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Are US Presidents Getting Older? Joe Biden and Donald Trump are the oldest presidents ever to be inaugurated in the United States. While Biden was 78 years old in 2021 and remains a one-term president, Trump was 70 at the time of his inauguration in 2017 and is 78 starting his second, non-consecutive term on Monday. Ronald Reagan, who was 69 years old in 1981, comes third. Like Biden, Trump's age will be 82 when finishing his term. Biden would have been 86 years old at the end of a hypothetical second term. As Statista's Katharina Buchholz details below, taking a look at all […]

Obama's Shadow: The Deep State And Its Real Faces Authored by Jeff Carlson and Hans Mahncke via TruthOverNews.org, In contemporary political discourse, the term “deep state” frequently arises as a catch-all phrase to describe the entrenched bureaucracy and unseen forces that shape U.S. governance. Washington, D.C., is often portrayed as the epicenter of this so-called deep state, where power dynamics operate independently of electoral outcomes. Some also refer to it as the “blob.” While it is true that U.S. governance is steered by unelected and unaccountable entities, […]

Extreme Cold, Snow Places Texas Power Grid & Permian On Alert Texas' top electricity regulator issued a "Weather Watch" from Monday morning through Thursday, citing "extreme cold weather" and the potential for snow, which could send electrical demand soaring across the state.  According to the National Weather Service, snow is forecasted to begin in Houston on Monday evening and accumulate to upwards of 4 inches by Tuesday. After the snow, frigid temperatures are expected to sweep in, bringing dangerously cold conditions that could jeopardize the power grid and energy […]

On Biden's So-Called "Oligarchs" Authored by Victor Davis Hanson via American Greatness, In his last address, Joe Biden offered a Parthian shot at “oligarchs” and the dangers these “billionaires” pose to the republic. At the same time, left-wing senators hammered Trump cabinet nominees on the grounds that they would be too complacent in the face of a supposed takeover of the country by Trump’s “billionaires” and their “oligarchy.” Many things could be said about Biden’s farewell address, but I will limit them to three. First, Biden was attempting to […]

Mexico Is All Talk: They Have No Power To Stop Trump's Mass Deportation Plans In the weeks leading up to Donald Trump's inauguration there has been an escalation in rhetoric from Mexico and the rest of Central America in regards to the plan for mass deportations of illegal immigrants.  The prevailing message from these neighbors to the south was, initially, that they will do anything they can to make the process difficult.  Trump, expecting this response, has used the threat of tariffs as leverage to gain cooperation.  And frankly, it's working. Progressive Mexican President […]

TIME Magazine Describes Trump's Second Term As A "Disruption" Authored by Steve Watson via Modernity.news, In a post unveiling a special Inauguration day cover depicting President Trump sweeping away everything on the Resolute Desk in the White House, TIME Magazine has captioned the image “Donald Trump’s disruption is back.” An animated online version of the cover, featuring sleepy Joe Biden’s trademark aviator sunglasses, was posted by the publication. TIME's new Inauguration cover: Donald Trump's disruption is back https://t.co/f6thgzBMCY pic.twitter.com/LwsTz8sMyl […]

Watch: President Trump Hails Start Of "Golden Age Of America" In Inaugural Speech Inauguration 2025 Livestream:     *   *   *  Update (1325 ET): Welcome back, Mr. President.  President Trump declared, "America's decline is over," during his second inaugural address delivered in the US Capitol Rotunda. He described the election as a mandate to end "a horrible betrayal" and pledged to prioritize an "America First" agenda. The president also vowed to "rebalance" the scales of justice.  "Our sovereignty will be reclaimed, our safety will be restored, the scales […]

Another Door Opens... Authored by James Howard Kunstler, “…there’s little political upside in defending the rights of undocumented shoplifters.” - Michelle Goldberg, The New York Times. "If past is prologue, Mr. Trump lacks the acumen to carry out his ambitious agenda. The first problem is management style. In his first term, Mr. Trump was a poor administrator because of his mercurial, polarizing style and a general indifference to facts and the hard work of governance." - Jack Goldsmith, The New York Times Thus spake one Shawn McCreesh of The New York […]

Leftists Put Out Directive To "Wear All Black" Today For "National Day Of Mourning" Authored by Steve Watson via Modernity.news, A prominent leftist activist group has issued a directive to its members to wear black clothing Monday to mark President Trump’s inauguration as a “national day of mourning.” The ‘Occupy Democrats’ Facebook group, which has over 10 million followers decreed “Don’t forget to wear all black on January 20th,” with an emoji of a broken heart. The post was mirrored on Instagram with a whole host of TDS inspired hashtags (so last […]

DC Swamp Law Firm To Sue Elon Musk's DOGE Minutes After Trump Inauguration President-elect Donald Trump is set to be inaugurated early Monday afternoon in a ceremony inside the Capitol Building. This morning has already been chaotic, with reports that Trump plans to issue hundreds of executive orders, while President Joe Biden announced last-minute preemptive pardons for Dr. Anthony Fauci and others. The Washington Post reports that minutes into Trump's second term, the DC non-profit public interest law firm National Security Counselors will file a lawsuit claiming Elon […]

Trump's Tariff Playbook: All You Need To Know As we head into the inauguration, let's take a look at some of policy changes that we can expect from Trump 2.0. First, the table below from Goldman's research team, provides a useful summary of the key policy changes expected: Below, we summarize some thoughts from a weekend call by Goldman chief political strategist, Alec Phillips, discussing the focus be for day 1 action: Immigration (border control actions & deportation planning (although not expecting rapid mass deportation)) De-regulation (more specifically, energy […]

Trump To Issue Flurry Of Border & Immigration EOs, Along With DEI, Trade, Energy And TikTok President-elect Donald Trump will issue 10 executive orders related to immigration and the border on Monday, including declaring a national emergency at the border, NBC News reports, citing an incoming White House official. By declaring a national emergency, the Department of Defense will be authorized to deploy the military and national guard to the border. Officials did not elaborate on how many troops would be sent, or the scope of their involvement - saying it would be up to the […]

Peter Schiff: All The Data Confirms Stagflation Via SchiffGold.com, On Wednesday, Peter marked his return to the Peter Schiff Show studio. He tackles the most recent batch of 2025 economic data, highlights inflation signals in commodity prices, and comments on President Biden’s legacy as his term comes to a close. Donald Trump is set to take the reins on Monday, and Peter also analyzes the latest from the president-elect. To start the show, Peter praises Trump for what appears to be a behind-closed-doors negotiation of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Despite his […]

Putin Says Trump Will Help Prevent WW3 In Inauguration Day Congratulations Message Russia has congratulated Donald Trump as he takes office as US president on Monday, with President Putin making statements expressing hope for speedy resumption of official contacts between the two countries. The Russian leader made the remarks in a meeting of the country’s National Security Council, crucially suggesting Trump's return to the White House will help prevent world war three. "We’re hearing the statements of the newly elected US president and members of his team about the desire […]

Most Democrats Think Their Party Sucks, Feel "Burned Out": CNN Poll A new CNN poll reveals that most Democrats think their party needs major change, and that they feel "burned out" by politics. Supporters react to election results during an election night event for US Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris at Howard University in Washington, Nov. 5, 2024. Angela Weiss/AFP via Getty Images The poll comes as the party faces its lowest ratings in over three decades. A 58% majority of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents say that the Democratic […]

