- Donald Trump announced that US-Iran peace talks could resume in Pakistan within the next two days, following the collapse of previous discussions and a US blockade on Iranian ports.
- The prospect of renewed diplomatic engagement led to a positive market response, with Asian stocks reaching a six-week high and Brent crude futures falling below $100 a barrel.
- Global stock markets, including Japan's Nikkei and Hong Kong's Hang Seng, experienced significant gains, while US producer inflation data offered reassurance by rising less than anticipated.
- Despite market optimism, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) lowered its global growth outlook, cautioning that the world economy could face recession if the Middle East conflict escalates.
- The Strait of Hormuz blockade continues, with maritime intelligence firms noting reduced vessel traffic and Iran increasingly rerouting oil flows through indirect channels, such as ship-to-ship transfers off Malaysia.
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