ASIAN ALLIES
China and ASEAN make progress on South China Sea pact
The last major sticking points are the geographic scope to be covered by the agreement, the definition of sensitive terms and whether the accord should be legally binding or not, according to the three diplomats. They spoke on condition of anonymity and without elaborating because they were not authorized to discuss the issues in public.
The great Indian money hunt: Why India's shadow banks are pulling in billions of dollars
Blackstone is negotiating a significant investment in IIFL Finance, indicating rising global interest in non-bank lenders. Recent deals include investments by Carlyle and Advent International in housing finance firms. The demand for credit in India is growing, with NBFCs playing a crucial role in accessing underserved markets. Foreign investments in the financial sector have exceeded $20 billion since 2025, reflecting confidence in stability.
China’s high-tech ports push raises global trade ambitions, sparks security concerns
China is expanding its global maritime influence through AI-powered automated ports, smart shipping technologies and digital infrastructure. While these innovations promise greater efficiency, Western governments fear growing dependence on Chinese systems could create security vulnerabilities, geopolitical leverage and risks to critical global supply chains and international trade networks
Chinese President Xi Jinping likely to skip ASEAN Summit in Manila: Report
The Philippines' Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) shared this information on Wednesday while responding to reports about Xi's expected absence from the annual summit, which the Philippines is hosting this year.
US midterm election result: Los Angeles gets an Indian-origin mayor; Nithya Raman wins against Karen Bass
Nithya Raman, an Indian-origin candidate, is stirring controversy in the race for mayor of Los Angeles, currently outpacing incumbent Karen Bass. Her progressive agenda, especially concerning homelessness, captures the attention of voters and may lead to a historic victory for the Indian-American population in this major U.S. city.
Trump's midterm defeat dims hopes of North Korea meeting
A meeting between Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un seems less likely following Trump's midterm election defeat. Analysts believe Kim has less incentive to engage with Trump in the current political environment. North Korea's leadership expresses reluctance to resume dialogue, citing distrust toward the US government. The ongoing nuclear ambitions of North Korea add complexity to potential negotiations between the two leaders.
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From Iran to trade, how the US midterms impact the rest of the world
US Democrats' recent midterm election victories could influence global relations, especially concerning Iran and Israel. The potential for a peace deal with Iran seems viable as US voters oppose prolonged conflicts. In Ukraine, Democrats may propose increased financial and military aid, which could face delays. Additionally, Asian countries may reconsider investment pledges to avoid tariffs in light of these outcomes.
These large-, mid- and small-cap stocks can give more than 20% return in 1 year, according to analysts
Here’s one thing that is worth clarifying, because it is in the headlines. Large global technology companies have been announcing heavy spending on AI, and there has been some correction in those stocks because of it. It is natural to worry that this will spill over into the Indian market. It most likely will not.
Oil Price Today (October 29): Crude oil dips to $113 as diplomatic talks outweigh infra attacks. Will oil fall further?
Crude oil price : In light of recent diplomatic talks surrounding potential U.S. military engagements with Iran, oil prices have taken a dip. These crude prices remain sensitive to the fluctuating situation marked by ongoing regional conflicts and the threat of further military interventions. Despite Iran's openness to negotiations, escalating hostilities from the Houthi faction targeting Saudi Arabia add to the uncertainty.
US and Japan to establish a Japanese facility for joint missile production
The United States and Japan have decided to establish a facility for joint missile production in a strategic partnership. Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi highlighted the importance of this venture in addressing regional security concerns. Both nations aim to enhance their defense cooperation against rising threats, particularly regarding China's assertiveness in Asia. Additionally, discussions emphasized the significance of maintaining a rules-based international order in the region.
US-friendly nations slash treasury purchases by 60%, led by Asia
In the first eight months of 2026, countries aligned with the US purchased a net total of $174.3 billion in Treasuries. This amount represents a significant decline, reflecting a drop of over 60% from the previous year. It marks the lowest investment level recorded for this period since 2021. The data highlights a shift in fiscal relationships between the US and its partners.
Hegseth likely to face questions on US role in Indo-Pacific at ASEAN summit
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is scheduled to meet with Southeast Asian counterparts in the Philippines soon. Discussions will focus on US commitments in the Indo-Pacific region amid ongoing tensions from the Iran war. Southeast Asian leaders seek clarity regarding the impact of the Iran conflict on US military readiness and alliances. Issues like energy security and cooperation with China are also on the agenda.
These large-caps have ‘strong buy’ & ‘buy’ recos and an upside potential of over 25%, according to analysts
At this juncture, what companies say about their Q2 results, and their outlook for Q3 and Q4, matters a great deal – but only to a certain extent. A company can plan only for what is in its control. No management can predict what the US President will decide, or which way the trouble in the Gulf will turn next.
As the US and China form AI blocs, countries are increasingly torn between them
Countries like Kazakhstan are trying to balance between U.S. and China AI initiatives for technological gains. Indonesia has expressed interest in benefiting from both AI superpowers while pursuing its technological agenda. Some nations are exploring relationships with both blocs without fully committing to either. China's investments in developing countries are increasing, enhancing their own AI capabilities.
Obama, in Midwest, assails 'cruelty' and indecency from Trump and his allies in the midterm campaign
Barack Obama campaigned for Democratic candidates in Ohio and Michigan ahead of the November 3 US midterm elections, criticising Donald Trump and Republican allies over campaign tactics, living costs and governance. He defended Ohio gubernatorial candidate Amy Acton and Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed as Democrats seek to mobilise voters in key battleground states.
