China Futures Association: Jan–Jun cumulative futures volume 5.105 billion contracts and turnover 482.7 trillion yuan, up 25.23% and 42.08% YoY, respectively. Aggregate market capital repeatedly hit record highs. Expanded turnover and liquidity provided effective hedging tools and supported steady operation of the real economy.

Axios reported the Trump administration has demanded Iran publicly, by Saturday, pledge to stop firing on commercial vessels and confirm the Strait of Hormuz will remain open. US officials said the request was conveyed via direct channels and regional intermediaries. Washington says recent Iranian attacks on commercial shipping in and around the strait breached a memorandum of understanding signed weeks earlier and risk collapsing a fragile ceasefire. Iran’s Araghchi is due to meet Omani Foreign Minister Badr al‑Busaidi in Muscat on Saturday; the US wants a public commitment after that meeting that attacks will cease and vessels will not be charged transit fees. US officials said nuclear talks with Iran had made some progress but the Hormuz incidents raise doubts about Tehran’s ability to implement more complex agreements. US warned it would take further action if Iran refuses.

Market sources: the US government has authorized the UAE to receive advanced computing items without a license.