Latest Finance-Economy News
Bank of Japan Releases Summary of Opinions from December Meeting
The BoJ is releasing its Summary of Opinions from the December policy meeting at 2350 GMT on December 29, detailing board members' views on economic conditions, inflation, monetary policy effectiveness, and future outlook. This follows recent rate hikes in January and December 2025, with markets seeking clues on the next hike timing amid Governor Ueda's recent comments on continuing the path.
The document may include dissenting views and risks from global factors, with full minutes expected later.
US Economy Expands at 4.3% Annualized Rate in Q3 2025
US GDP growth accelerated to 4.3% in Q3 2025 from 3.8% in Q2, driven by strong consumer demand, industrial activity up 2.5% YoY, and manufacturing output growth of 1.9% in November. However, sticky inflation persists, highlighted by elevated GDP price deflator and 46% of households citing high prices for poor finances per University of Michigan survey.
This resilience surprises amid broader uncertainties.
India's Forex Reserves Rise to $693.32 Billion
India's foreign exchange reserves increased by $4.36 billion to $693.32 billion, bolstering external resilience amid global capital flows. Core infrastructure sectors expanded 1.8% YoY in November, reversing prior contraction, signaling stabilization.
RBI plans ₹2.90 lakh crore liquidity infusion and SEBI market reforms to support efficiency.
Global Funds Return to Southeast Asia Stock Markets
Global capital is flowing back into Southeast Asia's stock markets in December 2025, spotlighting the region for 2026 investments. This return positions Southeast Asia as a key watch area in global finance amid year-end shifts.
Inflows reflect renewed interest post-holiday slowdowns.
2025 Yearender: US Tariffs Reshape Global Trade Amid Uncertainties
US tariffs imposed by President Trump on April 2 triggered market panic and countermeasures from China, Canada, but deals tempered extremes. IMF notes ongoing adjustments to policy measures, with risks from high US inflation, anti-immigration policies, and potential AI bubble masking weaknesses.
Prolonged uncertainty could dampen consumption, investment, and growth.
Light Economic Calendar in Asia-Pacific on December 29
An almost empty economic calendar persists in Asia due to holidays, with traders dormant until January 5; only BoJ Summary of Opinions stands out. Markets await insights into policy path post-rate hikes.
Professional activity remains low amid festive period.
US Asset Classes Hit Record Highs in Holiday-Shortened Week
US stocks, gold, platinum, and silver reached new record highs last week, while dollar softened with DXY at 98 and oil recovered. Bitcoin stayed below $90,000 despite precious metals gains.
Japanese markets stabilized via official interventions on Yen and yields.
Key Market Events Scheduled for Week of December 29 to January 2
Holiday-thinned week features US jobless claims, Chicago PMI, Korean trade data on Wednesday, alongside housing data and Brazil finances later. Limited releases unlikely to shift narratives amid geopolitics focus.
China growth support measures under watch for structural reforms.
Global Economy Faces Stagflation Risks from Tariffs and AI Bubble
IMF warns of stagflation risks with slow growth from tariffs, AI bubble, and persistent inflation lacking solutions. Energy uncertainties continue from Ukraine war, Middle East conflicts, and unmet green targets.
Protectionism could disrupt supply chains and productivity.
Upcoming US Data: Goods Trade Balance and Inventories on December 30
US Goods Trade Balance expected at $-86.0B, Retail Inventories Ex Autos MoM at 0.1%, Wholesale Inventories MoM at 0.1% on Tuesday. EIA Natural Gas Stocks Change at -167Bcf also due.
These advance figures provide snapshots amid quiet holiday trading.
China's Growth Support Policies in Focus for 2026
Investors monitor China's measures for short-term stimulus versus structural consumer-led reforms. Beijing anchors global growth continuity amid broader slowdown signals in Japan.
Policy stability emphasized over aggressive stimulus.
Brazil Unemployment at 5.4%, Budget Data Due December 30
Brazil's Unemployment Rate at 5.4%, Nominal Budget Balance forecast BRL-84.0B, Gross Debt to GDP 78.6% scheduled for release. These indicators gauge Latin American fiscal health in busy regional docket.
Low jobless rate signals labor market strength.