Oil prices jump, shares sink as Ukraine crisis escalates

23 Sept 05:49 Key points summarised by AI

Oil prices surged nearly 5% to multi-year highs, with Brent crude nearing $98 per barrel, after Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized Ukraine's rebel regions, intensifying fears of a full-scale invasion and potential energy supply disruptions.
Global stock markets plummeted, notably Russia's MOEX index dropping 5% and Asian markets seeing significant declines, as investors reacted to the escalating geopolitical instability.
International condemnation mounted, with the U.S. and EU preparing sanctions, and Germany suspending the approval process for the Nord Stream 2 pipeline.
The crisis exacerbates existing global economic uncertainties, complicating central bank efforts to manage surging inflation and raising concerns about higher energy costs hindering post-pandemic recovery.

New home loan scheme aims to boost property sector with Bt125 billion

Yesterday 11:38 Key points summarised by AI

The Cabinet approved a new Bt50-billion 'A House for Each PLUS' home loan scheme from the Government Housing Bank, offering up to Bt3 million with 40-year repayment terms for low- and middle-income earners.
This initiative aims to significantly boost the property sector and national economy, projecting to generate Bt125 billion in economic activity and create jobs.