Company Interview / Market Update | Meta, Microsoft, Vertiv Holdings Co, Starbucks, Domino's, Ampol, PLS, St Barbara, Boss Energy, Persues Mining, Champion Iron,

Global markets face renewed turbulence as Middle East tensions and shifting rate expectations unsettle investors. Hostilities between the US and Iran are, in the view of the commentator, driving an 8% spike in oil, pressuring risk assets. US indices weaken sharply, with AI-linked chip names extending declines, while a split Federal Reserve decision to hold rates is seen as adding uncertainty.

On Wall Street, Meta Platforms ($META) reportedly posts a 91% fall in free cash flow due to heavy AI investment, with shares down about 5% after hours. Microsoft ($MSFT) is said to beat cloud revenue forecasts, with Azure revenue up 43% and the stock gaining around 4% in late trade. Qualcomm ($QCOM) guides to weaker Apple-related revenue, while Starbucks ($SBUX) lifts sales and profit forecasts, sending its shares about 9% higher.

Locally, National Australia Bank (ASX:NAB) reports a 15% fall in home loan applications in the June quarter, but stronger business lending and improved non‑performing loans. Domino’s Pizza (ASX:DMP) flags a FY26 statutory loss after about $300 million in writedowns, yet reaffirms underlying profit guidance. Other key moves include Ampol (ASX:ALD), Pilbara Minerals (ASX:PLS), St Barbara (ASX:SBM), Boss Energy (ASX:BOE), Perseus Mining (ASX:PRU) and Champion Iron (ASX:CIA), with managements emphasising expansion, upgraded resources and robust balance sheets.