Latest news with #GeopoliticalTensions
Zawya
22-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: Geopolitical uncertainty, oil prices stable, gold prices rise
Muscat: Oil prices remained largely stable on Monday, with Crude trading at $68.60 and WTI at $65.85, balancing new European sanctions targeting Russian oil with concerns that escalating tariffs could stifle fuel demand, even as OPEC producers increase output. The EU's 18th sanctions package aims to cut Russia's oil revenues by banning imports of petroleum products refined from Russian crude, even when processed in third countries like India, and imposing a dynamic price cap, according to Vijay Valecha, chief investment officer, Century Financial. Despite these measures, prices haven't sharply fallen, partly due to ongoing geopolitical factors, shifting trade routes, and market uncertainties, including U.S.-China trade talks and supply disruptions like Canadian wildfires. Adding to the complexity, US President Donald Trump has threatened sanctions on Russian oil buyers and new tariffs on the EU, while upcoming Iran nuclear talks further cloud the future supply outlook, creating a tug-of-war between bearish pressures from increased supply and demand worries and bullish risks from sanctions and other uncertainties. Gold is up by about 0.55% today. From a fundamental standpoint, the ongoing episode over central bank independence and policy direction triggered safe-haven buying last week. Although the momentum seems to have faded, the tensions remain. Gold prices in Oman 24k - RO42.500 22k- RO39.750 18k- RO31.400 From a technical standpoint, the commodity is trading at the neckline of an ascending triangle formation, with a price mark of $3,364-$3,374. A break above the $3,374 price mark signals the bullish trend, with targets extending towards $3,436. On the contrary, a break of the trendline support connecting the lows of $2,832 on 28th February, $2,956 on 7th April, $3,247 on 30th June, $3,282 on 9th July, and $3,309 on 17th July triggers a bearish trend. The nearest support levels are at $3,345, followed by $3,331 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
South China Morning Post
18-07-2025
- Business
- South China Morning Post
Australia should continue engaging with China on its own terms
The significance of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's six-day visit to China cannot be overstated. It was not only his first visit to China after his re-election, but also the fourth meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping Advertisement Bilateral ties had previously been marred by bitter trade disputes and mutual recriminations, which have improved since Albanese took office in 2022. While Albanese's visit was a continuation of his efforts to strengthen ties with China and secure economic gains, it came amid growing geopolitical unease. The Aukus agreement between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States is considered a central pillar of Australia's long-term security architecture. However, doubts about the fate of the pact – under which the US was to sell Australia at least three nuclear-powered submarines – emerged after Trump's election, given the views of members of his administration, such as Elbridge Colby, undersecretary of defence for policy. Last month, it became clear that the Trump administration had launched a review of the agreement. Potentially costing Australia up to US$368 billion, the pact was already facing domestic criticism due to its heavy price tag. There are now fears that the Trump administration may demand that Australia not only pay more for its nuclear-powered submarines but also guarantee support for the US in a potential conflict over Taiwan Advertisement Australia is still committed to its one-China policy , and some believe that the Trump administration is not united behind Colby's thinking. The British special adviser on Aukus, Sir Stephen Lovegrove, also dismissed fears over the Aukus review. Nevertheless, given the unpredictable nature of US foreign policy, Aukus is a thorny issue in the context of Australia-China relations.
