Global Tensions and Economic Indicators Influence Markets

PANews posted on X (formerly Twitter). Rising tensions between the U.S. and Iran have driven Brent crude oil prices to $105 per barrel, while U.S. stock futures have weakened. In contrast, South Korea's KOSPI index surged by 5% to a record high, and China's Shanghai Composite Index surpassed 4,200 points, marking a ten-year peak. Global storage chip stocks have seen significant gains, with SK Hynix rising 14%, and U.S. companies Micron and SanDisk increasing by over 15%. In China, the storage sector experienced a wave of limit-up gains. Bitcoin has increased by 30% since the onset of the U.S.-Iran conflict, closing the week above $82,000. Retail investors have added 23,000 BTC this month, while large holders, or 'whales,' have accumulated 140,000 BTC, reaching a two-year high. The low volatility in options suggests that significant market movements may be imminent. Market attention is now focused on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) data set to be released on Tuesday. If the data exceeds expectations, it could raise concerns about potential interest rate hikes.