1. Azerbaijan Airlines Jet Crash in Kazakhstan: A plane carrying 130 people crashed in Kazakhstan, killing dozens. The cause of the crash is under investigation with speculations ranging from bird strike, weather conditions, to potential involvement of another country (ABC News, December 25, 2024: https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/azerbaijan-airlines-jet-crashes-kazakhstan-killing-dozens-117111842)
2. Gaza Crisis: Five Palestinian journalists were killed in an Israeli strike in Gaza, leading to escalating tensions between the two parties. The UN and various human rights organizations have called for an investigation into the incident (NPR, December 26, 2024: https://www.npr.org/2024/12/26/g-s1-40026/israeli-strike-kills-5-palestinian-journalists-gaza)
3. Crypto Trader Makes $1.1M Ether Short Leveraged Trade: A trader made a $1.1 million profit in two days by shorting Ethereum with high leverage on a cryptocurrency exchange (Cointelegraph, December 26, 2024: https://cointelegraph.com/news/crypto-trader-makes-1-1m-ether-short-leveraged-trade?utm_source=rss_feed&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss_partner_inbound)
4. South Korea's Acting President Han Faces Impeachment Vote: South Korea's opposition party filed a motion to impeach acting president Han Duck-soo, as the country's political crisis deepens (Fortune, December 26, 2024: https://fortune.com/asia/2024/12/26/south-korea-opposition-files-impeachment-acting-president-han-duck-soo/)
5. US Launches New Trade Probe Into Chinese Legacy Chips: The US has launched a new trade probe into Chinese legacy chips to protect domestic companies (ZeroHedge, December 26, 2024: https://www.zerohedge.com/geopolitical/us-launches-new-trade-probe-chinese-legacy-chips)
1. Oil Prices and Market Focus: The first event is the movement in oil prices and the market's focus on China and U.S. political developments. The article from Yahoo Finance titled "Oil Gains in Thin Pre-Holiday Trading With Focus on China, Trump" discusses how oil prices gained in thin pre-holiday trading with the market looking at geopolitical tensions and economic indicators, specifically focusing on China and U.S. political developments. (https://finance.yahoo.com/news/oil-drifts-thin-holiday-trading-064653904.html)
2. Fed Rate Cut Predictions: The second event is the prediction by Vanguard that the Federal Reserve will not cut interest rates below 4% by 2025. This article from Yahoo Finance titled "Vanguard: Fed Won’t Cut Rates Below 4% in 2025" discusses Vanguard's viewpoint on the future of interest rates and the U.S. economy. (https://finance.yahoo.com/news/vanguard-fed-won-t-cut-205517386.html)
3. Cyber Attack on Japan Airlines: The third event is the massive cyberattack that affected Japan Airlines, causing flight delays and cancellations. The article from Al Jazeera titled "Japan Airlines hit by cyber attack, delaying some flights" provides information about the incident and its impact. (https://www.aljazeera.com/economy/2024/12/26/chk-japan-airlines-hit-by-cyber-attack-delaying-some-flights?traffic_source=rss)
4. Israeli Strike on Gaza: The fourth event is the Israeli strike near a Gaza hospital that resulted in the death of five journalists. The article from The New York Times titled "Five Journalists Killed in Israeli Strike, Palestinian Media Says" reports on this unfortunate incident. (https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/25/world/middleeast/israel-strike-journalists-gaza.html)
5. Santa Claus Rally: The fifth event is the beginning of the Santa Claus Rally, as the Dow Jones Industrial Average gained nearly 400 points on Christmas Eve. The article from Barron's titled "The Dow Rose Nearly 400 Points. Let the Santa Claus Rally Begin." discusses this market trend. (https://www.barrons.com/livecoverage/stock-market-today-122424/card/the-dow-rose-nearly-400-points-let-the-santa-claus-rally-begin--hDIxYM8kwRdPskb4M2fx?siteid=yhoof2&yptr=yahoo)
1. Mozambique Election Ruling Sets Off Deadly Protests (Politics, World Events)
- Mozambique's Constitutional Court upheld President Filipe Nyusi's re-election in a controversial decision, leading to widespread protests and violence. Protesters argue that the election was not free and fair. More details can be found at: https://www.nytimes.com/video/world/africa/100000009896373/mozambique-protests-presidential-election.html
2. Gold Steadies as Traders Focus on Uncertain 2025 Rate Path (Business, Economy)
- Gold prices held steady as investors awaited further guidance on the interest rate path in 2025. Traders are closely monitoring central bank decisions and geopolitical developments to determine future price movements. More information can be found at: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/gold-holds-decline-traders-focus-005642222.html
3. Nvidia Sees 'Remarkable' Influx of Retail Investor Dollars as Traders Flock to AI Darling (Business, Technology)
- Nvidia reported a surge in demand for its AI-focused products, as retail investors flocked to the company due to its strong position in the AI market. The company's stock price has reportedly benefited from this trend. More details can be found at: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/12/25/nvidia-sees-remarkable-influx-of-retail-investor-dollars-as-traders-flock-to-ai-darling.html
