Australia
Nepal disaster: Australia is sending specialist drone operators and additional aid to help with rescue efforts after devastating floods and landslides in Nepal; more than 1,200 people have reportedly died.
Housing & interest rates: CBA says Australian home-loan applications have fallen 15% since the federal Budget, while markets are pricing in a high probability of another RBA rate rise this month.
Queensland coal mine approved: The new National Environmental Protection Agency has approved an extension of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance's Saraji coal mine through 2055, triggering criticism from environmental groups.
AI and defence: Defence Minister Richard Marles says Australia's growing reliance on AI is becoming an important sovereignty and national-security issue as warfare becomes increasingly technology-driven.
World News
Pacific tensions: China and Palau have clashed at the Pacific Islands Forum after China's ballistic-missile test in the Pacific. Palau is pushing for a united regional response, while Beijing accuses Palau of exaggerating the incident.
Iran conflict & oil: Renewed U.S.–Iran fighting is pushing oil prices higher. Brent crude rose about 1.7% to US$97.25/barrel, while global markets were mixed.
Venezuela: Chevron and Eni are expanding investment in Venezuela, reflecting renewed interest in the country's oil sector amid changing political and legal conditions.
Business & tech
AI continues driving markets: Snowflake shares jumped more than 20% premarket after its results, while investors continue to focus heavily on AI-related demand across the technology sector.
Robotaxi battle: Uber is working with taxi-driver unions to push back against rapid robotaxi deployment, particularly by Waymo, arguing for regulations that preserve a role for human drivers.