These large-, mid- and small-cap stocks can give more than 20% return in 1 year, according to analysts
There is really no doubt about what will happen in the short term. It is going to be tough. Trying to guess the exact day when things will improve is a waste of effort. But a frightened market is exactly when it helps to look the other way. Because markets go too far in both directions, not only the one that is hurting today.
Ahead of APEC summit, Donald Trump comes knocking on Kim Jong Un's door
World leaders are set to converge in Shenzhen for the APEC summit, where the potential for a meeting between Trump and Kim raises eyebrows. While Trump extends an olive branch for dialogue, Kim appears disengaged, bolstering North Korea's connections with Russia and China. With sanctions ongoing, experts suggest that for Kim, the best play may simply be to maintain the status quo rather than engage in talks.
Global Market: Japanese banks see rising corporate loan demand ahead of BOJ meeting
Japanese banks report rising corporate funding demand despite the Bank of Japan’s 1.25% interest rate, reinforcing expectations of further monetary tightening. Persistent inflation risks, resilient lending and government concerns will shape the central bank’s upcoming policy decision.
Planned deadlock: 'Iran is dragging talks to influence US midterms'
Tehran analyst Saeed Leylaz said that, by prolonging the talks, "Iran is influencing the US election without taking any unlawful action". Trump has repeatedly said he expects oil prices to drop after the elections, but has not offered a detailed plan to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy shipping route effectively closed by Iran since the war began.
Marco Rubio to to commence three-day visit to India, calls India key ally, says its Russian energy purchases need to be understood
Marco Rubio's visit to Mumbai includes discussions on the pending US-India trade deal and bilateral relations. He will meet External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to address economic cooperation and regional stability. After paying tribute to terror victims, he will attend the Freedom 250 Reception celebrating diplomatic ties between the nations. Following Mumbai, Rubio will travel to Jamnagar to engage further in energy discussions.
Sergio Gor welcomes Rubio to Uzbekistan ahead of key C5+1 Ministerial meeting
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, leading a large delegation of business executives. His visit focuses on strengthening trade and investment between the United States and Central Asian countries. Meetings with foreign ministers will address regional security and economic collaboration. Following Uzbekistan, Rubio will continue to India to discuss energy cooperation and strategic partnerships. Both visits aim to deepen bilateral ties and unlock new opportunities.
These large- and mid-cap stocks can give more than 20% return in 1 year, according to analysts
The next few weeks are critical, and one should not be in a hurry to make market-related decisions. Better to be cautious – to wait and watch. Let the picture become a little clearer before you act.
JioBlackRock Flexi Cap Fund exits Eternal, Ashok Leyland and 16 more, trims stake in RIL, HDFC Bank and 32 others
JioBlackRock Flexi Cap Fund made complete exits from 18 stocks, including Eternal and Ashok Leyland, in September 2026, while trimming stakes in RIL, HDFC Bank, and 32 others. Managed by Tanvi Kacheria and Sahil Chaudhary, the scheme added 19 new stocks with total AUM standing at Rs 3,175 crore.
Indian bonds slip on higher oil, hawkish RBI governor comments
Indian government bonds faced a downturn, attributed to soaring oil prices and statements from the Reserve Bank of India. The yield on the benchmark 6.94% 2036 bond rose following the central bank's recent rate hike. Geopolitical tensions involving Yemen and Saudi Arabia also pushed oil prices higher. With consumer inflation expected to exceed the central bank's upper tolerance limit in October, traders are keenly awaiting U.S.
Gold prices flat as markets await US CPI data
In early Asian trading, gold prices held steady as investors awaited crucial US consumer price data, which could affect future Federal Reserve decisions. New York Fed President John Williams spoke about the need for potential interest rate increases to combat inflation. Additionally, Fed Governor Christopher Waller noted that robust economic growth could influence US bond yields, with other precious metals experiencing slight downturns amid the evolving market conditions.
D-Street braces for weak opening on negative GIFT Nifty cues
The Nifty index surged to close at 22,722, bouncing back with a hefty gain of 434 points from its lowest dip of the day. Positive remarks from Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman are likely to bolster investor confidence regarding the long-term capital gains tax. A decline in the India VIX suggests lower market anxiety, while foreign institutional investors recorded net sales, countered by robust domestic institutional purchases.
Rethink the short term, but it is only about business in the long term: 5 mid-cap stocks with upside potential of up to 23%
Be clear-eyed about the short term, because we are not done with market pessimism. There may well be more to come, and that could give you better prices than today's. But the preparation has to be done now, not after the move. In the long term, the rule is a simple one: Know what you own, and know why you own it.
Looking beyond 2026: 5 mid-cap stocks from different sectors with upside potential of up to 22%
After a long run of red days, the screen finally turned green on Tuesday. And for once it is not just the big names, the broader market joined in too. One or two companies have put out early numbers for the quarter, and those have been better than expected. After weeks of watching stocks drop, it is the most natural thing in the world to look at a day like this and feel that the worst is behind us. That would be a mistake, however.
There could be a pretty big global shock, says Nobel laureate & economist Michael Spence
Michael Spence highlights the economic growth of India and China, noting India's potential growth trajectory. He emphasizes India's advancements in digital infrastructure, particularly in digital financial services like UPI. Spence discusses the significance of AI in economic development and its anticipated impact over the next decade. He warns of potential economic shocks due to rising debt levels and high market valuations.
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