China & Michael

China: Building 11 new strategic oil storage sites; likely to increase stockpiling when Brent prices are low.

Michael: Global head of commodities research at Société Générale; noted China's stockpiling behavior.

China: China is the sovereign power behind Macao's national security law. The case signals Beijing's emphasis on security and intolerance of dissent, though Macao's activism is less influential than China — Hong Kong's.

Michael: Michael is a barrister representing Au overseas. He called on Portugal and the EU to speak up about Au's case.

China: China called for an end to hostilities and supports Pakistan's mediation. It is concerned about disruptions to trade routes and has economic interests in reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

Michael: Singh commented on the pause and Israeli involvement.