Japan’s GDP Shrinks Unexpectedly, Yen Slides Near 145 as BOJ Stays Dovish and Safe-Haven Demand Grows

Japan’s economy unexpectedly contracted by 0.7% in the first quarter, raising concerns about the country’s growth outlook. Meanwhile, the Bank of Japan continues to stick with its dovish monetary policy, in contrast to more aggressive stances from other major central banks. As a result, the U.S. dollar is trading near the 145 yen level, with traders watching closely for policy signals from both countries. At the same time, rising global uncertainties are fueling demand for safe-haven assets, which is helping to support the yen. However, if key technical support levels are breached, the yen could see increased volatility in the forex market.

OPEC Cuts Non-OPEC+ Oil Output Forecast as U.S. Shale Struggles — All Eyes on Gas Prices Ahead of Summer Driving Season

Global oil markets are entering a new phase of uncertainty. In its latest report, OPEC revised down its 2025 oil supply growth forecast for non-OPEC+ producers, citing mounting pressure from low oil prices and tighter capital spending. U.S. shale production has been particularly affected, with growth noticeably slowing — a trend that could offer OPEC+ an opportunity to maintain market stability. As the peak driving season approaches and geopolitical risks escalate, the outlook for oil prices is becoming increasingly critical for investors and energy markets alike.

UnitedHealth Shocks Wall Street with 2025 Executive Shake-Up and Forecast Withdrawal: Stock Plunges as Healthcare Insurance Outlook Dims

In May 2025, UnitedHealth, one of the largest health insurance providers in the U.S., shocked Wall Street and the broader healthcare industry with an unexpected leadership shake-up and the withdrawal of its earnings forecast. The news triggered a sharp drop in its stock price and wiped out billions in market value, sparking a crisis of investor confidence.

This article takes a closer look at the underlying business challenges, financial pressures, and systemic risks facing the health insurance sector. We also explore what this upheaval could mean for the future direction of UnitedHealth and the industry as a whole.

US Inflation Falls to 2.3% in April, Lowest in 3 Years — Investors Watch Fed Policy and US-China Trade Trends

U.S. inflation cooled further in April, with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rising 2.3% year-over-year — the lowest increase in three years. This softer-than-expected reading has eased market concerns about persistent inflationary pressures. However, core CPI, which excludes food and energy, remained unchanged at 2.8%, reflecting ongoing price risks in housing and healthcare. Going forward, developments in U.S.-China trade tariffs and the Federal Reserve’s interest rate decisions will play a critical role in shaping investor sentiment. Market participants should stay vigilant and monitor inflation trends alongside shifts in monetary policy.

Euro Falls to Five-Week Low Against Dollar as US-China Tariff Easing Lifts Greenback; All Eyes on US CPI for Rate Cut Clues

The euro has slipped to a five-week low against the US dollar, as easing trade tensions between the U.S. and China lifted demand for the greenback. Investors are now turning their attention to the upcoming U.S. April CPI report, which could play a pivotal role in shaping expectations for potential Federal Reserve rate cuts. From a technical perspective, the euro is at risk of breaking below the 1.1000 support level, increasing the likelihood of further short-term declines in the EUR/USD pair.

Bank of Japan Eyes Economic Shift: Wage Growth and Labor Shortages Drive Domestic Demand, Rate Hikes and Risk Balance Under Scrutiny

The Bank of Japan signals that while inflation is easing, rising wages and labor shortages are expected to support domestic demand and drive structural changes in the economy. As global uncertainty persists, investors are closely watching how Japan will manage the delicate balance between raising interest rates and sustaining economic growth.