Firstpost

• South Korea's benchmark Kospi index has emerged as the world's most volatile major stock market due to extreme daily price swings. • This instability is driven by a combination of the global AI boom, inflated valuations, rising semiconductor costs, and intense retail speculation. • The volatility is significant because the Kospi serves as a real-time "stress test" for the global AI trade, reflecting the tension between technological growth and market pricing.

• Iran has stated it is open to pursuing diplomatic engagement with the United States, provided Washington can guarantee that Israel adheres to the terms of a ceasefire. • This demand comes as violent clashes continue to escalate across Gaza and Lebanon, complicating efforts to stabilize the region. • The move highlights Iran's strategic use of U.S. leverage to ensure Israeli compliance, signaling that diplomacy is contingent on verifiable security guarantees.

• A new Forbes ranking has identified 26 influential Indian-origin CEOs and entrepreneurs who are currently shaping the technology ecosystem and business landscape in Silicon Valley. • These leaders hold pivotal roles across major global corporations, including Google, Adobe, and Microsoft, as well as emerging sectors like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and venture capital. • The recognition underscores the significant impact and leadership of the Indian diaspora in driving American technological innovation and corporate strategy.