Author Archives: jasonventikos

Japan’s finance minister issues foreign exchange warning amid intervention speculation

Link to my Article: https://www.reuters.com/business/australias-wesfarmers-hikes-retail-prices-war-hit-freight-costs-rise-2026-05-05/ On May 4, 2026, Japan’s Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato issued a warning about excessive movements in the foreign exchange market, signaling concern over the weakening yen. He stated that authorities are closely watching currency fluctuations and are prepared to take appropriate action if needed. The warning comes amid speculation that Japan has recently intervened in… Read more »

Australia’s Wesfarmers hikes retail prices as war-hit freight costs rise

Link to my Article: https://www.reuters.com/business/australias-wesfarmers-hikes-retail-prices-war-hit-freight-costs-rise-2026-05-05/ On May 5, 2026, Australian conglomerate Wesfarmers announced it would raise retail prices across several of its businesses due to rising freight costs linked to the ongoing war affecting global shipping routes. The company, which owns major retail chains such as Bunnings, Kmart, and Officeworks, said higher transportation expenses have significantly increased the cost of… Read more »

Asia battles rising, uneven toll of energy crisis caused by Iran war

Link to my Article: https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/asia-battles-rising-uneven-toll-energy-crisis-caused-by-iran-war-2026-05-04/ Asia is experiencing a growing and uneven energy crisis caused by the ongoing war involving Iran, which has severely disrupted oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. The region, which depends heavily on Middle Eastern oil, saw imports drop by about 30% in April to their lowest levels since 2015. Governments across Asia are scrambling… Read more »