South Korea's SK Hynix says it has received "unprecedented" orders from big tech firms eager to lock in supplies of high-bandwidth memory chips for AI servers. The chipmaker says its 2026 production capacity is largely sold out. Its shares are trading near record highs in Seoul.
Toyota said it expects an additional $5.5 billion in costs in fiscal 2026 because of fallout from the Iran war on global logistics and energy prices. The carmaker cut its profit guidance and signalled possible price changes for some US models. Its shares opened lower in Tokyo.
An explosion at a fireworks factory in Hunan province, China, killed 26 people and injured 61, according to state media reports.
China announced it has scrapped tariffs for almost all African nations. This move boosts China's soft power in African states, but may also deepen economic inequalities.
Chinese exporters are raising prices to offset rising costs. The Iran war's impact on logistics and energy makes price increases unavoidable. Global consumers will soon see higher prices on Chinese products.
A volcano on an island in eastern Indonesia erupted, killing at least three of the villagers who were being evacuated. Several regional flights were cancelled because of the ash plume.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee firmly stated she will not resign despite her party's major election defeat. The statement raises questions about constitutional processes for forming a new government.
Oil prices surge as tensions escalate in the Strait of Hormuz, with Brent crude trading above $114 per barrel amid shipping concerns.
Honda announced it is shelving its $11 billion Canadian EV plant amid weakening demand for electric vehicles and market uncertainty.
Biocon founder and CEO Kiran Mazumdar Shaw has named her niece Claire Mazumdar as her successor. The move signals a family-centered succession plan for India's major biotech firm.
Southeast Asian ride-hailing and delivery giant Grab beat first-quarter earnings forecasts. Demand for rides and food delivery remained resilient despite sluggish regional growth. The company's results underscore user stickiness in emerging markets.
CK Hutchison agreed to sell its stake in Vodafone's VodafoneThree joint venture for $5.8 billion. The deal signals major consolidation in European telecommunications.
Elections in India's key states have concluded. In West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee's TMC party gained votes despite BJP's push, while results in Bihar are still being announced. These elections show Modi's position in national politics.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won the election in West Bengal, long considered an opposition stronghold. This victory consolidates Modi's BJP's political dominance and reshapes India's political landscape.
Japanese company JSR announced it will build a new photoresist manufacturing plant in Taiwan to supply the world's largest chipmaker TSMC. This investment underscores Taiwan's importance in the semiconductor supply chain and Japan's role in the technology sector.
A Chinese court ruled that companies cannot fire employees on grounds that AI replacements would be cheaper, setting important precedent for worker protection in the AI era and prioritizing human concerns over technological savings.
Singapore's manufacturing sector shows expansion despite cost pressures and supply chain disruptions caused by the Iran war. While PMI data indicates rising production activity, input costs and delivery times remain at concerning levels.
US President Donald Trump said he is not satisfied with Iran's latest peace proposal. Talks have stalled and prospects for compromise appear limited.
The Trump administration argues that the Iran war has effectively ended due to the ceasefire that began in early April, circumventing the need for congressional approval under the 1973 War Powers Resolution's 60-day window. Critics view this as legal overreach. Oil markets react directly.
The International Criminal Court has confirmed that ex-Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte will stand trial on crimes against humanity charges. Duterte presided over a deadly "war on drugs" that resulted in thousands of extrajudicial killings.
Residents of Islamabad are bearing significant economic and security costs as Pakistan's capital serves as the epicentre of US-Iran ceasefire mediation efforts. Business activity has slowed and living costs have risen amid escalated military presence.
Singapore's Straits Times Index (STI) declined 0.4% as investors grew concerned about the Iran war and global inflation risks. Market sentiment remains fragile due to Middle East tensions and their impact on energy costs and regional supply chains.
Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) will appoint the head of Japan's sovereign wealth fund as its new chairman. The move brings corporate and investment experience to the utility firm's leadership.
Members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations agreed to create a shared fuel reserve to bolster resilience against future energy shocks. The decision is a direct response to the strain the Iran war has placed on the energy-importing region.
A 17th-century astrolabe (astronomical computer) once owned by Indian royalty sold for a record price at auction. Possibly the world's largest, it was first publicly exhibited. The sale highlights the high value of historic scientific instruments and India's cultural heritage.
