Australia has deployed military assets to the Middle East as part of contingency planning tied to escalating regional conflict, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed, signalling Canberra’s readiness to assist citizens and safeguard strategic interests as tensions widen across the region. Albanese told parliament that defence resources had been sent earlier in the week alongside crisis response teams, describing the move as a precaution amid a rapidly deteriorating […]
Western Union has joined forces with Sasai Fintech, a business unit of Cassava Technologies, to launch a mobile application aimed at expanding international money transfer services for consumers in South Africa. The initiative seeks to widen access to digital remittances for users who increasingly rely on smartphones and mobile connectivity to manage cross-border payments. The co-branded application enables customers in South Africa to send money internationally through […]
Apple has introduced a wave of new devices spanning smartphones, laptops and tablets, signalling a strategy aimed at widening access to its ecosystem while strengthening its position in the premium computing market. The launches include the iPhone 17e, refreshed MacBook models powered by the M5 family of chips, and a new entry-level laptop called the MacBook Neo priced at $599 — the lowest price ever for a […]
China has announced plans to send a special diplomatic envoy to the Middle East as Beijing seeks to mediate escalating hostilities linked to military strikes on Iran and retaliatory attacks across the region. Foreign minister Wang Yi said the envoy would travel to several regional capitals to promote dialogue and reduce tensions following a widening confrontation involving Iran, Israel and the United States. The move marks one […]
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 March 2026 – The inaugural “Study in Hong Kong” Week (February 23 to March 1) was successfully launched to promote the city’s attractiveness as a destination for students around the world to pursue higher education.
A major highlight was the prestigious Asia-Pacific Association for International Education (APAIE) 2026 Conference and Exhibition, which ranks among the world’s top three international higher education conferences. The event attracted over 3,500 leading international education professionals to explore the latest trends and critical issues in higher education.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of APAIE 2026, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR)’s Secretary for Education, Dr Christine Choi said, “To further promote higher education in Hong Kong to the world, we are dedicating this week as the ‘Study in Hong Kong’ Week, during which we will share our success stories and connect more closely with partners worldwide.”
HKSAR’s Secretary for Education, Dr Christine Choi (second row, ninth left), visits the “Study in Hong Kong” Pavilion at the APAIE with other guests
“Under the “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong enjoys the distinctive advantages of being part of China with strong support from our Motherland and at the same time being centrally located in Asia.
“Our universities are globally recognised, with five of them within the world’s top 100 and Asia’s top 20. Hong Kong claimed all top four spots in the ranking of the world’s most international universities last year. Indeed, one in every four of our students come from outside Hong Kong. The proportion is even higher for academic staff, with around 70 per cent from elsewhere.”
Held under the theme “Asia-Pacific Partnerships for the Global Good”, APAIE 2026 featured pre-conference workshops, summit forums, keynote speeches, and exchange activities.
Dr Choi met with education officials and representatives from various regions on international education development trends and co-operation. She held separate meetings with the State Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Research, Development and Youth of the Slovak Republic, Mr Róbert Zsembera, and the Director General of the International Cooperation Department of the Ministry of Education and Training of Vietnam, Dr Nguyen Thu Thuy, to exchange views on the development, co-operation, and promotion of international higher education.
Dr Choi also toured the “Study in Hong Kong” Pavilion, where she learned about the promotional efforts of University Grants Committee (UGC)-funded universities and how they expand international networks to recruit students from various regions for study and exchange in Hong Kong. She also visited other booths at the exhibition, exchanging views on higher education development with representatives from various countries and regions.
Dr Choi noted that Hong Kong, as Asia’s world city, possesses advantages in global connectivity, world-class infrastructure, and rich cultural experiences that attract outstanding talent.
During the Week, UGC-funded universities hosted campus tours, allowing overseas guests to experience first-hand the fusion of diverse cultures from different regions. Universities also organised student exchange activities to foster friendships among international students from different regions, deepen their understanding of Hong Kong, and help them better integrate into local campus life.
“While Hong Kong is highly popular among students from the Chinese Mainland, those from other parts of the world, especially in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Belt and Road countries or regions, have increased significantly in recent years,” Dr Choi said.
“As we welcome more non-local students to our schools and universities, we hope Hong Kong can serve as a springboard for them to engage with the Chinese Mainland and the wider Asia-Pacific, and as a pathway to widen collaborations across this vibrant region.”
