Global Markets React to Geopolitical Tensions, Corporate Moves, and Economic Data

Geopolitical and Energy Sector Developments - U.S. aircraft carrier "Abraham Lincoln" is positioned near the Gulf of Aden, highlighting ongoing regional tensions [3] - Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) plans to invite international oil companies to assist Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) in resource development, targeting an increase to four million barrels of oil per day by 2035 [4] Corporate News: Buybacks and Regulatory Hurdles - Fuji Media Holdings Inc. has initiated a 235 billion yen share buyback program amid reports of activist investors divesting their shares [5] - AstraZeneca faced a setback as the FDA rejected its initial application for a lupus injection, potentially impacting its drug pipeline and market expectations [6] Commodity Market Dynamics - Spot silver prices surged over 9% to reach $86.58 per ounce, indicating significant activity in the precious metals market [7] - The Shanghai Gold Exchange announced increased margin ratios and price limits for some gold contracts to manage volatility in the precious metals market [8] European Economic Indicators - France's December budget balance improved to -124.7 billion EUR from -155.4 billion EUR, indicating a reduction in the fiscal deficit [9][10] - Preliminary figures for France's January Consumer Price Index (CPI) showed a deceleration to 0.3%, missing estimates [10]