP for May ekes out growth of 1.3 per cent year-on-year. However, May manufacturing is down by 1.8 per cent year-on-year.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S&P futures are indicating a higher open following a strong Asia session. Semiconductor names rebounded with strong gains seen in South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Mainland China benchmarks were rather flat. European markets are edging lower in early trading. Companies Mentioned: PayPal, CoreWeave, Lionsgate Studios

ASML smashes Q2 estimates and hikes its FY guidance as huge A.I. demand offsets disappointing performance in the Chinese market. President Trump reverses his call for fees on tankers leaving the Strait of Hormuz under U.S. naval protection following investment pledges from GCC nations as a means of compensation. U.S. CPI slows more than expected as energy prices fall. Newly appointed Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh makes his first Congressional appearance and promises to keep his position independent from the White House while bringing down inflation. In luxury news, Richemont enjoys a 20 per cent boost in sales, beating estimates from Q1 with strong growth seen across the Americas and Asia.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S&P futures are slightly lower following a volatile Asia session. Japan saw steady gains, Hong Kong tech names were sharply higher in the morning but flattened out near close, South Korea experienced a V-shape rebound, and Mainland China saw modest increase. European benchmarks are all edging lower in early trading.Companies Mentioned: NVIDIA

The U.S. and Iran trade strikes for a third consecutive night with President Trump declaring American forces are blockading the Strait of Hormuz and demanding a 20 per cent levy on all cargo. Trump says he remains positive on being able to reach a peace deal with Tehran. The renewed conflict pushes Brent to its biggest one-day surge since the Covid pandemic. The UK and Switzerland sign a services trade deal ahead of Rachel Reeves' last Mansion House speech under Keir Starmer's premiership. We speak top Trade Minister Chris Bryant who predicts the incoming Burnham government will seek ever-closer ties with the European Union.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

US equity futures are weakening, with the S&P down 0.4%. Bonds are broadly lower as Treasury Yields continue to rise, with the 10-year up 1 bp to 4.6%. Gilts have gained 3 bps to 4.9%, while Bunds are up 2 bps at 3%. Crude prices are rallying amid escalating US-Iran tensions. Meanwhile, gold and silver extend their declines, the dollar strengthens across the board, and Bitcoin retreats alongside equities. US and Iran exchanged fire over weekend, raising more doubts about durability of ceasefire. US struck more targets aimed at degrading Iran's ability to threaten ships in Strait of Hormuz. IRGC fired at another commercial vessel and declared Hormuz closed, retaliating with strikes against US facilities across Gulf states. Developments seen threatening nascent recovery in Hormuz shipping activity, pushing crude higher. Companies Mentioned: Akzo Nobel, CCC Intelligent Solutions, Warner Bros. Discovery

The repricing of Fed policy expectations over the past six months has reverberated well beyond the U.S. Valerie Chan, Investment Strategist at the BlackRock Investment Institute, explains why Japan is a key case study.General disclosure: This material is intended for information purposes only, and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation or an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any securities, funds or strategies to any person in any jurisdiction in which an offer, solicitation, purchase or sale would be unlawful under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. The opinions expressed are as of the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Reliance upon information in this material is at the sole discretion of the reader. Investing involves risks. BlackRock does and may seek to do business with companies covered in this podcast. As a result, readers should be aware that the firm may have a conflict of interest that could affect the objectivity of this podcast.In the U.S. and Canada, this material is intended for public distribution.In the UK and Non-European Economic Area (EEA) countries: this is Issued by BlackRock Investment Management (UK) Limited, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered office: 12 Throgmorton Avenue, London, EC2N 2DL. Tel:+ 44 (0)20 7743 3000. Registered in England and Wales No. 02020394. For your protection telephone calls are usually recorded. Please refer to the Financial Conduct Authority website for a list of authorised activities conducted by BlackRock.In the European Economic Area (EEA): this is Issued by BlackRock (Netherlands) B.V. is authorised and regulated by the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets. Registered office Amstelplein 1, 1096 HA, Amsterdam, Tel: 020 – 549 5200, Tel: 31-20- 549-5200. Trade Register No. 17068311 For your protection telephone calls are usually recorded.For Investors in Switzerland: This document is marketing material.In South Africa: Please be advised that BlackRock Investment Management (UK) Limited is an authorised Financial Services provider with the South African Financial Services Board, FSP No. 43288.In Singapore, this is issued by BlackRock (Singapore) Limited (Co. registration no. 200010143N). This advertisement or publication has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. In Hong Kong, this material is issued by BlackRock Asset Management North Asia Limited and has not been reviewed by the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong. In Australia, issued by BlackRock Investment Management (Australia) Limited ABN 13 006 165 975, AFSL 230 523 (BIMAL). This material provides general information only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation, needs or circumstances. Before making any investment decision, you should assess whether the material is appropriate for you and obtain financial advice tailored to you having regard to your individual objectives, financial situation, needs and circumstances. Refer to BIMAL's Financial Services Guide on its website for more information. This material is not a financial product recommendation or an offer or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any financial product in any jurisdictionIn Latin America: this material is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice nor an offer or solicitation to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any shares of any Fund (nor shall any such shares be offered or sold to any person) in any jurisdiction in which an offer, solicitation, purchase or sale would be unlawful under the securities law of that jurisdiction. If any funds are mentioned or inferred to in this material, it is possible that some or all of the funds may not have been registered with the securities regulator of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Uruguay or any other securities regulator in any Latin American country and thus might not be publicly offered within any such country. The securities regulators of such countries have not confirmed the accuracy of any information contained herein. The provision of investment management and investment advisory services is a regulated activity in Mexico thus is subject to strict rules. For more information on the Investment Advisory Services offered by BlackRock Mexico please refer to the Investment Services Guide available at www.blackrock.com/mx©2026 BlackRock, Inc. All Rights Reserved. BLACKROCK is a registered trademark of BlackRock, Inc. All other trademarks are those of their respective owners.BII0726-5741082-EXP0727

