Intel heads into its April 23 earnings with rising investor expectations , but the key question remains whether AI-driven CPU demand can offset ongoing margin weakness . Revenue Stable, But Margins Under Pressure Intel is expected to deliver Q1 revenue around US$12.4 billion , slightly above the midpoint of its guidance range. However, the real concern lies in profitability: Gross margin guided at 34.5% , down from 39.2% a year ago EPS near breakeven (~US$0.00) vs US$0.13 last year This highlights continued pressure from costs, utilisation, and product mix , despite improving demand signals. AI CPUs: A Key Growth Driver Intel’s near-term bullish case centers on AI-related CPU demand , particularly its Xeon processors. A key development is its partnership with Alphabet , which reinforces: Intel’s role in AI data centre infrastructure Growing demand for AI inference and general-purpose computing Investors will watch c...
Asian equities extended gains on Thursday as optimism over a potential extension of the US-Iran ceasefire drove investors back into risk assets, while easing oil prices helped reduce inflation concerns.
Equities Rebound Toward Pre-War Levels
The MSCI Asia-Pacific Index rose 1%, approaching levels seen before the Middle East conflict began.
- Regional markets, including Singapore, Taiwan, and China, have largely recovered war-driven losses
- China’s CSI 300 Index held gains after stronger-than-expected economic growth
The rally reflects a broad shift back into equities, supported by improving geopolitical sentiment and strong corporate earnings.
Oil Stabilises Below US$100, Easing Inflation Pressure
Brent crude held around US$95 per barrel, well below last month’s peak near US$120.
Lower oil prices are helping to:
- Reduce inflation expectations
- Support bond markets, with US Treasury yields easing slightly
- Improve outlook for global economic growth
This has been a key driver behind the risk-on rotation across global markets.
US Markets Hit Record Highs on Tech Strength
Wall Street continued its upward momentum:
- S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 both reached record highs
- The Nasdaq 100 extended its longest winning streak since 2019
Gains were supported by strong earnings from major banks and a rotation within tech stocks, with investors shifting from chipmakers to software names.
Dollar Weakens as Safe-Haven Demand Fades
The US dollar weakened, with the Bloomberg Dollar Spot Index on track for its longest losing streak since 2006.
This reflects:
- Reduced demand for safe-haven assets
- Increased confidence in a potential diplomatic resolution
Ceasefire Extension Key to Market Direction
Reports suggest the US and Iran are considering a two-week extension of the ceasefire, allowing more time for negotiations on critical issues such as:
- Reopening the Strait of Hormuz
- Addressing nuclear-related concerns
Markets are increasingly pricing in a de-escalation scenario, though uncertainties remain.
Investor Takeaways
- Asian equities are rebounding, nearing pre-war levels on ceasefire optimism.
- Oil prices below US$100 are easing inflation concerns and supporting global markets.
- US indices hitting record highs reflect strong earnings and renewed tech momentum.
- The US dollar is weakening, signaling reduced risk aversion.
- Further market direction will depend on progress in US-Iran negotiations and oil price trends.
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