CURRENCY EXCHANGE / USD

“Global Gold Market – May 2026: Short-Term Consolidation Before the Next Big Bull Wave” After reaching record highs in Q1, the global gold market has entered a phase of short-term consolidation, pressured by a stronger U.S. dollar and the Federal Reserve’s high interest rate stance. Yet, the medium- to long-term fundamentals remain robust. Continuous net buying by central banks worldwide and ongoing geopolitical uncertainties make 2026 truly a strategic golden year.

Baht in Turbulence – Dollar Dominance: May 2026, The Global Currency Game to Watch The world’s financial stage is heating up this May. The Thai baht faces mounting pressure from dividend outflows, geopolitical tension, and a slowing domestic economy — yet tourism recovery and Fed rate expectations keep it afloat. Across global markets, the dollar stands firm as a safe haven, while the yen weakens, the euro softens, and emerging currencies like the yuan and Brazilian real shine bright. For importers, exporters, and investors alike, volatility is the new normal — and every currency move could mean both risk and opportunity. SO OK TRADING FAST • SHARP • RELIABLE

The world is entering the era of “Higher for Longer” — as the U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) decided to keep interest rates at 3.50–3.75% for the third consecutive time, amid stubborn inflation and surging energy prices driven by Middle East conflicts. The result: the global economy is slipping into the trap of “expensive but stagnant” — or Stagflation — a challenge that both investors and businesses must navigate with caution. Stock markets are volatile, the dollar is strengthening, oil prices are soaring, and debt burdens remain heavy. This is a clear signal that the world has shifted from “waiting for rate cuts” to “biting the bullet with high rates” in the fight against stubborn inflation. Read SO OK TRADING’s Global Economic Overview – April 2026, with insights on interest rate directions and the rising risk of Stagflation that everyone needs to know.

Global Plastic Crisis! Overlapping Shocks Shake the Industry At the beginning of 2026, the world faced a “Petrochemical Shock” that sent plastic raw material prices soaring by more than 37%. Conflicts in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz caused a severe shortage of naphtha—the lifeblood of the plastic industry—across the globe. Japan and South Korea were forced to cut production, while China accelerated its shift to alternative energy. Europe and the United States also struggled under surging costs. At the same time, the world is grappling with an environmental crisis from overflowing plastic waste. Recycling rates remain at only 10%, while the other 90% is landfilled, incinerated, or leaked into the environment. Alarmingly, microplastics have already entered the food chain and the human body. This is not just a “temporary crisis” but a structural turning point for the global plastic industry. Companies that adapt quickly—embracing Bio-based Plastics, Chemical Recycling, and the Circular Economy—will emerge as leaders in the new era now taking shape. SO OK TRADING is ready to be your trusted business partner. FAST • SHARP • RELIABLE

UAE Exits OPEC — A Historic Turning Point in the Global Oil Market On April 28, 2026, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) officially announced its withdrawal from OPEC and OPEC+, effective May 1, 2026, ending nearly 60 years of membership. This decision is not just a “big headline” in the energy world — it marks a structural shift in the global oil market, as one of the world’s major producers seeks full independence in production and a new strategy to safeguard national interests. ⏳ Impact on Oil Prices Short-Term: Prices remain high at $110–111 per barrel Hormuz Strait blocked by conflict with Iran Geopolitical risks and Middle East tensions keep oil prices elevated Mid to Long-Term: UAE plans to boost output from 3.2 → 5 million barrels/day by 2027 Oversupply may trigger a price war among major producers OPEC’s control weakens, pushing global oil prices downward

Global Economy After the Middle East War: Who Adapts, Who Struggles Oil prices surge past $100, shaking the global economy — from China turning crisis into opportunity, to Japan and Europe racing to restructure their energy systems. SO OK TRADING presents a clear snapshot of the “adapters” and the “vulnerable” in this new economic game, where energy is no longer just fuel but the accelerator of global transformation. FAST • SHARP • RELIABLE

Global Raw Material Crisis: From Middle East Conflict to the Recovery of Energy and Industrial Markets SO OK TRADING | April 18, 2026 After the tension in the Strait of Hormuz that sent oil and raw material prices soaring, the world is now witnessing clear signs of easing and recovery. Crude oil prices have dropped sharply, naphtha is gradually stabilizing though still costly, and chemical fertilizers remain expensive. Yet the overall direction is a tangible return to balance. ⛽ Oil: Prices fell immediately after Iran reopened the Strait of Hormuz ⚗️ Naphtha: Supply is returning, but full recovery will take time

“Gold and Silver Surge, Dollar Weakens”: After Iran Fully Reopens the Strait of Hormuz Following Israel–Lebanon Ceasefire The precious metals market is heating up like never before this year! Gold prices have soared above $4,849 per ounce, supported by a weaker US dollar and expectations that the Federal Reserve may begin easing monetary policy. Meanwhile, Silver has become the rising star of 2026, driven by strong demand from the EV and solar industries. On the other hand, the US dollar has started to show signs of weakness as Middle East tensions ease, with the Thai baht strengthening in line with gold’s rally.

