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Japan Inflation Eases

Japan's annual inflation edged down to 1.4% in April 2026 from 1.5% in March, as food prices rose the least in 18 months amid a further slowdown in rice costs. Core inflation also slowed to 1.4% from 1.8%, the lowest in four years, remaining below the central bank's 2% target for a third month.

Japanese Shares Advance as SoftBank Extends Surge

The Nikkei 225 Index jumped 1.7% to above 62,700, while the broader Topix Index rose 0.7% to 3,880 on Friday, building on gains from the previous session amid renewed

Gold Holds Steady Amid US-Iran Uncertainty

Gold hovered above $4,500 an ounce on Friday and was on track to finish the week little changed, as conflicting signals surrounding US-Iran peace negotiations kept investors cautious over inflation risks and the outlook for interest rates. Tehran stated that the latest US proposal had partially bridged the gap between the two sides. However, reports that Iran's Supreme Leader ordered the country's enriched uranium stockpile to remain within its borders complicated negotiations, as dismantling Iran's nuclear program remains a key US objective. Iran is also reportedly in talks with Oman on establishing a permanent toll system that would formalize its control over shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, though President Donald Trump rejected the idea. Despite the recent stability, gold prices remain about 14% lower since the conflict began, amid concerns that an energy-driven inflation shock could prompt central banks to tighten monetary policy.

Oil Set for Weekly Decline

WTI crude futures climbed toward $98 per barrel on Friday after reports indicated that Iran's Supreme Leader ordered the country's enriched uranium reserves to remain inside Iran, complicating ongoing peace