July 21, 2025 │ Seven Major Global News Stories & Future Outlook

This article reviews seven key news items reported on July 21, 2025, and offers projections for each event’s political and economic impacts.

1. Market Reaction After Japan’s Upper House Election

Following the election results, Tokyo stocks edged higher as pre-election uncertainty eased, and the yen temporarily recovered into the ¥144 range.
Outlook

• If the ruling coalition retains a stable majority, continued growth strategies and regulatory reforms should support corporate profits.
• A strong opposition showing could boost expectations for new economic measures but rekindle political risk–driven volatility in FX and equities.

2. Record Heavy Rains in South Korea — 18 Dead, Widespread Damage

Over 400 mm of rain fell in 72 hours around Seoul, triggering landslides and river flooding. At least 18 people died, and hundreds of thousands were displaced.
Outlook

• Urgent investment in urban drainage systems, river embankments, and major infrastructure upgrades is required.
• Insurance and reinsurance firms will need to reprice products and develop new offerings that reflect heightened natural disaster risk.

3. Drag on European Stocks — EU Mulls Countermeasures to U.S. Tariffs

Reports that the EU is considering retaliatory measures against U.S. import restrictions weighed on European equities. U.S. futures also wavered ahead of major tech earnings.
Outlook

• Prolonged trade tensions could depress stocks of large manufacturers and exporters.
• A negotiated settlement could trigger a “risk-on” rebound in equity markets.

4. Oil Prices Tick Lower — Sanctions Seen as Limited Impact

As the EU debates strengthening sanctions on Russian oil, markets took a “limited impact” view. Brent and WTI dipped slightly, while optimism around U.S.–China trade talks provided support.
Outlook

• The real test will come after sanctions take effect and OPEC+ decides on coordinated cuts.
• If U.S.–China tensions ease, weaker demand forecasts could further pressure prices.

5. Gold Rises — Safe-Haven Demand on Dollar Weakness & Geopolitical Risk

With the dollar softer and trade and geopolitical risks elevated, gold held around $3,370 per ounce. Investors are watching for new tariffs and inflation data.
Outlook

• As long as U.S. tariff threats persist, gold’s safe-haven appeal should endure.
• Federal Reserve policy guidance and global inflation trends will shape gold’s medium-term trajectory.

6. Philippine President Marcos to Meet President Trump

On his U.S. visit, President Marcos will meet President Trump to seek a favorable trade deal before the August 1 deadline, drawing attention to Philippine exporters.
Outlook

• A deal could accelerate exports of auto parts and electronics, driving Philippine growth.
• Failure to reach terms would push Manila to diversify markets and strengthen domestic manufacturing.

7. Israeli Tanks Advance into Dier al-Balah, Gaza

As part of a hostage-rescue contingency, Israeli forces deployed tanks into the Dier al-Balah district. Stalled ceasefire talks have raised humanitarian concerns and reignited energy-market geopolitical premiums.
Outlook

• Prolonged conflict may heighten Middle East oil transport risks and boost energy volatility.
• Successful international mediation could temporarily ease premiums and stabilize markets.

Conclusion: Navigating Layered Risks with Policy and Investment Agility

With intersecting risks—political (Japan election, U.S. tariffs), natural disasters (rainstorms), geopolitical (Middle East), resource markets (oil, gold), and trade negotiations—governments and businesses must act swiftly and flexibly, balancing risk management with pursuit of growth opportunities through agile policy measures and investment strategies.