Ship-tracking data show at least 10 very large crude carriers (VLCCs) and several Suezmax tankers bound for Fujairah have paused or turned back as the perceived risk of Iranian attacks near the Strait of Hormuz rises. Fujairah is a major transshipment hub for Persian Gulf oil exports; VLCCs often wait outside the strait and transship via smaller tankers. Withdrawal of large tankers could disrupt that bypass pattern and add pressure to crude logistics. Some vessels remain en route, but repeated r

Deutsche Bank analysts say Singapore core inflation is forecast at 2.0–2.5% YoY over the next 12 months, above the MAS's informal sub-2% target, which could prompt the central bank to allow further Singapore dollar appreciation. Deutsche Bank expects MAS at Wednesday's monetary policy meeting to modestly steepen the appreciation slope of the S$NEER policy band to curb inflation. Analysts note Q4 electricity prices are expected to fall about 10% QoQ, partly easing pressure, but rising food prices and stronger goods-to-services pass-through should keep overall price pressures elevated.

Madison Investment head of fixed income Mike Sanders said investors closely watch the 10-year US Treasury yield as the benchmark risk-free rate underpinning global asset valuations. Traditionally it reflects growth and inflation expectations, but Sanders warned its drivers now also include the Fed’s policy path, energy prices, fiscal deficits and foreign investor demand. He added that when the Fed adjusts short-term policy rates to fight inflation or stimulate growth, the market-determined 10-year yield often indicates how effective that policy has been.