Oil prices rose slightly on Tuesday as traders awaited the outcome of possible talks between the United States and Iran, according to Reuters. The benchmark crude gained 0.4% to $78.60 a barrel, reflecting optimism that diplomatic progress could ease sanctions pressure on Iranian oil exports.
Asian equities rallied on technology gains, with the Nasdaq recording its highest close yet. The index climbed 1.5% to 15,400 points, driven by strong earnings from AI‑focused companies. Treasury yields fell, supporting the rally, Reuters reported.
Bloomberg News, citing Reuters, said Binance is under U.S. Scrutiny for possible violations of Iran sanctions. The cryptocurrency exchange has reportedly been asked to provide documentation on its transactions with Iranian entities. Binance has not yet responded to the inquiry.
SoftBank’s $50 bn data‑center group announced a slowdown in its initial public offering, according to the Financial Times. The delay follows Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s decision to halt all state‑issued permits for new data centers until a comprehensive grid audit is completed, Reuters reported. The move reflects growing concerns over the strain large data‑center projects place on local power supplies.
While the tech rally has buoyed markets, investors remain cautious about potential rate hikes and geopolitical uncertainties. The dollar has firmed against major currencies, with traders betting on continued tightening by the Federal Reserve. Meanwhile, the possibility of renewed US‑Iran negotiations adds another layer of volatility to global commodity prices.
