Key Takeaways
- Escalating trade tensions see the EU preparing for potential no-deal tariffs from the US, with a looming August 1 deadline and US demands for tariffs above 10%.
- China and Vietnam are set to hold their first joint army training exercise in July, a move signaling deepening military ties as both nations navigate US tariff pressures.
- Apple's (AAPL) iPhone 17 Air is expected to be announced in September 2025, with pre-orders likely by September 12 and general availability around September 19 in India.
- Australia's ASIC has raised concerns over risks in the real estate sector, specifically highlighting the rapid growth of private credit firms.
- Saudi Arabia is launching a new low-cost airline with a 45-plane fleet based in Dammam, signaling expansion in the aviation sector.
Global financial markets are closely watching escalating trade tensions as the European Union prepares for a potential no-deal tariff situation with the United States. EU envoys may convene this week to discuss strategies, as Donald Trump has toughened his stance, seeking tariffs above 10% with only limited exemptions ahead of the August 1 deadline. This development underscores the continued uncertainty in international trade relations.
Further highlighting the shifting geopolitical and trade landscape, China and Vietnam are scheduled to conduct their first joint army training exercise in mid-to-late July in Guangxi. The drills, focusing on border patrol, signify deepening military ties between the two nations as they both contend with ongoing US tariff pressures. Meanwhile, Bangladesh has secured a significant 700,000-tonne annual wheat deal with the U.S., a transaction that also takes place amid broader tariff tensions.
In the technology sector, Apple (AAPL) is gearing up for a major product launch in India. The iPhone 17 Air is expected to be officially announced between September 8-10, 2025, aligning with the typical launch window for other iPhone 17 models. Pre-orders are anticipated to begin around September 12, with general availability projected for September 19.
Regulatory bodies are also signaling caution in specific financial sectors. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has expressed particular concern regarding risks within the real estate sector. This comes as private credit firms have experienced rapid growth in recent years, prompting ASIC to highlight potential vulnerabilities.
In corporate news, Zeekr has issued a strong denial regarding allegations of selling or registering zero-mileage used cars in China, addressing concerns within the automotive market. Looking at regional economic developments, Saudi Arabia has unveiled plans for a new low-cost airline, which will operate a 45-plane fleet and be based in Dammam, indicating significant investment and expansion in the Middle Eastern aviation industry.
Political developments in Asia could also have indirect market implications. An exit poll by public broadcaster NHK suggests that Japan’s ruling coalition is likely to lose its majority in the upper house following Sunday’s election. This potential shift in political power could influence future economic policies and market sentiment in Japan.
Ed Liston is a senior contributing editor at TheStockMarketWatch.com. An active market watcher and investor, Ed guides an independent team of experienced analysts and writes for multiple stock trader publications.