Markets

• Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is facing a significant credibility test as he attempts to reshape the U.S. economy and influence market behavior. • The challenge comes as Bessent confronts the practical limits of his authority to bend financial markets to his will ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.

• Financial markets are focusing on key economic indicators today, specifically the German IFO survey and the US Consumer Confidence report. • Investors are anticipating a massive volatility swing for Nvidia, with approximately $280 billion at stake as the company prepares to release its earnings.

• Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Dr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas presented a strategic roadmap to revitalize the Thai economy and mitigate global uncertainties during the Thailand Focus 2026 conference. • A significant investment surge is targeting Thailand, with over $10.1 billion (THB 331 billion) allocated across 224 projects.

• The global economic output is projected to exceed $150 trillion by 2030, with a significant portion of this growth driven by just two countries. • Asia and the Middle East are expected to contribute $55.7 trillion, representing more than one-third of the total worldwide economy.

• Global markets are revisiting the debate over "fiscal dominance" as government debt levels and borrowing costs continue to rise. • There are growing concerns that central banks may face increasing pressure to prioritize supporting government financing over their primary mandates.

• The US PCE price index is the primary economic data release scheduled for today, serving as the main highlight for market analysts. • Geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran remain a critical focal point for investors despite the lack of major economic catalysts.

• The Thailand Focus 2026 event showcased 77 listed companies to global investors, with the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) emphasizing opportunities in digital infrastructure and the New Economy. • Thai financial institutions and banks emerged as the primary sectors attracting the most interest from institutional investors during the event.

• Asian stock markets are positioned for gains as oil prices continue to decline, providing relief to investors after persistent inflation and high yields pressured risk appetite. • Market attention is heavily focused on upcoming earnings reports from Nvidia, which are expected to serve as a key indicator for the tech sector.

• Smart Travel Asia announced the results of its 2026 Best in Travel Poll, conducted among readers from June to late August. • The findings will be published in the September edition of the magazine, which has served international frequent travelers to Asia for 23 years.

• The article outlines six critical global factors that influence the Indian stock market, including crude oil prices, FPI flows, and global interest rates. • Key drivers such as geopolitical events, rupee fluctuations, and the performance of international indices like the S&P 500, Nasdaq, Nikkei, and Hang Seng are highlighted.

• On August 26, 2026, the Indian stock market showed mixed results with the Sensex remaining flat and the Nifty 50 slipping despite improving global cues. • Market activity focused on the BSE and NSE, reflecting a cautious sentiment among investors regarding current share prices.