The Strait of Hormuz closure and Chinese restrictions have disrupted Asia's fertilizer supplies. As planting season begins, fertilizer shortages threaten agricultural production across Asia, risking higher food prices and rural income losses.
The yen surged to the high 155-range against the dollar in thin holiday trading following Japan's national holiday. Central bank intervention speculation supports the yen's strength, marking a significant shift in the USD/JPY pair.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is visiting India to discuss the Iran war and disagreements among BRICS nations. Russia's backing emphasizes India's role as a diplomatic mediator on Middle East issues despite conflicting interests among major powers.
After the US imposed sanctions on five Chinese oil refineries accused of trading in Iranian fuel, China ordered companies nationwide to defy the US sanctions. The move signals Beijing's more aggressive pushback against American long-arm jurisdiction in trade.
Myanmar's military administration announced that Nobel Prize-winning ex-leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been moved to house arrest. This move reflects ongoing regional instability and the lack of transparency about Myanmar's political situation since the 2021 coup.
As Iran faces war and Western sanctions intensify, Chinese yuan payments have surged for both Iran and Russia. This shift demonstrates weakening US dollar dominance and the rise of alternative payment systems for countries under sanctions.
Rising oil prices from the Iran-US war have pushed Pakistan's inflation to double-digit levels. As energy costs surge, Pakistan's trade deficit and current account deficit also widen.
China's smartphone and electronics supply chain is adapting its expertise to support the burgeoning humanoid robotics industry. As mobile market growth stalls, suppliers are finding new growth in humanoid robotics.
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has raised energy security concerns across Asia, potentially spurring regional cooperation on strategic oil reserves. Experts suggest establishing regional mechanisms for shared storage and information-sharing.
The US has warned shipping companies against paying Iran for transit through the Strait of Hormuz. The warning follows Iran's control of strait passage and its demands for transit fees from ship owners. Oil-importing countries like India face increasing costs as a result.
Japan's monetary authorities face limited success in supporting the yen against structural economic weaknesses despite intervention efforts. High energy prices caused by the Iran war have further strengthened Japan's position as a net importer, weakening the yen. The central bank has been forced to reassess its monetary policy.
LPG cylinder prices in India increased by 933 rupees. The energy crisis from Iran war continues to deeply affect India.
South Korea's April exports rose 48% year-over-year. Semiconductor and computer-related exports surged significantly.
Rising oil prices suggest Japan may need to intervene to support the yen. Higher energy prices could negatively impact the Japanese economy.
Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi has been moved to house arrest after being detained since the 2021 military coup. Myanmar's military announced the move. The decision marks a critical development for the democracy movement.
The Japanese yen surged to 155 against the dollar, its strongest level in 34 years. Markets have reduced yen-selling bets as expectations build for the BOJ's continued monetary normalisation. Finance Ministry signals of intervention readiness show efforts to manage yen appreciation pace.
Amid Middle East war concerns, India is poised to attract $800 billion in investments across energy infrastructure, defence, data centres, and supply chain diversification, according to Morgan Stanley. The geopolitical shift is accelerating India's emergence as an alternative manufacturing and services hub as multinational companies reduce China exposure and Middle East risk.
China has blocked Meta's proposed $2 billion acquisition of AI startup Manus, citing unspecified national security concerns. Although Chinese state media claims the decision does not signal broader restrictions on foreign investment, the move has rattled AI entrepreneurs and investors who feared Beijing was tightening oversight of critical technologies.
Singapore stocks climbed 1.1% as DBS Group posted first-quarter earnings that beat analyst expectations. The banking sector was buoyed by tighter credit margins and strong loan growth, offsetting some weakness from broader regional equities amid Middle East war concerns. The Straits Times Index remains down 1.7% for the truncated trading week.
Hitachi and Advantest are leading Japan's technology sector on a surge of AI-driven demand. Both companies reported robust profit growth from rising orders for semiconductor manufacturing equipment and AI chip testing gear, positioning Japan Inc. for record earnings as global AI spending accelerates.
Exit polls from Indian state elections suggest major political shifts could reshape regional power dynamics. Results will impact policy on economic reform, fiscal spending, and regional governance as multiple states hold elections simultaneously.