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai AD Ports Group signalled that shifting maritime routes in the Gulf could lift cargo volumes across its international network, as shipping lines adjust operations amid heightened security concerns near the Strait of Hormuz. The Abu Dhabi-based ports and logistics operator said diversion of vessels away from the narrow waterway may increase activity across terminals and logistics assets managed by the company in several […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Authorities in the United Arab Emirates declared that essential services, financial systems and aviation operations remain functioning across the country, even as regional tensions intensified, during a national media briefing on March 3 addressing developments over the previous four days. Officials emphasised that the country’s institutions remain fully operational and that measures are in place to safeguard citizens, residents and visitors while […]
Escalating hostilities between the United States, Israel and Iran sent shockwaves through global energy markets and maritime trade as Tehran threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil shipping lanes, while Donald Trump vowed Washington would do “whatever it takes” to prevail in the widening confrontation. Energy prices surged and financial markets swung sharply after military strikes and retaliatory threats raised […]
By Ashok Nilakantan Ayers NEW YORK: The war that began with a lightning decapitation strike has settled into something far more uncertain. President Donald Trump said Tuesday that U.S. military operations against Iran could last “four to five weeks” — and possibly “far longer.” Across the Atlantic, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended Israel’s decision to […]
Stock markets across India tumbled sharply as escalating conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran heightened geopolitical risks and rattled investor confidence. The benchmark Sensex plunged by more than 1,000 points, slipping beneath the 81,000 mark, while the Nifty 50 index lost upwards of 300 points, breaching the crucial 25,000 support level as traders moved out of riskier assets. Over two trading sessions, equities have shed value significantly, wiping out approximately ₹11 lakh crore in market capitalisation, underlining how swiftly global geopolitics can translate into domestic financial stress.
The sell-off was driven by escalating military strikes between the United States and Israel against Iran, which led to the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader and triggered retaliatory actions across the region. This surge in hostilities has directly affected energy markets, pushing Brent crude oil prices upwards as disruptions along the Strait of Hormuz — a vital chokepoint for roughly a fifth of global oil shipments — raised concerns about supply. Higher oil prices have increased input costs for energy-importing economies and amplified inflationary pressures, prompting investors to reassess risk assets.
The immediate impact on Indian markets was stark. On Monday, the Sensex closed more than 1.3 per cent lower, its lowest finish in nearly six months, while the volatility index jumped sharply, reflecting heightened unease among traders. Nifty 50’s weakness on the trading floor mirrored broader pressure across key sectors, with energy, infrastructure and export-linked stocks bearing the brunt as sentiment deteriorated. Safe-haven assets such as gold saw notable gains as buyers sought refuge from equity market turmoil.
Analysts point out that crude oil’s swift ascent — fuelled by concerns over prolonged conflict and chokepoint disruptions — directly affects inflation and corporate margins. India imports a significant share of its crude from the Middle East, meaning sustained higher oil prices could widen the current account deficit and constrain monetary policy flexibility. As the cost of imported fuel rises, transport and manufacturing sectors may face margin pressure, posing broader economic challenges.
Sector-specific reactions were evident as aviation and consumer discretionary firms underperformed sharply, enduring heavier selling than other segments. Airlines canceling or rerouting flights due to closed Middle Eastern airspace compounded operational uncertainties for carriers with significant exposure to that region. By contrast, stocks of certain energy producers saw modest strength, as rising oil benchmarks can enhance their near-term earnings prospects.
Foreign institutional investors have been net sellers, exacerbating downward pressure on domestic bourses. Data from market intermediaries show significant outflows amid rising global risk aversion, with liquidity flowing into traditional safe havens including U. S. Treasuries and precious metals. This rotation underscores how geopolitical stress can quickly reframe investment priorities, often to the detriment of emerging market equities.
Currency markets reflected the strain, with the rupee depreciating against major currencies as capital outflows intensified. A weaker rupee further amplifies the impact of higher crude prices, raising import bills and potentially catalysing inflation. Bond markets reacted in kind, with yields on government securities climbing as investors demanded higher compensation for perceived risk and inflation expectations shifted.
Corporate India is also grappling with broader trade and supply chain disruptions. Chambers of commerce and industry bodies have flagged operational headwinds for exporters and manufacturers due to heightened shipping costs and logistical bottlenecks triggered by the conflict. Industries dependent on Middle East trade corridors or commodities now expect cost pressures and delivery delays that could dampen growth prospects over the quarter.
Global markets have not been immune to the fallout. European indices also slid as energy prices climbed and investor risk appetite waned, while U. S. equity futures oscillated amid mixed signals from corporate earnings and macroeconomic data. The global ripple effect highlights how interconnected financial systems are with geopolitical developments, where shocks in one region can quickly transmit across borders.
