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Oil disruption fears and war rhetoric keeping markets on edge: Santosh Rao

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Oil disruption fears and war rhetoric keeping markets on edge: Santosh Rao
Global financial markets remain on edge as geopolitical tensions continue to unfold, leaving investors uncertain about the near-term direction of equities and the global economy. The absence of clarity over how the conflict may evolve has resulted in sharp swings across markets, with investors reacting to headlines and shifting geopolitical signals.

Santosh Rao from Manhattan Venture Partners said the volatility currently visible in global markets is a natural reaction to the uncertain environment. “The market being jittery is the right reaction. We just do not know where it is going. The rhetoric is bouncing around here and there,” Rao said in an interaction with ET Now. He added that the situation could continue for some time as both sides appear unwilling to de-escalate quickly. “Trump always has a habit of being bombastic and then he pulls it back. Iranians are pretty set on having their way. So, this is going to go on for a while,” he said.

The ongoing tensions are also raising concerns about broader economic consequences, particularly the risk of inflation and supply disruptions. Rao noted that the conflict comes at a time when the global economy is already dealing with multiple challenges. “This is the last thing the world needs right now. It has inflationary impact. It has the fear impact,” he said, explaining that markets tend to discount future risks well in advance.

A key concern for investors is the potential disruption of crude oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global energy shipments. Any prolonged disruption could push oil prices higher and place pressure on economies across the world, including emerging markets like India. “It is going to be very dangerous, very bad. It is not going to be good for the economies,” Rao said, warning that the conflict could have lasting economic repercussions. He also cautioned that even if hostilities were to end soon, the psychological impact on markets and businesses could persist. “A bomb here, a bomb there… that puts a chilling effect on the economy and sentiment,” he said.

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Given the uncertainty, Rao advised investors to remain cautious rather than rushing to buy stocks during market weakness. “For bottom fishers, okay, you can get in… but at this point we do not know where the bottom is,” he said, adding that it may be wiser for investors to stay patient and closely monitor developments.


At the same time, he pointed out that history suggests markets often recover after major geopolitical shocks. Referring to past trends, Rao said markets tend to rebound once the initial wave of fear subsides. “History is some guide. One, three and six months after a big event like this the market tends to be higher,” he said, noting that strong business fundamentals often help equities regain ground over time.
Energy markets remain another key variable in the current environment. Oil prices have surged amid fears of supply disruptions, but Rao believes prices could eventually stabilise as stakeholders work to restore normal flows. “There is definitely going to be some disruption and some price disruption,” he said, adding that crude could spike further if tensions persist.However, he also noted that economic realities may eventually encourage a return to normalcy. “Everybody needs oil. Iran also needs the oil money,” Rao said, emphasising that energy trade remains vital for all parties involved.

For now, investors remain focused on geopolitical developments and their potential economic impact. Until greater clarity emerges, markets are likely to remain volatile as participants weigh short-term risks against the possibility of recovery once tensions begin to ease.

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Tech Bosses Tell Trump They’ll Pay Up for Electricity

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Market Signals: Dispersion Deepens As AI Pressures Software And Geopolitical Risks Escalate

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First Eagle Global Equity ETF Q4 2025 Portfolio Review

Market Signals: Dispersion Deepens As AI Pressures Software And Geopolitical Risks Escalate

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bpost NV/SA 2025 Q4 – Results – Earnings Call Presentation (OTCMKTS:BPOSY) 2026-03-06

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OneWater Marine Inc. (ONEW) Q1 2026 Earnings Call Transcript

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Seeking Alpha’s transcripts team is responsible for the development of all of our transcript-related projects. We currently publish thousands of quarterly earnings calls per quarter on our site and are continuing to grow and expand our coverage. The purpose of this profile is to allow us to share with our readers new transcript-related developments. Thanks, SA Transcripts Team

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US eases sanctions on Russian oil sales to India during Iran conflict

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US eases sanctions on Russian oil sales to India during Iran conflict

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent gives India a 30-day waiver to buy Russian crude as a “stop gap measure”.

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Nvidia Stock’s Struggles Present This Opportunity. How to Play It.

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Nifty’s primary trend still bearish, 24,300 key level to watch: Vinay Rajani

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Nifty’s primary trend still bearish, 24,300 key level to watch: Vinay Rajani
Amid renewed volatility in the equity markets, traders are once again grappling with uncertainty as the brief optimism seen a day earlier quickly faded. After showing signs of recovery, the benchmark indices slipped back into consolidation, reflecting the cautious mood among investors who are trying to gauge the next direction for the market.

