Precious metals are expected to remain under pressure due to geopolitical uncertainty in the Middle East, upcoming inflation data, and economic indicators influencing global interest rates. The US-Iran conflict, rising oil prices, and a stronger dollar are key factors.
The UK housing market is poised for a prolonged period of stagnant house prices due to elevated mortgage costs, geopolitical tensions, and domestic political uncertainty, according to Bloomberg's analysis of RICS survey data. Buyer activity is slowing, with little expected movement in prices over the next three months.
ONGC's board has approved the development of a 1.75 million tonne strategic petroleum reserve at Mangaluru, enhancing India's emergency crude oil storage capacity amidst global turmoil and reliance on imports.
Spain's Finance Minister Carlos Cuerpo proposed a new "European Sovereign Facility" for joint EU borrowing to strengthen the euro's international role amid geopolitical uncertainty. The mechanism aims to centralize debt, reduce costs, and build a €5 trillion stock within five years, though some member states oppose further joint debt.
The IMF forecasts shipping through the Strait of Hormuz to resume by mid-July, with a return to pre-conflict conditions expected by March 2027. Geopolitical uncertainty is projected to continue throughout the coming year.
In Ein Arik, Palestinian families face escalating settler violence targeting their livelihoods, with young olive trees uprooted and irrigation pipes cut. This surge is linked to Israeli political dynamics ahead of elections, as radical settler elements establish outposts like Maoz Tzur to seize territory and disrupt Palestinian communities.
Singapore and Indonesia reaffirmed their commitment to keeping the Strait of Malacca open, safe, and accessible to all during the annual Leaders' Retreat in Jakarta. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and President Prabowo Subianto stressed the importance of safeguarding the critical global trade route amid rising geopolitical tensions and recent disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
South Africa is experiencing anti-immigration protests fueled by xenophobia and misinformation, mirroring a global rise in conservative nationalism. Protesters blame immigrants for crime and unemployment, despite data refuting these claims, tapping into real economic and social frustrations.
Taiwan's Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu's visit to Washington signals a US strategy to bolster ties with the opposition KMT party. Analysts suggest this is preparation for potential political shifts post-2028 election, focusing on defense and semiconductor cooperation.
Venezuela faces devastating twin earthquakes, exacerbating political uncertainty after Nicolás Maduro's removal. Interim President Delcy Rodríguez's response highlights battered infrastructure and deep national divisions, with military influence still prevalent despite recent civilian appointments.
Bitcoin hovers around $65,000, showing resilience despite geopolitical tensions and a legal challenge by CME against the CFTC. Other crypto majors remain steady, while ETFs experience net outflows. Meanwhile, Charles Schwab plans to enter the prediction market space.
BofA Securities predicts the Reserve Bank of India will maintain its repo rate at 5.25% due to reduced geopolitical uncertainty from the US-Iran peace agreement. The RBI will monitor food and fuel prices before any policy changes.
EU leaders meet in Brussels for a two-day summit addressing competitiveness, trade, Ukraine, the Middle East, defense, and the bloc's next seven-year budget. The summit is the first since leadership changes in Hungary and Bulgaria.
Iranians face ongoing economic hardship due to sanctions and recent military actions, with little hope for immediate improvement. Concerns linger about potential protests and government crackdowns, as a lasting peace agreement remains uncertain.
A luxury five-bedroom apartment in Hong Kong, featuring 3.5-meter floor-to-ceiling heights, has been sold. The sale occurs amidst geopolitical uncertainties, including the US-Israel war on Iran, prompting investors to diversify assets. This transaction underscores strong demand in Hong Kong's super-luxury residential market.
Andy Burnham, a potential challenger to UK PM Keir Starmer, canceled an investor call amid market jitters over his left-leaning economic policies. Analysts warn of high market risk and potential fiscal instability if Burnham wins the upcoming Makerfield by-election.
Patrick Martin, head of France's Medef employers' association, fears a recession for France, predicting economic contraction in Q2 due to the Middle East crisis and global trade uncertainties. The B7 group of G7 business leaders will release a statement on June 10th, potentially advocating for the WTO's role.
China strengthens influence in Central Asia through water security, green tech, and diplomatic investments amid global uncertainty.
The SCO, led by China and Russia, faces challenges in taking a decisive stance due to its design for restraint, amid Iran's high tensions with the US and Israel, despite a tentative ceasefire agreement.
Hong Kong's Financial Secretary Paul Chan urged deeper cooperation with Europe, citing pragmatic opportunities in trade, investment, and innovation. He noted European interest in Hong Kong's financial market and a desire to diversify away from US dollar assets.
A US court ruled Trump's 10% global tariffs illegal, but uncertainty remains for Taiwan. The ruling underscores the need for Taiwan to build industrial resilience and economic strength, as US policy shifts and global trade becomes increasingly tied to national security.
NRI bank deposits in India fell by nearly $2 billion in March due to geopolitical uncertainty linked to the Iran war, with withdrawals exceeding fresh deposits, particularly in NRERA and NRO accounts.
UK public sector net borrowing hit £24.3bn in April, £4.9bn higher than last year and £3.4bn above forecasts. High inflation increased pension and benefit costs, while political uncertainty and global market jitters raised debt interest payments to a record £10.3bn for April.
UK public sector net borrowing hit £24.3bn in April, £4.9bn higher than last year and £3.4bn above forecasts, driven by inflation-linked benefits and pensions. Rising debt interest payments and market jitters over the Iran war and political uncertainty are increasing borrowing costs.
