April Fools\' Day can make people doubt fake news and far-fetched stories, but in crypto such caution may be needed year-round. In recent years, projects that began like jokes have drawn hundreds of millions, and in some cases billions, of dollars. BeInCrypto on April 1 highlighted four meme coin cases that sounded like April Fools jokes but happened in reality, urging investors to make careful judgments before investing.

As the Middle East war enters its fourth week, concerns about a prolonged conflict have made oil prices and the won-dollar exchange rate key variables for South Korean stocks. Indicators show investors positioning for declines, with securities lending balances and short positions rising. The won has weakened past 1,500 per dollar and oil price gains have lifted inflation expectations. Authorities are rolling out a 100 trillion won market stabilisation programme.