Two drones struck close to the United States Embassy compound in Riyadh, according to Saudi authorities and US officials, in an incident that heightens tensions across West Asia and draws Saudi Arabia more directly into a confrontation involving Tehran, Washington and Tel Aviv. No casualties were reported at the diplomatic mission, but the blasts prompted heightened security measures around foreign embassies in the Saudi capital and a […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Saudi Arabia’s state-owned energy behemoth Saudi Aramco shut down its massive Ras Tanura oil refinery on Monday after the facility was struck by drones amid a widening Middle East conflict that has drawn in regional powers and global markets. The refinery, one of the kingdom’s most critical energy assets with a processing capacity of about 550,000 barrels per day and a vital crude […]
By K Raveendran Brent crude ended the week near seven-month highs at roughly $73 a barrel, extending gains of about 16 per cent since the start of the year and injecting a fresh layer of uncertainty into the global macro outlook. Traders are now modelling far wider trading bands for the coming sessions, with several […]
China has condemned air and missile strikes carried out by the United States and Israel against targets in Iran, declaring they violate international law and heighten the risk of a broader regional conflict. Beijing’s foreign ministry said the attacks undermine the sovereignty of a UN member state and threaten stability across West Asia at a time of already acute tensions. Speaking in Beijing, foreign ministry spokesperson Mao […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Gold prices climbed to fresh highs this week, intensifying debate across financial markets after social media accounts claimed the metal had surged beyond $5,400 an ounce. Trading data from major exchanges, however, show bullion advancing strongly but remaining well below that level, underscoring the volatility and misinformation that often accompany sharp market moves. Spot gold has been hovering near record territory above the […]
Fears of a widening war gripped capitals across the Middle East after United States and Israeli forces carried out coordinated strikes on Iranian military infrastructure, prompting sharp warnings from Tehran and renewed anxiety over global security and energy markets. Confusion spread further after unverified claims circulated online about the fate of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Authorities in Tehran moved to dismiss speculation about his death, […]
By K Raveendran A trial court’s decision to throw out the Delhi excise policy case against Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and 21 others triggers a political and institutional reckoning that goes far beyond the fate of one prosecution. By sharply criticising the Central Bureau of Investigation for procedural violations, dependence on hearsay and disregard for […]
Treasury manager FG Nexus has intensified its reduction of ether holdings, selling 7,550 ETH valued at about $14 million as part of a strategic unwind that has now crystallised more than $80 million in losses on its corporate crypto portfolio. The firm’s move marks a continuation of a reversal from its earlier accumulation strategy, leaving observers scrutinising the viability of concentrated digital-asset reserves on corporate balance sheets. […]
UAE and Czech Republic have stepped up efforts to widen economic cooperation across advanced manufacturing, clean energy and digital industries, with ministers from both countries reviewing a slate of joint projects targeted for rollout in 2026. Talks between UAE Minister of Economy Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri and Czech Minister of Industry and Trade Jozef Síkela focused on expanding collaboration in sectors described as central to the […]
Jada Fund of Funds, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, is preparing to channel more capital into private credit as Gulf investors reposition their portfolios amid volatility affecting segments of the global lending market. Chief executive Bandr Alhomaly said the Riyadh-based fund has agreed to back India-headquartered venture debt manager Stride Ventures, marking a step in its strategy to widen access to alternative financing for […]
South Korea’s Bithumb has added GoPlus to its Korean won market, prompting a swift surge of more than 20 per cent in the token’s price before gains eased amid heightened trading activity. The listing, announced by one of the country’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges by volume, allowed users to trade GPS directly against the won, expanding the token’s accessibility in a market known for strong retail participation. Within […]
Nigerian banks are entering 2026 with firmer balance sheets and improved capital buffers, positioning the sector for expansion as regulatory deadlines draw closer. Analysts at Lagos-based investment banking and research firm Chapel Hill Denham say the industry’s strengthened fundamentals provide a platform for earnings growth, credit expansion and renewed investor confidence. At the centre of this shift is the Central Bank of Nigeria’s recapitalisation directive, announced in […]
By Nantoo Banerjee The global AI impact summit 2026 in Delhi, last week, couldn’t have come at a more appropriate time when the world continues to be somewhat skeptical about adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI), its limitations and potential consequences. Thanks to the pioneering effort by firms such as Nvidia, Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Meta and […]
Dubai has moved into the next stage of its real estate tokenisation drive, expanding the initiative onto the XRP Ledger in a bid to widen investor access and streamline property transactions through blockchain technology. The second phase of the emirate’s Real Estate Tokenisation Project allows approved investors to trade fractionalised property interests recorded on the XRP Ledger, a public blockchain associated with Ripple. Officials say the move […]
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