Crude prices rise as the U.S. and Iran exchange fire with both sides claiming control over the Strait of Hormuz. SK Hynix shares fall in Asian markets following the chip maker's $26bn U.S. ADR listing. Tech selling and Middle East uncertainty push Asian equities lower and trigger circuit-breakers on South Korea's KOSPI. European futures are also in the red following a four-day winning streak. Nippon Paints offers to buy Akzo Nobel's decorative paints arm for €7.5bn following a previous rebuttal for the Dulux-maker's entire business.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

US equity futures are softer with the S&P down. Bonds are firmer, as the US 10-year yield drops 2 bps to 4.5% following yields fell 3-4 bps in prior session. Gilts fall 2 bps to 4.9%, while the Bund softens by 1 bp to 3.1%. The dollar is weaker. Oil edges down slightly, with WTI crude near $72/bbl. Gold is lower, while Bitcoin shows gains. European and Asian equity markets are mostly firmer. European markets are finding support after the US refrained from launching a third consecutive day of strikes against Iran. Sentiment earlier this week was shaken by rising tensions, which triggered a sharp rally in oil prices and a rise in interest rates, reigniting concerns about inflation and growth risks. As a result, sell-side strategists are becoming increasingly divided on the outlook for European markets. Some analysts point to vulnerabilities stemming from Europe's limited exposure to AI and heightened sensitivity to oil-driven volatility, given the region's reliance on imported oil.Companies Mentioned: EasyJet, Bayer AG, Arthur J. Gallagher

SK Hynix's U.S. listing raises $26.5bn with investor demand said to be seven times oversubscribed. The Nasdaq listing is the largest by a foreign company on Wall Street. Technical talks between Washington and Tehran are ongoing despite this week's tit-for-tat attacks. Crude is set to break a four-week losing streak with the recent tensions threatening to trigger concerns about supply from the Gulf. In Germany, Volkswagen cuts capacity and slashes its model line-up in half but pulls back from announcing 100k job cuts as it faces worker and union protests at its car plant in Zwickau. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Click here to watch the video recording of this interview. In her latest book, Ann Pettifor argues that we are not governed by politicians or diplomats, but “by wealthy and powerful players in markets based in Silicon Valley, Wall Street, the Chicago Mercantile Exchange and the City of London.”These players, she says, largely either ignore the threat of climate breakdown, or see it as a struggle for resource control. The “unregulated actions of private actors and institutions in global markets have led to the increasingly rapid breakdown of the world's climate and ecosystem.”In a special episode of The Land and Climate Podcast, recorded live in front of an audience as part of London Climate Action Week, Bertie and Ann discuss the influence financial markets exert over climate policy, and strategies to reassert democratic control.Ann Pettifor is a political economist known for predicting the 2008 financial crisis, successfully campaigning to cancel approximately $100 billion in debt owed by poor countries, and for co-authoring and advocating the Green New Deal. In January 2026, Verso published her latest book, The Global Casino: How Wall Street Gambles with People and the Planet. Buy a copy from Verso's website before 31st July and recieve 30% off with the following discount code: CLIMATEREVIEW30 Further reading: Ann's Substack, System Change.The Case for the Green New Deal, 2019The Production of Money: How to Break the Power of Bankers, 2018Send us Fan MailFind all our latest investigations, features and interviews at www.landclimate.org

S&P futures are pointing to a higher open today. Japan's main indices posted solid gains led by chip stocks, while the Kospi was flat as large-cap Korean names traded mixed. Taiwan and Hang Seng retreated, the latter giving back some of Wednesday's gains. Australia extended declines. Mainland China pared early losses and rallied in the afternoon with semis names the notable outperformers. European equity markets are higher in early trading. Companies Mentioned: Blackstone, TPG, Boeing

Markets stabilized after losses the day before.

U.S. stocks are holding steadier.

