Japan's Liberal Democratic Party panel proposed creating a legal framework for cryptocurrency ETF trading and promoting yen-denominated stablecoins for settlement in Asia, in recommendations submitted to the finance minister.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore that Asian allies must ramp up defense spending to counter China's military buildup, while striking a measured tone on US-China relations and reassuring partners about American commitment to the region.
Workers and activists held May Day demonstrations across Europe, Asia, and other regions on May 1, 2026, with traditional labor protests over wages and working conditions increasingly incorporating anti-war messaging and opposition to rising energy costs linked to conflict involving Iran. Some demonstrations escalated into clashes.
Crude oil prices jumped nearly 8% to over $103-104 per barrel following Trump's announcement of the Iranian port blockade and the failure of peace talks. Physical oil prices in some markets approached $150 as buyers paid record premiums for immediate delivery amid supply disruption fears.
Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center has achieved a breakthrough in regenerative medicine by developing a technique that allows scientists to generate brain stem cells using a patient's own cells, advancing personalized medicine approaches.