Fight Over Truck Broker Contracts Awaits Trump's Next Move By John Gallagher of FreightWaves In May 2020, President Donald Trump sided with owner-operators lining the National Mall with their rigs protesting alleged price gouging by truck brokers. “All they want is to be treated fairly, and we’re going to treat them fairly,” Trump told hosts of the morning show “Fox & Friends” at the time. “They’re great people, and they’re successful. They have these big, beautiful trucks. … They’re not asking for much, so we’re going to take care of them.” Almost […]

Here Are The Foreign Leaders And Politicians Attending Trump's Inauguration President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on Jan. 20 will be the first of its kind to boast foreign heads of state as attendees. Trump broke with more than a century and a half of tradition to invite a wide array of national leaders and political figures to the inauguration, making the occasion historic not only for Trump, but for the guests as well. No foreign head of state has attended the U.S. presidential inauguration since at least 1874, when the State Department began recording such things. […]

Dollar Crashes On Trump Tariff Report It seems we were right when we interpreted incoming Treasury Secretary Bessent's comments last week... This morning, with a few short hours until Trump's swearing in, The Wall Street Journal reports that Trump is planning to issue a broad memorandum Monday that directs federal agencies to study trade policies and evaluate U.S. trade relationships with China and America’s continental neighbors - but stops short of imposing new tariffs on his first day in office, as many trading partners feared. The Wall Street Journal reviewed a summary […]

Trump To Declare National Energy Emergency President-elect Donald Trump is preparing to unleash a flurry of executive orders later this afternoon, reportedly numbering around 200, to reignite his 'America First' agenda. On the energy front, Trump is expected to declare a national energy emergency to ramp up domestic crude oil and natural gas production to reduce power bill costs for all Americans.  Later this afternoon, hours after Trump is sworn in, his administration will immediately get to work by declaring a "national energy emergency." According to Bloomberg, citing […]

DOJ Sues Walgreens, Alleges It Filled Millions Of Illegal Prescriptions Authored by Chase Smith via The Epoch Times (emphasis ours), The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) filed a civil complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, accusing Walgreens Boots Alliance, Walgreen Co., and subsidiaries of illegally dispensing millions of opioid and other controlled substance prescriptions. The Walgreens store in Outer Sunset in San Francisco on Jan. 10, 2025. Lear Zhou/The Epoch Times The suit, announced on Jan. 17, alleges the pharmacy chain violated the […]

Futures Rise, Dollar Tumbles Ahead Of Trump Inauguration US equity futures are steady as traders await President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration and his first-day policy actions. Futures contracts on the Nasdaq 100 and Nasdaq flirted with unchanged, but spiked shortly after 8:30 following a WSJ report that Trump will "Lay Out Trade Vision but Won't Impose New Tariffs Yet", which as a reminder we said is the most likely outcome in light of Scott Bessent's last letter to investors.  The cash market is closed on Monday, which means cash bond are also closed. The dollar […]

"I Believe In The Rule Of Law, But..." - Biden Pre-Emptively Pardons Fauci, Schiff, Cheney, Milley, & Family Members Update (1145ET): As everyone sat in the Captol Rotunda 'golf-clapping' the inauguration of President Trump, President Biden snuck in a last minute pre-emptive pardon for his family members And just like that, he was gone... The head of the Biden crime family just issued preemptive pardons for all members of the Biden crime family. There is no more rule of law in the US — zerohedge (@zerohedge) January 20, 2025 Easiest way to get rich: always bet on […]

Saudi Arabia: Could Commodities Become The New Foundation? By Alex Deluce of The Gold Telegraph Global finance is shifting, and Saudi Arabia is driving change with bold mineral investments, stronger China ties, and new trade strategies. Commodities could soon become the foundation of a new financial order. Let’s dive into it: Saudi Arabia is accelerating its diversification beyond oil by prioritizing critical minerals as a cornerstone of its Vision 2030 strategy. Saudi Arabia is laying the groundwork to become a global powerhouse in the critical minerals driving the […]

Vitalik Buterin Announces Leadership Changes For Ethereum Foundation Authored by Vince Quill via CoinTelegraph.com, Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin announced major changes to the Ethereum Foundation’s leadership to emphasize technical expertise and improve communication between the foundation and builders in the Ethereum ecosystem. Buterin outlined several goals for an overhaul in a Jan. 18 X post, which included supporting decentralized application developers and promoting decentralization, censorship resistance, and privacy. The Ethereum co-founder also said the […]

TikTok Restores US Service, Credits Trump As Democrats Freak Out Update (1518 ET): TikTok users were greeted with an unexpected message from the Chinese video-sharing app on Sunday afternoon, thanking President-elect Donald Trump for allowing the conditions to restore service in the US after it went dark for more than 12 hours. Trump announced earlier that he would extend the divest-or-ban deadline through an executive order on Monday. This action—painting Trump as a savior could potentially trigger a significant surge in his popularity, as more than 170 million Americans use […]

Michael Oliver, the man who is well known for his deadly accurate forecasts on stocks, bonds, and major markets, told King World News that gold and silver prices are poised to explode violently higher. The post Michael Oliver – Gold & Silver Prices Are Poised To Explode Violently Higher appeared first on King World News.

As we continue to kickoff 2025, this will be catastrophic for the global economy, but the price of gold will skyrocket. The post This Will Be Catastrophic For The Global Economy But Gold Will Skyrocket appeared first on King World News.

Rio Tinto and Glencore discuss potential $160B merger that could create a new copper powerhouse to rival industry leader BHP.

As we continue to kickoff trading in 2025, the war in the gold and silver markets continues to rage.  The post The War In The Gold & Silver Markets Continues To Rage appeared first on King World News.

Rio Tinto and Glencore have explored what could become mining's largest-ever merger, with preliminary talks held in late 2024 to combine their $104 billion and $56 billion market capitalizations respectively. The potential deal reflects the mining industry's intense focus on copper acquisition, with both companies owning premier assets including the coveted Collahuasi mine in Chile. However, significant obstacles exist: Rio Tinto's complete exit from coal contrasts with Glencore's position as the world's biggest coal shipper, their corporate cultures differ dramatically, and Rio's CEO Jakob […]

The impending Trump presidency has triggered widespread anxiety in the junk debt market, particularly in Europe, where companies are racing to secure financing ahead of potential tariff implementations. The market has seen its busiest start since 2017, with 19 out of 28 loan tranches being repricings as companies seek to lock in favorable terms. Lenders are conducting extensive due diligence, exemplified by Hunter Douglas's two-hour creditor call that focused heavily on tariff impact assessments. Investment managers are already adjusting their portfolios, shifting away from vulnerable sectors […]

Oil futures are poised for their fourth straight week of gains, with WTI crude targeting a 2.6% weekly increase despite a minor 0.2% dip to $78.56 per barrel on Friday. The recent rally has been driven by the Biden administration's broader sanctions against Russia's energy sector, which targeted additional producers, over 180 vessels, and oilfield-service providers. These measures have prompted major buyers like India and China to seek alternative suppliers, while additional sanctions on Iran's shadow fleet could impact up to 500,000 barrels of daily crude supply. Market attention is now […]

The cryptocurrency landscape is undergoing major shifts as Bitcoin's price fluctuates dramatically, moving from $90K to $101K within a week. At the state level, a remarkable push for Bitcoin adoption is underway, with eight states - Texas, Oklahoma, Florida, Ohio, Alabama, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and North Dakota - advancing legislation to establish strategic Bitcoin reserves. This movement coincides with broader national initiatives, including Trump's proposed federal Bitcoin stockpile plan, which has gained substantial industry support. Adding to the dynamics, Senator Cynthia Lummis […]

