Markets, trade, and economic policy worldwide
Taiwan's economy recorded its fastest growth rate since 1987, according to reports, despite ongoing disruptions linked to the war in Iran.
France's economy recorded zero growth in the first quarter of 2026, driven by a decline in exports and weakened domestic demand amid the ongoing Iran war.
Israeli grain importer Zenziper has rejected a cargo shipment from a Russian supplier, citing suspicions that the grain originated from occupied Ukrainian territory. The vessel, which had been waiting off the coast of Haifa, has been instructed to find an alternative destination.
Japanese Finance Minister Katayama stated that the government is nearing the appropriate timing to take bold action regarding foreign exchange markets.
Volkswagen CEO has announced plans to reduce production capacity by 500,000 vehicles across its European operations.
Meta, Alphabet, Microsoft, and Amazon reported a record $130 billion in combined capital expenditures for the first quarter of 2026, with projections for the full year reaching $725 billion.
Brent crude oil prices for June delivery have surpassed $126 per barrel, marking the highest level since March 2022.
The Indonesian rupiah has declined to a record low of 17,377 against the US dollar.
Japan's 10-year government bond yield has climbed to 2.52%, marking the highest level recorded since 1997.
The Indonesian Rupiah has weakened to a record low of 17,360 against the U.S. Dollar during market opening.
Pakistan has opened six land border crossings to allow for the transport of goods into Iran, citing the impact of a US naval blockade.
Samsung reported Q1 revenue of approximately $90.2 billion and an operating profit of $38.5 billion, exceeding analyst estimates due to increased demand for AI-linked memory products.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell stated that the impact of energy price surges has not yet peaked, suggesting that inflationary pressures may persist for at least two additional quarters. Powell indicated that interest rate reductions are unlikely until the current inflationary wave subsides.
A bipartisan group of U.S. senators has introduced legislation to prohibit the importation of Chinese-manufactured vehicles and automotive components. The bill comes ahead of a scheduled meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell stated that the U.S. economy continues to expand at a solid pace, projecting growth above 2% for the year despite energy market volatility linked to the war in Iran.
Brazil's central bank has reduced its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points for the second consecutive meeting, despite rising inflation and signs of economic growth.
Russian oil flows have resumed through the Ukrainian section of the Druzhba pipeline, prompting Hungary to lift its veto on a $105.79 billion European Union loan for Kyiv.
Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) will cease funding the LIV Golf league following the conclusion of the current season.
Global energy prices surged today, with US and Brent crude oil rising by 8 percent, European natural gas increasing by 9 percent, and heating oil and gasoline climbing by 5.7 percent and 5.3 percent respectively.
Meta reported Q1 2026 revenue of $56.31 billion, exceeding analyst estimates of $55.51 billion, while earnings per share rose to $10.44.
Amazon reported Q1 2026 net sales of $181.52 billion, exceeding analyst estimates of $177.23 billion, and provided Q2 revenue guidance between $194 billion and $199 billion.
Alphabet reported Q1 revenue of $109.9 billion, exceeding analyst estimates of $107.2 billion, while Google Cloud revenue rose 63% to $20 billion. The company also reported an 81% increase in net income to $62.58 billion.
Alphabet reported Q1 2026 revenue of $109.90 billion, exceeding analyst estimates of $107.1 billion, while noting 40% quarter-over-quarter growth for its Gemini Enterprise division.
The Bank of Canada has signaled the possibility of consecutive interest rate increases if rising energy costs drive broader inflation, leading to a decline in Canadian government bond prices.
Brent crude oil prices on the ICE exchange in London have exceeded $120 per barrel for the first time since June 17, 2022, according to trading data.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell announced he will remain on the Fed board after his term as chair concludes until the Department of Justice investigation into the central bank is resolved.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell stated there is no immediate urgency to adjust policy language, noting that economic developments over the next 30 to 60 days could shift the outlook. Powell added that the latest policy decision was more closely contested than the previous one in March.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell stated that the number of officials viewing a potential interest rate hike as likely as a rate cut has increased.
President Donald Trump has selected Kevin Warsh to serve as the Chair of the Federal Reserve, while Jerome Powell will continue his tenure as a member of the Board of Governors.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has confirmed he will remain in his position following the May 15 date.