US tariffs test India, oil slips, Asia shows resilience

Claressa Monteiro
Published Fri, Aug 8, 2025 · 05:46 PM
    • Buyers of Russian oil are feeling the heat as the US piles on pressure.
    • Buyers of Russian oil are feeling the heat as the US piles on pressure. PHOTO: ADOBE STOCK

    This week on Market Focus Weekly from The Business Times, host Emily Liu speaks with Christopher Forbes, head of Asia at CMC Invest, about the market stories that matter most. From new US tariffs on India with geopolitical undertones, to the fading appeal of oil and the resilience of select Asian markets, the conversation covers the signals investors should not ignore.

    Why did Washington target Indian exports with a 25 per cent tariff, and why is the real impact showing up in currency markets rather than equities? What is pushing oil to an eight-week low, and could it be evidence that the global energy transition is moving faster than expected? And with US growth still robust but interest rates on hold, where in Asia are investors finding the best returns?

    Forbes explains why Vietnam has emerged as an investment favourite, how Indonesia’s commodities boom is unfolding, and what to watch in currency markets as the US dollar shows signs of weakness.

    Why listen?

    Understand trade tensions

    How tariffs are shaping currencies, commodities and capital flows.

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    Track the energy transition

    Why oil’s decline could signal structural change in global markets.

    Spot Asian standouts

    The reforms and growth stories that are attracting long-term capital.

    In brief, global politics, shifting energy markets and selective Asian opportunities define this week’s market narrative.

    Market Focus Weekly is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or at bt.sg/podcasts. Feedback or ideas? Email btpodcasts@sph.com.sg.

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    Written and hosted by: Emily Liu (emilyliu@sph.com.sg)

    With Christopher Forbes, head of Asia, CMC Invest

    Edited by: Chai Pei Chieh & Claressa Monteiro

    Produced by: Emily & Chai Pei Chieh

    A podcast by BT Podcasts, The Business Times, SPH Media

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