The U.S. and Iran exchange fire for a second day with President Trump threatening to increase the intensity of airstrikes. Kuwait and Bahrain suffer retaliatory attacks on U.S. bases while Qatar upgrades its security alertness. Speaking at the NATO summit, President Trump tells CNBC the conflict will not escalate into all-out war, insisting Washington's objective is to prevent Tehran obtaining a nuclear weapon. Despite Trump's declaration the MOU with Iran is over, markets remain sanguine. However, Brent nudges closer towards the $80-mark.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S&P futures are trending slightly lower following a mixed Asia session. Strong gains were seen in Chinese AI and semis names, pushing the Hang Seng to close up +3%. Japan's Nikkei and Korea's Kospi rebounded shortly after open but both traded sharply lower in the afternoon. Minimal movement in Mainland China overall, Taiwan saw slight gains, and other markets were mostly lower. European equity markets sharply lower in early trading.Companies Mentioned: MasTec, Coty, SpaceX, Meta, OpenAI

The U.S. targets Iran with fresh airstrikes and revokes its license to sell crude oil after attacks tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. In response, Iran fires missiles at U.S. bases in Bahrain and Kuwait. We are live at the NATO summit in Ankara where President Trump again raises the Greenland question and threatens to pull all troops out of Europe over allies' defence spending. However, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte tells CNBC Trump's pressure on alliance members over funding has delivered big results. European leaders concur that spending into the bloc must be increased as the war in the Gulf has left the alliance on high alert while the Ukraine conflict nears a pivotal moment.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S&P futures are pointing to a lower open today, currently down (0.3%). Asian equities saw sharp declines today, with the MSCI Asia Pacific Index dropping (2%). Samsung Electronics closed down (7%) despite reporting a 19-fold operating profit jump and triggered a selloff in memory and chip names across Asia. Japan's Nikkei dropped (2%), South Korea's Kospi was down near (5%), and Greater China markets all slid. European markets are showing resilience with most benchmarks slightly higher in early trading. Companies Mentioned: Samsung Electronics, Vertex Pharma, Crinetics Pharma, Fiserv

We are live in Ankara where NATO leaders are gathering for the bloc's annual summit. The focus is again on the U.S. commitment and allies' increased spending. Secretary General Marc Rutte insists there is unity and coordination from all members. The U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker tells CNBC Washington does want the organisation to succeed but allies' defence spending must ‘keep pace'. Stellar preliminary earnings from Samsung send jitters through Asian markets, causing a circuit-breaker on South Korea's KOSPI as investors sell off. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

US equity futures are firmer, with the S&P 500 up. Bond yields are lower, as the US 10Y Treasury falls 2 bps to 4.5% and the Bund drops 2 bps to 2.9%. Gilts are softer. The US dollar is stronger. Oil prices are down, with WTI crude trading below $69/bbl. Gold is up, and Bitcoin is firmer. European equity markets are higher, while Asian markets show mixed performance. The market is awaiting fresh catalysts in Europe, showing no reaction to volatility in Asian tech stocks. Strategists remain positive on the European equity outlook, as investors grow more comfortable owning European assets amid an improving macroeconomic environment. The recent selloff in oil is the most significant factor influencing markets. More broadly, investors are continuing to assess the sustainability of capital expenditure by US hyper-scalers.Companied Mentioned: GFL Environmental, Element Solutions, Samsung Electronics

AI has the potential to reshape long-term growth, but getting there means navigating today's supply constraints. Wei Li, BlackRock's Global Chief Investment Strategist, unpacks the key themes of BlackRock's 2026 Midyear Outlook.General disclosure: This material is intended for information purposes only, and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation or an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any securities, funds or strategies to any person in any jurisdiction in which an offer, solicitation, purchase or sale would be unlawful under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. The opinions expressed are as of the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Reliance upon information in this material is at the sole discretion of the reader. Investing involves risks. BlackRock does and may seek to do business with companies covered in this podcast. As a result, readers should be aware that the firm may have a conflict of interest that could affect the objectivity of this podcast.In the U.S. and Canada, this material is intended for public distribution.In the UK and Non-European Economic Area (EEA) countries: this is Issued by BlackRock Investment Management (UK) Limited, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered office: 12 Throgmorton Avenue, London, EC2N 2DL. Tel:+ 44 (0)20 7743 3000. Registered in England and Wales No. 02020394. For your protection telephone calls are usually recorded. Please refer to the Financial Conduct Authority website for a list of authorised activities conducted by BlackRock.In the European Economic Area (EEA): this is Issued by BlackRock (Netherlands) B.V. is authorised and regulated by the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets. Registered office Amstelplein 1, 1096 HA, Amsterdam, Tel: 020 – 549 5200, Tel: 31-20- 549-5200. Trade Register No. 17068311 For your protection telephone calls are usually recorded.For Investors in Switzerland: This document is marketing material.In South Africa: Please be advised that BlackRock Investment Management (UK) Limited is an authorised Financial Services provider with the South African Financial Services Board, FSP No. 43288.In Singapore, this is issued by BlackRock (Singapore) Limited (Co. registration no. 200010143N). This advertisement or publication has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. In Hong Kong, this material is issued by BlackRock Asset Management North Asia Limited and has not been reviewed by the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong. In Australia, issued by BlackRock Investment Management (Australia) Limited ABN 13 006 165 975, AFSL 230 523 (BIMAL). This material provides general information only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation, needs or circumstances. Before making any investment decision, you should assess whether the material is appropriate for you and obtain financial advice tailored to you having regard to your individual objectives, financial situation, needs and circumstances. Refer to BIMAL's Financial Services Guide on its website for more information. This material is not a financial product recommendation or an offer or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any financial product in any jurisdictionIn Latin America: this material is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice nor an offer or solicitation to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any shares of any Fund (nor shall any such shares be offered or sold to any person) in any jurisdiction in which an offer, solicitation, purchase or sale would be unlawful under the securities law of that jurisdiction. If any funds are mentioned or inferred to in this material, it is possible that some or all of the funds may not have been registered with the securities regulator of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Uruguay or any other securities regulator in any Latin American country and thus might not be publicly offered within any such country. The securities regulators of such countries have not confirmed the accuracy of any information contained herein. The provision of investment management and investment advisory services is a regulated activity in Mexico thus is subject to strict rules. For more information on the Investment Advisory Services offered by BlackRock Mexico please refer to the Investment Services Guide available at www.blackrock.com/mx©2026 BlackRock, Inc. All Rights Reserved. BLACKROCK is a registered trademark of BlackRock, Inc. All other trademarks are those of their respective owners.BII0726-5716309-EXP0727

