Strait-ening out?

A historic breakthrough in Middle East diplomacy has sent shockwaves through global markets, with oil prices plummeting over 4% after the US and Iran announced a peace deal set to be signed in Switzerland. The agreement, brokered by Pakistan, promises to open the Strait of Hormuz, end Iran's nuclear ambitions, and bring lasting stability to a region long plagued by conflict. Yet experts warn it’s only a 60-day interim deal with major risks: unresolved tensions in Lebanon, Iran’s potential control over the strait, and deep divisions over nuclear concessions. Meanwhile, the UK faces its own economic crossroads, as the government considers watering down its 2030 EV mandate from 80% to as low as 50%, citing weak consumer demand and industry backlash. Investors are deeply concerned, fearing policy instability will deter long-term green investment. On the home front, Scotland’s World Cup victory sparked a national celebration, with fans flooding Boston and boosting local economies—though the surprise bank holiday only applies to public sector workers. In the tech world, SpaceX’s IPO soared to $160 on its first day, driven not by fundamentals but by Elon Musk’s vision and investor faith in the future. Yet behind the headlines, deeper structural issues remain: from retirees trapped in unaffordable retirement homes to a defence industry hemorrhaging talent as companies like Q5D shift focus to the US due to bureaucratic delays.