Market participants had briefly taken comfort from the rebound seen earlier, but the reversal in sentiment has reinforced the view that the broader trend remains fragile. According to technical analysts, the current setup suggests that the market is still navigating a challenging phase where selective opportunities may exist, even as the broader indices struggle to sustain momentum.

Speaking to ET Now, Vinay Rajani from HDFC Securities explained that despite the recent bounce, the broader trend for the Nifty continues to remain weak from a technical perspective.

“Yesterday’s recovery was convincing but still the primary trend on the Nifty is bearish because Nifty is placed below 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 days moving average. So positional trend is clearly on the bearish side. It is only that we are trying to protect the level of 24,300 which happens to be the recent swing low and the previous swing lows was also seen around 24,300-24,350 odd range, so that becomes the strong support. There is a chance of recovery if we do not break this level. But yes, right now the Nifty is currently moving in the yesterday’s entire move. So, consolidation is going on.”

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Rajani noted that while the benchmark index is struggling to establish a firm uptrend, the selling pressure is not uniform across sectors. Certain pockets of the market are still showing resilience and even touching fresh highs.


“Some sectors are still doing well like defence, power stocks, capital good stocks are performing very well. In fact, they are hitting their 52-week high, that is also a good sign. So, it is not across the board selling in the market. Some stocks are still performing despite getting into this overall primary downtrend. So, yes, in trading you have to be very stock specific and sector specific.”
He added that public sector undertakings, particularly in the power and defence segments, continue to exhibit strength on the charts.”And PSUs are looking very strong to us be it a PSU power stocks or be a PSU defence stocks. They are looking strong to us and we think stocks specific market will remain bullish. But yes, as far as Nifty is concerned, strict stop loss of 24,300 we are recommending to our clients.”

From a technical standpoint, Rajani believes the key level to watch on the upside remains significantly higher, which could signal a meaningful shift in the market trend.

“On the upside, Nifty has to close above 25,000 to confirm the bullish trend reversal, otherwise, it will remain into overall downtrend and consolidation you can say till the 24,300 is getting breached again. So, we are into a consolidation phase we can say. So, we need to see primary trend is still down. So, there is upper hand of bears in the market right now. So, we have to protect our long trades with the strict stop loss and for Nifty it should be 24,300.”

When asked about specific trading ideas in the current environment, Rajani highlighted select PSU stocks that are displaying favourable technical setups.

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“So, as I said, we are bullish on the PSU. So, one stock we like in the defence space is Bharat Electronics, around 471 one can go long, stop loss 464, on the upside target should be 485. The second pick from the PSU power space, NTPC is looking good, 385 should be the entry, 378 should be the stop loss, on the upside 395 should be the target.”

With the market lacking a clear directional trend, analysts suggest that traders may need to stay disciplined with risk management and focus on stock-specific opportunities rather than broad index bets. In a market that is swinging between optimism and caution, technical levels such as Nifty’s 24,300 support and the 25,000 resistance could play a crucial role in determining the next decisive move.

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AI bias could entrench gender inequality in the workplace, warns Women and Work APPG

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UK business leaders warn that Rachel Reeves’s planned Budget tax increases could push small firms to raise prices, delay hiring, or cut jobs, threatening inflation and growth.

Artificial intelligence could deepen gender inequality in the workplace unless women play a far greater role in shaping the technology, according to new research from the Women and Work All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG).

The report, which draws on evidence gathered during a series of industry roundtables between 2024 and 2025, warns that AI systems trained on historically biased data could replicate and even amplify existing discrimination in areas such as recruitment, career progression and performance evaluation.

Researchers argue that without more representative datasets, stronger oversight and greater diversity among the people designing and deploying AI systems, the technology risks embedding workplace inequalities at scale just as businesses increasingly adopt automation and algorithmic decision-making.

The findings highlight several real-world examples where algorithmic systems have demonstrated bias. One case involved the withdrawal of an AI recruitment tool developed by Amazon after it was found to favour male candidates over female applicants. Concerns have also been raised about the visibility of women’s professional content on platforms such as LinkedIn, where algorithmic ranking has reportedly reduced the reach of posts written by women compared with those authored by men.

