Geopolitics, Fed and Chinese GDP

Geopolitics, Fed and Chinese GDP

Geopolitical tensions are causing caution among investors, with concerns about potential retaliation from Israel against Iran. The Nasdaq index fell below its 50-day SMA, indicating a possible sell-off. US economic data, including industrial production and Fed Chairman Jerome Powell’s speech, are being closely watched. Oil prices are influenced by tensions in the Middle East, with the possibility of Brent crude reaching 0. Gold prices are anchored by inflation expectations and geopolitical tensions, with potential for further increases. China’s strong GDP growth is seen as positive for gold demand. Powell’s speech and potential oil price increases could impact inflation. Gold prices are expected to continue rising, potentially reaching ,500.

CSC demands release of MSC Aries crew

CSC demands release of MSC Aries crew

The Cyprus Shipping Chamber is calling for the immediate release of the 25 crew members on board the Portuguese-flagged containership MSC Aries, which was seized by Iran in retaliation for Israel’s bombing of the Iranian consulate in Damascus.

US Dollar consolidates gains as focus on geopolitics

US Dollar consolidates gains as focus on geopolitics

– Growing expectations for a delay in the Federal Reserve’s policy pivot and escalating geopolitical tensions fueled an impressive US Dollar rally last week.
– Iran launched an assault with dozens of drones in retaliation to a suspected Israeli attack on Iran’s consulate in Damascus.
– UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned Iran’s drone attacks targeting Israel as a “serious escalation” and called for restraint.
– US stock index futures trade modestly higher after a sharp decline on Wall Street.
– Gold opened higher and advanced above ,370 before retreating.
– EURUSD broke below 1.0700 and stabilized around 1.0650.
– GBPUSD lost 1.5% last week and stays below 1.2500 on Monday.
– Japanese Finance Minister Shunichi Suzuki is closely watching FX moves, particularly the broad Yen weakness.
– USDJPY closed the previous week higher and continued to push higher, trading at its highest level in over three decades near 154.00.

Analysis: how Iran’s attack is interpreted and why there is optimism for a de-escalation

Analysis: how Iran’s attack is interpreted and why there is optimism for a de-escalation

Iran launched a significant attack on Israel, which was largely expected as retaliation for previous events. The attack was carefully calculated to avoid a full-scale war and there is cautious optimism for a de-escalation of the crisis. Iran’s action was more symbolic than substantive, and Israel is expected to react in a targeted manner to avoid further conflict. Further escalation by Iran is considered unlikely at present. Both Iran and Israel are regional powers with complex security concerns.

US will not take part in retaliatory action against Iran, White House says

US will not take part in retaliatory action against Iran, White House says

President Joe Biden warned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the U.S. would not participate in a counter-offensive against Iran if Israel decides to retaliate for a mass drone and missile attack on Israeli territory overnight. The threat of open warfare between the two countries has caused global powers and Arab nations to urge restraint to avoid further escalation. The U.S. will continue to help Israel defend itself but does not want war, according to the White House’s top national security spokesperson. Iran launched the attack in response to a suspected Israeli strike on its consulate in Syria, causing only modest damage in Israel as most missiles were shot down with the help of the U.S., Britain, and Jordan. Israel is not planning an immediate retaliation and is seeking to build a regional coalition to address the threat posed by Iran.

Israel’s Netanyahu vows victory after Iran strikes, fears of wider conflict grow

Israel’s Netanyahu vows victory after Iran strikes, fears of wider conflict grow

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that his country would achieve victory after the military successfully shot down almost all of the more than 300 drones and missiles launched by Iran. The attacks by Tehran, in response to an Israeli air strike in Damascus that killed officers of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, raised the threat of a wider regional conflict. Netanyahu posted on social media that “together we shall win,” and the Israeli military reported that over 99% of the Iranian drones and missiles were intercepted. Israel is considering a significant response to the attack, which has escalated tensions in the region.

Iran’s military officials warn Israel and U.S. against retaliation – State TV

Iran’s military officials warn Israel and U.S. against retaliation – State TV

Iran warned Israel of a larger attack on its territory if it retaliates against Tehran’s drone and missile attack. The attack was in response to Israel bombing Iran’s consulate in Syria, resulting in the death of seven members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Iran also threatened to target U.S. bases if Washington supports any Israeli military action against Iran.

Vassilis Kopsachilis on philenews: Iran’s response is convenient for everyone, but the blows between the two sides will continue

Vassilis Kopsachilis on philenews: Iran’s response is convenient for everyone, but the blows between the two sides will continue

Israel and Iran are on a collision course, with fears of a broader conflict in the Middle East. Tehran responded to an Israeli strike by hijacking a ship and attacking Israel with missiles and drones. The US wants to avoid escalation, but it may be challenging to restrain Israel from retaliating. The conflict between Israel and Iran is likely to continue, with potential for further violence and involvement from other countries like the US and China.

Iranian airports cancel flights until Monday morning

Iranian airports cancel flights until Monday morning

Fact: Several Iranian airports, including Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport, have cancelled flights until Monday due to tensions in the Middle East following Iran’s attack on Israel.

National Security Council meeting underway

National Security Council meeting underway

The National Security Council began a snap meeting on Sunday morning in response to Iran launching drone strikes at Israel.