Operating costs for Hong Kong's industrial and commercial sectors have jumped 50% since the start of the US-Israel war with Iran, according to an oil industry executive. Distributors are expected to pass higher fuel surcharges on to customers, raising prices across the economy.
Samsung's Q1 semiconductor profit surged nearly 50-fold, driven by soaring demand for AI server memory from major hyperscalers. The company forecasts robust server memory demand will persist through 2026, with potential for supply shortages to deepen in 2027.
The Japanese yen fell to 160 against the dollar, breaching a key psychological level as US-Japan interest rate differentials widened. Japanese government bond yields hit their highest level in nearly three decades, reflecting expectations for further BoJ policy normalization.
Middle East tensions disrupting energy supplies threaten livelihoods of workers in India's glass industry hub. Iran-US conflict and soaring oil prices are pressuring the energy-intensive glass production process. Factories are cutting capacity and laying off workers.
Hong Kong expects about 980,000 mainland Chinese visitors during the Labour Day 'golden week' from May 1-5, a 7% increase year-over-year. But tourists are shunning major attractions in favor of slower tourism, seeking out lesser-known hidden gems.
Indonesia's prominent agritech startup eFishery's founder has been sentenced to 9 years in prison for $383 million fraud. The firm was backed by major investors like Temasek but accounting fraud was uncovered. The case raises trust questions over Southeast Asia's fast-growing tech sector.
Mitsubishi Materials is raising prices for tungsten carbide amid tight supplies from China. Energy costs surging from the Iran war and geopolitical uncertainty have disrupted specialty metal production. These price hikes will further strain global supply chains and manufacturing costs.
A collision between a commuter train and a long-distance train on the outskirts of Jakarta killed at least four people and injured dozens. The crash triggered a massive rescue operation. Authorities are investigating the cause of the accident.
Reliance Industries, India's largest conglomerate, achieved annual net profit exceeding $10 billion for the first time. The milestone reflects strong demand across its oil, gas, and refining operations despite Iran war disruptions.
Cho Pak-shing, founder and CEO of Fuyao Glass, warned he may shut down US operations if trade tensions with China continue. Fuyao is one of the world's largest automotive glass manufacturers and the subject of an Oscar-winning documentary.
Rising US military-grade jet fuel shipments provide clues about the economic impact of the Iran war. These shipments indicate intense US operations in the Middle East. Countries like India are significantly affected by elevated oil prices.
Chinese EV startup Xpeng aims to surpass Tesla's self-driving capabilities in China by August. Founder and CEO He Xiaopeng said the company will exceed Tesla's abilities by that date. China's EV market increasingly intensifies competition against Tesla.
Malaysia-based Karex, which produces over 5 billion condoms annually and supplies global brands including Durex and Trojan, is preparing price increases due to rising raw material and energy costs driven by the Iran conflict.
Intel shares jumped nearly 20% after the chipmaker forecast second-quarter revenue above estimates, driven by surging demand for server CPUs amid a supply crunch. The outlook signals a CPU renaissance as data centre operators compete for AI infrastructure capacity.
Thai chemical giant Siam Cement has frozen construction of its Vietnam petrochemical plant due to the Iran war. The move reflects regional concerns over Strait of Hormuz supply disruptions and the chemical sector's fear of energy cost shocks. Investment delays are mounting across Asia.
Tokyo-listed Honda Motor reported its first operating loss since going public in 1962. The carmaker is recalibrating its electric strategy toward hybrids after shelving its 11-billion-dollar Canada EV plant.
India is advancing plans to introduce 100 percent ethanol-blended petrol at fuel pumps, but traditional petrol may disappear entirely amid the energy transition. The Iran conflict and global energy crisis are reshaping India's fuel strategy and renewable energy ambitions.
President Trump warned that the US naval blockade on Iran could persist for months and urged Tehran to "get smart soon" and capitulate to US nuclear demands. Brent crude climbed to $119 per barrel, amplifying energy security concerns for China and other major consumers.
Singapore's Straits Times Index fell 0.6 percent as the Middle East conflict enters its third month, closing down 26.72 points at 4,860.97. Investor concerns over energy supply disruptions and economic headwinds weigh on regional equities.
