International News 20 April 2026
-
Japanese Yen Weakens Amid Concerns Tokyo’s Monetary Policy Is Falling Behind the U.S.
Pressure on the Japanese yen shows little sign of easing, with risks of further depreciation growing if markets perceive the Bank of Japan (BOJ) as too slow in responding to inflationary threats. This situation highlights how Japan’s monetary policy stance continues to lag behind that of the United States, especially amid expectations of more aggressive tightening from the Federal Reserve. According to Masato Kanda, President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), interest rate differentials remain the primary factor limiting yen appreciation. As global investors continue to favor the U.S. dollar as a safe-haven asset, the yen has struggled to stage a meaningful recovery even during periods of reduced market stress. “As long as markets remain focused on the Fed’s actions, the yen will lag if the BOJ is seen as falling behind the inflation curve,” Kanda said, reflecting broader market skepticism over Japan’s commitment to monetary policy normalization.
https://internasional.kontan.co.id/news/yen-tertekan-kebijakan-jepang-dinilai-tertinggal-dari-as
Tensions Spike in the Strait of Hormuz as Iran Shuts Route Again, Two Vessels Reportedly Hit by Gunfire
Commercial vessels attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday (April 18, 2026) reportedly received radio warnings from the Iranian navy stating that the route had been closed again. According to Reuters, maritime sources indicated that at least two ships were fired upon while trying to pass through the area. Several commercial ships had previously attempted the crossing after being informed a day earlier that limited passage would be permitted through a corridor deemed safe by Iran. However, the situation shifted abruptly on Saturday. Maritime security sources reported that the shooting incidents occurred in waters between Qeshm Island and Larak, prompting the targeted vessels to turn back without completing their journeys.
U.S. Energy Chief Warns Gas Prices Could Remain Above $3 per Gallon Until 2027
U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright believes gasoline prices have already peaked, though he expects they could remain above $3 per gallon into next year. He noted that while prices may eventually fall below that level, it might not happen until late this year or even sometime next year. Fuel prices have climbed amid the conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran, as well as Iran’s attacks on neighboring countries. The surge is creating political pressure for President Donald Trump ahead of the November midterm elections, where his Republican Party is working to defend its narrow majority in both the Senate and the House of Representatives. Speaking to State of the Union, Wright said prices are likely to trend downward from here, even if relief below $3 per gallon takes more time.