Latest Finance-Economy News
Nervous Investors Flock to ASX 200 Defensive Sectors Amid Iran War
The S&P/ASX 200 Index fell 1.79% to 8,786.5 points last week as oil and gas prices spiked 15-18% due to the ongoing Iran war and Strait of Hormuz closure. Consumer staples rose 2.73% and utilities 1.92%, seen as safe havens with reliable income from essentials.
IMF warns of global recession from energy shocks, with Australian consumer confidence at a five-year low.
Iran War Stalls Peace Talks, Escalates Global Energy Crisis
No progress in US-Iran peace talks, with Iran refusing to reopen Strait of Hormuz until US lifts naval blockade, prolonging supply disruptions. Higher energy prices threaten world economy, prompting defensive shifts in markets.
Australian market prices in 69% chance of rate hike next month amid inflation fears.
Lithium Prices Flat at 173,000 CNY/T After Monthly 13.44% Rise
Lithium traded flat on April 24, 2026, but up 13.44% over the past month and 147.85% year-over-year. Prices hit three-month high amid growing long-term demand, with forecasts at 175,558 CNY/T by quarter-end.
Lithium carbonate in China rose nearly 50% year-to-date.
US FY2027 Budget Proposes 10% Cut to Non-Defense Spending
President's 2027 Budget continues constraining non-defense spending with a 10% cut from 2026 levels. Builds on prior savings like $3B in emergency spending cuts and $5B foreign aid rescission.
Aims to reform federal government and control discretionary outlays.
US Budget Bolsters Trade Enforcement and Investment Accelerator
FY2027 Budget adds $110M for trade enforcement and U.S. Investment Accelerator to fast-track trillions in domestic investments. Supports America First Trade Policy, holding trade cheats accountable and boosting manufacturing.
Increases funding for International Trade Administration.
April 26: Key Economic Calendar Lacks Major Events Today
No major economic events listed for April 26, 2026, in global calendar amid month filled with PMIs, employment data, and rate decisions. Recent highlights include upcoming JPY rate decision on April 28 and multiple central bank moves later in week.
Markets watch for FX impacts from prior data releases.
Upcoming JPY Interest Rate Decision on April 28
Bank of Japan Interest Rate Decision scheduled for April 28 alongside German Prelim GDP and US consumer confidence. Follows pattern of key events like US Non-Farm Employment on April 3 and FOMC Minutes on April 6.
Potential volatility for JPY and related FX pairs.
Multiple Central Bank Rate Decisions on April 29
Interest Rate Decisions for CAD and USD on April 29, coinciding with German Prelim CPI and JPY bank holiday. Part of busy April with GBP, EUR rates on April 30 and US Advance GDP.
Investors anticipate market movements from policy signals.
ASX Healthcare Sector Hits 6-Year Low on Cochlear Dive
ASX 200 Health Care Index fell to a 6-year low after Cochlear Ltd shares plunged 42%. Contrasts with gains in other defensives like staples and utilities amid energy crisis.
Healthcare faces ongoing headwinds despite broader defensive rally.
US Budget Protects Innovation with $215M Boost to Industry Security
FY2027 Budget allocates $215M increase to Bureau of Industry and Security above 2026 levels. Historic investment to safeguard U.S. innovation and national security.
Part of broader efforts under executive fiscal tools.
OPEC-JMMC Meetings Conclude on April 5 Amid Energy Tensions
OPEC-JMMC Meetings held on April 5, influencing global oil dynamics amid Iran war disruptions. Contributes to recent 15-18% spike in oil and gas prices affecting markets.
Long-term energy shocks heighten recession risks per IMF.
EUR CPI Flash and GBP Rate Decision Loom on April 30
Eurozone Core CPI Flash y/y and CPI Flash on April 30, alongside BoE and ECB rate decisions. US Advance GDP and Core PCE also due, rounding out volatile month.
Critical for inflation outlooks and FX rates.