Positive Technologies plans to resume discussions on dividends for 2025 amid robust net profits and low debt. The board has proposed a payout of 2.0 billion rubles, equivalent to 28.08 rubles per share. To streamline the process, the dividends will be accounted for from Q1 2026 profits, bypassing additional shareholder approval. The payout will be reflected in the Q1 2026 financial statements.

Physical oil prices have surged to record highs, approaching $150 a barrel, amid escalating tensions over the Hormuz crisis. The ongoing geopolitical conflict continues to drive volatility in global oil markets, according to RTRS. More details can be found in the original report.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard issues warning following regional leaders' plea to Trump: "Crazy bastard, stop this damn war!" at 3:30 AM Tehran time. The statement indicates Iran's readiness for significant retaliation against U.S. allies if attacked, citing targets including Karish and Tanin gas fields. The threat raises the prospect of a major blow to energy infrastructure, potentially disrupting global oil and gas supplies. More details here.

Reports suggest Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth allegedly provided false information to former President Trump regarding military operations in Iran, including assertions of U.S. military dominance, during the "TACO" operation, according to The Washington Post. Additional details available on mt in max.

The White House confirms President Trump has been briefed on Pakistan's proposal and will respond shortly, according to Axios. A senior Iranian official indicated that Tehran is open to Pakistan's request for a two-week ceasefire, reported Reuters. More details available here.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warns it may target U.S. and allied infrastructure in the region, potentially cutting off oil and gas supplies for years if Iran is attacked, according to a statement. More details can be found in this report.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is leading ceasefire negotiations between the US and Iran. The United States is represented by Vice President J.D. Vance, according to CBS News. mt in max

President Donald J. Trump has agreed to suspend airstrikes in Iran for two weeks following talks with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir. The temporary ceasefire opens the door for negotiations aimed at establishing long-term stability in the Middle East. Both the U.S. and Iran see a 10-point proposal as a potential foundation for talks. The pause in hostilities is intended to facilitate the finalization of a comprehensive agreement. More details can be found here.

Today, April 8, 2026: New Zealand's central bank rate announcement at 05:00 MSK, followed by India's at 07:30 MSK. Eurozone's February PPI data due at 12:00 MSK. U.S. EIA oil inventories report scheduled for 17:30 MSK, with FOMC minutes released at 21:00 MSK. President Trump to host Dutch Prime Minister Rutte at the White House amid NATO withdrawal threats. Russia's Finance Ministry to auction OFZ bonds 26235 and 26254. Earnings reports include MGMK FS 2025, Delta Airlines at 13:30 MSK, and Constellation Brands at 23:05 MSK.

The foreign exchange market reports USDCNY trading at 6.83 and USDTRUB at 80.70.

New Zealand Central Bank Holds Interest Rate at 2.25%, Meets Expectations

Iran agrees to open the Strait of Hormuz for a two-week ceasefire, during which Iran and Oman will impose transit fees. Tehran retains control of the strait. Brent crude drops 13%, WTI declines 15%. More details at mt in max.

Israel will halt strikes on Iran for two weeks, CNN reports. U.S.-Iran negotiations are scheduled for April 10 in Islamabad, Pakistan, with attendees including Whitkoff, Kushner, and Vance. An agreement has been finalized on 15 points, with most already settled. "Let's see what happens next. We'll see if it reaches the end," former President Trump told AFP. mt in max

Trump tells AFP the U.S. has secured a complete and unconditional victory through a ceasefire agreement with Iran, describing it as a "full and absolute victory, 100%, without any doubt." mt in max

Former President Trump earlier indicated that Cuba could follow Iran in U.S. foreign policy considerations. Vence suggested that once issues with Iran are resolved, the U.S. might reevaluate its alliances with NATO. Trump also voiced interest in acquiring Greenland. Read more

Stocks climb amid rising markets, oil retreats, gold gains, BTC holds steady with slight upward movement. mt в max

The average price of platinum in 2026 is projected to climb between 58% and 83% year-on-year, while palladium could see an increase of 31% to 60%, according to Kept’s forecast. More details can be found here.

Strong surges in "put" options trading volume have historically aligned with local troughs in the S&P 500. The so-called "Operation Epic TACO" may have signaled a bottom in equities, and now former President Trump is expected to generate significant bullish sentiment. mt в max

Iran's annual revenue from shipping through the Strait of Hormuz could hit at least $64 billion if it implements a $2 million fee per vessel, according to IRIB. Read more

Global aviation fuel markets could take months to stabilize even after the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, as disruptions persist at Middle Eastern refineries, according to IATA Director General Willie Walsh.

Approximately 15 countries are planning a mission to ensure the security of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. -- Macron mt in max