global trade war

Escalating Middle East conflict has choked the world's busiest oil passage, pushing crude prices past $100 per barrel with warnings of a surge to $167 or higher. A prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz threatens a severe energy and trade shock, potentially reducing global trade growth significantly and deepening economic uncertainty worldwide.

Oil prices surged Friday as US-Iran tensions flared, reversing earlier declines. US strikes on Iranian targets prompted accusations of ceasefire violations, escalating fears over the vital Strait of Hormuz. This geopolitical volatility overshadows concerns about suspicious trading activity linked to policy announcements, impacting global energy supplies and inflation.

Middle East conflict escalates, pushing crude oil prices above $126 per barrel and straining India's state-run oil companies. Facing mounting losses, these companies seek permission to raise pump prices, but the government hesitates, balancing consumer protection against financial pressures and potential inflation.

Global oil prices surged to a four-year high amid escalating US-Iran tensions and fears of a Strait of Hormuz closure, impacting gasoline prices and broader economies. Analysts warn of a potential global recession due to supply disruptions, with shortages already affecting various goods. Experts predict further price hikes until the strait reopens.

Country needs time to build up domestic capacities, till then reduce dependence on those ‘perfect’ imports

Iran and the US remain locked in a standoff, with Iran effectively closing the Strait of Hormuz and the US imposing a naval blockade. Both actions disrupt global commons, while escalating rhetoric and social media influence commodity prices worldwide. India, heavily reliant on regional energy flows, faces significant economic fallout from this 'dual blockade'.

Washington isn’t interested in being a guarantor of anything, including energy supplies. New Delhi’s strategic response must centre around the one energy source it has in abundance

For RBI the situation is clear: The resilience of the global economy, already inflicted with trade tensions, is being tested by the conflict in West Asia. The biggest takeaway from the RBI bulletin is that India’s domestic supply chains may come under risk from a prolonged war scenario, though strong macroeconomic fundamentals provide a buffer.

Gold price prediction today: Any upside in gold and silver prices may face resistance at higher levels, says Vedika Narvekar, Research Analyst - Commodities & Currencies, Anand Rathi Shares and Stock Brokers.

Desi consumption will hold ground, because non-rich still want to spend.

President Trump has halted 'Project Freedom,' a US military initiative to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz, citing requests from Pakistan and progress toward a deal with Iran. This pause comes after the US declared the offensive phase of 'Operation Epic Fury' complete, emphasizing defensive actions in the region.

President Trump's approval rating has dropped to 34%, its lowest point, amid growing public dissatisfaction over the rising cost of living and the ongoing conflict with Iran. Economic concerns, particularly a 40% surge in gasoline prices following military action against Iran, are driving this discontent, impacting households and the Republican Party ahead of midterm elections.

Global economy flourished when seas were free. Of course, this freedom has to be enforced. US did the job, until now. Consequences of abandoning that stand can be terrible

Fuel prices held steady across major Indian cities on Monday, defying volatile global crude oil markets driven by Middle East tensions. Despite Brent crude exceeding $106 per barrel, domestic petrol and diesel rates remained unchanged. This stability, however, is precarious, with potential hikes looming if international oil prices continue their ascent.

Gold price prediction today: Gold prices are expected to continue seeing volatility in the near-term, says Praveen Singh, Head Currencies and Commodities, Mirae Asset ShareKhan.

Global maritime trade faces disruptions with the Strait of Hormuz closure impacting energy supplies. India is bolstering its maritime capabilities, investing heavily in port infrastructure like the Great Nicobar Island Project. This strategic move aims to enhance economic and military influence, securing trade routes and reducing reliance on foreign transhipment hubs.

US President Trump's second term prioritizes oil, leveraging energy dominance for global influence. Campaign funding from oil interests aligns with policies boosting domestic production and easing regulations. Sanctions on rivals and geopolitical events like the Hormuz crisis engineer demand for American exports, impacting nations like India and reshaping global energy markets.

Under the proposed interim trade deal, the US has lowered tariffs on India from 50% to 18%. In August last year, Trump had imposed a 25% reciprocal tariff on India and an additional 25% penal tariff for India’s crude oil purchases from Russia.

RBI is not alone in repatriating its gold reserves. Several central banks like France’s Banque de France, Germany’s Deutsche Bundesbank, Serbia’s National Bank have done the same - buy why?