Manila Bulletin – When global conflicts hit home: Oil prices, the Philippine economy, and the role of microfinance

The conflict in the Middle East, involving Iran, Israel and the United States, is impacting Filipinos in everyday life, from jeepney fares to the cost of basic goods. Institutions, including microfinance organizations, are adapting to address the challenges posed by rising oil prices and economic instability. The Middle East Conflict and the Philippine Economy The … Read more

Healthcare Costs 2026: Trends & Affordability Concerns

Healthcare in 2026: Navigating Rising Costs and Emerging Trends Healthcare affordability is a growing concern for Americans, consistently ranking as a top financial worry. As we move deeper into 2026, several key trends are poised to reshape the healthcare landscape, impacting access and affordability for individuals and families. The Pressure of Rising Premiums and Deductibles … Read more

Bank of Japan keeps rates steady as expected, warns Iran war may push up inflation

Bank of Japan Navigates Inflationary Risks Amidst Geopolitical Uncertainty The Bank of Japan (BOJ) held steady on interest rates at 0.75% on Thursday, but signaled growing concern over inflationary pressures fueled by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The decision, supported by eight of the nine board members, comes as Japan grapples with rising … Read more

Australia central bank hikes rates to a near 1-year high as Iran war raises inflation risks

Australia’s Rate Hike: A Sign of Things to Come for Global Inflation? Australia’s central bank, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), recently raised benchmark policy rates to 4.1% – the highest level since April 2025. This marks the second consecutive rate hike, driven by persistent inflation and concerns about escalating global risks, particularly those stemming … Read more

Stoxx 600, FTSE, DAX, CAC, Iran news and oil prices

European Markets Navigate Uncertainty: DAX, FTSE, and Oil Price Volatility European stock markets are exhibiting cautious behavior as global economic and geopolitical factors continue to exert influence. As of Tuesday, March 17, 2026, the FTSE 100 is expected to open slightly higher, while Germany’s DAX, France’s CAC 40, and Italy’s FTSE MIB are projected to … Read more

Conflict in Middle East could cost Europe’s drivers an extra…

Europe Faces a €150 Million Daily ‘Geopolitical Premium’ on Oil Europeans are bracing for increased costs at the pump as oil prices surge past $100 a barrel, adding a significant “geopolitical premium” to everyday expenses. New research indicates this premium could reach an extra €150 million per day, highlighting the continent’s continued vulnerability to global … Read more

CMS Drug Pricing: How Max Fair Price is Determined | IRA Negotiation Process

Medicare Drug Price Negotiation: A Deep Dive into CMS’s Methodology The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has ushered in a new era of Medicare drug price negotiation, and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is laying out a detailed process for determining “maximum fair prices.” Understanding this methodology is crucial for pharmaceutical companies, healthcare … Read more

The Iran war puts the brakes on next Bank of England rate cut

Iran War Throws Bank of England Rate Cut Into Doubt The Bank of England (BoE) is facing a tough decision regarding interest rates following the recent escalation of conflict in Iran. Prior to the crisis, a rate cut in March or April appeared highly probable. Although, economists now predict a pause, citing concerns over surging … Read more

Transport operators warn of consumer goods price rises as diesel spikes up 44c a litre in one day

Middle East Conflict Fuels NZ Fuel Price Worries: What’s Coming Down the Line? Recent Zealanders are bracing for higher prices at the pump, and beyond, as the conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt global supply chains. Recent days have seen diesel prices spike by 44 cents a litre, and economists warn petrol could … Read more

Australian watchdog warns petrol companies over Middle East fuel price hikes

Australians Face Ongoing Petrol Price Volatility Amidst Global Uncertainty Motorists across Australia are bracing for continued fluctuations at the bowser, with prices already surging in major cities and remote areas. The current increases are occurring despite warnings from the NRMA that oil companies are exploiting the ongoing Middle East crisis to inflate margins. The Impact … Read more