Wall Street banks are launching an ambitious campaign to reshape capital regulations, emboldened by Trump's pending return to the White House and their recent victory in halving proposed Basel capital requirements. Leading institutions like JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, and Goldman Sachs are targeting multiple regulatory reforms, including reducing the capital surcharge for global banks and restructuring the Federal Reserve's stress testing framework. Banking executives argue that the current nearly $1 trillion combined capital requirement is excessive, pointing to their stability during […]

Key developments in the basic materials sector show varying performance across companies and regions. Orla Mining reported disappointing Q4 gold production of 26,500 ounces, falling 15% below expectations due to 4,100 ounces remaining in refined inventory. Meanwhile, Antofagasta's 2025 capital expenditure guidance of $3.9 billion exceeded analyst expectations by 11%. Rio Tinto delivered strong copper production, particularly at Escondida and Oyu Tolgoi mines, while reporting steady iron-ore output despite an increasing mix of lower-quality SP10 ore. The company notes global economic […]

The incoming Trump administration is developing comprehensive sanctions targeting the oil sectors of Iran, Russia, and Venezuela, focusing on three persistent diplomatic challenges facing the United States. The measures aim to pressure Russia to end its war in Ukraine, address concerns about Iran's nuclear program, and respond to Venezuela's democratic backsliding. However, sanctioning these major oil producers presents significant challenges for global markets, particularly following recent oil price increases triggered by Biden's sanctions on Russia. Meanwhile, Russia's financial strain is […]

Gold futures surged 1.25% to $2,746.40 on Thursday, marking their third consecutive daily gain and the third-highest close in history. The precious metal has rallied in seven of the past eight sessions, climbing 4.46% year-to-date, supported by shifting Federal Reserve policy expectations and standing just 1.51% below its all-time high of $2,788.50.

December's retail sales data painted a picture of resilient U.S. consumer spending, with a 0.4% overall increase and a notable 0.7% jump in core retail sales. The strength was broad-based, with significant gains in auto dealerships (0.7%), furniture stores (2.3%), and sporting goods retailers (2.6%). This robust performance, combined with December's strong employment figures showing a 4.1% unemployment rate, has prompted economists to revise their Q4 GDP growth estimates upward to nearly match Q3's 3.1% pace. The data suggests that wage growth continues to drive consumer spending, potentially […]

Gold prices reached their highest level since December 12, climbing to $2,716.91 per ounce amid a confluence of favorable economic indicators. The surge was primarily fueled by weakening Treasury yields following unexpectedly high U.S. jobless claims of 217,000, exceeding forecasts of 210,000. This labor market softening, combined with December's modest 0.2% core inflation increase, has strengthened market expectations for Fed rate cuts in 2025. The precious metal's appeal was further enhanced by ongoing geopolitical tensions in Gaza, reinforcing gold's traditional role as a safe-haven asset […]

In this eye-opening discussion, Alan Hibbard from GoldSilver.com shares why 2025 could be a game-changing year for precious metals

Silver priced in Canadian dollar has hit an all-time high! Plus a look at gold. The post Silver Priced In Canadian Dollars Hits All-Time High! Plus A Look At Gold appeared first on King World News.

Federal Reserve officials are signaling a more conservative approach to rate cuts in 2025 compared to 2024's full percentage point reduction. Their cautious stance is influenced by persistent above-target inflation, robust labor market conditions, and uncertainty surrounding the economic impact of Trump's second-term policies, including potential tax cuts and tariffs. The divide between hawks and doves reflects varying concerns about inflation risks versus labor market stability.

Oil prices rallied significantly with WTI crude reaching $80.04 and Brent hitting $82.03 per barrel, driven by winter demand and concerns over U.S. sanctions on Russia. The market is responding to multiple factors: eight consecutive weeks of U.S. crude inventory drawdowns, speculation about the incoming Trump administration's stance on Iran, and the International Energy Agency's forecast of 1.05 million barrels per day demand growth in 2025. Meanwhile, Constellation Energy's acquisition of Calpine for $16.4 billion is reshaping the power sector landscape.

Oil prices declined on Thursday, with Brent crude falling 1.29% to $80.97 and WTI dropping 1.87% to $78.54, primarily due to expectations of reduced Houthi attacks in the Red Sea following a Gaza ceasefire agreement. The market also responded to strong U.S. retail data and Fed Governor Waller's comments suggesting potential earlier rate cuts, while anticipating policy shifts under the incoming Trump administration and monitoring OPEC+'s cautious stance on production increases.

Gold has climbed to its highest level in over a month, trading at $2,719.49 per ounce, as multiple economic indicators point toward potential monetary policy easing. This rally was fueled by a confluence of factors: weaker-than-expected U.S. economic data, including higher jobless claims of 217,000 versus the forecast 210,000, and December's core inflation increase of just 0.2% after four consecutive months of 0.3% gains. These developments have significantly influenced market expectations, with traders now anticipating 37 basis points of Federal Reserve rate cuts by year-end, up from 31 […]

The U.S. dollar weakened Thursday despite mixed economic data, with traders focusing on the upcoming Trump inauguration and potential policy shifts. While retail sales showed modest growth and unemployment claims remained at healthy levels, markets are particularly attentive to Treasury nominee Scott Bessent's upcoming hearing and the possibility of new tariffs. The dollar index fell 0.09% to 108.92, while experiencing notable declines against the yen and maintaining pressure on China's yuan.

Gold has climbed to its highest level in a month, trading above $2,700 an ounce, driven by a significant shift in market expectations following surprisingly moderate U.S. core inflation data. The consumer price index, excluding food and energy, rose just 0.2% after four consecutive months of 0.3% increases, suggesting the Fed may have more flexibility to cut rates sooner than previously anticipated. This development has caused a notable market reaction, with Treasury yields and the dollar declining, enhancing gold's appeal as a non-yielding asset. Swap traders have adjusted their […]

A new analysis reveals U.S. stocks have reached their most expensive level in history when measured against workers' purchasing power. According to Leuthold Group's research, manufacturing workers must now work more than 200 hours to afford one unit of the S&P 500, dramatically exceeding the historical median of 33 hours in data going back to 1947. This extreme valuation coincides with other concerning metrics - the S&P 500's forward P/E ratio stands at 21.4 times expected 2025 earnings, and its price-to-sales ratio is at levels not seen since the aftermath of the dot-com bubble. […]

Is the world now staring down the barrel of a global liquidity crisis? The post World Liquidity Crisis appeared first on King World News.

December 2024 saw U.S. retail sales increase by 0.4%, reflecting strong consumer spending across multiple sectors, particularly in automobiles (0.7%), furniture (2.3%), and sporting goods (2.6%). This growth, though moderating from November's 0.8%, occurred against a backdrop of positive economic indicators, including a low 4.1% unemployment rate and rising wages. The retail landscape reveals a complex picture where overall sales have risen 3.9% year-over-year, with goods inflation at just 0.3%. However, the market shows a clear bifurcation: wealthy consumers, benefiting from appreciating […]

As both gold and bitcoin reach record highs in 2024, a growing number of investment experts suggest including both assets in portfolios for enhanced diversification. While sharing some characteristics as alternative investments, their distinct behaviors and risk profiles make them complementary rather than competitive assets. BlackRock recommends up to 2% bitcoin allocation in traditional portfolios, while investment managers suggest gold allocations around 10%, highlighting bitcoin's higher risk-reward profile compared to gold's established role as a store of value.

