Nominal Australian wages rise as real wages slip, Woolworths boss warns of inflation, stock markets continue to fall on Russian invasion, and MORE.

Share markets have seen another volatile week being buffeted by waxing and waning fears of Russia invading Ukraine and fears of inflation and interest rate hikes.

US initiates sanctions as Russian invasion reportedly underway, France drops Australia as key Indo-pacific partner, China in a bind over Russia-Ukraine escalations, and MORE.

China hits back at ADF over laser pointer controversy, Coalition to pledge more than $800 million for R&D in Antarctica, Nasa locks horns with China over space debris headed for the moon, and MORE.

Aussie billionaire sets sights on AGL, teachers in NSW demand a pay rise although not ready to strike yet, will wage data this week smell of an imminent rate rise? + MORE

Tensions continue to escalate over Russia invasion threat, RBA contends with myriad factors in determining timing of a rate rise, Elon Musk allegedly deletes tweet about Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau.

Taiwanese security officials say China is too distracted to invade, stock market drops on hasty Putin sentiment, US inflation numbers to potentially pressure RBA, and MORE.

President Biden says Russia invasion risk still a reality, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinta Ardern faces stiff competition, Prince Andrew settles sex abuse lawsuit for undisclosed amount, and MORE.

"Historic" settlement reached for Dyson Heydon's sexual harassment case, US closes its embassy in Ukraine capital, Liberal MP pushes for higher inheritance taxes, and MORE.

Let's take a look at this week's market statistics.

Stock markets take a hit as oil prices surge on more failed talks between Vladimir Putin and Joe Biden over Ukraine, Pakistan PM fears Afghanistan could descend into chaos, and MORE.

Russia ramps up Ukraine threat, Morrison shelves unsuccessful religious freedom bill, Hong Kong persists with Covid-Zero policy, and MORE.