International News 23 July 2026
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MPOC Sees Malaysian CPO Prices at 4,400–4,650 Ringgit in August
The Malaysia Palm Oil Council (MPOC) expects Malaysian crude palm oil (CPO) prices to trade between 4,400 ringgit and 4,650 ringgit per metric ton in August 2026. According to Reuters, the outlook is supported by Indonesia's mandatory B50 biodiesel program, which took effect in July, stronger energy prices, and improving biodiesel production economics. MPOC noted that renewed tensions between the United States and Iran pushed gasoil prices up by around 30% in early to mid-July, making palm oil-based biodiesel more economically attractive. Despite the supportive factors, MPOC said further gains in CPO prices are likely to be limited by weaker demand and abundant vegetable oil inventories in key consumer markets. On the supply side, Malaysia's palm oil production remains stable, while CPO inventories rose to 2.5 million tons in June, indicating adequate supply in the near term.
Samsung Reportedly Eyes €1 Billion Investment in France's Mistral AI
Samsung Electronics is reportedly exploring an investment of around €1 billion in French artificial intelligence startup Mistral AI, according to the Financial Times. The funding round could value Mistral at approximately €20 billion (US$22.8 billion). Swedish investor EQT is also said to be in talks to participate, although Reuters has not independently verified the report. Mistral declined to comment, while Samsung has yet to respond to requests for confirmation. The report follows Microsoft's announcement of a multibillion-dollar investment agreement to expand Mistral's AI computing infrastructure across Europe. The partnership will also broaden the distribution of Mistral's AI technologies through Microsoft's cloud computing and software platforms.
U.S. Says Diplomatic Door to Iran Remains Open Despite Escalating Regional Tensions
The United States said it remains open to a diplomatic resolution with Iran but believes Tehran has yet to demonstrate a genuine willingness to return to negotiations. Speaking at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington continues to pursue diplomacy even as the conflict increasingly disrupts global trade routes and energy supplies. Rubio's remarks came a day after three Saudi crude oil tankers bound for China and India reportedly turned back in the Red Sea following threats from the Iran-backed Houthi group. The Houthis' announcement of a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia has raised the prospect of a new front in the conflict, threatening both the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, two of the world's most critical energy shipping routes.