Persistently high inflation makes this reduction a tricky one. The interest rate cut is the first in Trump’s second term as well as the first in 2025.

Data and Financial Journalist
Persistently high inflation makes this reduction a tricky one. The interest rate cut is the first in Trump’s second term as well as the first in 2025.
Despite sanctions, Russia’s crude oil exports remain steady. Trade flows have pivoted from Europe to Asia, with China and India now the top buyers. India’s growing imports—and its refusal to join Western sanctions—have triggered steep new U.S. tariffs.
Over a quarter of global seaborne oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz—making Asia’s top economies especially vulnerable to any disruption.
Israel’s strikes on Iran’s strategic sites have sent Brent crude and gold prices sharply higher, while potential threats to Kharg Island and the Strait of Hormuz chokepoints could force shipping reroutes, risking wider global supply-chain disruptions.