MONEY MASTER

The US is taking a  dual-track approach toward Iran , combining  potential sanctions relief  with aggressive  tariff threats on countries supplying weapons , adding another layer of uncertainty to global trade and geopolitics. Mixed Signals: Diplomacy and Escalation Donald Trump  indicated that Washington is  open to discussing tariff and sanctions relief with Iran , acknowledging a key demand from Tehran as part of ongoing ceasefire negotiations. This marks a notable shift, as Iran has been under  heavy economic sanctions since 2018 , following the US withdrawal from the nuclear agreement. At the same time, Trump issued a stark warning: countries providing  military support to Iran could face 50% tariffs on all exports to the US . Tariff Threat Faces Legal Constraints Despite the strong rhetoric, the administration’s ability to implement such tariffs immediately is uncertain. A recent  US Supreme Court ruling  limits the president’s aut...

Iran is drafting legislation to  impose transit fees on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz , a move that could significantly disrupt  global trade flows and energy markets  amid escalating geopolitical tensions. Proposed Toll System Signals Tightened Control According to reports, the Iranian parliament is preparing a bill to  formalise toll charges for safe passage , potentially recognising Iran’s authority over the critical shipping route. The  Strait of Hormuz , which connects major oil-producing nations to global markets, has already seen  severely restricted traffic  following recent military conflict. Only limited vessels—mainly those with  Iranian or Chinese ties —have been able to pass. Industry sources suggest that  informal fees of up to US$2 million per vessel  have already been requested, with ships required to disclose  cargo and voyage details . Global Trade and Shipping at Risk The proposed toll system raises...

Oil  prices  jumped  back  toward  the  US$100  mark  despite  a  record  emergency  reserve  release,  as  fresh  attacks  on  cargo  ships  around  the  Strait  of  Hormuz  deepened  fears  of  prolonged  supply  disruption. Oil  Spikes  Despite  Historic  Reserve  Release Brent crude   rose 4%  to  US$95.80,  after  briefly  topping  US$101   overnight. West Texas Intermediate   climbed 4%  to  US$90.60,  having  spiked  near  US$96. The  rally  came  even  after  the  International Energy Agency   confirmed  a  record 400  million- barrel  emergency  release   by  its 32  member  nations. The  US  alone  will  release 172  million...

Iran has warned global markets to prepare for oil at  US$200 per barrel , escalating rhetoric as attacks intensify and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively frozen. While oil prices have retreated from recent highs near US$120, Tehran’s message underscores the growing risk of a prolonged energy shock. Key Takeaways Iran warns oil could surge to US$200 per barrel Strait of Hormuz remains blocked, disrupting 20% of global oil flows 14 merchant ships reportedly struck since conflict began IEA expected to propose record 400 million-barrel reserve release Markets currently betting conflict may be contained Oil Market on Edge Iran’s military command said oil prices depend on regional security — warning the world to prepare for US$200 crude if instability persists. The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow chokepoint along Iran’s coast, normally handles: About 20% of global oil shipments A significant share of global LNG trade So far: At least 14 ships have reportedly been struck...

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has assured Malaysians that  the country’s petroleum product supplies are secured at least until May 2026 , despite heightened Middle East tensions and volatile oil prices. The government is moving swiftly to safeguard fiscal stability and prevent supply disruptions as global crude markets remain unstable. Key Takeaways Petroleum supplies secured until May 2026 RON95 petrol price maintained at RM1.99 per litre Special Cabinet meeting set to review fiscal position Government to cut discretionary spending immediately Daily monitoring panel established to track Middle East developments Supply Situation Under Control Following sharp swings in oil prices after US-Israel strikes on Iran disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, the government confirmed that fuel supplies remain stable. According to Moody’s Ratings: Malaysia imports roughly 25% of its crude oil needs Despite this exposure, supply buffers are in place. The government will cont...