global markets

The Swiss franc is weakening against other major currencies as expectations build that central banks outside Switzerland may raise interest rates, narrowing the gap in yields that has long supported the franc. Markets have historically treated the currency as a safe haven, so shifting rate expectations abroad are prompting investors to reassess their positions in the currency.

Fortune reports that the global bond market has grown larger than the banking sector, marking a shift in how companies and governments raise money. More borrowing is now done by selling bonds to investors rather than taking loans from banks, a trend reshaping the financial system.

The United States and Iran are holding separate talks through mediators while Middle Eastern oil exports climb to levels unseen since wartime disruptions began. The negotiations point to continued indirect diplomacy between the two governments even as energy markets adjust to elevated regional shipments, with observers watching whether talks and rising export volumes signal easing tensions or a temporary pause in the standoff.

Tap Global has purchased 3 bitcoin to hold on its balance sheet as part of a treasury reserve strategy. The move puts the company alongside a growing list of firms adding cryptocurrency to their reserves, though the small size of the purchase stands out. Details on the purchase price, funding and broader treasury plans have not been disclosed.

Discussion is centring on the prospect of a 2026 war involving Iran, the United States and Israel, with particular attention to oil markets and the Strait of Hormuz, the chokepoint through which a large share of the world's crude passes. Commentary includes maps and explainers laying out how such a conflict could unfold, disrupt energy supplies and draw in regional and global powers.

China has announced a fresh set of policies aimed at strengthening its struggling property market and supporting the wider economy. The measures come as the country continues to face a prolonged real estate downturn that has weighed on growth and household confidence. Details of the specific steps and their expected impact are still being assessed.

China has announced a cut in interest rates alongside new mortgage subsidies, a package of easing measures aimed at stimulating economic growth. The move signals fresh concern in Beijing over weak demand, particularly in the property sector, and follows earlier attempts to revive lending and consumer spending. Economists will be watching whether the measures are enough to lift confidence and investment.

Central banks face renewed pressure as energy price shocks threaten to reignite inflation, keeping global monetary tightening on the agenda. Markets and analysts are watching whether policymakers will hold interest rates higher for longer or ease off as energy costs add fresh uncertainty to the inflation outlook.

Advertising company Teads and travel marketing firm Koddi have launched a global retail media partnership built on the OpenRTB standard. The tie-up aims to let brands buy retail media inventory programmatically at scale across markets. The announcement was carried by financial news outlets, though details on commercial terms or rollout timelines were not provided.

Global M2 money supply has reached an all-time high, but Bitcoin has failed to rally in response, prompting discussion among Japanese crypto traders about the real reasons behind the disconnect. Commentary circulating online includes chart analysis of major coins such as Bitcoin, Ethereum and XRP, with traders debating liquidity, market structure and investor sentiment as possible explanations for the muted price action.

BTSE Bhutan has obtained a license from the FSL, allowing it to operate a multilateral trading market and provide institutional custody of virtual assets. The company says the next steps are launching BTC/USDT and ETH/USDT trading and a global retail platform. The development highlights Bhutan's growing role in the regulated digital asset sector.

Oil prices closed slightly higher as markets weighed concerns over supply, while Donald Trump rejected something in remarks that traders are watching closely. The modest rise in the price per barrel reflects continued nervousness in energy markets, with investors tracking political comments and potential shifts in production that could affect global supply.

France has launched a diplomatic effort to guarantee its energy supplies, with French representatives abroad, including the embassy in the United States, promoting the initiative. The move reflects growing concern in Paris over securing reliable sources of oil and gas, and officials are framing diplomacy as a key tool for protecting the country's energy security amid tight global markets.

A Kremlin envoy met with United States officials for talks that covered both the war in Ukraine and energy initiatives, according to a US official. The discussions signal continued, if limited, contact between Washington and Moscow despite the ongoing conflict. Observers are watching whether such diplomatic channels could lay groundwork for negotiations on the war or cooperation on energy matters.