The Markets Ledger

Stocks near record high as crude oil drops on Iran

Global stocks climbed to approach a record high as crude oil fell after officials signaled the US was nearing a deal with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restore oil flows. The dollar weakened.

29 African currencies knocked down by Middle East war: AU,AfDB

At least 29 African currencies have weakened, according to a joint assessment by the African Union and the African Development Bank, amplifying the cost of servicing external debt and importing essential commodities such as food, fuel, and fertiliser.