Hormuz traffic shows recovery
Verified Strait of Hormuz crossings reached 25 on 18 June, marking a notable increase in daily maritime activity. Traffic was evenly distributed across both directions, with most vessels following established Iranian route patterns. Five sanctioned vessels were recorded among the crossings, while no additional physical attacks have been confirmed since 10 May. The latest figures coincide with discussions surrounding the implementation phase of the US-Iran 60 day memorandum framework, which aims to preserve the ceasefire, support navigation through the Strait and facilitate broader negotiations. While this d/d uptick points to improving operating conditions, unresolved implementation details and continued dark crossings indicate a continued elevated degree of caution with ship operators.
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Flashback to when Prime Minister Takaichi's predecessor, Mr. Ishiba, was attacked by the media and internet users for being "rude" at a summit because he looked at his phone.
He also shook hands while sitting down (other leaders did it too).
PIMCO WARNS DEFAULT WAVE IS COMING
PIMCO warns that a credit-loss cycle is underway, with defaults expected to rise sharply among lower-quality borrowers, including leveraged and private credit companies. The firm says AI-driven disruption could hurt heavily indebted businesses, while current credit markets appear complacent about risks. PIMCO favors intermediate-term government bonds, citing recession risks, persistent uncertainty, and the potential for future central-bank rate cuts.