Heavy rainfall across China has triggered widespread flooding, transport disruption and emergency rescue operations in several regions.
Authorities have maintained a nationwide yellow alert for rainstorms as intense weather conditions continue to impact major cities and rural areas.

China Floods: Residents Wade Through Waterlogged Streets 

The Indian rupee is under intense pressure as soaring oil prices and a stronger U.S. dollar push the currency to fresh record lows. The rupee has already fallen nearly 6.5% against the dollar in 2026, sparking fears that it could eventually test the psychological 100-per-dollar mark. In this report, we examine what’s driving the rupee’s decline, how rising crude prices are worsening India’s trade deficit, and what it means for inflation, imports, and the Indian economy.

Oil Shock Sends Rupee to Record Lows

The United States has ended a key sanctions waiver that previously allowed certain countries to continue buying Russian seaborne oil. The decision raises major questions for global energy markets, India’s oil imports, Russia’s export revenues, and fuel prices worldwide. In this edition of World Business Watch, we break down what the end of the waiver means for India, Russia, and the U.S., and whether global oil markets are heading toward fresh volatility.

Washington Lets Key Russia Oil Exemption End 

India has officially restricted silver bar imports in a major policy shift that could reshape the precious metals market. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade has revised the import status of silver bars from “free” to “restricted” with immediate effect. The move is raising concerns over forex pressures, silver demand, and supply chain disruptions. In this report, we examine why India made this decision and what it could mean for traders, investors, and the broader economy.

India Shifts Silver From Free to Restricted 

Pressure is mounting in the U.S. bond market as Treasury yields climb above key levels amid fading hopes for interest rate cuts and rising geopolitical tensions linked to the Iran conflict. Higher borrowing costs are now hitting mortgages, consumer loans, and investor confidence. In this Alpha Tab report, we break down the real economic cost of rising yields, why bond markets are flashing warning signs, and what it means for the American economy.

#bonds #economy #usa

U.S. Bond Market Crisis Intensifies

A disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could trigger far more than an oil shock. In this Alpha Tab report, we examine how rising tensions in West Asia could disrupt LNG supplies, create helium shortages, and put global semiconductor manufacturing under severe pressure. From chipmakers to technology supply chains, the consequences of prolonged energy disruptions could ripple across the global economy and the future of the tech industry.

Hormuz Shock Threatens Semiconductor Supply Chains 

Global bond markets are under renewed pressure, with Britain emerging as a focal point during a turbulent week for interest rates and political uncertainty.

Rising yields and shifting rate expectations are intensifying volatility across sovereign debt markets, even as analysts caution that political factors have limited long-term impact on central bank decisions.

Britain Leads Global Bond Selloff

China’s gold recycling industry has surged to its strongest level in a decade as rising gold prices drive households and businesses to sell old jewellery and scrap bullion.

The boom highlights growing demand pressure in global gold markets while also reflecting shifting consumer behaviour in response to record-high prices.

China’s Gold Recycling Hits 10-Year High

Investor leverage in the United States has surged to record levels, signaling rising risk appetite across financial markets. Margin debt and borrowing activity have climbed sharply over the past year as investors increase exposure to equities and other assets.

The surge in financial leverage raises concerns about market stability, especially if volatility increases or asset prices reverse. Analysts warn that elevated debt-driven positions could amplify losses during a downturn, adding pressure to already sensitive global markets.

U.S. Investor Leverage Hits Record High

Crude oil prices have surged back above $110 per barrel, triggering renewed pressure across global stock and bond markets. The spike is being driven by fresh geopolitical tensions and reported drone attacks in the Gulf region.

Analysts warn that rising energy costs are once again feeding inflation concerns while also shaking investor confidence across financial markets. Capital Economics says the situation could deepen volatility if prices remain elevated.

Oil Piles Pressure On Stocks & Bonds

Oil prices above $110 per barrel are adding fresh pressure to global inflation at a time when central banks were hoping for stability. Economists warn that persistent energy shocks could undo recent progress on price control.

Markets are now questioning whether central banks are beginning to lose control over inflation dynamics as cost pressures spread across economies worldwide.

Oil At $110 Is Pushing Inflation Even Higher | World Business Watch


Senior Congress leader VD Satheesan took oath as the new Chief Minister of Kerala in a high-profile ceremony attended by top opposition leaders.
Leaders from the Indian National Congress, UDF allies including IUML and RSP, joined the swearing-in event.

