Commodities (Crude Oil & Copper) & Macro Outlook

JSCC, under the JPX Japan Exchange Group, partnered with Mizuho, Nomura, and Digital Asset to launch a concept proof-of-concept project based on the Canton network. The project will test the feasibility of Japanese government bonds as digital collateral, with the aim of improving liquidity and management efficiency in financial markets, and ensuring it does not conflict with existing regulations. The initiative also covers cross-border trading scenarios, signaling the application potential of Japanese government bonds in the digital asset space.

President Trump deemed it "highly unlikely" that the ceasefire with Iran will be extended and indicated that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until a deal is finalized, with the current agreement expiring soon.

Oil prices surged over 5% after the US seized an Iranian cargo ship, escalating tensions with Iran. Brent crude rose to $95.46, while WTI reached $88.86. Iran warned of retaliation, highlighting ongoing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Iraq's Rabia border crossing with Syria has reopened after closure since 2011 due to security issues. This reopening, announced by Iraq's border authority, aims to enhance trade, movement, and energy transactions between Iraq, Syria, and neighboring countries.

Polysilicon futures in China surged due to policy signals aimed at regulating the solar sector, yet analysts warned that the rally is based on expectations rather than actual market improvements. Elevated inventory levels and supply-demand imbalances remain concerns.

Crude oil prices surged on April 19 after U.S. forces seized an Iranian-flagged vessel in the Gulf of Oman, raising supply disruption fears. Iran threatened to restrict access through the Strait of Hormuz, amid escalating tensions and potential impacts on global inflation and markets.

Gate News message, the largest on-chain SOL short position holder has opened a long position in oil. Over the past 10 hours, the trader deposited 9 million USDC into Hyperliquid and opened a 3x leveraged long position on 200,687 BRENTOIL, valued at $18.08 million. The trader continues to maintain a

The Strait of Hormuz blockade triggers a major shock in the crypto market: after Bitcoin first breaks above $78,000, it then falls back to $74,000, and the market remains in panic. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the transmission mechanism between geopolitical shocks and crypto market price action.

The Philippines' DOE has implemented regulations on fuel price adjustments amid rising costs due to the Middle East conflict, granting the government authority to set minimum and maximum prices to curb profiteering. A significant rollback in fuel prices is set for April 21.

Multiple Chinese lithium companies in Zimbabwe have secured export permits for lithium concentrate. Huayou Cobalt's president announced that export procedures are underway, with shipments to China expected to take three months. Potential shortages in Guangxi lithium supply may arise but are not anticipated to significantly impact operations.

Singapore is increasing liquefied natural gas purchases from alternative sources due to Middle East conflict disrupting shipments. The Energy Market Authority is ensuring sufficient fuel supply as electricity tariffs rise, while pursuing diverse energy alternatives.

China is poised to import a record 800,000 tons of US ethane in April due to supply disruptions from the Middle East. The shift to ethane stems from the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, affecting naphtha and LPG imports. This surge aligns with new production capacities and upcoming US-China talks.

Germany's producer price index rose 2.5% month-on-month in March, surpassing expectations of 1.3% and reversing February's 0.5% decline, signaling a rise in producer-level inflation.

The IEA report reveals that global energy demand growth slowed to 1.3% in 2025, influenced by weaker economic growth, milder temperatures, and efficient technologies. Electricity consumption grew 3%, driven by a 38% surge in electric vehicle demand and a 17% increase from data centers.

Iran's First Vice President Mohammad Aref emphasized that restrictions on the country's oil exports are unacceptable, especially while others seek "free safe passage" in the Strait of Hormuz. He linked maritime security to global fuel price stability, warning of significant costs if a free oil market isn't ensured.

Dubai, as the economic core of the United Arab Emirates, is facing wartime challenges. Since the end of February, it has been hit by large numbers of drone and missile attacks, affecting tourism and oil trade. This has led to fewer international flights and concerns about capital outflows, as the UAE is actively negotiating with the United States on a currency swap mechanism to address potential liquidity crises.

A U.S. Navy destroyer destroyed and seized an Iranian cargo ship in the Gulf of Oman, driving up market risk-hedging sentiment, with Bitcoin down 2.5% and Brent crude soaring to $97. Iran vowed retaliation, and diplomatic negotiations face a highly uncertain situation. On Wednesday, the ceasefire deadline has become the focus of market attention.

With tensions rising in the Middle East geopolitical landscape, the Strait of Hormuz has become the focal point of military conflict between the U.S. and Iran. Attacks and seizures of cargo ships have been occurring frequently, and crude oil prices have risen. The U.S.-Iran ceasefire agreement is set to expire soon; peace talks have fallen into a stalemate due to irreconcilable positions, making it difficult to reach an agreement. As a result, the price of Bitcoin has dropped below 74K.

Oil prices rose sharply by over 7% amid escalating US-Iran tensions, causing a drop in US equity futures and a stronger US dollar against major currencies. Risk-sensitive assets faced significant losses.