More broadly, experts say large language models and other AI systems frequently learn patterns from historical data that reflect longstanding gender imbalances in employment and pay. If those patterns are not corrected during development, the systems can unintentionally reinforce them when used in real-world decision making.

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The report warns that women face a dual risk from the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence: they are underrepresented in the development and leadership of the technology sector, yet are overrepresented in roles most vulnerable to automation.

Administrative, education, healthcare and social care positions, many of which are dominated by female workers, were among the first sectors affected by early waves of AI-driven automation. As more industries adopt artificial intelligence tools, the risk of further displacement could increase unless women are better equipped with digital and technical skills.

Karren Brady, co-chair of the Women and Work APPG, said the rapid development of AI was reshaping the labour market at a time when gender inequality remained unresolved.

“The rapid acceleration of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies is reshaping the world of work,” she said. “The enduring gender pay gap and the continued lack of parity within the technology sector make clear that meaningful progress remains unfinished and that urgent action is still required.”

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Industry leaders who contributed evidence to the APPG report said the problem begins with the data used to train AI systems.

Linda Benjamin, vice president at AND Digital, said artificial intelligence reflects the assumptions embedded in the information used to build it.

“AI is shaped by the data it’s built on, the questions it’s asked and the people who design it,” she said. “When historical data reflects gender imbalances or systemic bias, AI can learn and replicate those patterns, amplifying inequality at speed and scale.”

Benjamin argued that improving outcomes for women in the age of AI must begin “upstream”, by ensuring the data sets used to train algorithms are more representative and by introducing rigorous auditing processes to detect and correct bias.

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She also stressed the need for greater participation by women in AI and digital careers, alongside policies that remove structural barriers to entering the sector.

Those barriers include limited access to reskilling opportunities, high childcare costs and workplace structures that make it harder for women to retrain or move into technical roles.

Experts contributing to the report also highlighted the risk that older women could be disproportionately affected by the transition to AI-enabled workplaces. Workers over the age of 55 are often excluded from digital training programmes, leaving them particularly vulnerable to redundancy as businesses adopt automated processes.

At the same time, the report raises concerns about the use of AI-driven productivity monitoring tools in workplaces. These systems can track performance metrics and employee behaviour in real time, but critics warn they may create overly punitive working environments if implemented without safeguards.

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Charlotte Wilson, head of enterprise business UK and Ireland at Check Point Software Technologies, said artificial intelligence has already demonstrated its potential to deliver significant benefits in fields such as healthcare, including early detection technologies for breast cancer.

However, she warned that the technology should never be treated as infallible.

“AI is only as good as the data it processes,” Wilson said. “When systems are created by humans with their own perspectives and assumptions, unconscious bias can inevitably creep in. AI must be treated as a tool that requires critical oversight, particularly when decisions affect people’s careers and opportunities.”

The report also highlights structural inequalities in entrepreneurship and investment that could further limit women’s influence over emerging technologies.

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Despite evidence that female-led companies often deliver strong financial returns, all-female founding teams received just 1.8 per cent of UK venture capital investment in early 2024. Women also account for only around 15 per cent of members on investment committees, which play a central role in deciding which start-ups receive funding.

Limited access to capital, combined with high childcare costs and the absence of financial safety nets, continues to restrict many women’s ability to launch or scale businesses. The report notes that many female founders underpay themselves or forego benefits such as maternity pay while building their companies.

Sheila Flavell, chief operating officer at FDM Group, said closing the digital skills gap would be critical to ensuring women are not excluded from the next phase of economic growth.

“Upskilling and reskilling women in digital skills must be a priority,” she said. “From supporting girls through early education to providing clear pathways into technical and leadership roles, businesses and government need to work together to equip women with the skills required for the AI economy.”

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Flavell also emphasised the importance of supporting women returning to the workforce after career breaks, ensuring experienced professionals are not permanently lost to the technology sector.

The Women and Work APPG says its research will continue through 2026, focusing on practical policy measures designed to ensure women are not left behind as digital transformation reshapes the global economy.

The parliamentary group, led by Baroness Brady and Sarah Russell, plans to explore reforms that could expand digital training opportunities, improve childcare support for entrepreneurs and strengthen safeguards against algorithmic bias in workplace technologies.