Mali's government has seized three tons of gold worth $245 million from Barrick Gold's Loulo-Gounkoto mine amid an escalating ownership dispute. The seizure, following the arrest of company executives and a warrant for CEO Mark Bristow, has forced Barrick to suspend operations at the mine, which produces 14% of its global output. The conflict stems from Mali's new mining codes, with the military government demanding an increased stake beyond its current 20% ownership and claiming $500 million in back taxes.

With investors increasingly alarmed about China's economy, will China gamble with an unprecedented stimulus package? The post Will China Gamble With An Unprecedented Stimulus Package appeared first on King World News.

Goldman Sachs doubled its fourth-quarter profits to $4.1 billion, driven by record equity trading performance and strong investment banking results. The bank's shares rose 2% as it exceeded most targets, with revenue reaching $13.87 billion and return on equity jumping to 14.6%. The successful quarter caps a year that saw Goldman's stock rise 48%, making it the best-performing major U.S. bank of 2024.

JPMorgan Chase achieved unprecedented success in 2024, setting a new American banking record with $58 billion in annual profits and a remarkable 50% jump in fourth-quarter earnings to $14 billion. The stellar performance was primarily driven by a revival in dealmaking and strong trading revenues, which rose 21% amid election-related market volatility. While the bank's consumer unit faced challenges with a 6% decline and increased credit card charge-offs, JPMorgan raised its 2025 net interest income guidance to $90 billion. The bank's success was part of a broader trend, with Goldman Sachs and […]

US markets surged across the board following December's inflation report, which showed core CPI easing to 0.2% monthly growth after four consecutive months at 0.3%. The S&P 500, Nasdaq 100, and Dow all climbed approximately 1.5%, while Treasury yields tumbled and the dollar weakened against major currencies. While market sentiment improved significantly, with swap traders now pricing in a July rate cut, analysts remain cautious. Goldman Sachs Asset Management notes that while the data strengthens the case for eventual cuts, the strong labor market gives the Fed room to be patient. Morgan […]

The latest inflation data showed a welcome moderation in core consumer prices, with December's 0.2% increase marking the first slowdown in six months. Key factors contributing to the cooler reading included cheaper hotel stays, modest rent increases, and slower growth in medical care service costs. However, Federal Reserve officials remain cautious, requiring sustained evidence of inflation progress before adjusting their policy stance. The combination of this data with last week's robust jobs report suggests the Fed will maintain current rates at their January meeting, with markets pushing […]

December's inflation data showed encouraging signs of moderation, with core CPI (excluding food and energy) increasing 0.2% monthly and 3.2% annually, marking the first deceleration since July. While headline inflation met expectations at 2.9% annually, the shelter index showed improvement, rising 4.6% annually - its smallest increase since January 2022. However, certain categories remained problematic, with used car prices rising 1.2%, energy costs jumping 2.6% monthly, and egg prices surging 3.2%. Markets welcomed the data, with Treasury yields falling below 4.7%, though concerns linger […]

The latest inflation data showed U.S. consumer prices increased marginally above expectations in December, with the CPI rising 0.4% monthly and 2.9% annually, driven partly by higher energy costs. The figures, while slightly exceeding economists' forecasts of a 0.3% monthly gain, appear to support the Federal Reserve's cautious stance on rate cuts for 2024. Markets interpreted the data optimistically, with S&P 500 futures surging 1.5%, the 10-year Treasury yield dropping 12.1 basis points to 4.667%, and the dollar index declining 0.4% to 108.76, suggesting investors view the inflation […]

Global markets advanced cautiously on Wednesday as investors awaited U.S. CPI data that could significantly impact monetary policy decisions. Wall Street futures rose 0.2-0.3%, while European markets gained strength, particularly in UK homebuilders following surprisingly cool British inflation data. The bond market saw some respite from recent selling pressure, with Treasury and German Bund yields retreating. BlackRock's record $11.6 trillion in assets under management highlighted strong financial sector performance, while market expectations for Fed rate cuts have notably decreased, with […]

US commodity markets are showing notable price divergences from global benchmarks as traders position themselves for Donald Trump's proposed import tariffs. The president-elect's team is considering a gradual implementation of tariffs ranging from 10-20% on foreign goods, with potentially higher rates of 60% or more for Chinese imports. According to Citigroup analysts, platinum faces the highest risk due to significant US import dependence and limited sourcing from free-trade agreement countries. Meanwhile, precious metals like gold and silver may avoid tariffs due to their status as monetary […]

Gold prices gained momentum as both the U.S. dollar index and Treasury yields retreated, with spot prices rising 0.4% to $2,687.59 per ounce and futures climbing over 1% to $2,710.00. Markets are particularly focused on upcoming CPI data, expected to show annual inflation increasing to 2.9% from November's 2.7%. According to Saxo Bank's Ole Hansen, market uncertainty is heightened by both the pending inflation data and political considerations, including Trump's proposed import tariffs that could impact inflation and complicate the Federal Reserve's rate decisions. Despite Tuesday's moderate […]

Gold futures advanced 1.1% to $2,711.90 per troy ounce, building on momentum from Tuesday's soft PPI data and benefiting from dollar weakness. The December CPI reading of 2.9%, up from November's 2.7%, aligned with market expectations and moderately strengthened the case for Federal Reserve monetary easing. While this development enhanced the appeal of non-interest-bearing bullion, StoneX analysts maintain a cautious near-term outlook, citing persistent bond yields as a limiting factor. However, they remain bullish on gold's longer-term prospects, forecasting a rise to $3,000 per ounce later […]

As we continue to kickoff 2025, here is a look at the US dollar and gold. The post 2025: Look At The US Dollar & Gold appeared first on King World News.

Michael Oliver, the man who is well known for his deadly accurate forecasts on stocks, bonds, and major markets, communicated to King World News about the current setup in the gold market. The post Michael Oliver – Here Is The Setup In The Gold Market appeared first on King World News.

In this video, we explore the surprising suggestion that Musk replace Mike Johnson as Speaker of the House and the jaw-dropping reason behind it.

Gold prices are showing strength, rising 0.3% to $2,668.79 per ounce, driven by a combination of a weakening dollar and strategic responses to the incoming Trump administration's trade policies. The market's positive reaction stems from reports suggesting a gradual approach to implementing new tariffs, which could help manage inflationary pressures. This development has led to declining Treasury yields and a retreat in the dollar from its two-year high, making gold more attractive to international buyers. Market attention is now focused on crucial economic indicators, including PPI and CPI […]

Global oil markets are experiencing significant upheaval as prices touch five-month highs near $79 per barrel, driven by the US government's most ambitious sanctions yet against Russia's energy sector. The measures, targeting major exporters, insurance companies, and numerous tankers, are creating ripple effects across global supply chains, with EU nations planning additional restrictions on natural gas and stricter enforcement of oil price caps. The situation is further complicated by warnings from Alberta's Premier about potential 25% tariffs under the incoming Trump administration, […]

The dollar's strength continues to dominate currency markets, approaching its highest levels in more than two years as investors reassess Federal Reserve rate cut expectations. Following strong jobs data, markets have significantly scaled back predictions for monetary easing in 2024, now anticipating only 28 basis points of cuts compared to the Fed's December projection of 50 basis points. The euro, while slightly up at $1.0257, has already lost over 6% in 2024 due to monetary policy divergence between the Fed and ECB. The currency market's attention is split between upcoming U.S. inflation […]

UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves faces mounting pressure over Britain's fiscal stability as markets experience their most severe selloff since 2008, pushing government borrowing costs to crisis levels. Addressing Parliament, Reeves insisted the government would meet its fiscal rules "at all times," despite the UK paying record rates to sell 30-year inflation-linked debt and gilt yields reaching their highest levels since the financial crisis. The market turbulence has intensified scrutiny of the Treasury's plans, with reports suggesting potential public spending cuts to address the fiscal gap. The […]

Fed Governor Michelle Bowman and Kansas City Fed President Jeff Schmid have introduced a cautionary note to the rate cut narrative, suggesting that the Fed's benchmark rate may already be approaching its neutral level following 100 basis points in cuts since September. Their position marks a notable contrast to other Fed officials, including Chairman Powell and Governor Waller, who maintain that rates are still restrictive enough to slow economic growth. Bowman specifically highlighted concerns about strong economic growth and a 20% rise in the stock market over the past year, warning that […]

A sharp selloff in the U.S. bond market has pushed the 10-year Treasury yield close to 5%, a psychologically significant threshold that's causing widespread concern among investors. According to DataTrek Research, this level is particularly unsettling because it represents the highest yield an entire generation of investors has experienced, with the last sustained period above 5% occurring just before the 2007 financial crisis. While today's economic conditions differ significantly, with a more stable banking system but higher federal debt levels, the market remains highly sensitive to this […]

US markets are poised for a rebound Tuesday as two key developments eased inflation concerns. The Producer Price Index rose less than expected at 0.2% month-over-month and 3.3% annually, providing welcome news ahead of Wednesday's crucial consumer inflation report. Adding to the positive sentiment, reports emerged that the incoming Trump administration might implement tariff increases gradually rather than all at once to minimize inflationary impact. This double dose of encouraging news sparked gains across major indices, with S&P 500 futures up 0.5% and Nasdaq futures gaining 0.7%. The […]

Barrick Gold Corp., the world's second-largest gold producer, has been forced to suspend operations at its vital Loulo-Gounkoto complex in Mali, marking a critical escalation in an ongoing dispute with the country's military government. The shutdown comes after Malian authorities began seizing stored gold and blocking exports since November, while also issuing an arrest warrant for CEO Mark Bristow. The conflict stems from disagreements over revenue distribution and Mali's new mining legislation, with the government claiming unpaid taxes and demanding compliance with updated mining codes. The […]

December's wholesale inflation data revealed a surprising slowdown, with the Producer Price Index rising only 0.2% monthly, falling short of economists' expectations of 0.4%. This moderation was largely attributed to a 0.1% decline in food prices, including a significant 15% drop in vegetable costs, along with unchanged services prices. While energy costs rose 3.5%, the core PPI measure, excluding food and energy, remained flat from November. The report gains particular significance ahead of the consumer price index release and amid recent increases in commodity prices, including oil and […]

December's Producer Price Index revealed encouraging signs for inflation control, with wholesale prices rising less than anticipated at 3.3% annually and 0.2% monthly, falling below economist projections of 3.5% and 0.4% respectively. While core prices, excluding volatile food and energy components, edged up to 3.5% year-over-year from November's 3.4%, they remained below the expected 3.8% increase. The data arrives at a crucial moment as markets assess the Federal Reserve's potential rate decisions for 2024, with current projections showing limited likelihood of rate cuts until at least […]

We have recently seen record high prices in coffee, cocoa and cattle as the price of oil also spikes and the travel boom continues. Take a look... The post Record High Prices In Coffee, Cocoa & Cattle As Oil Spikes And Travel Boom Continues appeared first on King World News.

Look at what is ready to soar vs the price of gold. The post Look At What Is Ready To Soar vs The Price Of Gold appeared first on King World News.

The US dollar reached its highest level in over two years, driven by Friday's unexpectedly strong employment report that showed accelerating job growth and a 4.1% unemployment rate. This economic strength has dramatically shifted market expectations, with traders now questioning whether the Federal Reserve will cut rates at all in 2025, down from previous expectations of two quarter-point cuts. The dollar's surge is creating widespread pressure on global currencies, particularly affecting the euro, which dropped to $1.0177, and the British pound, which fell to $1.21. The situation could […]

US Treasury yields surged to multi-month highs following strong December employment data, with the 10-year yield reaching 4.80% and the 30-year approaching 5%. The selloff, driven by persistent inflation concerns and growing government debt, has led markets to price in fewer rate cuts for 2025 and is causing ripple effects across global markets, strengthening the dollar to a two-year high.

Global bond markets are in turmoil following stronger-than-expected US jobs data, forcing a worldwide repricing of interest rate expectations. While the US economy's strength might justify higher rates, countries like the UK face a more challenging scenario, combining mediocre growth with inflation concerns and currency weakness. The Bank of England is now expected to deliver fewer rate cuts in 2025 than previously anticipated, with markets predicting just two quarter-point cuts from the current 4.75%. The situation is particularly concerning for the UK as oil prices rise above $80 per barrel […]

A historically rare phenomenon is unsettling investors as the 10-year Treasury yield has climbed by about the same magnitude as the Federal Reserve's recent rate cuts, something that's happened only twice since the early 1980s. The benchmark yield has surged from 3.6% to 4.77% since mid-September, nearly matching the Fed's full percentage point in rate cuts. This unusual movement breaks from the typical pattern where long-term rates fall during Fed easing cycles. Market experts attribute this divergence to multiple factors, including persistent inflation concerns, strong economic data, and […]

The global bond market is facing a dramatic reset as yields surge across major economies, led by the $28 trillion US Treasury market. Just days into 2025, yields have climbed significantly, with the 10-year Treasury rate rising over a percentage point in four months and approaching the symbolic 5% level. This bond market "tantrum" reflects multiple pressures: surprisingly robust economic data, reduced expectations for Fed rate cuts, and growing concerns about US fiscal policy ahead of Trump's return to the White House. The implications are far-reaching, affecting everything from mortgage […]

Federal Reserve officials Michelle Bowman and Jeff Schmid have signaled a cautious stance on future rate cuts, suggesting that the benchmark rate may already be close to its "neutral" target following 100 basis points of reductions since September. Their position contrasts with other Fed officials, including Chairman Powell and Governor Waller, who maintain that rates remain restrictive. Bowman expressed particular concern about strong economic growth and a 20% rise in the stock market, warning of potential inflation risks. The differing views among Fed officials point to a potentially […]

Bitcoin experienced a significant decline on Monday, falling 4.4% to $90,199, marking its lowest point since November 18 and a sharp retreat from December's peak of $108,316. The selloff was triggered by stronger-than-expected US employment data that reduced expectations for near-term Federal Reserve rate cuts. The cryptocurrency market's weakness extends beyond Bitcoin, with Ether dropping 6.6%, reflecting broader concerns in the digital asset space. Technical analysts note a concerning head and shoulders pattern formation, suggesting a potential trend reversal from bullish to bearish […]

US stocks tumbled Monday, with tech leading the decline as the Nasdaq fell 1.6% and the S&P 500 dropped 0.8%. Markets reacted to diminishing hopes for interest rate cuts after strong December jobs data, with traders now expecting no cuts until September 2025. The 10-year Treasury yield reached a 14-month high near 4.8%, while the dollar surged to a two-year peak against major currencies. Adding to market pressures, oil prices climbed to five-month highs following new US sanctions on Russian crude, while the "Magnificent Seven" tech giants, including Nvidia, Apple, and Tesla, all lost […]

Gold prices dropped 0.5% to $2,677.13 per ounce following strong U.S. jobs data that dampened expectations for early Fed rate cuts. While a strengthening dollar pressured gold prices, ongoing uncertainty around President-elect Trump's proposed trade policies and inflation concerns continued to provide underlying support for the precious metal.

