Morning

• AI-linked stocks are facing significant pressure as investors grow concerned over massive capital spending, rising debt, and uncertain returns from AI investments. • South Korea’s KOSPI index reflected this volatility, experiencing a sharp 22 per cent decline throughout July. • This downturn highlights a growing global skepticism regarding the immediate profitability of the technology companies driving the AI boom.

• Leopold Aschenbrenner's hedge fund, Situational Awareness, has reportedly suffered steep financial losses. • The losses were driven by a decline in AI infrastructure stocks and unsuccessful short positions in software companies. • This development highlights the volatility and high risk associated with aggressive AI-centric investment strategies.

• Former President Trump has proposed a disarmament deal for Hamas, aiming to resolve the ongoing conflict in Gaza. • The Supreme Court has issued new rulings, though specific legal implications are still being analyzed. • Women are facing a surge of online threats and harassment following their participation in recent protests.

• The Federal Reserve decided to hold interest rates steady during its most recent meeting, though the decision was met with significant internal opposition. • In a rare move not seen since September 2016, three Fed members voted against the hold in favor of an interest rate hike. • This level of dissent has sparked investor speculation regarding whether the central bank will pivot toward a rate increase at the next gathering in September.

• The United States has launched new military strikes against Iran, contributing to an escalation of fighting across the Middle East. • Oil prices are hovering around $91 per barrel as markets react to the increased geopolitical instability and potential supply disruptions. • The "long bond" is experiencing volatility, indicating that investors are shifting their risk appetite in response to the intensifying conflict.

• Iran and the United States have resumed military strikes in West Asia following a brief pause in hostilities. • The Opposition is planning to raise concerns in Parliament regarding an alleged "scam" involving donations made to the Ram Temple. • The Supreme Court of India is scheduled to hold a hearing concerning the ongoing Bhojshala case.

• On July 29, the Korean stock market suffered a record-breaking plunge for the second consecutive day, causing extreme volatility for retail investors. • In an unprecedented event, circuit breakers were triggered simultaneously in both the KOSPI and KOSDAQ markets for two straight days to halt trading. • The crash has sparked widespread anxiety and anger among individual investors, who are voicing their frustrations across various social networking services.