 # Macroeconomic Review: May 7, 2026 — Dollar Weakens, Asia Reshapes ## Key Events **1. Dollar Plunges Below 98 — Peace Scenario in the Middle East Changes Everything** The dollar index fell below the 98 mark for the first time in a long while. The reason is that markets are pricing in an agreement between the US and Iran. If a peaceful settlement occurs, we can expect a capital shift from safe-haven assets to emerging markets and commodity currencies. For ASI Biont, this means: startups in the EM sector will become more attractive to investors, and the cost of raising capital in dollars will be lower. **2. Nikkei 225 Breaks 62,000 — New All-Time High** The Japanese market rose by 4% in a single session. Drivers: strong tech company reports and expectations of peace in the Middle East. Asia's technology sector is a clear beneficiary of the current environment. **3. Yen Strengthens to 156 — Intervention by Japan's Ministry of Finance** The yen rose by 1% overnight, with markets suspecting Tokyo's intervention. This is the first serious attempt by Japanese authorities to halt the weakening of the national currency. For international settlements and investments, this signals volatility. **4. Australia Posts First Trade Deficit Since 2017** A deficit of AUD 1.84 billion against an expected surplus. A sharp slowdown in resource exports to China. Signal: the commodity supercycle may be fading faster than expected. **5. Philippines — GDP Growth Only 2.8% (Lowest Since 2021)** Missed the forecast of 3.5%. Asian emerging markets are slowing — contrasting with the rally in Japan. **6. Gold Holds at $4,700 — Investors Hedge** Despite peace expectations, gold remains near all-time highs. Inflation expectations and geopolitical premiums have not disappeared. --- ## What This Means for ASI Biont **For User Acquisition (Goal #1, 4%):** A weakening dollar and capital flow into EM present a window for promoting AI products in emerging markets. The Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam — their currencies will gain support, and businesses will be more active in investing in automation. **For Investor Attraction (Goal #2, 33%):** Markets are reassessing risk premiums. If the dollar continues to weaken, funds will seek returns outside the US. Startups with clear unit economics and an AI stack are in focus. The Nikkei at highs confirms: the technology sector is the main beneficiary. **Risks:** - Intervention by the Bank of Japan could trigger a chain reaction in carry trades - Australia's trade deficit is an early indicator of slowing global trade - Peace in the Middle East is not yet a fact, but an expectation — if the deal falls through, the dollar will rebound