Nvidia's earnings, SpaceX IPO filing, Samsung strike talks, Google I/O dates announced.

US-Israel Military Action Against Iran May Resume Soon

Reports indicate that the US and Israel may restart military actions against Iran as early as next week. Following Trump's visit to China, he faces critical decisions regarding Iran policy. According to the New York Times, Trump's core advisors have drafted military strike plans, and if he decides to break the current stalemate, US forces could launch airstrikes against Iran again.

Military Preparations

Two anonymous officials from the Middle East revealed that the US and Israel are conducting their largest military preparations since the ceasefire. If Trump approves military action, options include intensified bombings of Iranian military facilities and sending special forces to eliminate buried nuclear materials.

Federal Reserve's Transition to Walsh Era

The Federal Reserve is set to enter a new phase with Kevin Walsh expected to take over as chair after Jerome Powell's term ends on May 15. Powell will remain as interim chair until Walsh is officially sworn in. Walsh is anticipated to lead his first meeting on June 16-17, amidst a growing divide within the policy committee regarding interest rate paths.

Upcoming Meeting Minutes

The Fed will release the minutes from the April 28-29 FOMC meeting, which is Powell's last as chair. Investors will analyze the discussions among hawkish members and their stance on potential rate adjustments in June.

Nvidia's Earnings Report and AI Market Challenges

Next week, semiconductor giant Nvidia (NVDA) will release its earnings report, with expectations of approximately $80 billion in revenue for the first quarter. Key points to watch include market opportunities and whether gross margins can stabilize around 75%.

Additionally, several Chinese internet companies, including Baidu (09888.HK) and Bilibili (09626.HK), will also report earnings.

Samsung Labor Talks Scheduled

Samsung Electronics is set to resume labor negotiations on May 18, with the government warning that significant losses from a potential strike could lead to emergency measures. The nationwide union plans a large-scale strike from May 21 to June 7, demanding changes to performance bonuses and salary increases.

Upcoming Google I/O Developer Conference

The Google I/O 2026 developer conference will take place on May 19-20 in California, where Google is expected to unveil its advanced Gemini 3 model and AI glasses. Citigroup highlights the importance of translating AI capabilities into real revenue.

Economic Data Releases

On May 18, China will release key economic data, including housing prices and industrial output. The National Bureau of Statistics will hold a press conference to discuss the economic situation.

SpaceX IPO Announcement

SpaceX is expected to announce its IPO filing as early as next Wednesday, with plans to go public on June 12, aiming to raise up to $80 billion. The company will execute a 5-for-1 stock split, adjusting the share price accordingly.

Putin's State Visit to China

Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit China from May 19-20, coinciding with the G7 finance ministers and central bank governors meeting.

Conclusion

Investors should keep an eye on the upcoming earnings reports, economic data releases, and geopolitical developments that could impact market dynamics in the coming weeks.