Share markets were mixed over the last week with solid gains initially, helped by strong US earnings results, but a resumption of interest rate concerns weighing later in the week.

Elon Musk buys social media giant Twitter for US$44bn, continued conflict in Ukraine poses "serious" nuclear threat according to Russian minister, French far-right lose presidential election but remain confident of imminent victory, + MORE.

Federal Reserve tips 50 basis point hike in May, Ukraine's post-war recovery bill to surpass US$600bn, Elon Musk looks set for tender for Twitter, + MORE.

Russia test-fires nuclear-capable missile, IMF says Australia's debt is top priority for next government, Netflix shares take a further beating, and MORE.

The band of bank economists who star in the media have recently changed their views that the first rate rise would be June rather than the August guess they had earlier this year. Are they right?

Ukrainian troops encircled by new Russian offensive, Netflix shares take a battering, IMF slashes global growth forecasts, and MORE.

World Bank drops global growth from 4.1% to 3.2%, President Zelensky says battle for Donbas has begun, Cristiano Ronaldo announces death of baby son, and MORE.

Unemployment numbers released today, house prices dependant on RBA's interest rate management, Boris Johnson faces three more fines over covid breaches, + MORE.

Putin says peace talks have reached a 'dead end', IVF technology could help save koalas from extinction, further covid outbreaks in China have halted iPhone production, and MORE.

Let's take a look at global markets this week as the US returns to hawkish stance, RBA follows suit.

Europe looks to arm Ukraine, feels effect of sanctions is waning, Australia's flu season expected to see a surge this winter, Bitcoin drops to levels not seen in a month, and MORE.

Expect more money promises from both sides as federal election date set for 21 May, finfluencers could face up to five years imprisonment for attempting to make money off their audience, and MORE.