Yahoo
17-07-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Chinese K-pop idol told to 'go back' after pushing One China policy on fans
[Source] Xinyu, a Chinese vocalist of the 24-member K-pop girl group tripleS, is facing backlash after echoing her support for Beijing's 'One China' policy. The controversy erupted on fan platform Fromm, where the Beijing-born performer reportedly wrote, 'Macau is Chinese from the beginning. Hong Kong and Taiwan also.' Fans urged caution but the idol responded defiantly, saying, 'People who don't agree with me shouldn't [follow] me on Fromm. Why should I be scared of being told off? Did I say something wrong?' Xinyu's statements support Beijing's official position that mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau constitute one country under its rule. In response, Korean netizens clapped back with harsh criticism, with one demanding, 'Wow if you're gonna spew that kind of nonsense, go back to your country and do it to those ignorant people there.' Others wrote 'Hope you've booked your flight back to China girl' and 'This is why we don't stan Chinese idols.' The backlash reflects historical tensions as similar controversies erupted in 2015 when Twice's Tzuyu apologized for waving Taiwan's flag and in 2019 when Chinese idols posted Chinese flags during Hong Kong's pro-democracy protests. It also occurs amid heightened geopolitical tensions, with a recently leaked audio suggesting that President Donald Trump threatened to 'bomb the shit out of Beijing' if China invaded Taiwan. In 2023, Chinese President Xi Jinping reportedly asked former President Joe Biden to change Washington's language from 'does not support' to 'we oppose Taiwan independence.' Trending on NextShark: This story is part of The Rebel Yellow Newsletter — a bold weekly newsletter from the creators of NextShark, reclaiming our stories and celebrating Asian American voices. Subscribe free to join the movement. If you love what we're building, consider becoming a paid member — your support helps us grow our team, investigate impactful stories, and uplift our community. Trending on NextShark: Subscribe here now! Download the NextShark App: Want to keep up to date on Asian American News? Download the NextShark App today! Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Military Drones Industry Outlook to 2030: U.S. and China Lead Market Growth with Double-Digit CAGRs
The military drones market presents opportunities driven by technological advancements like AI and autonomy, rising defense spending, and changing warfare strategies. Key areas include reconnaissance, targeted strikes, and logistics. Growth is fueled by geopolitical tensions and innovative use cases like drone swarming. Military Drones Market Dublin, July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Military Drones - Global Strategic Business Report" has been added to global market for Military Drones was valued at US$15.1 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$29.8 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 12.1% from 2024 to 2030. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of market trends, drivers, and forecasts, helping you make informed business decisions. The report includes the most recent global tariff developments and how they impact the Military Drones market. The growth in the military drones market is driven by several factors, including technological advancements, changing defense strategies, and increased defense spending. Rising geopolitical tensions and the growing emphasis on asymmetric warfare have led to heightened demand for UAVs as cost-effective and versatile force multipliers. Governments worldwide are investing heavily in drone technologies to enhance surveillance and combat capabilities. The shift toward unmanned systems to minimize personnel risks and operational costs is another key driver. Innovations in AI, automation, and miniaturization have made drones more capable and accessible, further fueling their adoption. Additionally, the emergence of new-use cases, such as drone swarming and integrated multi-domain operations, along with supportive regulatory frameworks and rising public-private partnerships, is significantly contributing to market expansion. Key Insights: Market Growth: Understand the significant growth trajectory of the Fixed-Wing Military Drones segment, which is expected to reach US$11.1 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of a 12.5%. The Rotary-Wing Military Drones segment is also set to grow at 11.5% CAGR over the analysis period. Regional Analysis: Gain insights into the U.S. market, valued at $5.6 Billion in 2024, and China, forecasted to grow at an impressive 15.5% CAGR to reach $5 Billion by 2030. Discover growth trends in other key regions, including Japan, Canada, Germany, and the Asia-Pacific. Key Questions Answered: How is the Global Military Drones Market expected to evolve by 2030? What are the main drivers and restraints affecting the market? Which market segments will grow the most over the forecast period? How will market shares for different regions and segments change by 2030? Who are the leading players in the market, and what are their prospects? Report Features: Comprehensive Market Data: Independent analysis of annual sales and market forecasts in US$ Million from 2024 to 2030. In-Depth Regional Analysis: Detailed insights into key markets, including the U.S., China, Japan, Canada, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa. Company Profiles: Coverage of players such as Aeronautics Ltd., AeroVironment, Inc., Anduril Industries, Inc., Asteria Aerospace Limited, BAE Systems Australia and more. Complimentary Updates: Receive free report updates for one year to keep you informed of the latest market developments. Some of the 79 companies featured in this Military Drones market report include: Aeronautics Ltd. AeroVironment, Inc. Anduril Industries, Inc. Asteria Aerospace Limited BAE Systems Australia Elbit Systems Ltd. General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd. Lockheed