US reaches broad nuclear pact with Saudi Arabia, stoking alarm
Why it matters: Israeli officials fear the deal could speed a regional arms race if Riyadh gains a civilian nuclear program.
The New York Times, BBC News (US & Canada) +9
Subject
#Middle East
ECB holds to measured path as Lagarde cools bets on bigger rate move
What's new: Traders cut year-end hike bets to 33 basis points from 37, while Germany's 2-year yield fell 6 basis points.
Meloni rebukes Trump over G7 photo claim; Italy cancels US visit
What's new: Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani scrapped a June 21-22 trip, calling Trump's remarks offensive to all of Italy.
Bloomberg, The Straits Times +2
US keeps 50,000 troops in Mideast after signing Iran memo
What's next: Washington and Tehran enter a 60-day negotiating period, with sanctions relief tied to verification rather than promises.
Singapore gives 1.38 million households S$500 vouchers early
Why it matters: The aid was moved up from January 2027 to June as Middle East turmoil threatens to lift imported costs and inflation.
Channel News Asia, Mothership +1
Indonesia bond selloff resumes, sending 10-year yield to 7.43%
What's new: The rupiah weakened again and stocks swung lower as investors refocused on economic risks despite this week's rate hike.
Singapore starts S$500 vouchers for 1.38 million households
Why it matters: The payout was moved up by about six months as officials brace for higher imported costs linked to the Middle East crisis.
Singapore added 400-plus flights as Middle East airspace shut
Why it matters: IATA expects the boost for Changi to fade as Gulf hubs recover, while Singapore delayed its SAF levy to 2027.
Indonesia lifts rates to 5.5% in surprise move to shore up rupiah
What's new: The rupiah had fallen 8% this year and hit a record 18,190 per US dollar before the off-cycle hike.
Bloomberg, Antara News +4
Singapore PM flags inflation risks despite 6% first-quarter growth
Why it matters: Lawrence Wong warned Middle East disruptions and AI-driven job shifts could still hit prices, supply and demand.
India holds rates at 5.25%, lifts inflation view and trims GDP outlook
What's new: The Reserve Bank of India now sees inflation at 5.1% in FY2027 and growth at 6.6%, as oil and rupee pressure build.
Bloomberg, CNBC
India's economy grew 7.8% in Jan-March as oil risks cloud outlook
What's next: The RBI now sees fiscal 2027 growth at 6.6% and inflation at 5.1% as the Iran war lifts energy costs.
Bloomberg, CNBC