China has suspended new autonomous driving permits following a safety incident involving a Baidu self-driving vehicle. This regulatory tightening reflects Beijing's cautious approach to AI and autonomous vehicle deployment amid rapid sector growth.
The UAE and Saudi Arabia are bypassing the Strait of Hormuz blockade by using alternative shipping routes to increase crude oil supplies to India. The move helps secure India's energy needs but adds transport costs that could eventually lift prices.
China is pressuring Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but analysts say Beijing's carefully worded statements reveal the limits of its influence over Tehran. As a major energy importer, China is squeezed between geopolitical realities and economic self-interest.
Oil prices surged past $110 per barrel, with Brent crude hitting multi-month highs as the Iran war standoff continues with no resolution in sight. Southeast Asian economies, heavily dependent on oil imports, face mounting cost pressures from the spike.
Japanese construction equipment maker Komatsu cut profit forecasts by 16 percent due to the Iran war and US tariff threats. The company cited soaring energy costs, logistics expenses, and tariff pressures weighing on margins.
Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh rejected double standards in fighting terrorism at an SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organization) meeting. The remarks were made amid regional security concerns and Pakistan relations.
China's government blocked Meta's planned $2 billion acquisition of Singapore-based AI startup Manus. The decision signals Beijing is tightening tech controls and targeting 'de-China' efforts.
The Bank of Japan held its policy rate steady in a 6-3 split vote while raising its inflation forecast to 2.8%. Sharp increases in energy prices due to the Iran war have complicated Japan's efforts to manage price pressures.
India faces headwinds from the Iran-US war's energy shock and weak monsoon rainfall forecasts. Economists warn that if these two factors converge, growth could slow significantly. Agriculture and energy sectors are most at risk of disruption.
Chinese regulators blocked Meta's planned $2 billion acquisition of AI startup Manus after months of scrutiny. Officials cited strategic concerns in rejecting the deal. The move reflects Beijing's efforts to limit Western tech influence in China's booming AI sector.
Japan's food industry faces a critical shortage of plastic containers as naphtha prices surge due to Iran-US war disruptions. Production of plastic materials used in food packaging has contracted sharply. Food manufacturers must either redesign packaging or scale back production.
Coordinated strikes across Ukraine and Russian-controlled areas on the 40th anniversary of Chernobyl killed at least 16 people, underscoring the risks of military operations near nuclear facilities. The attacks renewed international warnings about dangers to nuclear infrastructure during the war.
BYD, China's EV leader, declared it can prosper without accessing the US market, positioning itself to capture demand from emerging markets shifting away from fossil fuels as global fuel prices surge.
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is traveling to Pakistan for direct ceasefire talks with the US and its allies. The move follows a 10-day ceasefire extension and signals potential for a diplomatic resolution to the Iran-US conflict.
The Trump administration has threatened action against Chinese firms that are wrongfully 'distilling' US AI models. Analysts warn this could weed out weaker players in China's AI sector within a year.
Brent crude oil approached $110 per barrel as Iran-US ceasefire uncertainties drive a five-day rally. The energy price surge directly impacts India's import-dependent economy and inflation trajectory.
Chinese AI startup DeepSeek released a preview of its long-awaited V4 large language model, claiming performance improvements in reasoning and agent-based tasks. The open-source release intensifies competitive pressure on US AI leaders.
Indonesia has granted legal recognition to approximately 4.2 million domestic workers, mostly women, ending a 22-year struggle for workplace rights. The move marks a milestone in labor protection, though implementation challenges remain.
India sharply criticized Trump's 'hellhole' remark about the country, calling it uninformed and misrepresentative of US-India ties. The comment creates fresh tension in an already delicate balance of commercial and strategic relations. Indian officials stressed ties remain constructive.
Indian alternative investment firms (AIFs) operating in the Gulf face mounting losses and uncertainty as the Iran war disrupts regional investment flows and economic activity. Several high-profile Emirati and Saudi-backed funds are struggling to deploy capital amid geopolitical volatility.
Japan loosened post-WWII arms export restrictions, clearing the way to sell weapons to over a dozen countries. The move breaks with decades of pacifism and reflects Tokyo's strategic shift amid Middle East tensions and rising China concerns.
