Asian Markets: KOSPI and Taiwan Stocks Surge on Monday (May 4), Rupiah Nears Record Low 

Asian stock markets advanced in Monday’s (May 4, 2026) trading session, with benchmarks in South Korea and Taiwan reaching record highs as easing tensions in the Middle East boosted investor confidence, particularly in the technology sector. On the other hand, most Asian currencies weakened amid elevated oil prices. According to Reuters, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that his administration would begin efforts to assist vessels stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, though no further details were provided.

https://internasional.kontan.co.id/news/bursa-asia-kospi-dan-saham-taiwan-melejit-senin-45-rupiah-dekati-rekor-terlemah

China’s New Rule: Companies Complying with U.S. Sanctions Will Face Penalties

China is becoming increasingly explicit in disregarding U.S. sanctions. For the first time, it has begun enforcing a law that targets companies complying with foreign sanctions that are rejected by the Chinese government. The regulation states that adhering to foreign sanctions is considered a violation of domestic law. Reuters reports that its enforcement allows Chinese authorities to penalize entities that choose to follow such sanctions. Under the law, originally introduced in 2021 and most recently revised in April, China can impose countermeasures on companies and individuals, including restrictions on trade and investment, as well as limitations on entry and exit.

https://internasional.kontan.co.id/news/aturan-baru-china-perusahaan-yang-patuhi-sanksi-amerika-serikat-akan-dihukum

Malaysia to Launch B15 Biodiesel in June, Leveraging Palm Oil to Ease Energy Prices

Malaysia is set to begin producing biodiesel with a 15% palm oil blend (B15) starting in June 2026. This policy aims to help curb diesel prices amid rising global energy costs driven by ongoing tensions in the Middle East. Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi stated that the rollout of B15 will be implemented gradually. The initial phase will start with a biodiesel blend of around 12% before reaching the full 15% target. A total of 19 biodiesel plants are scheduled to commence B15 production on June 1, 2026, marking an upgrade from the previous B10 mandate used in the transportation sector

https://internasional.kontan.co.id/news/biodiesel-b15-resmi-meluncur-juni-malaysia-andalkan-sawit-redam-harga-energi