The Strait of Hormuz becomes a strategic trump card, making it difficult for Iran to let go; the crude oil stalemate may become prolonged.

Global chip design software development leader Synopsys (SNPS.US) plans to explore cooperation with Chinese AI laboratories to improve the chip design process.

On October 9, Morningstar predicted that the revenue of Australian oil and gas producer Woodside Energy (WDS.AX) will grow by over 30% by 2030, outpacing any of its international peers. Woodside Energy’s share price dropped by 0.6% on the day to 32.12 AUD, after surging 2.6% in the previous trading session. The stock is poised to end a three-week losing streak, with oil prices rising due to escalating tensions in the Middle East, and is set for a 2.8% weekly gain O/R. Morningstar expects Woodside’s revenue to increase as major new projects come online, and forecasts free cash flow to exceed 7 billion USD after 2030, reflecting a 300% rise from 2025. The report added that market sentiment remains bearish, with the current share price below its estimated fair value of 44.00 AUD. Year-to-date, Woodside’s share price has risen 36.2%, while Santos shares are up 41.3%. (For the convenience of non-English speakers, Reuters has automated the translation of its reports into several languages. Since automated translations may be inaccurate or lack required context, Reuters does not guarantee the accuracy of automated translation texts and provides them solely for the convenience of readers. Reuters accepts no liability for any loss or damage arising from your use of automated translation functions.)

Ives has given Apple stock an "outperform" rating, with a target price of $400.