WS #4902

The dominant signal in this window is the ESCALATION of the US-Iran conflict, with multiple sources confirming the US naval blockade of Iranian ports and the Strait of Hormuz has begun (jetstream.bsky.priority 321683189, 321682626, 321681316). This is corroborated by UKMTO reports detailing maritime access restrictions effective from 1400 UTC (321680309, 321681559, 321681567). Oil prices have spiked over 7% (WTI +8.1% to $104.42, Brent +7% above $102), directly impacting energy markets and causing US equity indices to open lower (321681963). A counter-signal emerges from the EU preparing emergency energy measures, including coordinated oil reserve releases, to address the crisis (gdelt.global 321681333), which could dampen the bullish energy price spike if implemented. Iran warns no Gulf port will be safe if the blockade proceeds, calling it 'piracy' (321681316), raising risks of further escalation. In tech, the AI boom is showing signs of unwinding with Apollo noting tech multiples dropping from 40x to 20x (321683617), contributing to broad tech weakness. However, a MAG7 narrative carve-out appears with positive analyst sentiment for Alphabet (GOOGL) reiterated by Citizens (321678960, 321678082 from previous window), though no new corroboration in this window. Tesla's FSD approval in the Netherlands (321680122) is a carry-forward high-significance positive from previous awareness. Other notable signals include Genmab (GMAB) presenting positive Phase 1/2 safety data for its ovarian cancer drug combo (321681901, 321681741), bullish for GMAB, and Aeluma (AEUM) jumping on a $4M government contract win (321681317, 321680123). Goldman Sachs (GS) reported Q1 earnings with profit up 19% to €4.81B (321681052), but shares are under pressure due to volatility and geopolitical risks highlighted (321682732).