Supporters of the initiative argue that ensuring women have a stronger voice in the development of artificial intelligence is not only a matter of equality but also essential for economic competitiveness.

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As AI becomes embedded in hiring, promotion and productivity decisions across the economy, they warn that ensuring fairness in these systems will determine whether the technology expands opportunity or deepens existing inequalities.


Jamie Young

Jamie Young

Jamie is Senior Reporter at Business Matters, bringing over a decade of experience in UK SME business reporting.
Jamie holds a degree in Business Administration and regularly participates in industry conferences and workshops.

When not reporting on the latest business developments, Jamie is passionate about mentoring up-and-coming journalists and entrepreneurs to inspire the next generation of business leaders.

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Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Eye Summer Wedding as Kelce Signals Return to Chiefs Amid Retirement Buzz

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Taylor Swift at the 65th Annual Grammy Awards in 2023 -- she's up for six awards at the 2025 gala

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, one of Hollywood and the NFL’s most high-profile couples, continue to dominate headlines in early March 2026 as wedding speculation intensifies and Kelce’s football future clarifies. The pop superstar and Kansas City Chiefs tight end, engaged since August 2025, appear focused on blending personal milestones with professional commitments, with sources and recent comments pointing to a possible June 13, 2026, wedding date and Kelce’s likely return for another NFL season.

Taylor Swift at the 65th Annual Grammy Awards in 2023 -- she's up for six awards at the 2025 gala
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Reports circulating across outlets like Marca, Heavy Sports and social media platforms suggest the couple has settled on June 13, 2026, for their nuptials — a date that has sparked both excitement and skepticism among fans. Unverified posts on Facebook and Threads claim the pair finalized the summer ceremony, potentially in Rhode Island near Swift’s Watch Hill property or at a historic venue like The Breakers in Newport. Insiders previously told Us Weekly the duo prefers a shorter engagement and plans to tie the knot in 2026, emphasizing privacy amid their demanding schedules.

The timing aligns with Swift’s calendar: she is slated for induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame on June 11, 2026, prompting some fans to question the proximity, though no official confirmation has emerged from the couple or representatives. Swift has maintained a low public profile in early 2026, skipping events like the 2026 Grammys to prioritize personal life, per reports. The couple also declined Golden Globes invitations, with Kelce explaining on his “New Heights” podcast the decision stemmed from a desire for simplicity amid busy lives.

Kelce’s NFL status remains the biggest variable. After the Chiefs missed the playoffs in January 2026 — ending a streak dating to 2015 — retirement speculation surged for the 36-year-old All-Pro tight end. However, ESPN Chiefs reporter Nate Taylor offered a confident assessment on the 96.5 The Fan podcast March 5, stating, “He’s coming back, guys.” Taylor cited indications from within the organization that Kelce is “looking forward to coming back,” though he stressed the decision rests with the player.

On the March 4 episode of “New Heights,” co-hosted with brother Jason Kelce, Travis addressed retirement more candidly than before, hinting at an impending announcement while expressing lingering passion for the game. Chiefs coach Andy Reid has acknowledged ongoing contract discussions, and sources suggest Kelce seeks to heal and rest before committing. His mother has refrained from pressuring him, noting the choice involves family considerations — including Swift — but belongs to him alone.

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The couple’s dynamic has evolved toward greater privacy in 2026. Swift was absent from Super Bowl LX on February 8 in Santa Clara, California, where Kelce made a surprise sideline appearance in a black suit to watch the New England Patriots face the Seattle Seahawks. Unlike her prominent presence at the previous two Super Bowls during Chiefs runs, Swift opted out this year, consistent with her stance that she avoids spotlight events tied to football until Kelce retires. Kelce shared on “New Heights” that he and Swift watched the 2026 Winter Olympics together, particularly cheering Team USA men’s hockey gold over Canada, offering a glimpse into their low-key downtime.

Other recent moments include a brief Kelce interaction with Kai Trump at a TGL golf event in Florida on March 3, sparking minor online debate among Swift fans due to political context, though most dismissed it as casual small talk. Blake Lively’s social media activity drew attention for reacting to posts about the couple, fueling lighthearted reunion speculation amid her own projects.

Despite occasional rumors of strain — including a January report framing Kelce’s post-season “defeat” as a relationship test — sources describe the pair as supportive and invested. Swift’s focus on her latest album era and Kelce’s media ventures, including podcasting and potential broadcasting, complement their shared life. Fans speculate about future family plans, with earlier comments suggesting kids could follow marriage.