Middle East Crisis Update: War • Energy • Finance (April 16, 2026) The Middle East remains tense and complex, with ongoing battles, fragile diplomacy, and economic ripples spreading worldwide. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz and continued attacks across multiple fronts have driven oil and naphtha prices sharply higher, while global stock markets swing in response to peace talk headlines. This crisis is not confined to the region — it reverberates across every nation. Rising energy costs, soaring fertilizer prices, and escalating shipping fees are directly impacting the daily lives of people everywhere. Stay informed with our latest English Infographic, which captures the dimensions of war, energy, and finance in a concise, easy-to-understand format — ready to be leveraged for business insights and strategy. SO OK TRADING

Middle East Situation Summary — April 15, 2026 USA • Israel • Iran • Strait of Hormuz BY SO OK TRADING “Fragile Ceasefire • Global Economy on a Tightrope” The Middle East remains tense — the United States has blockaded the Strait of Hormuz, Iran refuses to back down, and fighting in Gaza continues. The world is watching closely as the second round of peace talks convenes in Pakistan on April 17. Oil and fertilizer prices remain high • Global inflation shows no relief • International markets are in “wait-and-see negotiation” mode. SO OK TRADING FAST • SHARP • RELIABLE

Oil, War & Deals: Islamabad Talks Reshaping the Global Economy The U.S.–Iran Negotiations in Pakistan — A Turning Point for the Global Economy in 2026 By SO OK TRADING | April 11, 2026 The world is closely watching the “Islamabad Talks”, a historic direct negotiation between the United States and Iran held in Islamabad, Pakistan. This summit could mark the beginning of peace — or trigger the most severe energy crisis of the decade. After more than 14 hours of marathon discussions, both sides failed to reach an agreement. Yet, the ripple effects of what unfolded at the negotiation table have already shaken the globe — from volatile oil prices to economic uncertainty across Asia and Europe. This article takes you inside the talks and explores:

Global Economy & Inflation with Currency Trends – A Critical Turning Point in April 2026 Following the positive news of a “temporary ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran,” global financial markets have shifted from tension to renewed optimism. Capital is flowing back into risk assets, while currencies and inflation worldwide are entering a decisive phase that investors and businesses must closely monitor. Dollar weakness, Euro strength, and Baht appreciation reflect the market’s transition from “fear” to “confidence.” Thailand itself stands at a crucial juncture, with the Baht strengthening and inflation expected to turn positive in April. Discover in‑depth analysis from SO OK TRADING to gain fresh perspectives on global economic and currency directions, and seize the business opportunities emerging during this recovery phase. SO OK TRADING FAST • SHARP • RELIABLE www.sooktrading.com

Global Oil Market and Thai Oil Price Outlook Q2/2026

Post-Ceasefire World: A Turning Point for the Global Economy Following the announcement of a two-week temporary ceasefire between the United States and Iran, the world now stands at a critical crossroads. The upcoming peace talks in Pakistan may mark the first step toward lasting peace and the easing of sanctions that have long shaken the global economy. Oil prices have plunged more than 15%, gold has surged above $4,800 per ounce, the U.S. dollar has weakened, and global stock markets have entered Risk-on mode, with investor confidence returning. SO OK TRADING provides a comprehensive overview of the impacts on gold, stocks, currencies, and oil, along with insights into the opportunities and risks the world must watch closely over the next 48 hours. FAST • SHARP • RELIABLE Your trusted business partner — SO OK TRADING

Global Economy Q2/2026: Shock on Shock The Middle East war that erupted in late February has become a “Shock on Shock,” shaking the global economy — from energy disruptions to soaring food prices, and stock markets facing intense volatility.

Global Oil Price Crisis: A Turning Point for the World and Thailand’s Economy On April 6, 2026, the world is facing the largest oil price crisis in years. Brent and WTI crude prices have surged to $110–114 per barrel, driven by escalating tensions in the Middle East and the closure of the Hormuz Strait — a vital route that carries over 20% of global energy shipments. The impact is spreading worldwide — from China, Japan, and South Korea to Thailand, where diesel prices have already exceeded 50 THB per liter and may reach 60 THB in April. This surge is pushing inflation higher and slowing economic growth. SO OK TRADING provides a comprehensive analysis of this crisis: the driving factors, its impact on Thailand’s economy, and the outlook for Q2 2026, helping businesses and entrepreneurs prepare for this major transformation in the global energy landscape. SO OK TRADING : FAST • SHARP • RELIABLE Your trusted business partner in every global market situation