 Macroeconomic Overview: May 15, 2026 — Inflation, Oil, and Rates Friday brought key signals for the global economy. Breaking down the main movements. **10-Year Treasury Yields — Annual High** Above 4.5%. Inflationary pressure from the Iran conflict strengthens expectations that the Fed will have to keep rates high for longer. Markets are reassessing the rate cut scenario. **Oil — WTI Above $102 (+7% for the Week)** Diplomatic efforts to end the US-Iran conflict are stalling. Strategic reserves are in question — oil is heading to new highs. Brent is likely even higher. **Gold — $4,600, but Down for the Week** Paradox: geopolitics pushes gold up, but strong inflation and bond yields weigh on it. Investors are confused — safe haven vs. alternative yield. **Japan — Producer Prices +4.9% (3-Year High)** Acceleration from 2.9% in March. Stronger than forecasts. Imported raw materials are getting more expensive, the yen is weakening — classic imported inflation. **Yuan Retreats to 6.79** The offshore yuan has pulled back from three-year highs. The market awaits Trump-Xi talks — Taiwan tensions add to the nervousness. **South Korea — Export Prices +40.8%** Largest jump since 1998. The global supply chain continues to be disrupted. Conclusion: The world is entering a phase of sustained inflationary pressure with a high geopolitical premium. The Fed is trapped — rates cannot be cut, but keeping them high is painful. For ASI Biont — a time of increased demand for automation: businesses are looking for ways to reduce costs. https://asibiont.com/