Trump Ups Pressure on Iran; Blue Owl Sold Private Loans to Pay Investors | Bloomberg Brief 2/20/2026

US equity futures rose as markets awaited December’s PCE inflation data, a key Federal Reserve metric, signaling investor optimism amid economic uncertainty. President Trump issued a 15-day ultimatum to Iran to finalize a nuclear deal, escalating tensions while the US deployed its largest Middle East military buildup since 2003. Blue Owl secured four buyers for a $1.4 billion private loan portfolio, a move to liquidate assets and meet investor payout demands amid tightening credit conditions. Cayla Seder of State Street warned of rising risks in private credit, citing liquidity challenges and potential defaults as economic pressures mount. The combined developments highlight geopolitical volatility, market caution, and financial sector stress, with inflation data and Middle East tensions driving global economic sentiment.