WS #7218

The dominant signal in this window is the U.S. Senate confirming Kevin Warsh as the new Federal Reserve Chair, a pro-crypto appointment that could signal a shift in monetary policy and regulatory stance. This development is corroborated by multiple sources (Reuters, CNBC, Senate.gov, Bluesky posts) and carries high significance for financial markets, particularly for crypto-related assets and growth stocks. Additionally, a short report from Culper Research alleges Nvidia is illegally selling $30 billion/year in chips to China via third parties, directly targeting NVDA. The Iran war narrative is escalating: Saudi Arabia launched strikes against Iran, Ukraine resumed drone attacks on Russian oil refineries, and Chinese firms are reportedly plotting secret arms sales to Iran. The Strait of Hormuz closure continues to pressure oil markets, with OPEC production down 30%. Other notable signals include Ouster stock surging 20% on its lidar being qualified for NVIDIA DRIVE Hyperion, and LinkedIn laying off 5% of its workforce. The prevailing macro theme is the Iran oil crisis and its impact on energy markets, with Strait of Hormuz flows down nearly 30% in Q1.