Key Takeaways
- Nvidia (NVDA) shares rose 2.1% as the board authorized an additional $150 billion in share buybacks, bringing the total program to $235 billion.
- President Trump announced that U.S. teams have engaged with Iran via mediators, though Iranian officials simultaneously denied any change in their nuclear stance.
- Boeing (BA) faces further certification delays for the 737 MAX 10 due to a software issue currently under FAA review.
- Energy markets saw Brent Crude settle higher at $105.28/bbl amid heightened geopolitical rhetoric and shifting U.S. energy policy announcements.
- U.S. Steel production is set for a boost as Mesabi Metallics plans a new plant in Iowa, targeting 10 million tons of annual output.
Nvidia Bolsters Shareholder Returns Amid AI Growth
Nvidia (NVDA) shares climbed 2.1% on Monday, extending year-to-date gains to approximately 24%. The company’s board approved a massive $150 billion increase to its share repurchase authorization, signaling confidence in its AI-driven cash generation. The total buyback program now stands at $235 billion through January 2028, as the firm balances shareholder returns with aggressive investment in accelerated computing.
Geopolitical Tensions and Diplomatic Maneuvers
President Trump reported that U.S. officials spoke with mediators regarding Iran today, claiming the U.S. has successfully prevented Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. Despite these claims, Iranian officials via Fars News stated that their position on the nuclear issue remains unchanged and denied reports of increased flexibility. Concurrently, the Iranian Parliament is reportedly weighing a bill to exit the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), adding friction to the diplomatic landscape.
In a separate diplomatic development, the UAE President received Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday. The leaders discussed strengthening bilateral relations, marking a continued push for regional integration despite broader Middle East volatility.
Boeing 737 MAX 10 Facing New Software Delays
The FAA Administrator confirmed that a software issue will delay the certification of the Boeing (BA) 737 MAX 10. While the exact length of the delay remains uncertain, officials noted that pilots remain in control during go-arounds despite the software glitch. Canadian carrier WestJet noted it uses the affected software version but stated it has not experienced any safety incidents and is working closely with Boeing on the review.
Energy and Industrial Developments
Brent Crude futures settled 0.92% higher at $105.28/bbl, while WTI Crude rose 0.21% to $92.60/bbl. President Trump suggested that gas prices would soon come "tumbling" as the U.S. seeks a resolution to regional conflicts. On the industrial front, the administration highlighted that the U.S. has surpassed Japan in steel production, supported by the announcement of a new Mesabi Metallics plant in Iowa expected to create 8,000 jobs.
International Corporate Shifts
In Japan, Nidec (NJDCY) President Mitsuya Kishida is expected to resign as CEO following losses in the company’s e-axle EV drive unit. Michio Kaida has emerged as a potential successor for the role. Meanwhile, in the UK, the Labour Government announced the creation of "GB Grid," a new initiative designed to bring the energy system under public control to reduce consumer costs.
Ed Liston is a senior contributing editor at TheStockMarketWatch.com. An active market watcher and investor, Ed guides an independent team of experienced analysts and writes for multiple stock trader publications.