Headline news for July 2, 2026: Qatar reports positive progress in indirect US-Iran talks in Doha  but the Strait of Hormuz remains designated a war zone under international shipping agreements until at least July 9. South Korea's market falls more than 5 per cent as a chipmaker selloff rattles Asian markets. Singapore's High Court sends the 1MDB-linked Standard Chartered case to trial. 

Synopsis: A round up of global headlines to start your day by The Business Times. 

Written by: Claressa Monteiro (claremb@sph.com.sg)

Produced and edited by: Claressa Monteiro or Howie Lim

Produced by: BT Podcasts, The Business Times, SPH Media

Produced with AI text-to-speech capabilities

---

Follow Lens On Daily and rate us on:

Channel: bt.sg/btlenson

Amazon: bt.sg/lensam

Apple Podcasts: bt.sg/lensap

Spotify: bt.sg/lenssp

YouTube Music: bt.sg/lensyt

Website: bt.sg/lenson

Feedback to: btpodcasts@sph.com.sg

Do note: This podcast is meant to provide general information only. SPH Media accepts no liability for loss arising from any reliance on the podcast or use of third party’s products and services. Please consult professional advisors for independent advice. 

Discover more BT podcast series:

BT Mark To Market at: bt.sg/btmark2mkt 

WealthBT at: bt.sg/btpropertybt

PropertyBT at: bt.sg/btmktfocus

BT Money Hacks at: bt.sg/btmoneyhacks

BT Market Focus at: bt.sg/btmktfocus

BT Podcasts at: bt.sg/podcasts

BT Lens On: bt.sg/btlenson