Latest Finance-Economy News
US Lawmakers Introduce Bill for $2.5 Billion Critical Minerals Stockpile
US lawmakers have introduced a bill to create a $2.5 billion stockpile of critical minerals like lithium, nickel, and rare earths to counter Chinese price manipulation affecting American mining for EVs and weaponry. This marks Washington's latest effort to address years of challenges for domestic producers.
The proposal aims to bolster supply chains for high-tech and defense sectors.
Trump Pushes Tech Giants to Fund Surging Power Costs via Emergency Auction
President Trump and Northeastern US governors agreed to an emergency wholesale electricity auction compelling tech companies to fund new power plants amid rising costs. This move addresses surging power demands from data centers and AI.
It highlights tensions between tech expansion and energy infrastructure.
Germany's Economy Narrowly Avoids Third Year of Recession
Germany's economy dodged a third consecutive year of recession despite headwinds from US tariffs, euro appreciation, and Chinese competition in exports. Statistical office head Ruth Brand noted these pressures in the latest release.
Growth remains fragile amid global trade tensions.
China's Growth Forecast to Slow to 4.5% in 2026, Pressuring Policymakers
A Reuters poll predicts China's GDP growth slowing to 4.5% in 2026 and 2027, increasing calls for stimulus to tackle structural issues. Policymakers face pressure to boost domestic demand amid vulnerabilities.
This outlook underscores challenges in rebalancing the economy.
Japan's 10-Year Bond Yield Hits Highest Since 2008 Financial Crisis
Yields on 10-year Japanese government bonds reached their highest since 2008 due to populist pledges and election uncertainty. Markets are pricing in higher risks amid political volatility.
This reflects shifting expectations for BOJ policy.
Global PMI Signals Stalled Employment Amid Low Business Confidence
S&P Global's flash PMI updates indicate worldwide employment stagnation linked to subdued confidence at the start of 2026. Geopolitical tensions exacerbate slower growth trends from December.
Selling prices and input costs provide inflation insights amid US tariff risks.
Bank of Japan Meets on Interest Rates Amid Growth and Inflation Signs
The BOJ convenes to set rates after raising to 0.75% in December, a 30-year high but low globally, pressuring the yen. PMI surveys show strengthening growth and inflation, but caution prevails due to geopolitics.
Economists expect no change but watch for guidance on future tightening.
China GDP Data Paired with US and UK Inflation Releases This Week
Upcoming China GDP accompanies US and UK inflation figures, with UK also reporting jobs data. China's stimulus like rate cuts and fiscal spending aims to boost domestic demand.
Industrial production, retail, and investment updates will gauge rebalancing.
UK Labour Market, Retail Sales, and Inflation Data in Focus
UK releases follow strong November GDP but show sluggish growth and inflation at 3.2%. Job losses persist, potentially spurring BoE rate cuts if data disappoints.
These metrics test ongoing economic trends amid PMI slowdowns.
Wall Street Sees 40% Upside in Nvidia as Top Trillion-Dollar Stock
Analysts recommend Nvidia as the best trillion-dollar stock to buy in January 2026, forecasting 40% average upside. This edges out others like Tesla amid AI and tech momentum.
Investor sentiment favors Nvidia's growth prospects.
Spain to Launch Sovereign Wealth Fund as EU Stimulus Funds Expire
Spain plans a sovereign wealth fund to extend stimulus after EU funds expire. This aims to sustain economic support amid fiscal transitions.
It reflects Europe's adapting strategies post-EU aid.
Russia's Oil Revenue Slump Impacts Budget Significantly
Russia faces a sharp drop in oil revenues hitting its budget hard. This exacerbates fiscal pressures amid energy market volatility.
Global oil dynamics continue to challenge exporters.