Crude prices are stable following last week's drop below pre-Iran war levels, as Opec+ nations agree to increase production. ECB Governing Council Member and Central Bank of Ireland Governor Gabriel Makhlouf tells CNBC fall in prices will not be felt though any relief inflation just yet. Speaking to CNBC at the Rencontres Économiques d'Aix-en-Provence, EU Industry Commissioner Stéphane Séjourné insisted the bloc must defend its strategic interests in the face of growing geo-political threats. EasyJet has reached an ‘agreement in principle' with U.S. investment company Castlelake which is set to acquire the UK budget airline in a deal worth an estimated $5.5bn.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

President Trump sits down for an exclusive interview with out colleagues Stateside and defends the conflict in Iran, accusing Tehran of exploiting prior administrations over the past 47 years. Trump also said markets backed his intervention. U.S. jobs growth slowed in June with just 57, 000 non-farm positions added. U.S. and European markets have now downgraded expectations of a rate hike. Europe's Stoxx 600 notches a fresh record high and futures also remain in the green for the end of the week.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

US equity futures are modestly higher, Asian markets are mostly weaker while European equities are firmer. Markets remain focused on the unwind in the AI and semiconductor trade after a strong second quarter, with memory stocks under pressure amid concerns around stretched positioning and demand risks tied to rising input costs. Geopolitics remains a secondary driver, with US-Iran talks still seen as constructive but lacking clear breakthroughs, while central bank messaging has provided limited new direction. Attention is also turning to the US labor market, with nonfarm payrolls expected to show a moderation in job growth, reinforcing expectations for further rate tightening later this year.Companies Mentioned: Apple, OpenAI, SoftBank Group

New Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh speaks to CNBC at the ECB Forum in Sintra that the U.S. central bank will be looking at overhauling how it conducts monetary policy but insists that bringing down inflation will be his primary objective. OpenAI has reportedly hinted it may give a 5 per cent to the U.S. government in a bid to curry favour with the White House. Oil slumps to four-month lows after negotiators claim indirect U.S.-Iran talks have progressed well in Doha. Further talks may proceed as early as next week. And we are live at Canary Wharf with Squawk On The Road. We hear from Canary Wharf CEO Shobi Khan tells CNBC that despite global turmoil and presumptive Prime Minister Andy Burnham's plans to shake up Westminster, London still remains a haven of stability for business.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

US equity futures are weaker, Asian markets are mixed, while European equities are also mixed after recent record highs. Markets are consolidating after recent strength, with attention on a mixed AI trade following strong performance in the semiconductor space and some rotation across regions. Geopolitics remain in focus, with US-Iran talks showing limited progress despite broadly constructive signals, while central bank uncertainty continues to weigh following limited forward guidance from the Fed. At the same time, lower oil prices are helping ease tightening expectations in Europe, though policymakers remain cautious on inflation dynamics, keeping overall sentiment balanced but slightly defensive.Companies Mentioned: Apple, Microsoft, KKR & Co.

Europe and Wall Street notch their best quarter since 2020 with tech and A.I. stocks leading the gains. The energy sector continues to suffer amid Middle East uncertainty. The euro zone's largest economies see June inflation slowing but Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey tells CNBC he is frustrated the conflict with Iran is still keeping prices high. We are live at the ECB Forum in Sintra hosting a headline panel. New Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh is due to speak as well. U.S. peace envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff arrive in Doha for negotiations but direct talks with Iran remain off the agenda for now. Meanwhile, Tehran says it is selling oil with a 20 per cent mark-up following the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S&P futures are pointing to a flat open today. Asian equities closed mixed with Japan's Nikkei up +1.3%, supported by strength in semiconductor names. Taiwan and South Korea also outperformed, with strong gains in chip equipment manufacturers. Hong Kong, Southeast Asia, and Australia saw mild losses. European markets are higher across the board.Companies Mentioned: Comcast

