Most Important News

1. US June CPI Cools to 3.5%, Boosts Markets but Policy Uncertainty Remains;
2. IBM Plunges 25% on Missed Q2 Revenue, CEO Cites Execution Lapses;
3. SK Hynix ADR Soars 27% in One Day, Premium Over Korea Shares Tops 50% on Options Debu;

At the close of 14/7/2026, the Tadawul All Shares Index(TASI.SA) decreased by 0.80%, closing at 10715.61 points; the Parallel Market Capped Index (NomuC)(NOMUC.SA) remained unchanged, closing at 22538.91 points.

As of Tuesday’s close, the S&P 500 index(SPX.US) increased by 0.38%, the NASDAQ(IXIC.US) rose by 0.90%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average(DJI.US) increased by 0.02%.

US June CPI Cools to 3.5%, Boosts Markets but Policy Uncertainty Remains

U.S. June CPI rose 3.5% year-on-year, easing from previous months and below expectations, boosting market sentiment and lifting major stock indexes. However, inflation remains above the Fed's 2% target, leaving policy uncertainty. The latest estimates put the 2027 Social Security COLA at 3.7–3.8%, reflecting still elevated inflation.

Warsh Reaffirms 2% Inflation Goal, Stresses Fed Independence, Offers No Rate Signal

Fed chair nominee Kevin Warsh, in his first congressional testimony, pledged to push for a “policy regime shift” and eliminate the “hidden tax” of inflation for Americans, according to CNBC. Warsh emphasized adherence to the 2% inflation target and policy independence from political pressure, saying he will act based on data despite presidential criticism. He noted that June’s lower CPI does not mean inflation is solved. Analysts observed that Warsh was tough on inflation but avoided giving clues on future rate moves, leaving markets guessing. He also promised to improve the Fed’s transparency and predictability.

Trump Drops Hormuz Fee, Resumes Iran Port Blockade

Trump ended the US-Iran ceasefire, resumed strikes near the Strait of Hormuz, and dropped the planned 20% transit fee. The US will act as the strait’s “guardian” and renew blockades on Iranian ports. Talks with Iran took place, but no response yet.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Final Stretch: Sustainability Central to Economic Diversification Drive

Saudi Arabia’s 2026 Voluntary National Review links the final phase of Vision 2030 with an emphasis on sustainability, economic diversification, and regional development. The report highlights continued growth in non-oil GDP, attracting sustainable foreign investment, and closing regional economic gaps as key priorities. Expansion of environmental industries, emissions reduction, waste management, and green infrastructure remain central, with industry and mining sectors expected to play a bigger role while strengthening sustainability. The government calls for renewed commitment and accelerated action to keep momentum toward its development goals.

KSA Stocks

Chemanol Shareholders Approve 77.8% Capital Cut, Lawsuit Against Former Board

Methanol Chemicals Co.(2001.SA) shareholders approved a 77.8% capital reduction to SAR 150 million to cover over 90% of accumulated losses. The meeting also agreed to transfer reserves, raise auditor fees, and sue former board members over reported acquisition issues. Bylaw changes and a new independent board member were ratified.

Almoosa Health Secures SAR 500M Islamic Loan for Expansion

Almoosa Health Co.(4018.SA) signed a SAR 500 million, 7-year Islamic credit facility with Banque Saudi Fransi to fund its planned expansion projects. The loan is secured by a promissory note. Chairman Abdullatif Al Othman is a related party as a board member of both companies.

USA Stocks

SK Hynix ADR Soars 27% in One Day, Premium Over Korea Shares Tops 50% on Options Debut

SK hynix Inc. Sponsored ADR(SKHY.US) jumped 27% in US trading, widening the premium over Korean shares to 51% as options launched Tuesday boosted trading activity. Conversion limits prevent easy arbitrage, and bullish options saw heavy demand.

Goldman Sachs Surges 9% as Q2 Revenue Hits Record, SpaceX IPO Boosts Equity Underwriting

Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.(GS.US) jumped 9% after Q2 net revenue hit a record $20.34B, up 39% YoY, with net profit up 78%. Equity business revenue soared 72%, driven by the SpaceX IPO. Diluted EPS reached $20.98; ROE hit 23.5%. Quarterly dividend raised to $5 per share.

IBM Plunges 25% on Missed Q2 Revenue, CEO Cites Execution Lapses
IBM Corp(IBM.US) shares sank 25% after preliminary Q2 revenue of $17.2B missed estimates by 4%, as customers shifted spending to hardware, delaying large software deals. The CEO admitted to slow execution and unanticipated budget shifts. The drop weighed on Accenture and Microsoft. Goldman warned this highlights a “software bear market” and expects broad sector selloff.