Gold ETFs are missing from the current rally - but State Street predicts their return could trigger a surge to $3,100/oz in 2025.

The Federal Reserve's December meeting minutes show a complex policy landscape, with officials increasingly worried about inflation risks while maintaining their easing bias. Despite cutting rates for the third consecutive time to 4.25%-4.5%, there was notable discussion about inflation risks, particularly regarding incoming President Trump's proposed trade and immigration policies. While some officials advocated for holding rates steady, and Cleveland Fed President Beth Hammack dissented in favor of no cut, the committee remained open to further easing if inflation moderates and labor […]

Strong December employment data has dramatically shifted market expectations for Fed policy in 2024, with traders now anticipating just one rate cut in June, down from previous expectations of multiple cuts starting in May. The surprisingly robust job growth has led markets to significantly scale back their rate cut forecasts for the year.

Two key Federal Reserve officials have challenged the market's expectations for aggressive rate cuts, suggesting the Fed's benchmark rate may already be close to its neutral target. Kansas City Fed President Jeff Schmid and Governor Michelle Bowman both indicated that the 100 basis points in cuts since September have brought rates near their optimal long-term level, warranting a more gradual approach to future policy changes. Their stance contrasts with other officials like Chairman Powell and Governor Waller, who maintain that current rates remain restrictive. This policy divide could […]

Gold is demonstrating strength in early 2024, defying its typical inverse relationship with dollar strength and Treasury yields. The precious metal's rise to four-week highs, despite these traditional headwinds, signals a fundamental shift in market sentiment driven by deep concerns about U.S. fiscal stability. Market experts, including Gold Newsletter's Brien Lundin, suggest that the simultaneous rise in Treasury yields, dollar strength, and gold prices reflects growing unease about U.S. debt levels and deficits relative to GDP. The Federal Reserve's potential loss of control over rates has […]

Bond markets are signaling growing investor unease about government fiscal policies, with the UK emerging as a focal point of concern. The situation began with a US-led global bond selloff as markets scaled back Fed rate cut expectations, but has evolved into a particular challenge for the UK, where 30-year gilt yields have hit levels not seen since 1998. The market turbulence threatens to eliminate the UK government's £9.9 billion fiscal buffer and has forced Chancellor Rachel Reeves to consider spending cuts over tax increases. This development comes as outgoing US Treasury Secretary Janet […]

The market's relationship with Treasury yields has shifted dramatically from last year's optimistic outlook to current anxiety as the 10-year yield approaches 4.7%. This change is fueled by multiple factors: recent data showing inflation pressures in the services sector, diminishing expectations for Fed rate cuts, and concerns about incoming President Trump's potentially inflationary fiscal policies. Fidelity's Jurrien Timmer warns that inflation might not be fully contained, potentially rising to 3.5-4%, a scenario that could prevent Fed rate cuts and isn't currently priced into markets. […]

Brazil's inflation challenge persisted through the end of 2024, with annual prices rising 4.83%, breaching the central bank's 4.5% tolerance ceiling. While December showed a modest monthly increase of 0.52%, the underlying data reveals persistent inflationary pressures across most sectors. New central bank chief Gabriel Galipolo faces immediate challenges, as a combination of robust economic growth, fiscal uncertainties, and currency weakness threatens price stability. Despite some relief from lower housing costs, broad-based price increases in food, transportation, and services suggest […]

U.S. Treasury markets experienced a significant selloff as December's unexpectedly strong employment data forced a major reassessment of Federal Reserve policy expectations. The 30-year yield pushed above 5% for the first time in over a year, while yields on shorter-dated Treasuries jumped more than 10 basis points across the board. This market reaction reflects a fundamental shift in rate expectations, with traders now pricing in fewer cuts and pushing the timeline for the first reduction from June to September. Since the Fed began its cutting cycle in September, yields have climbed […]

The U.S. labor market demonstrated resilience at the end of 2024, with December payrolls significantly exceeding expectations at 256,000 jobs, compared to economists' predictions of 160,000. This robust employment growth, coupled with a declining unemployment rate of 4.1%, has significant implications for monetary policy. Markets reacted swiftly, with the S&P 500 futures declining and Treasury yields jumping, as investors recalibrated their expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts. Market strategists now anticipate sustained higher interest rates through 2025, citing both economic […]

Gold prices remained nearly flat after robust US employment data reinforced the Fed's cautious stance on rate cuts. December's stronger-than-expected job growth and lower unemployment rate suggest persistent labor market strength, potentially delaying anticipated interest rate reductions. Gold traded at $2,670.84 per ounce, trimming earlier gains as Treasury yields and the dollar strengthened.

In this episode of The Gold & Silver Show, Mike Maloney and Alan Hibbard break down the facts behind silver’s ongoing supply deficits and the surging

The Federal Reserve faces a critical dilemma as bond market tensions rise: it must choose between addressing mounting inflation fears in the Treasury market or accommodating Trump's calls for lower interest rates. With the 10-year term premium reaching its highest level since 2014 and long-term yields rising despite recent rate cuts, the Fed appears likely to prioritize inflation control over presidential preferences, potentially setting up conflicts with the incoming administration.

The UK's financial markets are flashing serious warning signals, with gilt yields reaching levels not seen since the 2008 financial crisis and the pound dropping significantly against the dollar. This unusual combination of rising yields and falling currency typically indicates serious concerns about a country's fiscal health. While most developed economies are seeing higher bond yields due to inflation concerns, the UK's situation is uniquely concerning because it's occurring amid economic stagnation rather than growth. With £297 billion in planned bond sales and a debt-to-GDP ratio of […]

Bank of America's G10 FX strategist Howard Du is warning U.S. corporations to adopt a more proactive hedging strategy for 2025, marking a significant shift from 2024's approach. While companies could previously afford to wait for dollar weakness before repatriating overseas earnings, the macroeconomic landscape has changed dramatically. With the dollar index at a two-year high and Trump's re-election bringing potential trade uncertainties, companies facing currency risk (particularly the 41.6% of S&P 500 revenues generated overseas) need to consider immediate hedging strategies. The bank […]

As UK financial markets face mounting pressure with gilt yields rising and the pound dropping to a year-low, Treasury Chief Secretary Darren Jones attempted to calm concerns in Parliament, asserting that markets remain "orderly" and demand for UK debt stays robust. The situation has sparked political tension, with opposition parties calling for Chancellor Rachel Reeves to cancel her planned China trip to address market turbulence. However, the government is standing firm, maintaining that market movements are normal and emphasizing the importance of Reeves' China visit, which aims to reset […]

The December Fed minutes show a central bank wrestling with competing pressures: rising inflation concerns, particularly from potential Trump administration policies, balanced against a commitment to monetary easing. While "almost all" officials noted increased inflation risks, this wasn't enough to put rate hikes on the table. Instead, they opted for a more nuanced approach, delivering a third consecutive rate cut while leaving room to slow the pace of future cuts if needed. The decision wasn't unanimous, with Cleveland Fed President Beth Hammack dissenting in favor of holding rates until […]

