Weekly Smart Pills #85
Financial Markets
Cryptocurrency Market
Bitcoin registered a sharp decline, falling by approximately 4% to $99,237 as of June 22, while Ethereum dropped about 8.5% to $2,199. This sell-off reflects a sudden global risk-off sentiment following the U.S. strike on Iranian nuclear sites and the escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict. The crypto sector tracked movements in both oil and equity markets, as investors sought refuge in traditional safe-haven assets.
Traditional Financial Markets
Global equity markets adopted a defensive stance amid rising geopolitical tensions. U.S. stock futures dipped roughly 0.3% overnight following the exchanges between Israel and Iran, although the S&P 500 still closed the week up about 0.9%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell around 1.8%, and the Nasdaq Composite lost about 1.3%. Brent crude jumped between 7% and 11%, settling near $74–$77 per barrel, while gold experienced a rally driven by heightened demand for safety.
Economy and Regulation
The Swiss National Bank cut its policy rate from 0.25% to 0% to counteract deflation, as consumer prices fell by 0.1% year-on-year in May, largely due to a downturn in tourism and lower oil prices. The SNB projects minimal inflation through 2027, assuming rates remain at zero. Despite robust export-driven growth toward the United States, the bank anticipates a softening in the global economy. Meanwhile, the U.S. Federal Reserve held rates unchanged against a backdrop of tariff uncertainties and mixed economic outlooks.
The Israel-Iran conflict is threatening global oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies, especially via the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, pushing energy prices higher. Europe, already vulnerable after reducing its reliance on Russian gas, faces potential LNG shortages, particularly in countries dependent on Qatari imports. Surging gas prices in Europe are stoking inflationary pressures and complicating central bank policy decisions. Supply disruptions could hit manufacturing, fueling consumer price increases and “shrinkflation.” Global markets remain volatile on fears the conflict may broaden to involve European powers.
Blockchain and Innovation
Despite market turbulence, the crypto industry held relatively steady this week, with no major technical upgrades or regulatory developments announced. Meanwhile, the legal sparring between Binance and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has eased, suggesting a more settled regulatory environment. The resilience of blockchain networks under geopolitical stress remains a key storyline.
Trends and Statistics
Highest-Paid Jobs in Germany:
In 2025, Germany’s GDP is estimated at $4.74 trillion, with GDP per capita of $55,911.
Pilots top the list, commanding a median annual salary of €342,072.
Healthcare professionals account for 22% of the 50 highest-paid roles; medical executives earn an average of €165,576.
Legal sector managers in legal services make around €149,280, while judges and attorneys earn approximately €95,000.
In job postings, corporate tax consultants lead with salaries near €145,000, followed by high-paying positions in sales and technology.