Martin Corporation Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation Shield AI Inc. Teal Drones, Inc. Teledyne FLIR LLC Textron Systems Corporation Thales Group The Boeing Company UMS SKELDAR SWEDEN AB The report analyzes the Military Drones market in terms of units by the following Segments, and Geographic Regions/Countries: Segments: Type (Fixed-Wing Military Drones, Rotary-Wing Military Drones, Hybrid Military Drones); Propulsion (Fuel Powered Propulsion, Battery Powered Propulsion); Application (Intelligence, Surveillance, & Reconnaissance (ISR) Application; Other Applications). Geographic Regions/Countries: World; USA; Canada; Japan; China; Europe; France; Germany; Italy; UK; Spain; Russia; Rest of Europe; Asia-Pacific; Australia; India; South Korea; Rest of Asia-Pacific; Latin America; Brazil; Rest of Latin America; Middle East; Iran; Israel; Rest of Middle East; Africa. This edition integrates the latest global trade and economic shifts as of June 2025 into comprehensive market analysis. Key updates include: Tariff and Trade Impact: Insights into global tariff negotiations across 180+ countries, with analysis of supply chain turbulence, sourcing disruptions, and geographic realignment. Special focus on 2025 as a pivotal year for trade tensions, including updated perspectives on the Trump-era tariffs. Adjusted Forecasts and Analytics: Revised global and regional market forecasts through 2030, incorporating tariff effects, economic uncertainty, and structural changes in globalization. Includes historical analysis since 2015. Strategic Market Dynamics: Evaluation of revised market prospects, regional outlooks, and key economic indicators such as population and urbanization trends. Innovation & Technology Trends: Latest developments in product and process innovation, emerging technologies, and key industry drivers shaping the competitive landscape. Competitive Intelligence: Updated global market share estimates for 2025, competitive positioning of major players (Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial), and refined focus on leading global brands and core players. Expert Insight & Commentary: Strategic analysis from economists, trade experts, and domain specialists to contextualize market shifts and identify emerging opportunities. Complimentary Update: Buyers receive a free July 2025 update with finalized tariff impacts, new trade agreement effects, revised projections, and expanded country-level coverage. Key Attributes Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 445 Forecast Period 2024-2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $15.1 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $29.8 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 12.1% Regions Covered Global Market Overview A Prelude to Military Drones Military Drones Dominate the World UAV Drones Market (2021 & 2027): Percentage Breakdown of Sales for Military, Commercial, Homeland Security, and Other Applications Economic Frontiers: Trends, Trials & Transformations In a World Torn by Geopolitical Instability & War, Steadfastness of Global GDP Becomes Increasingly Unpredictable Given the Many Direct and Indirect Economic Repercussions: World Economic Growth Projections (Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Annual % Change) for the Years 2022 Through 2025 All Eyes on Global Inflation, the Main Risk Factor in Global Markets: Global Headline Inflation Rates (In %) for the Years 2019 through 2025 With Oil Prices Influencing the Rate of inflation, it Remains the Most Watched Commodity in Global Markets: Global Average Annual Brent Crude Oil Price (In US$ Per Barrel) for Years 2019 through 2025 Tariff Impact on Global Supply Chain Patterns Competition Military Drones - Global Key Competitors Percentage Market Share in 2025 (E) Competitive Market Presence - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial for Players Worldwide in 2025 (E) Global Market Analysis and Prospects Global Military Drone Market to Scale Dizzying Heights with Unabated Demand Segment and Regional Analysis Current Drones: Blending Advanced Features Recent Market Activity Influencer/Product/Technology Insights Market Trends & Drivers Strong Growth in Military & Defense Spending Spurs Opportunities for Military Drones Military Spending by Top Countries in 2024 (In US$ Billion) Rise in Territorial Conflicts and Border Disputes Necessitate Better Surveillance & Target Identification, Driving Demand for Drones Age of Connected Battlefield & Network Centric Warfare Strategies Make C4ISR the Backbone of Modern Military Operations Stellar Leaps in Drone Technology Entail Far-Advanced Future for Military & Homeland Security Market Primed to Benefit from the Rising Adoption of High Capability UAVs New Era of Drone-Powered Warfare High Popularity of UCAVs to Augment Growth Advances & Innovations to Fuel Demand Artificial Intelligence in Military Drones Select Recent Military Drones Advancements Growing Role of Drones for ISR Operations Drones Connected with Small Sized EO/IR Sensors for ISR Missions Large Scale Usage of Drones in Military Setup Pushes up Demand for Counter-Drone Technologies Ongoing Efforts to Deal with the Offensive Threat From Troops & Tanks on Battlefield to Drone Deployment, How Mass-Market Drones are Shaping Wars? Drone Technology: Revolutionizing Warfare and Bridging the Gap for Resource-Limited Armies Small Drones: A Game-Changer for Modern Militaries Group 3 Drones: The Army's Most Pressing Unmanned Threat For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Military Drones Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900
Mail & Guardian
12-07-2025
- Business
- Mail & Guardian
G20: South Africa needs the weight of the continent for progressive outcomes
