Market Briefs

Southeast Asia’s GDP growth and FDI now surpass China’s. China-Philippines tensions rose after a ship collision, Ukraine targeted Russian supply lines, Canada’s rail network faces a labor shutdown, and Libya’s central bank closed after a director's kidnapping.

Thailand named Thaksin’s daughter PM post-MFP’s dissolution; the U.S. redirected a carrier to the Middle East, raising Pacific security concerns. Harris outlined economic plans, gold hit records, and China-Taliban resumed an Afghan copper project amid environmental concerns.

Singapore charged three in a major money laundering case. Ukraine’s Russia incursion sees early wins but risks overextension. U.S. inflation dips, Japan’s economy grows, MPOX cases rise, Apple opens tap-to-pay, North Korea reopens to tourists, and Japan’s PM faces low public support.

China promoted Palestinian unity talks; Japan’s PM Kishida resigned amid party struggles. Trump praised foreign leaders in a chat with Musk, signaling policy shifts. Iran vowed to retaliate over a Hamas leader’s death, and a U.S. analyst faced charges for selling secrets to China.

VP Harris condemned Gaza casualties; Russia evacuated Kursk as Ukraine advanced. Trump’s campaign reported a hack, hinting at Iran. Bangladesh’s chief justice resigned amid protests, Thailand’s new party gained support, and the Philippines and Japan faced tensions with China and quake fears.

Australia defended the AUKUS deal for nuclear subs with U.S. and U.K. tech. Infineon stressed Asia’s importance for chip growth, expanding in Southeast Asia. Ukraine’s raid captured 350 sq km in Russia, defying claims of halted advances.