Decipher Index

Armed Conflicts garners the highest PFI this week largely due to U.S. assistance in thwarting Iran’s missile and drone attack on Israel. The U.S. also announced over $300 million in aid for Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank, while privately supporting Israel’s decision to ramp up military pressure against Hezbollah. Additionally, the U.S. has sent more troops to the Middle East to bolster security and stand ready to defend Israel if needed. A new $375 million aid package was also announced, bringing the total U.S. commitment to $8 billion over the next few months. In the information space, Hurricane Helene is being used to fuel misleading anti-Ukraine narratives online.

‍Business and China is the highest mover. U.S. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump vowed to bring manufacturing jobs back from allies and China. Further, U.S. and Chinese officials will meet to discuss trade and economic relations, as the U.S. Treasury’s top diplomat noted ongoing talks are preventing Chinese retaliation over tariffs. Barclays projected that U.S. stocks could benefit the most from China’s massive stimulus package, while some analysts predict materials stocks could be poised for a significant rally. Meanwhile, China threatened sanctions against PVH Corp, the parent company of Calvin Klein, over its boycott of Xinjiang cotton. In a related move, China instructed companies to stop purchasing Nvidia chips.