As spring approaches, the couple balances wedding preparations with career decisions. Kelce’s potential 14th season could extend his playing days, while Swift eyes creative projects. Their story — from podcast shoutout to engagement — continues captivating audiences, blending sports, music and romance in a way few celebrity pairs achieve.

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With no major joint appearances since late 2025, anticipation builds for summer updates. Whether walking down the aisle or suiting up again, Swift and Kelce remain a fixture in pop culture, navigating fame on their terms.

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Investigation Remains Active with No Breakthroughs as Family Pleads for Answers

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US woman Denyse Holt always shared her daily Wordle score, so when she missed a day, her daughter immediately knew something was wrong

More than a month after 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie vanished from her home in Tucson’s Catalina Foothills area, the high-profile disappearance case continues to grip national attention with no confirmed arrests or definitive leads announced as of March 6, 2026. The mother of NBC’s “Today” show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie was last seen on the evening of January 31, 2026, when family members dropped her off around 9:30 p.m. local time. She was reported missing the following day after failing to appear for a planned church service livestream.

Savannah Guthrie twitter

Authorities with the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and FBI have classified the incident as an abduction, citing evidence including blood found on the front porch and chilling doorbell camera footage showing a masked individual tampering with security equipment outside her residence in the early hours of February 1. The suspect appeared armed and wore a ski mask, obscuring identification despite extensive analysis of the video.

The investigation, now in its second month, has shifted focus from large-scale ground searches to forensic review, digital evidence processing and tip follow-up. Officials report examining over 10,000 hours of surveillance footage from the neighborhood and surrounding areas, with AI-assisted tools aiding in gait analysis, height estimation and potential data recovery from deleted files. Forensic testing on physical evidence, including possible DNA from the scene, remains ongoing, though experts have raised concerns about early handling of the crime scene, including potential contamination due to lack of strict access controls.

No suspects or persons of interest have been publicly named, and investigators have not ruled out involvement of multiple individuals. The case prompted an initial flood of tips — more than 1,000 in a single 24-hour period after video release — but many proved unsubstantiated. A $100,000 FBI reward for information leading to her location or an arrest was later supplemented by the Guthrie family’s offer of up to $1 million, announced in late February via a video plea from Savannah Guthrie.

In that emotional message, Savannah acknowledged the grim possibility that her mother “may already be gone,” renewing calls for any proof of life or information that could bring closure. The family posted a sign outside Nancy’s home reading “Do the right thing,” directed at potential kidnappers, and emphasized their willingness to cooperate fully.

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Nancy Guthrie, described as mentally sharp despite limited mobility from age-related issues, relied on a pacemaker, daily medication and hearing aids. Authorities repeatedly warned that missing her required doses could pose life-threatening risks, heightening urgency in the early weeks. Friends portrayed her as independent and socially active, rarely missing book club or church events, even walking to retrieve mail shortly before her disappearance.

The case has sparked widespread media coverage, live updates from networks like NBC, CNN and Fox, and YouTube breakdowns analyzing developments. Discussions range from forensic critiques — including scene contamination and DNA challenges — to speculation about motives, from random crime to targeted abduction. Some observers note the absence of a clear ransom demand pattern, though unverified reports of notes surfaced early on.

As of early March 6, 2026, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department described the probe as active, with detectives pursuing leads despite scaled-back on-ground operations. The FBI maintains involvement, having relocated some command resources to Phoenix for logistical reasons, though no official declaration of the case turning “cold” has occurred. Experts stress that with no body or confirmed harm, hope persists for a safe return.

The disappearance has highlighted vulnerabilities for elderly residents in affluent areas and the power of public appeals in generating tips. Savannah Guthrie has returned to on-air duties intermittently, balancing professional commitments with family advocacy.

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Community support in Tucson includes neighborhood watch enhancements and calls for more home security sharing. The Guthries continue urging anyone with information — no matter how small — to contact authorities at 520-351-4900 or the FBI tip line.

As the investigation presses forward without resolution, the case remains a poignant reminder of uncertainty amid high-profile scrutiny. Family, friends and investigators alike await developments that could finally answer what happened to Nancy Guthrie on that fateful night.

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Coinbase, Other Crypto Stocks Surge. What’s Behind the Rally.

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