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Major indices including the Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq rose on Wednesday amid cautious optimism fueled by reports of a 15-point US-Iran peace proposal. Oil prices fell below $100 per barrel, providing relief to inflation concerns. Semiconductor stocks gained momentum with news of CPU price hikes, while gold futures rebounded as investors eyed potential easing of Middle East tensions.

A Los Angeles jury found Meta and Google liable for $3 million in damages in a landmark social media addiction case. The case revolved around a 20-year-old woman who claimed Instagram and YouTube's addictive designs caused her mental health issues. Meta was held 70% responsible, with Google accountable for 30%. Both companies plan to appeal the verdict, which could influence thousands of similar lawsuits. This decision highlights growing scrutiny on tech giants over platform designs and their impact on youth mental health.

ABC journalists initiated a 24-hour strike, their first in 20 years, over pay, working conditions, and the potential use of AI in newsrooms. The strike disrupted live programming, with reruns and BBC content filling gaps. Staff rejected a 10% pay rise offer, citing inflation and job security issues. The strike highlights concerns over short-term contracts and AI's impact on journalism integrity. Union leaders call for fair wages and secure work to support public broadcasting’s role in Australian society.

Epic Games, the maker of Fortnite, has announced the layoff of 1,000 employees, citing declining Fortnite engagement and industry-wide challenges such as slower growth and weakened spending. CEO Tim Sweeney emphasized the need for cost-cutting measures, including $500 million in savings, to stabilize the company. Despite Fortnite's popularity, Epic faces unique hurdles, including adapting to mobile platforms and maintaining consistent engagement. This marks the company's second major round of layoffs since 2023.

Stock markets saw gains as President Trump's discussions with Iran hinted at easing tensions, although Iranian state media denied direct negotiations. Oil prices spiked, with Brent crude reaching $100 per barrel. Investors focus on upcoming economic data and earnings reports, while geopolitical uncertainties around the Strait of Hormuz continue to impact global markets.

Australia and the European Union (EU) have finalized a groundbreaking trade agreement after years of negotiations. The deal removes 99% of tariffs on EU goods exported to Australia and significantly reduces duties on Australian critical minerals. It also includes provisions for agricultural products, albeit with export quotas that have drawn criticism from Australian farmers. The agreement reflects the EU's strategy to reduce reliance on China for critical minerals while strengthening economic and security ties with Australia.

Global markets experienced a surge on Monday after President Trump postponed military strikes on Iran, citing "productive talks" with Tehran. The Dow Jones rose by 1.4% (600 points), with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq following closely. Oil prices plummeted by 10%, with Brent crude dropping to $100 per barrel. Despite the market rally, uncertainties remain over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil route. Analysts predict geopolitical developments will continue to drive market volatility in the near term.

President Trump delays military strikes on Iran to prioritize peace talks aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz and addressing Iran's nuclear program. The closure of this vital waterway has disrupted global oil markets, with crude prices fluctuating amid uncertainty. Trump hints at potential joint control of the strait with Iran, while allies warn of the risks of escalation. The talks, involving high-level representatives, aim to prevent further conflict and stabilize energy markets.

A potential peace agreement with Iran could reopen the Strait of Hormuz, easing global energy tensions and significantly lowering oil prices. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright emphasized the volatility of energy markets, noting how quickly conditions could stabilize if a deal is reached. Amid Middle East conflicts, officials are cautiously optimistic about the economic benefits of restored oil flows.

Super Micro Computer Inc.'s co-founder, Yih-Shyan "Wally" Liaw, has been charged with conspiring to illegally divert Nvidia-powered servers worth billions to China, bypassing U.S. export controls. Alongside Liaw, two other individuals, Ruei-Tsang "Steven" Chang and Ting-Wei "Willy" Sun, are implicated in the scheme. Super Micro shares dropped 9% following the news. The company has stated its full cooperation with the investigation and reinforced its commitment to compliance with export regulations.

Oil and natural gas prices have skyrocketed as escalating Middle East tensions disrupt global energy supplies. Iranian strikes on critical infrastructure, including Qatar's Ras Laffan LNG hub and Saudi refineries, have caused significant damage, pushing Brent crude to $119 per barrel. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has further tightened supply, with experts predicting prolonged price volatility. Efforts to mitigate the crisis, such as potential sanctions relief on Iranian crude, have provided limited relief as global markets brace for lasting impacts.

The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate increased to 6.22%, marking the highest level in three months, as inflation concerns grow. The Federal Reserve cited economic uncertainties and rising energy prices as potential inflationary pressures. While refinancing activity has declined due to higher rates, homebuyers are preparing for a competitive spring housing market. Experts suggest comparing lenders and understanding mortgage types to navigate rising borrowing costs effectively.

Iraq and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) have reached an agreement to resume crude oil exports through Turkey's Ceyhan port. This move aims to offset supply disruptions caused by the ongoing Strait of Hormuz conflict, which has significantly impacted global oil flow. Despite this, Brent crude prices remain volatile, reflecting ongoing geopolitical tensions and supply concerns.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang revealed the company's ambitious forecast of generating $1 trillion in AI-related sales by 2027, doubling its earlier 2026 projection of $500 billion. Huang emphasized growing demand for AI chips and announced plans to expand Nvidia's offerings into new markets, including CPUs and space-based data centers. Nvidia also intends to increase shareholder returns through buybacks and dividends in the latter half of the year.

Stock futures fell Tuesday as oil prices retreated slightly after a sharp rally, spurred by Middle East tensions. Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq futures declined, following Monday's gains when crude prices eased. Brent crude hovered near $100, while West Texas Intermediate dropped to $93.50. Market attention turns to the Federal Reserve's policy meeting, with rates expected to remain unchanged. Meanwhile, Nvidia's optimistic $1 trillion sales forecast and rising earnings reports add corporate focus to a volatile market landscape.