Summary: JPMorgan lifts 2026 S&P 500 to 7,600, 2027 to 385 EPS, driven by AI enthusiasm and easing Middle East tensions; forward P/E stays 22x, potential to 23x and ~8,000 if tensions fall; warns of short-term consolidation amid oil and geopolitical risks. Abstract: JPMorgan’s strategy team, led by Dubravko Lakos-Bujas, raised the year-end S&P 500 forecast to 7,600 from 7,200, citing renewed AI enthusiasm and easing Middle East tensions. 2026 EPS is boosted to $330 and 2027 to $385, with the forward multiple held at 22x; a quicker geopolitical resolution could lift the multiple to 23x and push 2026 toward 8,000. The AI theme gained momentum after Anthropic unveiled Mythos, with about two-thirds of AI-related S&P 500 stocks outperforming. Risks include higher oil prices and lingering geopolitical tensions, suggesting a potential short-term consolidation before further gains.

SK Hynix plans a Cheongju HBM packaging plant (P&T7) covering ~231,400 m2 with 19T won, plus a 2025 expansion of 20T won; co-located wafer/packaging as part of a three-site strategy including Indiana and ASML orders. Abstract: SK Hynix announced a major investment to build a large HBM packaging facility in Cheongju (P&T7), co-located with wafer production, as part of a three-site packaging strategy that includes an Indiana hub and substantial ASML equipment orders to meet rising AI memory demand.

Crypto Fear & Greed Index fell to 32 from 33, signaling continued panic; the 0-100 scale marks fear below 50 and greed above 50. Abstract: The Crypto Fear & Greed Index dropped to 32 on April 22, signaling ongoing panic after a decline from 33 the previous day. The index operates on a 0-100 scale, with readings below 50 indicating fear and readings above 50 indicating greed.

Gate News message, April 21 — Whales on the Hyperliquid platform currently hold $3.395 billion in total positions, with long positions accounting for $1.714 billion (50.48%) and short positions totaling $1.681 billion (49.52%). Long positions are down $18.175 million in unrealized P&L, while short

Gate will host the Institutional Circle in Hong Kong to discuss AI-driven changes in crypto liquidity and market structure, with Addis Hu opening and speakers Ethan Hui and Chen Zhao, plus network sessions and a gala. Gate announces the Institutional Circle: AI Reshaping Crypto Liquidity & Market Access in Hong Kong, gathering Asia-Pacific institutional participants to discuss how AI is reshaping crypto liquidity and market structure. Opening remarks by Addis Hu; featured speakers Ethan Hui and Chen Zhao; event includes networking, practical industry discussions, and a gala dinner.

Abstract: JPMorgan strategists lift their S&P 500 year-end target to 7,600 from 7,200 on renewed AI optimism, anticipating higher levels this year as tech and AI prospects improve. Summary: JPMorgan raises S&P 500 year-end target to 7,600 from 7,200, citing renewed AI optimism; at 7,109, about 7% upside, with potential gains fueled by AI-driven growth.

Gate News update: The Gate TradFi Stocks section is now live, offering four stock CFD trading pairs—IWM (Russell 2000 ETF), VOO (S&P 500 ETF—Vanguard), IVV (S&P 500 ETF—iShares), and XPENG (XPeng Inc.—W 09868.HK). All pairs support 4x fixed leverage, with a minimum order size of 0.1. This section covers CFD derivatives trading for traditional financial assets. Users can trade in the TradFi section on the Gate platform.

The Korea Battery Industry Association and Germany's Fraunhofer Institute signed an MOU to enhance battery technology cooperation, aiming to help Korean companies meet EU market requirements. Their collaboration focuses on R&D, supply chain development, and safety solutions in line with the EU's new regulations.

KKR is set to acquire approximately $820 million in convertible bonds from Samsung SDS, aiding its digital transformation and blockchain initiatives, while also providing advisory services in various areas including M&A and AI.

Huaqin Technology will launch its Hong Kong IPO from April 15-20, 2026, offering 58.5 million H-shares. The company aims to raise up to HK$4.463 billion, allocating funds for R&D, manufacturing expansion, and strategic investments.