VD Satheesan Oath Ceremony:  Congress Leader VD Satheesan Takes Oath As New Kerala CM 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a five-nation tour covering the UAE, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy.
The visit aims to deepen India’s partnerships in trade, energy, defence, technology and green growth.

PM Modi's Historic Norway Visit: India-Norway Ties Set To Enter New Phase 

Nepal’s legendary mountaineer Kami Rita Sherpa, known as the “Everest Man,” has set a new world record by successfully summiting Mount Everest for the 32nd time.

The 56-year-old veteran guide reached the 8,849-meter peak at 10:12 a.m. local time, extending his unmatched legacy in high-altitude mountaineering history. His achievement further cements Nepal’s dominance in Everest guiding and expedition expertise.

Kami Rita Sherpa Breaks His Own Record: 32 Everest Climbs!

Cuba has strongly accused the United States of fabricating claims after an Axios report alleged that Havana acquired over 300 military drones and discussed possible attacks on US targets including Guantanamo Bay and Florida.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez rejected the allegations, calling them a “fraudulent case” aimed at justifying sanctions and possible military escalation.

The US has not independently confirmed the claims, but intelligence reports have intensified already rising tensions between Washington and Havana.

US-Cuba Crisis Escalates | Havana Rejects “Drone Threat” Allegations

Saudi Arabia said it intercepted and destroyed three drones that entered its airspace from Iraq. The incident comes amid soaring regional tensions linked to the ongoing Iran-US conflict. Riyadh warned it is prepared to take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty and security.

Saudi Arabia Intercepts Three Drones, Middle East Tensions Escalate 

Hezbollah has branded ongoing Lebanon-Israel negotiations a “dead end” as Israeli strikes continue across southern and eastern Lebanon.
The Iran-backed group accused Lebanese authorities of making dangerous concessions under US-backed mediation efforts.


 Israel-Lebanon War: Hezbollah Declares Israel-Lebanon Talks A ‘Dead End’ Amid Fresh Strikes

The World Health Organization has declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda a global public health emergency.
The outbreak involves the rare Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, for which there is currently no approved vaccine or treatment.

Ebola Outbreak Triggers Global Alarm In Democratic Republic Of Congo 

West Asia War: Saudi Arabia Intercepts Three Drones, Gulf Tensions Explode

The Israeli military on Saturday (May 16, 2026) confirmed that Ezzedine Al-Haddad, chief of Hamas' armed wing, was killed in an air strike in Gaza the day before.


Israel Unleashes Airstrikes Across Gaza City Killing Hamas Armed Wing Chief in the Operation

India has made government permits mandatory for the import of silver bars, introducing tighter regulations on precious metal imports. The move is aimed at improving oversight, monitoring trade flows, and managing import-related concerns. Industry stakeholders are closely watching the impact of the new rule on bullion markets, jewellery businesses, and silver trade activity across the country.


Silver Bar Imports Now Need Government Permit in India

The rupee breached the 96 per dollar mark for the first time ever on Friday. For the Indian currency, the larger headline is still global. There is no clarity on the US-Iran war or Hormuz. As a result, Brent crude is climbing back towards 110 dollars per barrel.


Rupee Hits 96/$ for First Time Ever |

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to meet Swedish leaders and top CEOs in Gothenburg as part of his five-nation tour. The visit is expected to focus on strengthening economic ties, innovation partnerships, technology cooperation, and investment opportunities between India and Sweden. PM Modi’s meetings with business leaders are also aimed at boosting trade and strategic collaboration across key sectors.


PM Modi's 5 Nation Tour: PM Modi to Meet Swedish Leaders & Top CEOs in Gotenburg

The Andhra Pradesh government has announced new incentives aimed at encouraging population growth, with benefits being offered to families having a third and fourth child. The move comes amid concerns over declining fertility rates and demographic challenges. Officials say the policy is designed to support larger families while addressing future workforce and population balance needs in the state.


Andhra Pradesh Pushes for Population Growth; Announces Incentives for Third, Fourth Child

wion

Wion, News on Wion, stories on Wion, articles on Wion, Wion stories at Wion, Wion news, Wion latest news

WION