EU energy chief Dan Jørgensen warns the Iran war energy crisis is worse than the 1973 oil embargo and 2022 crisis combined. The assessment highlights how supply disruptions and geopolitical uncertainty are creating unprecedented pressure on global energy markets.
Japan's major convenience store chain FamilyMart is considering delivery service reductions due to soaring fuel costs triggered by the Iran conflict. The move highlights how the Middle East war is creating cost pressures across Japan's retail sector.
President Trump has extended the US-Iran ceasefire indefinitely, but the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz persists. India is considering stepping into Middle East peace talks to secure energy supplies, amid global oil market volatility that threatens growth.
Japan's Nikkei 225 and South Korea's KOSPI both hit record highs as artificial intelligence stocks surged, shrugging off Middle East geopolitical risks. Semiconductor and tech companies in both nations benefited from surging demand for AI chips and infrastructure.
The oil supply shock from the Iran war poses a significant risk to global economies, including India. Economists say the current crisis, though more controlled than the 1973 and 1979 oil shocks, still carries serious implications for inflation and growth.
Bang Si-hyuk, founder of supergroup BTS and head of BigHit Entertainment, is accused of defrauding investors ahead of his company's $7.3 billion IPO. Police allege accounting irregularities in the period leading up to the public listing.
China's Supreme People's Court has handed suspended death sentences to former defence ministers Wei Fenghe and Li Shangfu on bribery charges. The verdicts come as Xi Jinping deepens his grip on the military.
India's Chief Economic Advisor warned that the energy crisis stemming from the Iran-US war poses risks to the country's growth trajectory. Rising oil and logistics costs are fueling inflation and threatening GDP expansion.
Chinese AI firm DeepSeek has priced its latest V4 model at 97% below OpenAI's rates, potentially triggering a price war in the competitive AI market.
The energy price surge stemming from the Iran-US war is hitting developing countries with IMF debt particularly hard. Rising oil and gas costs are exacerbating external debt burdens for vulnerable economies.
India's Russian oil imports fell 20% in April following a March spike. The decline reflects global energy price volatility.
China's leading automakers are surpassing Japanese and European rivals through advances in AI and battery technology. Chinese firms like BYD are rapidly gaining global market share.
China has delivered its largest-ever LNG carrier, bringing the number of domestic shipyards capable of designing and building advanced vessels to five. The technological advance represents a significant challenge to South Korea's dominance in shipbuilding.
As Iran war disrupts Middle Eastern oil supplies, India is securing alternative sources from the US, Russia, and Brazil to plug energy gaps. The diversification effort is critical for India's economy given Middle East exports formerly met 60% of its crude demand.
Honda has postponed its commercial autonomous driving launch to 2028 from an earlier target, citing challenges in EV market profitability and broader headwinds in the auto sector. The delay reflects the company's pivot toward more conservative technology timelines.
India's Union Bank warned that Strait of Hormuz disruptions and rising crude towards $100 per barrel pose significant risks to inflation and the rupee. The Iran conflict is now directly impacting India's external sector and price stability.
U.S. interception of Iranian-linked tankers in Asian waters is spreading pressure on Southeast Asian nations controlling key sea lanes. Analysts warn Washington's maritime enforcement campaign may threaten regional neutrality policies.
Trump stated the US Navy will shoot to kill vessels laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz. This threat signals escalating tensions in the US-Iran conflict and heightened maritime security risks. Oil prices and global trade flows are directly impacted.
Electricity prices in China's industrial hub Guangdong have nearly doubled. The Iran war's disruption of gas supplies through the Strait of Hormuz is driving up manufacturer costs in the region. Factories in Guangdong are forced to raise product prices to offset surging energy expenses.
Mainland Chinese investors have slowed purchases of Hong Kong-listed shares this year after record inflows in 2025, as expanding AI investment opportunities in Chinese markets offer alternative outlets. The shift signals changing capital allocation patterns as Beijing's tech sector diversifies.
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te cancelled his visit to Eswatini after African nations revoked flight permits at Beijing's behest. The move underscores China's ability to isolate Taiwan diplomatically and demonstrates the fragility of Taipei's remaining diplomatic ties.
Fitch Ratings says Chinese battery cell manufacturers are poised to benefit as the Iran war reshapes global energy storage demand. Energy security concerns are accelerating renewable energy and battery storage investments worldwide.
