ASX Slumps, Rate Hike Looms, and ICAC's Beirut Bedroom Blast

The ASX 200 dropped to its lowest level in two months today, dragged down by global jitters and fresh warnings that the RBA is all but certain to hike rates. Macquarie's analysis of the central bank's hawkish language points to a rise in two weeks, as US bond yields surge past 5% on Middle East-driven inflation fears. If you thought mortgage stress was peaking, think again.

RBA Rate Rise 'All But Certain'

Bond markets are **pricing in a...