Latest Middle East Conflict News

National Australia Bank is adjusting its credit provisioning and capital policies in response to market volatility from the Middle East conflict, with significant impacts on its 1H26 earnings and balance sheet.

Alcoa Corporation reported a sharp rise in first quarter 2026 net income to $425 million, driven by higher aluminium prices and a completed smelter restart, even as alumina production and shipments declined due to seasonal and external disruptions.

New Zealand King Salmon (NZX: NZK) has sharply upgraded its FY26 earnings guidance, citing better-than-expected summer fish growth and lower mortality. The company now expects pro-forma EBITDA between $19 million and $27 million, up from $9 million to $15 million previously.

ECP Emerging Growth Limited’s portfolio plunged 19.4% in the March quarter, dragging its net tangible asset value down by nearly 30%, as growth stocks stumbled amid geopolitical tensions and rising rates. The fund added furniture retailer Koala Company and sees value in its resilient holdings despite the rough patch.

Fletcher Building posted a mixed quarterly volume update for Q3 FY26, with gains in light building products and distribution offset by weakness in heavy materials. The recent Middle East conflict adds new supply chain and cost pressures, complicating the outlook.

Henderson Far East Income Limited posted a robust 23.3% net asset value total return for the half-year ending February 2026, supported by strong Asian tech and financial sector gains. The trust declared a 6.25p interim dividend and raised £39.1 million through new share issuance, securing a spot in the FTSE 250.

New Hope Corporation is raising A$300 million through a new convertible notes issue while simultaneously seeking to repurchase its existing A$300 million notes. The move coincides with elevated thermal coal prices amid Middle East tensions and ongoing operational guidance.

Nufarm reports a robust first half of FY26 with underlying EBITDA rising 17% and net debt falling by $130 million, while new CEO Rico Christensen initiates a $50 million cost savings program as part of a strategic refresh.

Ryman Healthcare’s FY26 retirement living sales hit 1,410 ORAs, aligning with guidance despite a Q4 dip in new sales. The company reports robust aged care occupancy and expects free cash flow near NZD 180 million.

Qantas has sharply revised its FY26 outlook as jet fuel prices soar, doubling its international unit revenue growth forecast while trimming domestic capacity and deferring its share buyback.

Westpac Banking Corporation reports steady lending and deposit growth alongside stable margins despite geopolitical headwinds, while transaction costs from its RAMS mortgage portfolio sale weigh on first-half profits.

Cleanaway has trimmed its FY26 EBIT forecast to $460-$480 million, citing a $20 million hit from rising fuel and logistics costs linked to the Middle East war. The company leans on contractual fuel cost pass-throughs and strategic supply deals to cushion the blow.