Q1 strength supports the rally — but underlying risks continue to build beneath the surface. The Market Dogma: “It Must Go Up” For now, the prevailing market narrative remains unchanged — equities must continue higher. This upward bias is being justified by a strong Q1 earnings campaign, which was anticipated in advance for two key reasons. … [Read more...] about US Market Indices: Earnings Euphoria vs Geopolitical Reality
Iran
Trump, Iran, and the Strait of Hormuz Shock: What Changed on April 13, 2026
As of April 13, 2026, the United States has sharply escalated its confrontation with Iran following the collapse of peace talks. President Donald Trump has moved from pressure and threats to direct action, ordering a maritime blockade targeting Iranian ports, while warning that Iranian fast-attack vessels approaching the operation would be destroyed. A major … [Read more...] about Trump, Iran, and the Strait of Hormuz Shock: What Changed on April 13, 2026
The Real Bombshell: Rates, War Costs, and Systemic Risk
Beyond geopolitical headlines, wars, and strategic choke points, the true risk to markets is not a single event—but the convergence of forces building beneath the surface. The Real Bomb Droppers: The Federal Reserve Forget the visible conflict zones. The real bombshell is not dropped on a battlefield—it is delivered through monetary policy. If the Federal Reserve acts to raise … [Read more...] about The Real Bombshell: Rates, War Costs, and Systemic Risk
2026 March CPI, Real Earnings Resilience, and the Market’s Iran Risk Problem
Friday's CPI data did not change the core conclusion: the wage and weekly earnings system still appears resilient in real terms, even after a sharp inflation shock. The larger risk for markets remains the instability surrounding Iran, oil, and the Strait of Hormuz. March CPI came in hot, but not above the break-even threshold The March CPI report was stronger … [Read more...] about 2026 March CPI, Real Earnings Resilience, and the Market’s Iran Risk Problem