In his first public remarks since the Fed's last rate cut, Philadelphia Fed President Patrick Harker outlined a cautiously optimistic but uncertain monetary policy outlook. While confirming his expectation for continued rate cuts, he emphasized that timing and pace will be strictly data-dependent given the "very unsettled times." Harker painted a mixed economic picture: strong macroeconomic fundamentals and progress on inflation, but slower-than-desired movement toward the 2% target and emerging concerns about financial stress among lower-income workers. His stance aligns with the Fed's […]

The unusual rise in Treasury yields is sparking debate among economic experts, with Paul Krugman proposing an "insanity premium" linked to Trump's policy pronouncements. The incoming administration's agenda of high tariffs, tax cuts, and mass deportations has economists nearly unanimous in predicting inflationary pressures, potentially forcing the Fed to pause or reverse rate cuts. This uncertainty is reflected in December's Fed minutes, where officials noted increased inflation risks partly due to potential policy changes. Meanwhile, the market response has been mixed - while yields have […]

Boston Fed President Susan Collins is signaling a more conservative stance on monetary policy, emphasizing the need for patience and gradual movement on future rate cuts despite progress on inflation. While acknowledging inflation's significant decline from 2022 peaks, Collins notes increasing concerns about its persistence and the complex economic landscape ahead. Her remarks come as the Fed navigates between maintaining price stability and preserving labor market health, with additional uncertainty stemming from potential policy changes under the incoming administration. Collins's position […]

The Treasury market found some relief after a significant selloff that had rippled through global markets, with yields retreating across the curve as investors turn their attention to Friday's employment data. The timing is particularly notable as US markets prepare to close for former President Carter's memorial. Fed officials, including Philadelphia's Patrick Harker and Boston's Susan Collins, are maintaining a cautious stance on rate cuts, suggesting a slower pace than previously anticipated due to persistent economic strength. Adding complexity to the monetary policy outlook is the Fed's […]

U.S. Treasury markets are flashing warning signals as yields surge across the curve, with the 10-year term premium exceeding 50 basis points for the first time in a decade. This shift reflects deepening investor concerns about long-term inflation, growing debt supply, and uncertainty around future monetary policy. Recent economic indicators, including accelerating service sector activity and stronger-than-expected job openings, have dampened expectations for Fed rate cuts, with markets now pricing in fewer cuts for 2024. The bond market tension has global implications, lifting borrowing costs […]

The U.S. dollar's remarkable run is set to continue through 2025, with nearly two-thirds of surveyed forex strategists expecting euro-dollar parity, primarily in the first half of the year. The dollar's momentum, which drove a 7% gain against major currencies in 2024, is being fueled by multiple factors: persistent U.S. economic strength, the Fed's cautious stance on rate cuts, and potential inflationary impacts from Trump's proposed policies. While the Fed is expected to implement only one or two rate cuts in 2025, the European Central Bank might cut rates by nearly 100 basis points, […]

Gold markets are showing resilience amid competing pressures, with prices holding around $2,646.88 per ounce. Support comes from growing concerns about Trump's proposed protectionist trade policies, which could trigger inflation and trade wars, enhancing gold's safe-haven appeal. However, these supportive factors are being offset by a strengthening dollar and rising Treasury yields. The precious metal's outlook remains tied to upcoming economic indicators, including ADP employment numbers and Friday's nonfarm payrolls report, as markets reassess Fed rate cut expectations. While the Fed […]

Beyond the anticipated third consecutive policy rate cut, the Federal Reserve is likely to implement a strategic adjustment to its overnight reverse repo facility rate. The expected 0.5 basis point reduction to 4.25% would eliminate a pandemic-era safety margin and marks another step in the Fed's careful management of market liquidity. This technical change aims to ease pressure on overnight repo rates and could enable the Fed to continue its quantitative tightening (QT) program through early 2025. The Fed has already reduced its balance sheet from nearly $9 trillion to under $7 trillion, and […]

Global bond markets are experiencing a significant selloff as US Treasury yields surge toward their late-2023 peaks. The 10-year yield has jumped to 4.73%, while the 30-year yield approaches the psychologically important 5% threshold. This dramatic rise, occurring despite the Fed's recent rate cuts, reflects multiple concerns: sticky inflation, Trump's potential fiscal policies, and surprisingly robust economic growth. Since the Fed's initial rate cut in September, yields have climbed more than 100 basis points, forcing major financial institutions to acknowledge a new era of higher yields. […]

Fed Governor Chris Waller reaffirmed his stance on 2025 rate cuts during a speech in Paris, expressing confidence that inflation will continue its downward trend despite Trump's proposed tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China. While acknowledging tariffs could create upward pressure on inflation, Waller doesn't expect them to substantially affect monetary policy. The Fed reduced its projected rate cuts from four to two for 2025, citing inflation concerns. Recent data shows core PCE inflation at 2.8%, with two-thirds of core prices rising less than 2% over the past year. Other Fed officials, […]

US Treasury yields are experiencing a significant upward surge, with the 10-year yield climbing to 4.73% and the 30-year yield nearing the psychologically important 5% mark. This bond market selloff stems from multiple factors: concerns about sticky inflation, Trump's potential policy impacts on deficits, and a remarkably resilient US economy. Since the Federal Reserve began its rate-cutting cycle in September, yields have risen over 100 basis points, challenging earlier market expectations of falling yields. Major financial institutions are acknowledging a new era of higher yields, while […]

Former Fed Chair Ben Bernanke suggests Trump's economic policies won't dramatically shift inflation trends, noting that the 2017 tax cuts are already largely in place. While import tariffs and immigration restrictions could create challenges in sectors like construction and agriculture, their broader economic impact should be limited. The Fed's response to these policies remains uncertain, particularly regarding tariffs which can both reduce output and raise inflation. Other economists, including Christina Romer and Jason Furman, agree the impact will be modest, though even small changes […]

UK financial markets are undergoing substantial pressure as inflation fears and increased government spending spark a broad selloff reminiscent of the 2022 gilt crisis. Bond yields have surged to levels not seen in decades - the 10-year gilt reaching its highest since 2008 and the 30-year rate touching 1998 levels. While part of a global market downturn, UK assets are particularly affected due to concerns that persistent inflation will delay Bank of England rate cuts. This situation is further complicated by fears that rising yields could force the Labour government to choose between higher […]

Gold prices showed modest gains in early trading, rising 0.1% to $2,667.50 per troy ounce as traders position themselves ahead of key economic indicators. Central bank buying has emerged as a major price driver, superseding the traditional influence of gold ETFs according to Commerzbank analysts. China's central bank has increased its gold reserves for two consecutive months, while broader market concerns about U.S. tariff policies under President-elect Trump and ongoing geopolitical tensions continue to support prices. Markets are closely watching for insights from upcoming Federal Reserve […]

In this eye-opening deep dive, we explore Argentina’s astounding economic turnaround after one year under President Javier Milei.

