Business

Oil prices surged above $106 per barrel amid escalating US-Iran tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, following reciprocal vessel seizures. The increase represents a nearly 5% rise since late Wednesday, reflecting concerns over shipping disruptions in a key global energy transit route.

The Bank of Japan (BOJ) has raised its short-term policy rate to “around 0.5%,” marking its highest level in 17 years. This decision follows December’s inflation surge, with core consumer prices rising 3% year-on-year, the fastest pace in 16 months.

President Donald Trump has called on Saudi Arabia and other OPEC nations to reduce oil prices, warning that high costs are prolonging the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Trump expressed surprise that OPEC hadn’t acted to lower prices before the elections, emphasising the impact on global stability.  

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