US-Iran Interim Deal Takes Effect | The Pulse 06/18/2026

Summary

The episode covers the US-Iran interim deal taking effect, Fed Chair Warsh’s first meeting signaling possible rate hikes, and an EU summit focused on Ukraine. Interviews with tech investors, regional promoters, a German machine-tool CEO, Latvia’s prime minister, and the EFG International CEO explore AI, European competitiveness, manufacturing, and Swiss private banking inflows. Key market implications include expectations of lower oil prices from geopolitical easing and positive sentiment for European wealth managers like EFG International.

• US-Iran interim deal signed at Versailles takes effect, aiming to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
• Brent crude drops to its lowest since the conflict began; S&P futures jump almost 1%.
• Fed holds rates but signals growing support for a 2026 hike; Chair Warsh announces task forces to review monetary policy.
• EU leaders gather in Brussels to discuss Ukraine, bringing Putin to negotiations, and trade tools for Beijing.
• Accel partner Philippe Botteri sees Europe playing a role in AI beyond frontier models, with champions in legal and cybersecurity.
• Choose Paris Region president Alexandra Dublanche highlights talent pools, AI research centers, and Brexit gains attracting companies.
• Trumpf CEO Stephan Mayer says AI data-center build-out offsets war cost pressures; China competition shifts to defending European market.
• Latvian PM Andris Kulbergs calls for clear Russian willingness before peace talks, warns of inflation from fertilizer and aviation fuel.
• EFG International CEO Giorgio Pradelli reports wealth inflows from Middle East risk diversification and sees positive environment for banks.