WS #8762

The dominant signal in this window is a sharp escalation in Middle East geopolitical risk. Multiple sources (Bluesky priority posts, IBTimes, MarketWatch) report that Iran has ended talks with the US and threatens to fully block the Strait of Hormuz, with oil prices leaping more than 7% higher. This is corroborated by a MarketWatch article noting many big oil tankers remain stuck in the Strait. Separately, Hezbollah has agreed to a US ceasefire proposal with Israel, but Netanyahu simultaneously warned of strikes on Beirut if attacks continue, creating a mixed picture. The Iran development is a major escalation from the prior 'de-escalation signals' narrative, while the Hezbollah ceasefire is a counter-signal. Other notable items: CME Group launched 24/7 crypto futures trading with strong early volume, and System1 secured a new $150M term loan. Most other data (SEC filings, Polymarket trades, routine news) is noise.