WS #7673

The dominant narrative remains the US-Iran standoff and its impact on oil markets, with oil prices above $100/barrel and US gas near $4.50/gallon. However, a potential de-escalation signal has emerged: Iran has reportedly requested a long-term ceasefire with international guarantees in a leaked overture. This is a counter-signal to the prevailing bearish oil thesis. Separately, the WHO declared Ebola a global public health emergency after an American tested positive, and Trump expressed concern, which could impact travel and healthcare stocks. In corporate news, Intel CEO said foundry business is gaining momentum, a positive signal for INTC. Meta is restructuring into AI-native organizations, a bullish signal for META. The NRC completed environmental review for Dow/X-energy nuclear project, a positive for DOW and nuclear energy. The Senate confirmed 49 Trump nominees, a political development with limited direct market impact. Polymarket data shows heavy trading on Iran-related outcomes, indicating market focus on the Strait of Hormuz situation.