1. Fitch Ratings: Food Security Crisis in Asia: According to Fitch Ratings, developing economies in Asia are facing a food security crisis due to prolonged disruptions in fertilizer supply. Tensions in the Gulf region have driven up gas prices, pushing urea prices to around $700 per ton, a nearly 50% increase. Agricultural production costs have significantly risen during the growing season, potentially forcing farmers to reduce fertilizer use or decrease cultivated areas, leading to a decline in regional food production and supply.
2. IEA: Global LNG Supply to Remain Tight Until 2027 Due to Middle East Instability: According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and damage to oil and gas infrastructure have led to higher energy prices. The IEA estimates that supply disruptions in the short term, combined with low growth in capacities, could result in shortages in the market, keeping pressure on global energy prices in the years to come.
3. United States: Nasdaq Plans to Extend Trading Hours: The Nasdaq stock exchange has announced its intention to extend trading hours for U.S. stocks to 23 hours a day, five days a week. If regulatory authorities approve the plan, the new schedule is expected to take effect on December 6, from 9 pm to 8 pm (Eastern Time). This marks a significant extension compared to the current three-session system, which runs from 4 am to 8 pm. Nasdaq’s continuous launch of new products to facilitate trading to meet the needs of global investors confirms its position as a leading global exchange, thanks to its advanced technology.
4. OpenAI Announces New Self-Improving AI Model: GPT-5.5, OpenAI’s new artificial intelligence model, represents a major advancement towards self-improving systems. According to OpenAI, this model excels in research, proactive programming, and executing computer tasks through digital assistants. OpenAI asserts that the general artificial intelligence (AGI) – where machines can think at the same level, or even beyond, as humans – is no longer just a theory.
5. ECB Could Raise Interest Rates in June 2026: Analysts suggest that the European Central Bank (ECB) could raise interest rates for the first time in June 2026, only to reverse the decision the following year to preserve economic growth. Most analysts surveyed by Bloomberg believe the ECB will maintain its deposit rate at 0% at its April 30 meeting, but will increase it by 0.25 percentage point at the next meeting, as new forecasts better assess the economic impact of the Middle East conflict.
6. China Boosts Global Influence of Service Sector: China has issued new guidelines to develop and enhance the quality of its service sector, bolstering its competitiveness and position in the international market. According to a document recently released by the Chinese State Council, the country will strengthen support for scientific and technological services, develop modern logistics, and promote innovation in software and information services sectors. This policy aims to boost economic growth while sustainably improving the efficiency and competitiveness of the service sector.
Source: https://baotintuc.vn/kinh-te/diem-tin-kinh-te-the-gioi-noi-bat-ngay-2442026-20260424203704614.htm