We are live at the Sintra Forum where ECB President Christine Lagarde has backed the central bank's decision to hike rates in June as necessary to rein in inflation. However, Lagarde insists ‘unconventional instruments' are no longer needed since the last inflation shock. The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that President Trump does not currently have the power to remove Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook over allegations of mortgage fraud but could be granted them in the future. The U.S. and Iran present mixed messages ahead of peace talks in Doha. President Trump has reiterated his claim that the war has been won.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Overview: Tune into this week's episode of Launch Financial as we recap the end of the second quarter and reflect on what has been a volatile, but ultimately resilient, start to the year for the markets. We discuss the key drivers behind recent market performance, what investors can learn from the first half of the year, and why staying focused on a long-term financial plan remains as important as ever. Show Notes: 

Mainstream economists claim that understanding and observing reality is not really “doing economics.” Instead, they believe that all we need are abstract theories that predict events well. But over time, financial markets must bend to the real world.Original article: https://mises.org/mises-wire/state-financial-markets-tells-us-what-investors-really-believe

In the wake of Kier Starmer's exit as leader of the Labour Party, Patricia and Christian examine the prospects of the presumed next leader of the Labour Party and the country, Andy Burnham, being able to stand up to the not-so-subtle bullying from the financial press over his economic policy.   Please help sustain this podcast!  Patrons get early access to all episodes and patron-only episodes: https://www.patreon.com/MMTpodcast     Relevant to this episode: Patricia's Substack: https://steadystate.patriciapino.com Episode 30 - Steven Hail: Understanding Government Bonds (Part 1) :https://www.patreon.com/posts/29621245 Episode 31 - Steven Hail: Understanding Government Bonds (Part 2):  https://www.patreon.com/posts/29829500 "Federal Debt and Modern Money" by Steven Hail & David Joy: https://www.global-isp.org/wp-content/uploads/PN-121.pdf "There is no need to issue public debt" by Bill Mitchell: https://billmitchell.org/blog/?p=31715 "How to Fight Back Against the False Idea that the Government is at the Mercy of Financial Markets" by Sheridan Kates: https://thealternative.org.uk/dailyalternative/2025/3/10/scotonomics-monetary-autonomy For more on the (Liz) Trussageddon, listen to Episode 147 - Dirk Ehnts: Do Markets Control Our Politics?: https://www.patreon.com/posts/episode-147-dirk-72906421 "Understanding the Inflation Risks of Public Capital Investment" by Patricia Pino Argumedo: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/bartlett/publications/2026/apr/understanding-inflation-risks-public-capital-investment "A Counterinflationary Job Guarantee For The United Kingdom", by Patricia Pino, Phil Armstrong and Steve Laughton: https://mmtuk.org/research/job-guarantee/ Watch a 15-minute introductory film on the Job Guarantee, featuring Patricia Pino, Pavlina Tcherneva, and Daniel Kostzer: https://mmtuk.org/research/job-guarantee/ Episode 148 - Pavlina Tcherneva: Why The Job Guarantee Is Core To Modern Monetary Theory: https://www.patreon.com/posts/episode-148-why-73211346 Quick read: Pavlina Tcherneva's Job Guarantee FAQ page: https://pavlina-tcherneva.net/job-guarantee-faq/ Join the new MMT UK discord server to connect with others looking to promote MMT and ecological economics in the UK!: https://discord.gg/S3UbxFe4FR   All our episodes in chronological order: https://www.patreon.com/posts/43111643   All our patron-only episodes: https://www.patreon.com/posts/57542767    JOIN PATRICIA'S MMT ACTIVIST NETWORK (MMT UK): https://actionnetwork.org/forms/activist-registration-form   Join the MMT UK Discord server to connect with others looking to promote MMT and ecological economics in the UK!: https://discord.gg/S3UbxFe4FR   MMT: THE MOVIE! "Finding The Money", a documentary by Maren Poitras featuring Stephanie Kelton is now available worldwide to rent or buy: https://findingthemoney.vhx.tv/products/finding-the-money Updates on worldwide screenings of "Finding The Money" can be found here: https://findingmoneyfilm.com/where-to-watch/ To arrange a screening of "Finding The Money", apply here: https://findingmoneyfilm.com/host-a-screening/   STUDY THE ECONOMICS OF SUSTAINABILITY! Details of Modern Money Lab's online graduate, postgraduate and standalone courses in economics are here: https://modernmoneylab.org.au/     For an intro to MMT: Our first three episodes: https://www.patreon.com/posts/41742417 Episode 126 - Dirk Ehnts: How Banks Create Money: https://www.patreon.com/posts/62603318   Quick MMT reads: Warren's Mosler's MMT white paper: http://moslereconomics.com/mmt-white-paper/ Steven Hail's quick