At the morning close, China’s front-month futures were mixed. Low-sulfur fuel oil (LU), fuel oil and Shanghai crude (SC) rose more than 4%; soda ash and Shanghai silver gained over 3%; coking coal, propylene, methanol and the monthly average price of polypropylene climbed over 2%. On the downside, Europe-route container freight slid more than 6%; eggs fell over 2%; red dates and pulp declined a little more than 1%.

On Aug. 10 Pakistan’s deputy prime minister and foreign minister spoke by phone with Iran’s foreign minister to exchange views on regional and international developments, focusing on recent regional developments and efforts to promote peace and stability. Pakistan briefed Iran on the main terms of the Mecca joint defense pact recently signed by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey, saying the agreement aims to deepen strategic cooperation and contribute to regional peace and security. Iran’s foreign minister thanked Pakistan and both agreed to maintain close contact on shared concerns.

Microsoft (MSFT.O) shares rose 1.4% after the company said it will sharply ramp up production of AI chips. Meta Platforms (META.O) shares rose 1.16% after launching a lightweight AI model, Muse Glimmer.