WS #7549

The dominant signal in this window is the WHO declaring the Ebola outbreak a global health emergency due to the rare Bundibugyo strain, which has no approved vaccine or specific treatment. This is corroborated by multiple sources (Hacker News, Vanity Fair, Bluesky posts) and represents a significant escalation from prior coverage. The outbreak is centered in the DRC, with cross-border spread already in play. While the virologist quoted suggests low risk to Europe, the lack of a vaccine and the international emergency designation could trigger risk-off sentiment, impacting travel, healthcare, and broader indices. Separately, Ukraine has launched large-scale drone strikes on Russian oil refineries and a Moscow refinery, cutting Russian oil production by 480,000 bpd. This escalation in energy infrastructure attacks could support oil prices and energy stocks while pressuring Russian-linked assets. A financial disclosure shows Trump purchased up to $630,000 of Palantir stock in early 2026, followed by a public endorsement, raising potential conflict-of-interest concerns but also signaling confidence in PLTR. The Ebola outbreak is the most actionable new development, with potential to move healthcare tickers and create broad market uncertainty.