MMT explainer: https://theconversation.com/explainer-what-is-modern-monetary-theory-72095 Quick explanation of government debt and deficit: "Some Numbers Are Big. Let Me Help You Get Over It": https://christreilly.com/2020/02/17/some-numbers-are-big-let-me-help-you-get-over-it/     For a short, non-technical, free ebook explaining MMT, download Warren Mosler's "7 Deadly Innocent Frauds Of Economic Policy" here: http://moslereconomics.com/wp-content/powerpoints/7DIF.pdf     Episodes on monetary operations:  Episode 20 - Warren Mosler: The MMT Money Story (part 1): https://www.patreon.com/posts/28004824 Episode 126 - Dirk Ehnts: How Banks Create Money: https://www.patreon.com/posts/62603318 Episode 13 - Steven Hail: Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Banking, But Were Afraid To Ask: https://www.patreon.com/posts/41790887 Episode 43 - Sam Levey: Understanding Endogenous Money: https://www.patreon.com/posts/35073683  Episode 84 - Andrew Berkeley, Richard Tye & Neil Wilson: An Accounting Model Of The UK Exchequer (Part 1): https://www.patreon.com/posts/46352183 Episode 86 - Andrew Berkeley, Richard Tye & Neil Wilson: An Accounting Model Of The UK Exchequer (Part 2): https://www.patreon.com/posts/46865929    For more on Quantitative Easing: Episode 59 - Warren Mosler: What Do Central Banks Do?: https://www.patreon.com/posts/39070023 Episode 143 - Paul Sheard: What Is Quantitative Easing?: https://www.patreon.com/posts/71589989?pr=true    Episodes on inflation: Episode 7: Steven Hail: Inflation, Price Shocks and Other Misunderstandings: https://www.patreon.com/posts/41780508 Episode 65 - Phil Armstrong: Understanding Inflation: https://www.patreon.com/posts/40672678 Episode 104 - John T Harvey: Inflation, Stagflation & Healing The Nation: https://www.patreon.com/posts/52207835 Episode 123 - Warren Mosler: Understanding The Price Level And Inflation: https://www.patreon.com/posts/59856379 Episode 128 - L. Randall Wray & Yeva Nersisyan: What's Causing Accelerating Inflation? Pandemic Or Policy Response?: https://www.patreon.com/posts/63776558   Our Job Guarantee episodes:  Episode 4 - Fadhel Kaboub: What is the Job Guarantee?: https://www.patreon.com/posts/41742701 Episode 47 - Pavlina Tcherneva: Building Resilience - The Case For A Job Guarantee: https://www.patreon.com/posts/36034543 Episode 148 - Pavlina Tcherneva: Why The Job Guarantee Is Core To Modern Monetary Theory: https://www.patreon.com/posts/episode-148-why-73211346 Quick read: Pavlina Tcherneva's Job Guarantee FAQ page: https://pavlina-tcherneva.net/job-guarantee-faq/   More on government bonds (and "vigilantes"): Episode 30 - Steven Hail: Understanding Government Bonds (Part 1):https://www.patreon.com/posts/29621245 Episode 31 - Steven Hail: Understanding Government Bonds (Part 2): https://www.patreon.com/posts/29829500 Episode 143 - Paul Sheard: What Is Quantitative Easing?: https://www.patreon.com/posts/71589989?pr=true Episode 147 - Dirk Ehnts: Do Markets Control Our Politics?: https://www.patreon.com/posts/episode-147-dirk-72906421 Episode 144 - Warren Mosler: The Natural Rate Of Interest Is Zero: https://www.patreon.com/posts/71966513 Episode 145 - John T Harvey: What Determines Currency Prices?: https://www.patreon.com/posts/72283811?pr=true   More on bank runs banking regulation:  Episode 162 - Warren Mosler: Anatomy Of A Bank Run: https://www.patreon.com/posts/80157783?pr=true Episode 163 - L. Randall Wray: Breaking Banks - The Fed's Magical Monetarist Thinking Strikes Again: https://www.patreon.com/posts/80479169?pr=true Episode 165 - Robert Hockett: Sparking An Industrial Renewal By Building Banks Better: https://www.patreon.com/posts/81084983?pr=true MMT founder Warren Mosler's Proposals for the Treasury, the Federal Reserve, the FDIC, and the Banking System: https://neweconomicperspectives.org/2010/02/warren-moslers-proposals-for-treasury.html     MMT Events And Courses: More information about Professor Bill Mitchell's MMTed project (free public online courses in MMT) here: http://www.mmted.org/ Details of Modern Money Lab's online graduate and postgraduate courses in MMT and real-world economics are here: https://modernmoneylab.org.au/     Order the Gower Initiative's "Modern Monetary Theory - Key Insights, Leading Thinkers": https://www.e-elgar.com/shop/gbp/modern-monetary-theory-9781802208085.html   MMT Academic Resources compiled by The Gower Initiative for Modern Money Studies: https://www.zotero.org/groups/2251544/mmt_academic_resources_-_compiled_by_the_gower_initiative_for_modern_money_studies   MMT scholarship compiled by New Economic Perspectives: http://neweconomicperspectives.org/mmt-scholarship     A list of MMT-informed campaigns and organisations worldwide: https://www.patreon.com/posts/47900757     We are working towards full transcripts, but in the meantime, closed captions for all episodes are available on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEp_nGVTuMfBun2wiG-c0Ew/videos   Show notes: https://www.patreon.com/MMTpodcast/posts/episode-215-by-162379480?pr=true

