Trump Announces Ceasefire Between Israel and Iran – A Step Toward Peace or Calm Before the Storm?

Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that Israel and Iran have reached a preliminary ceasefire agreement, set to take effect in phases starting at midnight on Monday. The announcement has drawn global attention, coming just two days after a joint U.S.-Israel airstrike targeted Iranian nuclear facilities. While the news offers a glimpse of hope for peace in the region, experts caution that the next 24 hours will be critical in determining whether the ceasefire marks the true end of hostilities or merely a temporary pause before further escalation.

Australian Dollar Breaks Above 0.6400 as Risk Appetite Improves and High-Yield Currencies Gain Momentum

This week, the Australian dollar (AUD) has climbed back above the 0.6400 mark against the US dollar (USD), supported by easing geopolitical tensions and softer-than-expected U.S. economic data. As market risk appetite improves, high-yielding currencies like the Aussie are gaining traction.

Although the broader trend for AUD/USD remains downward in the short term, a firm hold above the 0.6345 level could open the door for a potential test of resistance at 0.6475 and 0.6515.

Traders should remain focused on upcoming U.S. economic indicators and any policy signals from the Federal Reserve, as these will be key drivers for currency markets in the coming weeks.

Pound Rises on Fed Rate Cut Expectations and Geopolitical Tensions, Briefly Hits 1.3500 Against the Dollar

Thanks to signals from the Federal Reserve hinting at possible rate cuts and escalating tensions in the Middle East, the British pound has seen a strong rebound in recent days, briefly touching 1.3500 against the US dollar. Growing expectations of a weakening dollar have fueled renewed strength in the pound. Technical indicators suggest there’s still room for upward movement, but ongoing geopolitical risks mean investors should tread carefully.

Market Rebounds as Middle East Tensions Ease: Oil Prices Drop, Stocks Rally

Rising tensions in the Middle East initially shook global markets, but after Iran issued a largely symbolic missile response to U.S. actions, geopolitical risks appeared to ease. Contrary to expectations, oil prices dropped instead of spiking, and global stock markets staged a strong rebound. Investors are now closely watching how the situation evolves and what it means for market sentiment and stability.

IMF Warns of Near-Stagnant European Economy: Eurozone Growth May Slow to 0.8% in 2025, Urges Structural Reforms and Single Market Expansion

The IMF has issued a stark warning that Europe’s economy is teetering on the edge of stagnation. Without decisive structural reforms and deeper integration of the single market, the region’s already weak growth could slow even further. According to the IMF’s latest forecast, the eurozone is expected to grow by just 0.8% in 2025—with Germany, Europe’s largest economy, projected to expand by a mere 0.3%.

The report cites sluggish domestic demand, uncertain export prospects, and mounting geopolitical tensions as key factors dragging on growth. To reverse this trend, the IMF recommends that EU policymakers prioritize boosting innovation, strengthening the tech sector, and overhauling labor markets to enhance both GDP performance and long-term competitiveness.

Europe now stands at a critical crossroads—what policymakers choose to do next could shape the region’s economic trajectory for years to come.

Oil Prices Surge Over 10% Amid Israel-Iran Conflict: Global Energy Markets Brace for Instability

On June 13, 2025, the global energy market experienced significant upheaval following Israel’s large-scale military strikes on Iran. As a result, international oil prices surged by over 10% in a single day, reaching their highest levels in months. This sudden geopolitical conflict has heightened concerns about instability in the Middle East and caught the attention […]

Oil Prices Surge Over 10% Amid Israel-Iran Conflict: Global Energy Markets Brace for Instability

On June 13, 2025, the global energy market experienced significant upheaval following Israel’s large-scale military strikes on Iran. As a result, international oil prices surged by over 10% in a single day, reaching their highest levels in months. This sudden geopolitical conflict has heightened concerns about instability in the Middle East and caught the attention […]

Bank of England Holds Interest Rates Steady as Markets Await Clearer Signals on Rate Cuts

The Bank of England held interest rates steady as expected, with investors now closely watching for signals on when rate cuts might begin. While inflation has eased, it remains above target, leading to a split among policymakers on the timing of any future cuts. Geopolitical tensions and central bank policy expectations continue to shape market sentiment, prompting many investors to stay on the sidelines.

Japan’s Core Inflation Hits 3.7% in May, Fueling Rate Hike Expectations and Consumer Strain as Food Prices Surge

Japan’s core inflation surged to 3.7% in May, marking its highest year-on-year increase in over a year and remaining well above the Bank of Japan’s 2% target. The persistent rise in prices has fueled speculation of potential rate hikes. Soaring food costs — with rice prices more than doubling over the past year — are putting significant pressure on households, posing both economic and political challenges for the country.

Rising Tensions Between U.S. and Iran Could Drive Up Oil and Gold Prices — Geopolitical Risks Pressure Hong Kong Stocks

Tensions between the U.S. and Iran have flared up again, with former President Trump stating a decision on potential military action could come within two weeks. This renewed uncertainty in the Middle East is drawing strong market attention. Escalating geopolitical risks may drive up safe-haven assets such as oil, gold, and the Japanese yen. Meanwhile, the Hang Seng Index faces resistance around the 23,000 mark. Investors should closely monitor geopolitical developments and prioritize robust risk management strategies.

Fed’s Economic Forecast Sparks Stagflation Fears, Rate Shift May Rattle Global Markets

The latest economic projections from the Federal Reserve point to slower growth alongside persistent inflation, raising concerns about potential stagflation. With rising uncertainty around trade policies and the upcoming U.S. election, shifts in interest rate strategy could follow, leading to heightened volatility across global financial markets. Investors should take this opportunity to reassess their asset allocation strategies to navigate the changing economic landscape effectively.

Euro Weakens Against US Dollar Amid Middle East Tensions and Strong Greenback — Markets Look to Lagarde for Policy Signals

The euro has been losing ground against the U.S. dollar recently, weighed down by escalating tensions in the Middle East and renewed dollar strength. Investors are closely watching remarks from European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde for any signals on the future direction of monetary policy. Without clear signs of further easing, the euro could continue to drift lower, potentially testing the 1.1400 level in the short term. Market sentiment remains bearish for now.