WS #9914

The dominant signal in this window is the Bank of Japan's rate hike to 1%, the highest since 1995, which was widely expected. The Nikkei rose above 70,000 for the first time, while the yen pared gains after the decision. The BOJ's move is seen as a response to a weak yen and inflation from the Iran war, but the market reaction suggests a 'buy the rumor, sell the fact' dynamic. Separately, a breaking report indicates the US and Iran have reached a 60-day ceasefire and nuclear negotiation agreement, involving a freeze on Iran's nuclear program and a gradual lifting of the US maritime blockade. This is a significant de-escalation that could reduce oil supply risks and weigh on crude prices. The US is also reportedly considering a $300 billion private investment fund for Iran contingent on peace. Additionally, a magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck Indonesia near Palu, but no major market impact is expected. Cathie Wood sold millions in Tesla, Palantir, Roku, and AMD, even as TSLA rose on SpaceX merger buzz. The EU accused China of training Russian troops for the Ukraine war, which could escalate geopolitical tensions. Rio Tinto's CCO signaled growing demand from India and ASEAN offsetting Chinese stagnation, and a portfolio reweighting toward copper and lithium.