Japan intervenes in forex markets to buy yen and sell dollar, Kyodo News reports citing government source. Yen briefly surged to upper 157 against USD overnight, its strongest since mid-May, gaining nearly 5 yen in about 50 minutes.

South Korea's Kospi index surges more than 16%, powered by a broad chipmaking stock rally

South Korea's Kospi stock index surged more than 16% in a single session, driven by a sharp rally in chipmaking stocks.

Apple reports record $109.4B June-quarter revenue, up 16% year-on-year. CEO Tim Cook says it is the company's strongest June quarter ever.

Apple reported record June-quarter revenue of $109.4 billion, up 16% year-on-year, with CEO Tim Cook saying the company achieved its strongest June quarter ever.

Bank of Japan holds benchmark interest rate steady at 1% after two-day policy meeting, with majority vote to maintain the highest level since 1995.

The Bank of Japan decided by majority vote Friday to hold its benchmark interest rate steady at 1 percent following a two-day board meeting. The rate remains at its highest level since 1995, last raised from 0.75 percent in June after the BOJ's March 2024 exit from negative rates.

Japan launches centralized national intelligence bureau, upgrading the Cabinet intelligence office. Kazuya Hara, former Cabinet intelligence director, named bureau chief; council headed by PM to hold first meeting Friday. Critics cite lack of oversight.

Japan on Friday launched a new centralized national intelligence bureau, upgrading from the Cabinet Intelligence and Research Office. Kazuya Hara was named director, and the bureau will coordinate intelligence across ministries under a council headed by the prime minister.