US equity futures are firmer, with the S&P 500 up. Bond markets show a mixed picture, as the US ten-year-yield remains steady at 4.4% and the Bund holds flat at 2.9%. The US dollar softens against European majors and the Australian dollar, while remaining flat versus the yen. Oil prices edge higher on renewed US-Iran tensions, although WTI crude remains below $70/bbl. Gold prices decline, industrial metals trade mixed, and Bitcoin slips lower. European and Asian equity markets are mixed. US-Iran tensions picked up with tit-for-tat strikes continuing over the weekend. Limited market reaction attributed to reports that both sides agreed to stand down ahead of planned talks in Qatar Tuesday. Outside of Middle East, AI/tech remains the dominant theme.Companies Mentioned: Williams Cos., BioLife Solutions, TPG, Inc.

Mainstream economists claim that understanding and observing reality is not really “doing economics.” Instead, they believe that all we need are abstract theories that predict events well. But over time, financial markets must bend to the real world.Original article: https://mises.org/mises-wire/state-financial-markets-tells-us-what-investors-really-believe

The U.S. dollar's safe-haven status remains intact. But a stronger dollar no longer automatically translates into broad emerging market weakness. Michel Dilmanian, Portfolio Strategist at the BlackRock Investment Institute, explains why the dollar is no longer the only story for emerging markets.General disclosure: This material is intended for information purposes only, and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation or an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any securities, funds or strategies to any person in any jurisdiction in which an offer, solicitation, purchase or sale would be unlawful under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. The opinions expressed are as of the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Reliance upon information in this material is at the sole discretion of the reader. Investing involves risks. BlackRock does and may seek to do business with companies covered in this podcast. As a result, readers should be aware that the firm may have a conflict of interest that could affect the objectivity of this podcast.In the U.S. and Canada, this material is intended for public distribution.In the UK and Non-European Economic Area (EEA) countries: this is Issued by BlackRock Investment Management (UK) Limited, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered office: 12 Throgmorton Avenue, London, EC2N 2DL. Tel:+ 44 (0)20 7743 3000. Registered in England and Wales No. 02020394. For your protection telephone calls are usually recorded. Please refer to the Financial Conduct Authority website for a list of authorised activities conducted by BlackRock.In the European Economic Area (EEA): this is Issued by BlackRock (Netherlands) B.V. is authorised and regulated by the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets. Registered office Amstelplein 1, 1096 HA, Amsterdam, Tel: 020 – 549 5200, Tel: 31-20- 549-5200. Trade Register No. 17068311 For your protection telephone calls are usually recorded.For Investors in Switzerland: This document is marketing material.In South Africa: Please be advised that BlackRock Investment Management (UK) Limited is an authorised Financial Services provider with the South African Financial Services Board, FSP No. 43288.In Singapore, this is issued by BlackRock (Singapore) Limited (Co. registration no. 200010143N). This advertisement or publication has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. In Hong Kong, this material is issued by BlackRock Asset Management North Asia Limited and has not been reviewed by the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong. In Australia, issued by BlackRock Investment Management (Australia) Limited ABN 13 006 165 975, AFSL 230 523 (BIMAL). This material provides general information only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation, needs or circumstances. Before making any investment decision, you should assess whether the material is appropriate for you and obtain financial advice tailored to you having regard to your individual objectives, financial situation, needs and circumstances. Refer to BIMAL's Financial Services Guide on its website for more information. This material is not a financial product recommendation or an offer or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any financial product in any jurisdictionIn Latin America: this material is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice nor an offer or solicitation to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any shares of any Fund (nor shall any such shares be offered or sold to any person) in any jurisdiction in which an offer, solicitation, purchase or sale would be unlawful under the securities law of that jurisdiction. If any funds are mentioned or inferred to in this material, it is possible that some or all of the funds may not have been registered with the securities regulator of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Uruguay or any other securities regulator in any Latin American country and thus might not be publicly offered within any such country. The securities regulators of such countries have not confirmed the accuracy of any information contained herein. The provision of investment management and investment advisory services is a regulated activity in Mexico thus is subject to strict rules. For more information on the Investment Advisory Services offered by BlackRock Mexico please refer to the Investment Services Guide available at www.blackrock.com/mx©2026 BlackRock, Inc. All Rights Reserved. BLACKROCK is a registered trademark of BlackRock, Inc. All other trademarks are those of their respective owners.BII0626-5663342-EXP0627-

