Latest Finance-Economy News
Trump Sets 2-3 Week Timeline for US Withdrawal from Iran
President Trump announced U.S. forces could exit Iran in two to three weeks, boosting stock futures and risk sentiment worldwide. This follows signals from both sides of willingness to end the conflict, with plans to shift Strait of Hormuz responsibility.
Markets in Asia and Europe rallied sharply on the news.
Eurozone Inflation Surges to 2.5% on Iran-Driven Energy Spike
Eurozone consumer prices rose 2.5% year-on-year in March, up from 1.9%, due to higher energy costs from the Iran conflict. Core inflation eased unexpectedly to 2.3%, but ECB may consider rate hikes.
This reinforces pressures from the Persian Gulf military conflict.
China PMI Exceeds Expectations Despite Oil Pressures
China's manufacturing PMI rose to 50.4 from 49.0, beating forecasts, with non-manufacturing at 50.1. Factories faced sharp input cost rises from Middle East spillovers.
Signals growth amid global energy shocks.
Strait of Hormuz Blockade Drives Brent Crude Over $100
Military conflict in Persian Gulf has blocked the Strait, critical for one-fifth of global oil and LNG, pushing Brent above $100 from $65 in January. Gas prices in Europe doubled to 60 EUR/MWh at peak.
Oil prices declined slightly on de-escalation hopes.
Global Economy Faces Energy Price Shock but Growth Forecast Raised
Institutes revised 2026 global growth forecast up 0.2 points despite energy burdens, as US tariffs weigh less than expected. US sees lower dampening effects.
Volatility hits commodities and financial markets.
US Stocks End March Strong on Iran De-escalation Hopes
S&P 500 surged +2.91% to 6,528.52 on March 31, best day since May, as dollar slides on risk-on sentiment. Asian stocks jumped extending the rally.
VIX at 26 with bonds gaining.
US Gas Prices Hit $4/Gallon Amid Iran War Fuel Costs
Average US gas prices exceeded $4/gallon for first time since 2022 due to Iran conflict pushing global fuel higher. Analysts warn of pass-through to grocery prices via transport costs.
Occurs despite oil price dips on peace hopes.
Thai PM Anutin Retains Core Economic Team After Approval
Thailand's new cabinet under PM Anutin Charnvirakul received royal approval, keeping key economic officials. Central bank adopts wait-and-see on rates amid oil shock, unlikely to cut but open to tightening if inflation persists.
SET Index at 1,448.14 (-0.10%).
Asian Markets Rally on Trump's Iran Withdrawal Signal
Asian equities extended US gains as investors bet on April stability post-bumpy March. Risk assets rallied overnight with focus on war end clarity.
China Vanke reported record $12.8B loss in 2025.
Key US Data Releases Today: ISM PMI, ADP Jobs, Oil Inventories
Markets await ISM Manufacturing PMI, ADP employment report, and oil inventories amid Iran news. US economic data recently beat expectations with limited market impact.
Geoeconomics analysts discuss post-war implications.
Iran Signals Readiness to End War with Conditions
Iran state media reports willingness to end war, prompting equity rallies even with Hormuz largely closed. China and Pakistan call for Mideast ceasefire; UAE may aid US in reopening strait.
French President Macron discusses in Japan.
Dollar Weakens as Middle East De-escalation Boosts Sentiment
USDTHB ranges 32.53–32.62 with support at 32.40; dollar slides globally on risk appetite. West Texas crude at $101.81 (-1%), Brent $104.40 (-2.8%).
Gold up 3.3% to $4,659/oz.