TRADE WARS
Asian markets extend global retreat as tech worries build
Hong Kong (AFP) Feb 6, 2026
Asian equities sank again on Friday as a tech rout that battered Wall Street for the third day in a row showed no sign of letting up amid growing unease about the hundreds of billions splashed out on artificial intelligence. ... more
Equities and precious metals rebound after Asia-wide rout
Hong Kong (AFP) Feb 3, 2026
Stocks rallied and precious metals rebounded as some stability returned to markets on Tuesday after US-Iran diplomacy, a Fed chief nominee, and a partial shutdown in Washington brought volatility to trading floors. ... more
Chinese cash in jewellery at automated gold recyclers as prices soar
Shanghai (AFP) Feb 1, 2026
Dozens of people crowded around an automated gold recycling machine at a Shanghai mall, hoping to melt down family heirlooms for cash as prices of the precious metal hit record highs. ... more