Singapore
August 9 marks the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples and Builders' Day. Singapore celebrates National Day, while South Africa honors women.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed decrees on the dismissal of five ambassadors. Among the dismissed diplomats are the ambassadors to Brunei, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Austria, and Libya.
Ukrainian airlines operate 131 leased aircraft out of 152, which is 86% of the fleet. The Bureau of Economic Security is investigating cases against 5 airlines over the interpretation of lease payments as royalties.
G7 central banks are preparing for interest rate decisions as oil prices approach $100 per barrel, increasing inflation risks. The US Federal Reserve, the Bank of England, and the Bank of Japan are likely to keep rates unchanged but may signal readiness to raise them in the fall.
The US and Israel are considering two options: a 10-day ceasefire to open the Strait of Hormuz or a joint military campaign. Trump has not yet made a decision but is preparing for escalation.
Next week, important economic data and central bank decisions from the US, China, and Japan are expected. The Fed is in a quiet period ahead of its July 28-29 meeting, while the People's Bank of China will announce its rate decision.
Bangkok plans to finalize a free trade agreement with the European Union by the end of the year. This will help the country reduce its dependence on US and Chinese markets.
Tokyo and Manila are deepening military cooperation amid Washington's restrained position. The countries are creating their own security system to deter China.
Japan rejected accusations of militarism and expressed alarm over the strengthening of China's military. Tokyo seeks to enhance deterrence in the Asian region.
Norway has terminated a $2. 8 billion missile deal with Malaysia due to export regulations. Kuala Lumpur called it a blow to trust and is seeking a replacement.
The US, UK, and Australia will create underwater drones to protect cables and pipelines. The project will strengthen the allies' military capabilities at sea.
Pete Hegseth demands that NATO increase defense spending and stop being protectorates. He also noted the "alarming" military buildup of China.
The Pentagon chief promised to find a way to transfer Patriot missiles to Ukraine. The US will also allocate $56 billion for drones, studying the experience of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
The Pentagon chief declared readiness for a deal with Iran on the condition of renouncing nuclear weapons. Trump is in no hurry and demands security guarantees.
The Shangri-La Dialogue on Asian security has commenced in Singapore. Vietnamese President To Lam and U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth are scheduled to address the forum.
The value of Bitcoin dropped to $73,294 amid the conflict between the US and Iran. Approximately $1.5 billion was withdrawn from US ETFs in May.
Beijing is ready to strengthen military trust with the US after the meeting between Trump and Xi Jinping. The parties are discussing stability amidst disputes over Taiwan.
The Bureau of Economic Security (BEB) has opened cases against airlines, interpreting aircraft leasing as royalties. This violates international agreements and threatens the destruction of Ukrainian aviation.
Three people have died due to a hantavirus outbreak on the vessel MV Hondius. The WHO is in contact with officials from at least 12 countries monitoring citizens who have returned home; five Ukrainians are on board.
The IOC has suspended the Esports Commission and terminated a 12-year contract with Saudi Arabia. The 2027 Olympic Esports Games have been canceled.
The price of Bitcoin exceeded $80,000 amid gains in Asian markets. Daily inflows into Bitcoin ETFs amounted to $630 million.
The price of gold has stabilized at $1,430 per ounce. The US will begin escorting vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and start negotiations with Iran.
Gold is trading near $4,690 amid discussions of Iran's peace proposal. Tehran is offering to open the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for lifting the blockade.
Asia implements emergency measures and taps into reserves amid energy crisis. Experts predict fuel shortages and rising commodity prices.
The tanker Yuri, carrying 2 million barrels of oil, is attempting to break through the US naval blockade. Movement through the strait has almost stopped due to the interception and shelling of vessels.
The Bureau of Economic Security has opened cases against 5 airlines, interpreting aircraft leasing as royalties. This contradicts international conventions and practice.
The vessels Deep Sea, Sonia I, and Diona exported 5 million barrels of oil despite sanctions. The tankers are heading to Singapore for further transshipment to China.
Due to drone attacks on the Ras Laffan plant and problems in the Strait of Hormuz, Qatar's fleet is idle. Empty vessels have accumulated near India and Singapore.
The price of gold leveled off after six days of decline amid Fed statements on inflation risks. Investors are awaiting a rate decision due to the war in Gaza.
The price of gold stabilized at $5,001 in anticipation of the Fed's decision. Geopolitical tensions and oil prices support demand for the metal.