When is the SpaceX IPO? Elon Musk Wants it 'Pretty Soon' | The Pulse 5/18/2026

Summary

The Pulse covers G7 finance ministers meeting in Paris amid the Iran war, oil price shock, and stagflation fears. Global bond yields rise as central banks face pressure to hike. UK political uncertainty weighs on sterling and gilts, while SpaceX IPO preparations generate strong demand.

• G7 finance ministers discuss structural imbalances, energy crisis, and inflation.
• Iran conflict and Strait of Hormuz disruption drive oil and refined product prices higher.
• Central banks, especially the ECB and BOE, are expected to hike rates to contain inflation.
• UK political turmoil threatens Labour leadership, impacting pound and gilts.
• SpaceX IPO could be the largest ever, with BlackRock seeking increased exposure.
• Ebola outbreak in DRC declared a global health emergency, complicating aid response.
• China remains unwilling to pressure Iran on U.S. terms, limiting diplomatic progress.
• Bond markets signal high uncertainty on inflation and fiscal sustainability across developed economies.