<p><strong>GLOBAL:</strong> <strong>The US signaled that it may maintain its naval blockade on Iran indefinitely,</strong> even as the disruption worsens a global oil supply shortfall.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Market impact: Oil prices extended their decline as a deal over the Strait of Hormuz remained elusive</strong> amid ongoing attacks<strong>. </strong>US stocks hit record highs while Treasury yields fell following softer inflation data.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>The International Energy Agency expects global supply to decline </strong>by an average of 4.3 million barrels per day in 2026.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>LOCAL: Foreign investment pledges surged by 68.2% year-on-year to PHP 115.2 billion in the second quarter.</strong> Investments were concentrated in manufacturing, specifically production capacity and supply-chain operations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Market impact: Profit-taking drove the PSEi into the 6,200 range,</strong> while the peso weakened amid stalled Middle East peace talks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>However, pledges represent approved intentions that may be implemented over time, </strong>hence actual investment can differ because projects may be delayed, revised, or canceled.&nbsp;</p>