A poll finds two-thirds of Singapore businesses report negative impact from the Iran-Israel war, with SMEs hit hardest. Revenue declines among smaller firms are more severe as supply-chain disruptions and fuel costs compound.
Taiwan's President William Lai was forced to cancel his planned trip to eSwatini after three African countries denied overflight clearance for his aircraft. Beijing has praised the move, signaling its growing geopolitical leverage on the continent.
Vietnamese EV maker VinFast is targeting 100,000 vehicle sales outside Vietnam in 2026, signaling aggressive expansion into Asian and global markets as it ramps up production and dealer networks.
Australia's BHP has concluded a standoff with China's largest iron ore buyer, ending weeks of commercial negotiations. The deal signals easing tensions in China-Australia trade relations and supports commodity market stability.
The Strait of Hormuz tensions highlight critical energy security vulnerabilities for Asia's economies. Experts warn that diversifying energy sources and creating alternative supply routes is essential to insulate Asia from geopolitical disruptions.
T-Mobile's largest shareholder is exploring a merger that would create the world's biggest wireless operator by market capitalization, surpassing China Mobile. The deal would reshape competition among the telecom sector's major players.
Heavy industrial users in India — including steel, cement and data centre operators — are increasingly producing their own electricity, leaving state-controlled utilities to face the loss of their most profitable customers. The shift is accelerating green-energy investment but eroding the long-term revenue base of the grid.
Suzlon Energy shares are rising on increased demand for renewable energy amid surging oil prices from the Iran war. Investors are turning to wind and solar energy technologies as traditional fossil fuel costs escalate.
Japan's Nikkei 225 index surpassed the 60,000 level, establishing a new all-time closing high. Despite geopolitical risk-off sentiment, Asian markets continued to rally on strong demand for artificial intelligence and technology stocks.
Federal Reserve chair nominee Kevin Warsh's Senate confirmation hearing signaled a shift toward 'monetary sovereignty' and what Chinese analysts characterize as 'America First' monetary policy, potentially extending Trump's nationalist economic agenda to central banking.
China's export profile is shifting from cheap mass-produced goods to lifestyle brands. Now Chinese hotpot restaurant chains, bubble tea franchises, and performance sportswear companies are targeting global markets with premium positioning.
Japan's trade deficit contracted 68% in fiscal 2025 to $2.3 billion, driven by strong semiconductor and electronics exports. However, energy imports remained elevated, partly due to Middle East tensions affecting global fuel costs.
General Ahmad Vahidi, Iran's new defense minister and key figure in the country's security structure, is a central player shaping geopolitical developments. His role is significant in the context of Trump's ceasefire extension.
Tim Cook will serve as Apple's global ambassador after stepping down as CEO. His close relationship with Donald Trump, forged nearly a decade ago, has proven valuable for Apple in government negotiations and commercial deals. Cook's new role will strengthen Apple's position amid geopolitical challenges.
President Donald Trump will travel to Beijing next week with a noticeably smaller corporate delegation than in 2017, with Boeing, Citigroup and Mastercard CEOs invited. The slimmed-down guest list signals limited expectations for the summit. The Iran war is set to dominate the agenda, with trade and technology talks running in the background.
China is supporting Namibia's efforts to move beyond raw material exports by helping develop domestic processing capacity for critical minerals and uranium fuel production.
Contemporary Amperex Technology Limited (CATL), the world's largest EV battery producer, unveiled upgraded battery technologies featuring faster charging and higher performance. Lighter battery packs and advanced charging modes are expected to accelerate global electrification.
Asian stock markets opened lower on Wednesday as geopolitical uncertainty in the Middle East weighed on investors, despite Trump's ceasefire extension with Iran. Regional equities and currencies remain volatile amid peace talk complications.
India Defense Minister Rajnath Singh stated that Hormuz Strait disruptions in the Iran-US war directly impact India's energy and trade security. Approximately 40% of India's oil imports transit this critical waterway.
Wall Street declined as Middle East tensions persist, with the Dow Jones falling 0.59% to close at 49,149 points. Despite positive corporate earnings reports, geopolitical risks keep investors cautious.
Sensex hit 85000 as FIIs invested $4.2bn.
