Key points of global economic news on April 9, 2026
1. Oil prices have plunged sharply amid growing hopes of a reopening in the Strait of Hormuz: on April 8, Brent lost $14.52 (13.29%) to close at $94.75 per barrel. Meanwhile, WTI fell by $18.54 (16.41%) to $94.41 per barrel.
2. The United States rejects the aluminum tariff exemption request from automakers: this request followed two fires at Novelis, the largest aluminum rolling plant in the U.S., which led to supply shortages. To address this, automakers had to import aluminum from Europe and South Korea, paying a 50% tariff imposed by President Donald Trump. However, U.S. authorities believe the automakers did not make their request firmly enough.
3. Japan: Record number of bankruptcies in 12 years: The number of bankruptcies in Japan reached 10,505 in the fiscal year 2025, the highest level in 12 years. This upward trend continues for the fourth consecutive year, mainly affecting small and micro-enterprises. The main causes are said to be labor shortages, rising wage costs, and inflation due to the weak yen.
