WS #2153

The data dump reveals escalating geopolitical tensions with direct market implications. The Strait of Hormuz crisis continues to dominate, with Iran's Supreme Leader warning the US and Israel and emphasizing regional unity with Pakistan, while Trump attacks NATO allies as 'cowards' for not joining military efforts, threatening to remember their stance. This corroborates earlier reports of NATO reluctance, increasing uncertainty. Energy supply disruptions are confirmed, with Helleniq Energy noting limited operational impacts but significant cost pressures and uncertainty due to the crisis, while Germany's finance minister calls for EU action to tax energy sector 'crisis profits' to help consumers, reflecting political pressure from rising oil and gas prices. The IMF has revised Spain's GDP growth down to 2.1% for 2026 due to the Iran conflict, citing energy price shocks, and recommends mortgage limits amid relaxed lending criteria, signaling broader economic risks. In tech, Supermicro's stock fell sharply after US authorities accused employees of smuggling Nvidia AI chips to China via Southeast Asia, highlighting regulatory risks for semiconductor supply chains. Additionally, SWI Group secured €260 million in funding to expand its AI and data center strategy to North America, indicating continued investment in AI infrastructure despite geopolitical headwinds.