Singapore's second-largest lender OCBC posted a 5% rise in first-quarter net profit to S$1.97 billion, beating market expectations. Wealth management fees and resilient corporate loan growth drove the result. The print signals that Asian banking is starting the year on a firm footing despite Strait of Hormuz volatility.
China's next-generation Type 076 'drone-carrier' amphibious assault ship is heading to the South China Sea for critical sea trials. The deployment sharpens geopolitical tension even as the US, Philippines, and Japan conduct nearby operations.
Japan's Defense Minister stated the government must lead an expansion of arms and defense technology production. This signals a historic break from Japan's post-WW2 pacifist constitution, positioning the nation as a serious defense-industrial power in Asia.
South Korea's early trade data shows export momentum remains robust. Semiconductor exports surged 182.5%, driving overall shipment growth and confirming the technology sector's leadership.
Tata sold 48000 EVs up 67% YoY.
Japan has seen its largest anti-war demonstrations in decades, as the prime minister pushes for stronger defence spending and a more assertive military posture. The protests expose deep divisions over the country's pacifist constitution. Investors are watching the implications for the defence budget and the Nikkei.
Japan's Advantest, a semiconductor testing equipment maker, has partnered with US process materials leader Applied Materials to advance chip manufacturing technology. The collaboration targets next-generation semiconductor innovation and production efficiency.
MSCI delayed its high-stakes review of Indonesia's emerging-market status following investor panic triggered by a downgrade warning issued in late January. The postponement prolongs uncertainty for Southeast Asian fund flows and emerging market allocations.
Taiwan's President William Lai has postponed a scheduled trip to visit Taiwan's last African diplomatic partner after three nations abruptly revoked overflight permission for his aircraft. Taipei has blamed the sudden denials on pressure from Beijing to isolate the island diplomatically.
PBOC cut RRR releasing 1 trillion yuan.
Satellite broadband for 200M rural Indians.
India's Home Minister Amit Shah arrived in Kolkata to finalise the formation of West Bengal's first-ever BJP government. The party has won a historic mandate. Cabinet appointments and the chief minister designation are expected imminently.
Sapporo Holdings is selling US craft beer maker Stone Brewing to refocus on its own brand portfolio. The strategic move aims to reorganize its international portfolio and drive growth in flagship brands.
At least 25 workers, mostly women, have been killed in an explosion at a firecracker factory in Tamil Nadu state, southern India. The blast highlights serious safety lapses in the pyrotechnic manufacturing sector and raises questions about labor standards and factory oversight.
MAS flagged property risks as prices rose for 12th quarter.
BYD delivered 2.8M units in Q1 surpassing Toyota.
Tesla's Shanghai factory reported a 36% year-on-year delivery surge last month, boosted by local government subsidies and surging EV demand amid the global energy shock. Yet domestic rivals with new models are pressuring market share.
Hitachi completes its 17-year restructuring by selling its last noncore business, consolidating focus on construction materials and digital solutions. The divestment signals the conglomerate's final pivot toward core competencies.
Vietnam overtook Malaysia in semiconductor packaging.
Qwen 3 matches GPT-4o with free API.
Southeast Asian banks are assessing how the Iran war strains corporate lending. Rising energy costs squeeze margins for borrowers, while some sectors face deteriorating credit quality. Lenders are tightening standards ahead.
Japan has scrapped long-standing restrictions on weapons exports in a major break from its post-war pacifist policy. The move clears the way for Japan to sell military equipment to more than a dozen countries, marking a significant shift in the nation's geopolitical strategy.
Joint venture targets solid-state batteries by 2028.
Massive nickel complex approved in Sulawesi.
Toyota cuts full-year profit guidance due to Middle East war impacts. Rising material costs and regional sales losses from the Iran conflict will slash net income by roughly 20%. The world's largest automaker braces for a painful FY26.
China has cut gasoline prices for the first time this year, a move that reflects demand dynamics and strategic reserve management amid the Iran conflict. While the regional war has disrupted global energy markets, China's decision signals strategic positioning.
BSP cut to 5.25% as inflation eased to 2.8%.
Chandranath Rath, a personal aide to BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari who is positioned to become West Bengal's next chief minister, was shot dead in post-election violence in the state. The killing underscores intensifying political tensions and communal violence following the recent state assembly elections.
