Expo News Today — August 26, 2026

Global markets are navigating a complex landscape of geopolitics and economic trends. The ongoing tensions in the Middle East have taken a notable turn, with Iran and Oman exploring a temporary agreement to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for oil shipments. This development has contributed to a decline in oil prices, as investors perceive a reduced risk of supply disruptions. The potential for a temporary deal between Iran and Oman, which includes a joint shipping route and mine clearing mission, has further eased concerns about the impact of regional instability on global energy markets.

Meanwhile, the US political landscape is also in focus, with Senator Darline Graham winning the GOP primary in South Carolina. In the business world, several companies are facing key tests of their market performance. Two software stocks are seeing their rallies put to the test, while Dick's Sporting Goods is experiencing a significant decline in its stock price due to weaker-than-expected sales of sneakers. Additionally, there is a growing debate among finance professionals about the state of the K-shaped economy, with some questioning whether it is coming to an end. These diverse developments are set to influence market sentiment and shape the economic narrative in the days ahead.

Today's signal:
• Oil prices extend slide as Iran and Oman eye temporary Hormuz deal (marketwatch.com)
• Sen. Darline Graham, Trump's pick for South Carolina Senate, wins GOP primary (cnbc.com)
• 2 of our software stocks face major tests of whether their rallies are for real (cnbc.com)
• Is the K-shaped economy ending? Finance pros weigh in (cnbc.com)
• Iran and Oman discuss joint shipping route in Strait of Hormuz and mine clearing mission (cnbc.com)
• Dick’s Sporting Goods’ stock is having its worst day ever, as sneakers aren’t selling without deeper discounts (marketwatch.com)