The award winning Legal AF Podcast, helmed by Ben and Popok, report on breaking events from DC, Virginia, Florida, the Financial Markets and Iran, and the US Supreme Court, all at the intersection of law and politics.   Support our Sponsors: Americans United: Americans United will keep fighting for freedom without favor - equality without exception. Keep up with this issue at Https://au.org/legalaf Select Quote: Get you FREE Quote today at https://SelectQuote.com today! Veracity: For up to 65% off your order, head to https://VeracityHealth.co and use promo code: LEGALAF Hims: Get a personalized, affordable plan for you at https://HIMS.com/LEGALAF Become a member of Legal AF YouTube community: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJgZJZZbnLFPr5GJdCuIwpA/join Learn more about the Popok Firm: https://thepopokfirm.com Subscribe to Legal AF Substack: https://michaelpopok.substack.com/subscribe?coupon=c0fc8f5c Remember to subscribe to ALL the MeidasTouch Network Podcasts: MeidasTouch: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/meidastouch-podcast Legal AF: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/legal-af MissTrial: https://meidasnews.com/tag/miss-trial The PoliticsGirl Podcast: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-politicsgirl-podcast Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve Hassan: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-influence-continuum-with-dr-steven-hassan The Weekend Show: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-weekend-show The Ken Harbaugh Show: https://meidasnews.com/tag/the-ken-harbaugh-show Majority 54: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/majority-54 On Democracy with FP Wellman: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/on-democracy-with-fpwellman Uncovered: https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/maga-uncovered Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Washington Political Dynamics and Global Markets. Guest: Jim McTague. Veteran journalist Jim McTague explores the intersection of Washington's political maneuvering and the stability of global financial markets. He provides insights into how legislative actions, trade policies, and regulatory changes in the capital influence investor sentiment and the broader economic health of the nation in a volatile fiscal environment. 51905 HOTEL RAMONA

Mark Thornton opens this episode of Minor Issues by tracing how politics shifted from the classical ideal of justice and community order into a Machiavellian struggle for power, privilege, and control. He argues that modern politics is dominated by entrenched elites, special interests, propaganda networks, and a two-party system designed to keep ordinary voters alienated and powerless.On Side B, Mark joins Adrian Day and Rich Checkan for a wide-ranging discussion of inflation, debt, financial repression, gold, commodities, artificial intelligence, the Austrian business cycle, and the rise of socialist sentiment among younger Americans. Mark explains why learning Austrian economics is essential for understanding markets, government failure, and the crises ahead.2026 is the Year of Rothbard—Murray's 100th birthday—and we're celebrating by giving away free copies of Keynes the Man through June 30. Grab yours today at https://mises.org/issuesfree20% off listener offer on the insulated Minor Issues tumbler and three of Mark's books: https://mises.org/MinorIssuesTumbler. Use coupon code Thornton.Be sure to follow Minor Issues at https://Mises.org/MinorIssues

Inflation and investing are once again front and center as markets assess a new mix of price pressures. In this Ask Me Anything episode of The Bid, host Oscar Pulido is joined by Helen Jewell, BlackRock's International Chief Investment Officer for Fundamental Equities, and Tom Becker, senior portfolio manager on BlackRock's Global Tactical Asset Allocation team.Together, they explore what is driving inflation today, from AI infrastructure demand and energy bottlenecks to fiscal spending, supply constraints, and regional differences. The conversation examines how inflation is affecting capital markets, equities, fixed income, stock market trends, and portfolio diversification.This episode also looks at the role of AI as both a near-term inflationary force and a potential longer-term productivity driver. As AI investing accelerates demand for electricity, chips, copper, data centers, and infrastructure, investors are watching how these megaforces reshape markets and the global economy.Key insights:· How AI infrastructure demand is contributing to inflation pressures· Why inflation differs across regions, including the U.S., Europe, Japan, and China· Where pricing power matters most for companies and sectors· How inflation measures like CPI, PCE, and PPI inform market views· Why sticky inflation can challenge traditional stock-bond diversification· How investors can think about inflation across equities, bonds, and multi-asset portfolios

While the pundits are insisting that the late Alan Greenspan was a committed free market adherent, his actions throughout his career spoke differently. In today's Friday Philosophy, Dr. David Gordon exposes Greenspan for what he was: an opportunist.Original article: https://mises.org/friday-philosophy/greenspan-great-opportunist

S&P futures are down (0.3%) following a weak Asia session. Japan's Nikkei led losses in Asia as tech-heavy sectors struggled. Korea's Kospi closed (7%) lower as steep losses in SK Hynix and Samsung triggered a circuit breaker. Greater China benchmarks all fell as tech names weakened further. European markets are also lower in early trade. Real estate and personal goods names are among the few who are bucking the trend.Companies Mentioned: OpenAI, SpaceX, Synaptics, onsemi

While the pundits are insisting that the late Alan Greenspan was a committed free market adherent, his actions throughout his career spoke differently. In today's Friday Philosophy, Dr. David Gordon exposes Greenspan for what he was: an opportunist.Original article: https://mises.org/friday-philosophy/greenspan-great-opportunist

US equity futures are firmer, Asian markets are mixed, and European equities are also trading higher. Markets are being driven by renewed optimism around the AI and memory cycle following strong guidance from Micron and upgraded outlooks from Qualcomm. At the same time, weaker oil prices are easing pressure on rates and contributing to expectations of a slower pace of central bank tightening, although policymakers continue to signal a cautious stance with risks around inflation still present.Companies Mentioned: Meta, MetLife, EasyJet