Oil prices are spiking again on global markets as the ASX begins the final day of the week in negative territory. It comes after the the Nasdaq shed almost 1 per cent. Follow the day's events and insights as they happen with our business reporters on the ABC News live markets blog.
The sentencing hearing for Daniel Billings, who pleaded guilty to murdering Molly Ticehurst, has been moved to September 3-4. This change allows forensic psychiatrist Olav Nielssen to provide evidence via video link, as he would have been unavailable on the original dates.
Iran is leveraging the Strait of Hormuz as a strategic weapon, leading to conflicting claims of its status (open/closed) by Iran and the US. Recent strikes and retaliatory attacks have heightened regional instability, with Iran citing a recent deal for safe passage as justification for its actions, while the US vows overwhelming force against any aggression.
Israel will hold elections on the last Tuesday in October, a vote seen as a referendum on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's legacy. Current polls suggest his Likud party may not be the largest in parliament, facing challenges from new parties and criticism over war management and security failures.
US Senator Lindsey Graham has died suddenly at age 71 after a brief illness, reportedly an aortic dissection. His death creates a vacancy in the Senate, narrowing the Republican majority and impacting legislative efforts. A replacement will be appointed by the governor, with a special election to follow.
Lavanya Chappa, a 39-year-old mother of two and software quality analyst, was fatally stabbed in her Melbourne home on July 7. A man known to her has been charged with murder. Family members have traveled from India, and a crowdfunding page has raised over $47,000 to support her children.
Calls for mandated domestic mobile roaming in Australia are intensifying, with consumer advocates and regional residents arguing it would improve coverage and competition. A report shows 73% of Australians support the change, allowing users to connect to other networks when out of their provider's coverage area. While some telcos express concerns about investment, others acknowledge potential benefits for consumers, especially in regional areas.