Japan has eased decades-old restrictions on arms exports, opening opportunities for domestic defence contractors including IHI and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to scale up production. The policy shift reflects Japan's evolving security posture amid regional tensions.
Security experts warn that China has been studying propaganda and information warfare tactics employed during the Iran and Ukraine conflicts and could deploy similar strategies effectively in a potential Taiwan Strait confrontation. The assessment highlights US vulnerabilities in cognitive and information warfare as China advances its approach to shape narratives and undermine Western unity.
The Bank of Japan will hold rates steady next week and defer expected rate increases until June as the next opportunity. The decision takes into account US-Iran tensions and global economic uncertainty. This approach reflects the BOJ's aim to preserve financial stability by managing volatility in the Japanese yen.
Myanmar's military administration announced that former democratic leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been moved to house arrest. The Nobel Peace Prize laureate has remained in detention since the military coup ousted her government in 2021, and the shift marks a potential softening of conditions following sustained international pressure.
Governor ready to hike as weak yen fuels costs.
Activist investors, once effectively frozen out of Japan's corporate landscape, are now entrenching for multi-year campaigns as governance reforms gather pace. The shift is reshaping capital allocation practices at some of Japan's most entrenched conglomerates.
SoftBank is in advanced talks with Nvidia and Foxconn to develop domestically manufactured AI servers in Japan. The initiative signals Japan's effort to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and build indigenous AI infrastructure capabilities amid global chip supply constraints.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi remains popular six months into office, but the Iran war's impact on energy prices and supply chains is emerging as the first serious challenge to her administration's economic agenda.
Indian liquor maker Radico Khaitan has resumed shipments to Gulf countries after pausing due to the Iran war. Easing tensions and peace hopes are allowing business operations to normalize.
S&P Global has downgraded India's FY27 growth forecast to 6.6% due to the economic fallout from the Iran war, citing tightened fiscal space and elevated energy costs.
South Korea's KOSPI index hit a record intraday high on Tuesday, driven by a surge in AI-linked semiconductor stocks including Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix. The rally came even as broader Asian markets remained mixed amid ongoing US-Iran tensions.
The EU's outgoing top trade official Sabine Weyand advised shelving the planned investment deal with China, citing China's structural 'macroeconomic' issues. She signaled new tools are needed to address Chinese practices.
United Overseas Bank (UOB) has launched its $500 million technology hub in Singapore's Punggol Digital District, marking the first major financial institution to establish operations in the new tech zone.
Shares of Apple's Asian suppliers traded mixed following the announcement that John Ternus will succeed Tim Cook as CEO. Ternus's hardware pedigree was seen as broadly positive for component makers, but uncertainty over Apple's AI product roadmap kept investors cautious. Japanese suppliers including Murata Manufacturing and TDK were among the stocks closely watched in Tokyo trading.
China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Iran's Foreign Minister Aragchi, calling for immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. This is Iran's first visit to Beijing since the war began.
Japan's IHI and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries are expanding worker training programs for nuclear plants as the country accelerates reactor restarts amid energy security concerns.
US drone manufacturers are scrambling to rebuild their supply chains after a ban on Chinese-made components took effect, creating a major opening for Asian producers in Japan, South Korea and elsewhere to fill the gap. The shift carries significant implications for defence technology investment across the Indo-Pacific.
The Nikkei 225 index surged to a historic record on optimistic reports about US-Iran peace talks. Japan's equity market has broken all-time highs amid regional stability hopes.
As the Iran war threatens Middle East oil flows, China is rapidly scaling up its capacity to convert coal into chemicals and fuels, reducing its dependence on imported crude. The shift has significant implications for regional energy markets and Asia's broader supply security.
Japan is launching a new initiative to support African production of jatropha biofuel for maritime shipping. The project aims to reduce carbon emissions in the shipping sector while ensuring energy security. Jatropha serves as a sustainable fuel source suitable for marine applications.
Japan's Nojima retailer is set to acquire Hitachi's appliance unit for over $630 million. This M&A move will strengthen Nojima's position in the white goods market.
Japan's two biggest airlines, All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines, have moved forward the implementation of fuel surcharges in response to surging jet fuel costs driven by the Iran war. The Strait of Hormuz crisis is pushing energy costs higher across Asia.