WS #5778

The dominant signal in this window is the escalating Iran-US military confrontation in the Strait of Hormuz, with President Trump ordering the U.S. Navy to 'shoot and kill' Iranian boats laying mines. This is corroborated by multiple sources including AP, Al Jazeera, and social media reports of IRGC laying more mines and U.S. forces seizing an Iranian oil tanker. Oil prices have surged over 3% with Brent above $107 and WTI near $98. The situation is clearly escalating, with no de-escalation signals. Separately, Meta is reportedly laying off 10% of its workforce (8,000 employees) in May, corroborated by multiple sources including BBC and Bloomberg, signaling cost-cutting amid AI investment push. The DOJ has rescheduled state-licensed medical marijuana from Schedule I to III, which could benefit cannabis stocks. Israel and Lebanon are set to hold direct peace talks at the White House, a potential geopolitical positive. Nasdaq outlined $100M AI expense efficiencies by 2027 and plans 23/5 trading launch on December 6, 2026. Roper projects 2026 DEPS of $21.80-$22.05 and expands $3B buyback authorization. McDonald's was upgraded from Sell to Neutral by Rothschild & Co with a price target increase from $260 to $306. JNJ drug shows sustained benefits in trial. Sportradar Group AG (SRAD) faces scrutiny from Muddy Waters and Callisto, shares fell 22%.