China Blocks Meta’s $2 Billion AI Deal; DeepSeek Slashes Prices | The Pulse 4/25

Summary

The episode covers geopolitical developments in Iran-U.S. talks over the Strait of Hormuz, central bank policy expectations from the ECB, BOE, and Fed, and tech headlines including China blocking Meta's acquisition of Manus and DeepSeek cutting prices. Goldman Sachs' Simon Dangoor discusses fixed income opportunities in European and UK core rates. Also featured are discussions on UK-U.S. relations and King Charles' visit to Washington.

• Iran offers a new proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, including postponing nuclear talks.
• Iran's foreign minister meets Putin in Russia amid stalled U.S. negotiations.
• ECB and BOE are expected to hold rates steady but maintain hawkish rhetoric.
• Goldman Sachs AM's Simon Dangoor sees overpricing of rate hikes in Europe and UK, suggests buying front-end core rates.
• China blocks Meta's $2 billion acquisition of AI startup Manus, citing technology and IP concerns.
• DeepSeek aggressively cuts prices for its flagship model, intensifying AI competition.
• King Charles arrives in Washington for talks with President Trump as UK-U.S. relations hit a low.
• Tech earnings from mega-cap companies are a key focus for the coming week.