The People's Bank of China has demonstrated renewed commitment to gold accumulation, expanding its reserves for the second straight month in December despite historically high prices. The central bank's holdings increased to 73.29 million fine troy ounces from 72.96 million in November, marking a significant return to buying after a six-month pause during 2024's price surge. This move reflects China's persistent strategy to diversify its reserves, even as gold trades near record levels. The timing is particularly notable as gold's rally has cooled following Trump's election victory and its […]

Beyond the anticipated policy rate cut, the Federal Reserve is poised to make a significant technical adjustment to its market operations by reducing the reverse repo facility rate to 4.25%, eliminating a pandemic-era safety margin. This strategic move serves multiple purposes: it helps manage pressure on overnight repo rates, facilitates the transition of funds from the reverse repo facility to bank reserves, and could extend quantitative tightening into 2025. The Fed has been carefully managing its balance sheet reduction, slowing from an initial rapid pace to a more measured $25 billion […]

The UK government is facing its highest long-term borrowing costs this century, with 30-year gilt yields reaching 5.22% - a level not seen since 1998. This surge comes amid a perfect storm of economic challenges: accelerating inflation at 2.6%, stagnant growth (with the Bank of England forecasting zero growth for Q4 2024), and concerns about President-elect Trump's tariff policies potentially exacerbating price pressures. The timing is particularly problematic as the UK Treasury needs to sell £297 billion in bonds this fiscal year, the second-highest amount on record. Unlike the US, where […]

As both gold and bitcoin achieved record highs in 2024, investment experts are making the case for including both assets in 2025 portfolios, emphasizing their distinct characteristics and near-zero correlation. Gold, with its 5,000-year history, maintains a 0.03% correlation with the S&P 500 since 1971, providing proven protection against inflation and currency depreciation. Bitcoin, despite Fed Chair Powell's comparison to gold, shows different market behavior with a 0.21 correlation to the S&P 500 since 2014. Investment professionals recommend conservative allocations: BlackRock […]

Economic experts gathering at the American Economic Association meeting in San Francisco have signaled a major shift in Federal Reserve policy expectations for 2025. The consensus suggests the Fed has entered a "hard pause" phase and may deliver just one rate cut this year, contrary to more aggressive market expectations. Morgan Stanley's Ellen Zentner interprets the Fed's recent communication as notably firmer, indicating a more cautious approach to policy changes. Former Obama administration economist Jason Furman emphasizes that the Fed has transitioned from a "might as well cut rates" […]

The euro is once again nearing a one-to-one exchange rate with the US dollar, a rare occurrence that last happened in 2022 during Europe's energy crisis. This current slide is driven by multiple factors: the threat of Trump's potential tariffs on European exports, persistently weak economic growth in the eurozone, and lower interest rates compared to other developed economies. Political uncertainty in France and Germany adds to the pressure. The broader context includes a remarkably strong US dollar, which gained over 7% in 2024 - its largest annual increase since 2015. While a weaker euro […]

Current market dynamics are flashing warning signals as stocks appear significantly overvalued compared to both corporate bonds and Treasuries. The S&P 500's earnings yield has dropped to 3.7%, marking its lowest level relative to Treasury yields since 2002 and sitting well below BBB-rated corporate bond yields of 5.6%. This inverse relationship is particularly concerning as historically, such patterns have only emerged during economic bubbles or periods of elevated credit risk. The market's current valuation metrics are striking, with stocks trading at 27 times earnings, far above the […]

Apollo Global Management's chief economist Torsten Slok is drawing alarming parallels between current market conditions and the 2022 UK crisis that forced Prime Minister Liz Truss's resignation. With Treasury yields reaching 4.6%, the markets face a complex challenge: mounting US debt concerns intersecting with potential Trump-era tax cuts. The situation is particularly concerning as the term premium - the extra yield investors demand for holding long-term debt - has hit its highest level since 2015. Slok emphasizes that about 80% of the yield increase since September appears driven by fiscal […]

Treasury yields have surged dramatically, with the 10-year rate climbing nearly 50 basis points to exceed 4.6% - a level not seen since May 2023. This rise has sparked significant market implications, as the correlation between equity returns and bond yields has turned decisively negative. Morgan Stanley's Mike Wilson emphasizes that this shift, combined with the fact that strong economic data isn't driving the yield increase, makes rates the most critical market variable for early 2025. The impact is particularly concerning for small-cap companies facing refinancing challenges and firms with […]

November saw the US trade deficit widen to $78.2 billion as companies rushed to secure shipments amid dual concerns over labor disputes and potential tariff changes. Imports surged 3.4% to $351.6 billion, marking the biggest jump since March 2022, while exports grew at a slower pace of 2.7%. The import spike was widespread across sectors, including consumer goods, capital equipment, and motor vehicles, as businesses sought to safeguard their supply chains ahead of a mid-January dockworkers' strike deadline. This follows October's slowdown in foreign merchandise demand after holiday inventory […]

JPMorgan's analysis, led by Nikolaos Panigirtzoglou, indicates a fundamental shift in investment strategies as both gold and bitcoin gain structural importance in portfolios. The bank notes that gold's recent price movements have surpassed levels typically explained by dollar movements and real bond yields, suggesting a deeper adoption of the 'debasement trade' - where investors seek protection against fiat currency devaluation. This trend is evidenced by growing gold holdings among central banks and private investors through various vehicles including physical gold and ETFs, representing an […]

November 2024 saw continued robust central bank gold demand, with a net addition of 53 tons to global official holdings. The National Bank of Poland emerged as the dominant buyer, adding 21 tons to reach 448 tons total, approaching its 20% reserves target. Other significant purchasers included Uzbekistan (9t), India (8t), and China, which resumed buying with a 5-ton addition after a six-month break. The buying trend reflects emerging markets' growing preference for gold as a stable asset amid global economic uncertainties. India solidified its position as 2024's second-largest buyer with […]

Oil markets show strong momentum entering 2025, with Brent crude and WTI posting monthly gains of over 7% and 9% respectively, despite slight retreats to $76.13 and $73.59 per barrel in early European trading. The strength stems from multiple factors including potential Chinese stimulus measures, higher winter fuel demand, and Asian buyers' increased interest in Middle Eastern oil grades amid sanctions on Russian and Iranian crude. However, ICICI Securities presents a more cautious outlook for 2025, citing potential market surpluses and demand concerns. The brokerage highlights expected […]

The dollar experienced a 1% decline after the Washington Post reported that Trump's team is considering a more targeted approach to tariffs, focusing only on sectors deemed critical to national or economic security. This marks a significant shift from expectations of comprehensive tariffs, leading to a broad rally in global currencies. The dollar index fell to 107.86 from Thursday's two-year peak of 109.54, while the euro surged to a one-week high of $1.0433. The market response reflects relief that Trump's second-term trade policies might be less aggressive than feared, triggering reversals […]

German inflation posted a surprise increase to 2.9% in December 2024, up from 2.4% in November and surpassing all analyst estimates. This acceleration, primarily driven by energy and food costs, has immediate market implications, pushing German two-year yields up by four basis points to 2.2% and prompting traders to scale back ECB rate cut expectations. The inflation surge follows Spain's higher-than-anticipated 2.8% reading, with eurozone figures expected to rise to 2.4%. Looking ahead, several factors suggest continued inflationary pressures in Germany, including increased public transport […]

The Bank of Israel kept its key interest rate steady at 4.5%, reflecting persistent inflationary pressures from the ongoing military conflict. Military mobilization has created labor shortages while reduced airline service has disrupted economic activity, pushing inflation to 3.4%, above the government's 1-3% target range. The central bank has revised its 2025 growth forecast upward to 4% from 3.8%, though 2024 saw subdued growth of 0.6%. Despite these challenges, recent developments show some economic stabilization. The shekel emerged as the top performer among major currencies in late 2024, […]