Author

Wei Zhang

Asia Correspondent. Reports on China's economy, Japanese and Indian markets, and trade flows across the region. He connects manufacturing data, policy shifts, and currency moves to what global investors watch in Asian sessions.

Articles by Wei Zhang

Close-up of a grinding machine in action with sparks flying in an industrial setting.

Asia31 July 20264 min read

Oil Plunge Sparks Relief Rally as Iran Strikes Pause

Brent crude tumbled below $90 a barrel after President Trump halted strikes on Iran for two nights, triggering a broad rally in stocks and bonds as investors bet on easing geopolitical tensions.

Wei Zhang

Front view of a traditional building at Sichuan University in Chengdu, showcasing distinct architectural features.

Asia29 July 20265 min read

BofA Downplays China DUV Breakthrough, Calls ASML Rout an Overreaction

Bank of America analysts said the selloff in ASML shares following reports of a Chinese DUV lithography breakthrough is overdone, as the technology remains at an early stage and a domestic alternative faces high productivity hurdles. The reassessment comes as Asian chip stocks plunged on Tuesday, with South Korea’s Kospi triggering a circuit breaker.

Wei Zhang

Detailed macro shot of the Eye of Providence on an American dollar bill.

Asia29 July 20264 min read

Bank of America Sees ‘Over-Reaction’ in ASML Selloff, Says China DUV Threat Modest

Asian chip stocks tumbled Tuesday after a report that China had begun producing advanced lithography machines, but Bank of America told clients the development poses only a “modest threat” to ASML and called the market’s decline an “over-reaction.”

Wei Zhang

Blurred background view with focus on fuel pump display showing price and liters.

Asia29 July 20264 min read

Oil Prices Slide as US-Iran Tensions Ease; Brent Drops Below $92

Oil futures fell more than 4% on Monday after the U.S. and Iran refrained from further strikes over the weekend, with Omani-led talks offering a possible path to reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude slipped below $92 a barrel, reversing last week's surge above $100 amid the threat of a massive attack.

Wei Zhang