Trump’s immigration crackdown may unexpectedly push Fed into steeper rate cuts: MS

Australia's housing market hit a new record high in May, fueled by a recent interest rate cut and expectations of further reductions. Buyers are jumping in, betting that cheaper borrowing costs will make homes more affordable—or at least prevent prices from rising even higher.

Editor’s Note: For homeowners, this is great news—their properties are gaining value. But for first-time buyers, the dream of owning a home just got a little more expensive. The market's surge reflects broader economic optimism, but it also highlights the growing divide between those already in the market and those struggling to get in. If rates keep dropping, prices could climb even higher, making affordability a bigger headache for policymakers.

Hong Kong is becoming an even hotter spot for wealthy investors from mainland China and Southeast Asia, according to Citibank. The bank’s data shows a 13% jump in high-net-worth clients and a 16% rise in managed assets in just the first quarter of this year. With its reputation as a global wealth hub, Hong Kong seems to be the go-to place for parking big money—especially for those eyeing stability and international financial access.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about rich people moving money around—it’s a sign of Hong Kong’s enduring appeal as a financial safe haven, even amid global economic jitters. For the city, it means more capital flowing in, which could boost local services and reinforce its status as Asia’s money hub. But it also hints at where the region’s wealthy see opportunity (or concern) in their home markets.

In a tight race for Poland's presidency, exit polls show Rafał Trzaskowski, a pro-EU candidate from Prime Minister Donald Tusk's center-right party, edging ahead of his right-wing opponent. The results suggest a runoff election will be needed to decide the winner, but Trzaskowski’s narrow lead signals a potential shift toward Poland’s more liberal, Europe-friendly politics.

Liberals in South Korea might ride a surge of public frustration to win the upcoming election, as voters seem fed up with the current administration's scandals and policies. The article suggests this anger could tip the scales in their favor.

Editor’s Note: Elections often hinge on public mood, and right now, South Korean voters appear to be in a "throw the bums out" mindset. If this wave of discontent holds, it could mean a major shift in leadership—something that could reshape policies on everything from the economy to relations with North Korea. Worth watching, especially if you're tracking how voter frustration drives political change.

The UK’s economic outlook is looking gloomier than it has since 2022, according to the Confederation of British Industry (CBI). A mix of ongoing trade tensions and rising labor costs is squeezing businesses, making growth prospects weaker than expected. It’s not just a blip—firms are feeling the pinch, and the CBI’s warning suggests tougher times ahead unless something changes.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another headline about economic struggles—it’s a sign that the UK’s recovery is stalling. With trade wars disrupting supply chains and wages climbing, businesses are stuck between a rock and a hard place. For everyday people, that could mean fewer job opportunities, higher prices, or even another recession scare. It’s a wake-up call for policymakers and a worrying trend for anyone watching their wallet.