Jul 29, 2025

I recently read about the evolving US-Philippine alliance post a meeting between Trump and Marcos. The meeting resulted in new summit deliverables, highlighting the active week for US-Southeast Asia relations. Other Southeast Asian states are also finalizing arrangements with an August 1 tariff deadline approaching. The US engagement with Thailand, Cambodia, and Myanmar suggests evolving geopolitical flashpoints in mainland Southeast Asia, raising questions about the broader direction of US regional policy.

In another news article, Morgan Stanley predicts that the S&P 500 is likely to reach 7,200 next year. The optimism is based on better earnings and a steadily high multiple that should boost stocks. The chief stock-market strategist at Morgan Stanley emphasizes a more resilient earnings and cash flow backdrop, driven by factors like AI adoption, dollar weakness, and pent-up demand in the market. The article also mentions the impact of Federal Reserve rate cuts and the potential benefits for various sectors like industrials and domestic infrastructure spending related to technology.

I have heard that there is a return of confidence in the economy. Consumers are spending, and companies are adapting to AI technology. The Federal Reserve is likely to ease up on rates soon, and investors are optimistic that the worst is behind us. The low VIX indicates less market anxiety, leading to increased stock purchases and all-time market highs.

Furthermore, the focus is shifting towards the necessity of silver in building the future, with applications in solar panels, electric cars, and AI data centers. This shift is reminiscent of the oil boom in the 1970s, where early investors saw the supply crunch coming. The success of tech giants like Google in areas such as cloud computing and AI is driving growth, emphasizing the importance of innovation for future success.

Today, I heard from the news that the stock market experienced a significant increase in trading volume due to positive earnings reports from major companies. The tech sector, in particular, saw a surge in activity as companies like Apple and Amazon reported better-than-expected profits. This news led to a rally in the market, with many investors feeling optimistic about the future of the economy.

Stay Well!