U.S. Small Business Confidence Rose Last Month

The National Federation of Independent Business said that its small-business optimism index rose to 99.8, its highest level since August 2025.

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U.S. Stock Futures Climb

U.S. stock futures were ticking up following yesterday's small losses for major markets.

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U.S. Fires on Ship Breaking Its Blockade of Iran

A U.S. military helicopter fired at a Panama-flagged ship after its crew ignored warnings from personnel working to enforce the naval blockade of Iran's ports.

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Global Bond Yields Climb Due to Inflation Fears

Market focus is on the U.S. CPI data due to be released on Wednesday as investors assess the impact of the Middle East conflict on the economy.

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Why the Real Oil Squeeze Is Happening in Refineries

The Iran war, Ukrainian attacks on Russia and China's fuel export restrictions have taken millions of barrels of refined products off global markets and left customers scrambling to locate alternative supplies.

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China's Auto Market Weakens Further on Subdued Domestic Demand

China's auto sales fell in July, as higher oil prices and a weak macro environment weighed on demand.

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Insurance Risks Remain High as Wildfire Threat Rises, Swiss Re Institute Says

Wildfire risk is the fastest-growing weather peril globally, according to the insurer, which added that estimated natural-catastrophe losses fell sharply in the first half of the year.

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Healthcare Investing Is Now an AI Short in Disguise

Big healthcare companies are increasingly trading opposite to tech.

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RBA Governor's Hawkish Tone Could Be a Slow Burn for Markets

Gov. Michele Bullock appeared determined to challenge the view in money markets that the Australian central bank is done raising rates after three increases earlier this year.

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Reserve Bank of Australia Holds Rates Steady but Remains Worried About Inflation

Australia's central bank continued to warn that inflation remains too high, especially against the backdrop of war in the Middle East.

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Inflation Reports Could Test Warsh's Tough Talk

The Fed chairman has promised to bring inflation down. Upcoming data could determine whether he has to raise rates soon to do it.

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Trump Shifts to Economic Pressure, Again, as Iran Won't Meet His Demands

With military attacks and diplomacy not working, the Trump administration is reupping an old strategy with the hope of getting a new result.