Economics
UK Mortgage Approvals Climb to 15-Month High Despite Iran War
UK mortgage approvals hit a 15-month high, defying the uncertainty of the Iran conflict. This surge highlights resilient housing demand despite global geopolitical tensions.
South Africa Business Mood Slips as Iran War Upends Rate Outlook
South African business sentiment deteriorates as the Iran conflict disrupts interest rate projections, creating economic uncertainty.
Bank of Thailand Governor Sees No Need to Raise Rates ‘For Now’
Bank of Thailand Governor states there is no immediate need to raise interest rates.
India to Unveil Broader Gauge for Inflation in Data Revamp
India will unveil a broader inflation gauge as part of a data overhaul, expanding metrics beyond current measures to provide a more comprehensive view of price trends.
Japan’s Duty-Free Sales Climb in May as Tourism Boom Endures
Japan’s duty-free sales rose in May despite a tourist dip caused by Middle East tensions and China disputes. The country remains on track to welcome 60 million visitors by 2030.
Southeast Asia’s Factories Ramp Up on Robust Domestic Demand
Robust domestic demand is driving manufacturing expansion across Southeast Asia, shifting the region from its traditional role as a low-cost export hub for the US to a key consumer market.
RBA’s Harper Worries Over ‘Uptick’ in Inflation Expectations
RBA Governor Michele Harper is concerned about a recent uptick in inflation expectations, signaling potential vigilance on monetary policy.
Chile’s Government Seeks $6.2 Billion in Additional Debt Sales
Chile’s government seeks $6.2 billion in new debt sales. President Jose Antonio Kast addressed the nation in Valparaiso on June 1.
Australia Raises Minimum Wage Rate by 4.75%, Citing Uncertainty
Australia raised its minimum wage by 4.75% to address current economic uncertainty. This adjustment aims to support workers amidst financial volatility.
Japan’s Katayama Says Always Ready to Take Steps on Currencies as Needed
Japan’s Katayama reaffirms readiness to take necessary steps on currency issues as needed. This statement underscores Tokyo's vigilance regarding exchange rate fluctuations and its commitment to maintaining financial stability through potential intervention.
S. Korea’s Inflation Accelerates, Supporting BOK’s Hawkish Tilt
South Korea’s accelerating inflation reinforces the Bank of Korea’s decision to maintain a restrictive monetary policy stance.
US Manufacturing Activity Expands by Most in Four Years
US manufacturing activity expanded at its fastest pace in four years, signaling strong sector growth. This surge reflects renewed industrial momentum across the country.
Peru Inflation Unexpectedly Slows, Still Running Over Target
Peru’s inflation unexpectedly slowed but remains above the central bank’s target, defying economist predictions.
Apollo’s Slok Says AI Will Dash Warsh’s Hopes for Quick Rate Cut
Apollo’s Samir Flore warns AI-driven market dynamics may delay Fed rate cuts, challenging Warsh Capital’s expectations for a quick reduction in borrowing costs.
Chile Economy Starts Second Quarter With Minimal Monthly Growth
Chile’s economy enters the second quarter with negligible monthly growth. This minimal expansion signals a sluggish start to the period, as illustrated by activity in Santiago's financial district.
India’s Factory Output Expands 4.9% Under Revised Data Series
Revised data reveals India’s industrial production expanded by 4.9%, reflecting active manufacturing growth. This update highlights the sector's robust performance, exemplified by operations in Gujarat.
India May Scale Back UK FTA Concessions Over Steel Duties
India may reduce UK FTA concessions in response to steel tariffs. This potential move follows recent industrial production data releases from facilities like Jindal Stainless.
South Africa Gasoline Prices Hit Record With Relief Rollback
South Africa’s gasoline prices hit record highs after the government reversed previous fuel relief measures.
How the AI Boom Is Rewiring Asia’s Growth Model
Nvidia’s resumption of H200 sales to China signals Asia’s deepening integration into the global AI supply chain, reshaping the region’s economic growth model through advanced semiconductor demand.
Trump’s Trade Chief Takes a Globalist Victory Lap
US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer celebrated globalist victories at the 2026 Davos WEF. His Bloomberg interview highlighted Trump administration trade successes during the January summit.