Intel EMIB gaining traction as a CoWoS alternative. AI surge tightens TSMC CoWoS supply, propelling Intel’s advanced packaging strategy to a critical turn and reviving IC substrate investment. 1
NAND flash pricing power firmly in sellers’ hands. Samsung hiked Q1 prices by 100%, eyes another 100% surge in Q2 due to production cuts favoring high-value products. 13
White House likely ruled out US Treasury intervention in crude oil futures. The move was seen as having limited long-term market impact, with supply remaining the key driver and potential for market counter-bets. 2
Strait of Hormuz, a global artery for crude oil and goods, is effectively shut, signaling major supply chain disruption. 4
THAAD systems in Jordan and UAE suffered direct hits from Iran missiles; core AN/TPY-2 radar damaged. This marks the first recorded direct strike on a THAAD system globally. 6
Crude oil is spiking hard, threatening to wreck the broader market and economy if unchecked. 16, 19
February US Jobs Report shows labor market deterioration: Nonfarm Payrolls -92K (vs. Est. +55K), Unemployment rate 4.4% (vs. Est. 4.3%), Avg hourly earnings +0.4% MoM (vs. Est. 0.3%). This, combined with rising energy costs from the Iran conflict, creates a challenging market setup. 27
Questioning the current economic narrative: Is this still Biden’s economy? Implies criticism of recent economic performance. 25
Volatility is back: $VIX spikes to 27.61, nearing the 30 mark, signaling heightened market jitters. 20, 23
$VIX futures suggest more volatility ahead. A low close today would be very bearish; a massive ramp off a lower open could provide Monday tailwinds. 22
$QQQ is stuck in a $600 range since Sept 2025, highlighting prolonged price stagnation. 28
After a “bigly” market dip, dip-buying interest is muted heading into the weekend. 29