South Africa's G20 faces unprecedented diplomatic tensions, as the geo-political situation with the United States adds a new layer of complexity. With South Africa at the helm of the G20 and the African Union seated at the table, this year's G20 processes represent a defining moment for African diplomacy. The AU must act with unity, urgency and strategic clarity to ensure that both its agenda and South Africa's deliverables translate into meaningful outcomes. The AU was admitted as a permanent member of the G20 in 2023; it has held observer status since its inception in 1999. Since then, the agenda at the annual G20 summit has aligned with the AU's priorities, providing a significant platform to champion causes relevant to the African continent. It is for this reason that South Africa's G20 presidency is a powerful moment for Africa, as African issues are at the forefront of the world's leaders' minds. Historically, the AU has seen diplomatic success through its instrumental role in launching the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, endorsing the Principles for Just and Inclusive Energy Transitions, and reaffirming its support for the G20 Compact with Africa. South Africa's G20 faces unprecedented diplomatic tensions, as the geo-political situation with the United States adds a new layer of complexity. Experts in international relations suggest the situation demands an AU-wide response, as it concerns Africa's rightful place at the table where global economic rules are written. The AU has an opportunity to engage diplomatically with the incoming US G20 presidency while standing firm on Africa's right to full participation. To support South Africa and maximise Africa's influence, the AU should leverage its seat proactively. It should assertively promote its strategic priorities by aligning them with G20 priorities. A unified African position From the perspective of international development, South Africa's representation at the G20 is not merely national but continental. When properly backed by AU consensus positions, South Africa can transform from a middle-power voice to the representative of a continent with 1.3 billion people and tremendous economic potential. The AU must establish formalised pre-G20 consultation mechanisms to ensure South Africa enters negotiations carrying the collective weight of the continent's aspirations. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, the chairperson of the AU Commission, has an opportunity to emphasise that fragmentation diminishes Africa's influence in global forums. The AU Commission could work to consolidate Africa's diplomatic capital through structured consultations that produce clear mandates for the continent's G20 representative. The AU must work with the agility and coordination of other blocs such as the European Union by advocating for the reduction of tariffs between African countries and pushing for policy harmonisation. These steps will strengthen trade between member states, boost development, increase GDP, and present Africa as a competitive global player. Climate justice and finance The AU must empower South Africa to demand climate justice and significant adaptation financing from G20 nations that bear historical responsibility. According to environmental policy experts, Africa contributes less than 4% of global carbon emissions, yet suffers disproportionately from climate change. South Africa needs continental backing to push for reforms to the development finance architecture. The current systems often perpetuate inequalities rather than addressing them which can be challenged through a unified African position. Additionally, the AU can position itself as a leader among Global South countries in the G20 by spearheading discussions on debt sustainability and global financial reform. It should take the lead in advocating reforms that prioritise borrowers' needs and pushing for a more inclusive and equitable global financial system, an outcome that would benefit Africa and other developing countries alike. Africa's greatest untapped advantage lies beyond the halls of government, in the energy of our civil society, the innovation of our private sector and the vision of our youth. To maximise our G20 influence, the AU should institutionalise structured consultations with cooperatives, women's business associations, climate activists and tech entrepreneurs. These voices bring legitimacy and ground truth that no diplomat alone can muster. The G20's engagement groups offer critical platforms that South Africa can ensure includes robust African representation, translating continental priorities into actionable global agendas. With South Africa at the helm of the G20 and the AU seated at the table, the 2025 G20 processes represent a defining moment for African diplomacy. When Africa speaks with one voice, the world has no choice but to listen. Measuring success For Africa's G20 engagement to move beyond symbolic presence to strategic influence, the AU should, in tandem with South Africa's vision of the G20, establish clear metrics for success. Each summit should be evaluated against specific continental priorities, from debt restructuring to digital economy governance. Without measurable outcomes, participation remains performative rather than transformative. Africa's greatest untapped advantage lies beyond the halls of government, but in the energy of our civil society, the innovation of our private sector, and the vision of our youth. To maximise our G20 influence, the AU must institutionalise structured consultations with cooperatives, women's business associations, climate activists and tech entrepreneurs. These voices bring legitimacy and ground truth that no diplomat alone can muster. The G20's engagement groups offer critical platforms we've underused. South Africans should ensure these forums include robust African representation, translating continental priorities into actionable global agendas. African governance and development advocates emphasise that the future of global governance must include meaningful African participation, beginning with strategic coordination between the AU and Africa's G20 representatives. When Africa speaks with one voice, the world has no choice but to listen. Munjodzi Mutandiri is a senior programme adviser at the .
