Trump Pressures Iran on Blockade; Intel Shares Surge on Earnings

<p>On today's podcast:&nbsp; &nbsp;<br /><br />1) The US increased pressure on Iran with its naval blockade, as it seeks to get Tehran to agree to talks. The US naval operation has caused many Iran-linked vessels to turn around rather than go through the Hormuz strait, potentially affecting Iran's oil exports. Israel and Lebanon are set to extend a ceasefire for three weeks, according to President Donald Trump, who announced the deal in a social-media post after meeting Israeli and Lebanese envoys at the White House.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br /><br />2) Intel delivered a sales forecast of $13.8 billion to $14.8 billion in the June quarter, exceeding Wall Street expectations of $13 billion. The company's upbeat outlook suggests that Chief Executive Officer Lip-Bu Tan is making progress on a challenging comeback plan, with Intel shares soaring 20% in extended trading. Intel's strong demand for processors used in AI systems is lifting demand for its flagship Xeon server processors, with Tan saying the company is "laser-focused" on increasing output from its factories to meet demand.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br /><br />3) Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said he&rsquo;ll maintain cooperation with NATO allies and brushed off a report that US officials are considering suspending his country from the alliance for its stance on the Iran war. Sanchez told reporters that Spain "meets our obligations, we are a loyal partner" and that the country's position is "full cooperation with allies, but always within the framework of international law." The US is considering measures within the alliance in response to the stance of NATO allies, including Spain, on the Iran war, according to people familiar with the matter.</p><p>See <a href="https://omnystudio.com/listener">omnystudio.com/listener</a> for privacy information.</p>