Global markets react to Iran-U.S. tensions and oil supply disruptions, while Pakistan pursues diverse financing strategies and infrastructure improvements

U.S. stock futures fell and oil prices surged after President Trump rejected Iran's latest offer to end conflict as 'totally unacceptable,' with Netanyahu demanding uranium removal before considering the war resolved.

Saudi Aramco CEO warned that approximately 1 billion barrels of oil have been lost over two months due to Strait of Hormuz disruptions, with energy markets requiring extended time to stabilize even after flows resume.

Pakistan plans to raise $250 million through its first-ever Panda Bond (yuan-denominated) next week, expanding access to Chinese capital markets as part of broader external financing diversification strategy.

Pakistan's external financing climbed 19.7% to $6.59 billion in nine months (July-March FY2025-26), boosted by multilateral lenders, Saudi oil support, and $2.03 billion in Naya Pakistan Certificates.

Transport fares surged across Pakistani cities following a Rs15 fuel price hike, as operators passed on rising costs to public transport, ride-hailing, and goods transport sectors.

Pakistan and mining company Barrick reaffirmed commitment to advancing the Reko Diq Project after high-level coordination meetings between government and company leadership.

PTCL warned of possible internet slowdowns during May 11-18 submarine cable maintenance on international undersea systems, highlighting Pakistan's vulnerability to fragile cable network infrastructure.

The government established a scrutiny committee to address FBR tax litigation as cases exceeded 85,000, with Rs278 billion stuck in customs disputes and inconsistent legal data flagged.

Big Tech's massive AI spending investments are constraining share buybacks, with Goldman Sachs forecasting only 3% growth in S&P 500 buybacks this year amid economic uncertainty and rising AI costs.

Nvidia's upcoming earnings announcement draws investor scrutiny with five potential catalysts identified, though the chip maker's stock has recently lagged as AI spending pressures mount across the sector.