Finance & Markets News Today — October 30, 2026

Global markets are navigating a complex landscape of geopolitical tensions, corporate strategies, and shifting investor sentiment. The situation in the Middle East is escalating, with Iran reporting that four tankers were struck by mines in the Strait of Hormuz, heightening fears of a wider conflict in the region, particularly after the US midterm elections. This development has significant implications for global energy markets, which are already on edge.

Against this backdrop, major corporations are making significant moves to position themselves for the future. Microsoft is planning to raise $25 billion in debt to fund its artificial intelligence buildout, while Rivian reported better-than-expected third-quarter earnings, driven by growth in software revenue and deliveries of its R2 vehicles. Meanwhile, Starbucks is working to turn its business around, although the process may take longer than hoped. In other news, big oil companies are set to report surging earnings, but investors may want to exercise caution. Additionally, retirement planning remains a concern, with many people failing to take action with their 401(k) accounts after retiring.

Today's signal:
• Iran claims four tankers struck mines in Hormuz as strike fears grow after U.S. midterms (cnbc.com)
• Microsoft plans to raise $25 billion in debt as it pursues AI buildout (cnbc.com)
• A Starbucks turnaround is brewing — but perhaps not quickly enough (marketwatch.com)
• Rivian third-quarter earnings beat estimates as software revenue, R2 deliveries rise (cnbc.com)
• What’s the first thing most people do with their 401(k) after they retire? Nothing. (marketwatch.com)
• Big Oil earnings are set to surge. Why investors may want to be cautious (cnbc.com)