Japanese stocks fell on Thursday, influenced by investor concerns over the Middle East crisis and technology sector evaluations. The Nikkei index dropped by <strong>0.47%</strong>, closing at <strong>64,693.12 points</strong>.
The International Labour Organization warns that real labor income could sharply decline by <strong>$3 trillion</strong> by <strong>2027</strong> if oil prices continue to rise by <strong>50%</strong> compared to early <strong>2026</strong> levels. This situation is exacerbated by increasing tensions in the Middle East, impacting global markets.
Southeast Asian leaders gathered in Cebu, Philippines, on Friday to discuss the economic repercussions of the ongoing Middle East crisis. They aim to formulate a coordinated response to alleviate the pressures from the energy shock affecting their oil-importing economies.
French Prime Minister <strong>Sébastien Lecornu</strong> revealed in a message to his ministers that the ongoing crisis in the Middle East could lead to losses for France amounting to at least <strong>€6 billion</strong>. This figure includes <strong>€4 billion</strong> for the government and <strong>€2 billion</strong> for social security.
The Reserve Bank of India has decided to maintain interest rates in its first decision since the onset of the Middle East crisis, aiming to support economic growth amidst a sharp decline in the Indian rupee's value. This decision comes at a critical time as the Indian economy faces significant challenges.
The Reserve Bank of India has kept the key interest rate unchanged at 5.25%, warning of potential growth slowdown and rising inflation due to the repercussions of the Middle East crisis. This decision comes at a critical time as the region faces significant economic impacts.
The presidents of South Korea and France discussed ways to enhance cooperation in addressing the challenges posed by the Middle East crisis. These talks come at a critical time that requires international efforts to tackle escalating crises in the region.
The Director of International Policy at the Polish Presidency, Marcin Przydacz, stated that NATO relations are experiencing deep divisions due to escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. This crisis reflects a decline in trust between Washington and its allies, raising questions about the future of NATO cooperation amidst growing regional challenges.
South Korea has announced an additional budget bill worth <strong>26.2 trillion won</strong> (approximately <strong>$17.1 billion</strong>) to address the impacts of the Middle East crisis and enhance community welfare. This announcement was made during a cabinet meeting chaired by President <strong>Lee Jae-myung</strong>.
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak stated that the world is facing a profound shock due to the ongoing Middle East crisis, indicating that addressing its repercussions will take at least several months. His remarks come amid escalating tensions in the region, raising concerns about global stability.
Fatih Birol, head of the International Energy Agency, stated that the ongoing crisis in the Middle East represents the greatest threat to global energy security in history. He noted that its impact is worse than the oil crises of the 1970s and the Russian-Ukrainian war.