4. Bitcoin Payments Are Being Undermined by Centralized Stablecoins (Business, Technology)
- A recent analysis suggests that centralized stablecoins are limiting the potential of Bitcoin as a payment method. The study argues that the dominance of stablecoins like Tether and USD Coin is undermining the decentralized nature of Bitcoin and limiting its utility as a digital currency. More information can be found at: https://cointelegraph.com/magazine/bitcoin-payments-undermined-centralized-stablecoins/
5. Honda and Nissan Explore Strategic Business Integration (Business, Automotive)
- Honda and Nissan have announced plans to explore a strategic business integration, as both companies seek to improve their competitiveness in the global automotive market. The potential partnership could lead to significant changes in the industry. More details can be found at: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/honda-nissan-explore-strategic-business-131719545.html
1. Azerbaijani Airliner Crash: A plane carrying 67 people from Azerbaijan to Russia crashed in Kazakhstan, leaving 32 survivors and dozens feared dead. The cause of the crash is under investigation. (Link: https://time.com/7203879/azerbaijani-airliner-crash-kazakhstan/)
2. King Charles III's Christmas Address: King Charles III delivered a heartfelt speech on Christmas Day, reflecting on health struggles and thanking healthcare workers for their services. (Link: https://globalnews.ca/news/10933281/king-charles-christmas-message-2024/)
3. Russia's Attack on Ukraine's Energy Infrastructure: Russia launched an attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, causing widespread blackouts and disruptions. Ukraine accused Russia of an "inhumane" attack on Christmas Day. (Link: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/25/world/europe/russia-ukraine-strikes-energy-system.html)
4. Pope Francis' Christmas Message: Pope Francis urged nations to silence arms and overcome divisions in his Christmas message. (Link: https://globalnews.ca/news/10933259/pope-francis-christmas-address-2024/)
5. NFL Streaming Christmas Day Games on Netflix: For the first time, the NFL streamed Christmas Day games on Netflix, allowing fans to watch without cable. (Link: https://www.inc.com/associated-press/nfl-to-stream-christmas-day-games-on-netflix-for-the-first-time/91100336)
1. Azerbaijan Airlines Plane Crash: A passenger jet operated by Azerbaijan Airlines crashed in the Kazakhstani city of Aktau, killing all 113 passengers and crew on board. The cause of the crash is under investigation. (Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cjwl1e6895qo)
2. Ukraine-Russia Tensions: Russia launched attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure and killed one person during Christmas Day, causing power outages and damage to critical infrastructure. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attacks as "inhumane." (Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/europe/zelensky-condemns-russian-inhumane-christmas-attack-on-energy-grid/articleshow/116652432.cms)
3. Biden's Consent Order: The U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) announced a consent order against Bank of America, citing violations of banking laws. Citi Bank said the order was not a surprise. (Source: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/bank-america-occ-consent-order-105006216.html)
4. Stock Market and Christmas Holidays: The stock market experienced mixed trading as investors weighed the potential for a Santa Claus rally and the outlook for interest rates. (Source: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/stock-market-today-indexes-trade-225415961.html)
5. Bitcoin Price and Stability: Bitcoin's price coiled between key trendlines, with a $98,000 boost increasing the "Kimchi premium." (Source: https://cointelegraph.com/news/bitcoin-coils-key-trendlines-98k-kimchi-premium?utm_source=rss_feed&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss_partner_inbound)
1. Nordstrom Family to Take Chain Private in $6.25 Billion Deal
- Summary: The Nordstrom family has agreed to take the department store chain private in a deal valued at $6.25 billion. The deal will see the family buying out shares from minority investors.
- Link: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/nordstrom-family-company-private-6-133710492.html
2. Protests in Syria over Christmas Tree Burning
- Summary: Protests broke out in Syria's capital, Damascus, after footage emerged of a Christmas tree being burned in a public square. The incident sparked anger from the country's Christian minority.
- Link: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx27yx1y0deo
3. CFPB Accuses Walmart and Branch of Opening Illegal Accounts
- Summary: The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has accused Walmart and its financial services partner, Branch, of opening illegal accounts and charging customers without authorization.
- Link: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/cfpb-accuses-walmart-branch-opening-170016433.html
4. Christmas in Space Mystery: Astronauts' Festive Photo Sparks Gravity-Defying Questions
- Summary: Astronauts aboard the International Space Station shared a festive photo, but the image sparked questions and conspiracy theories due to what appeared to be a lack of gravity.
5. Israeli Forces Kill at Least 8 in Occupied West Bank Raids, Drone Strikes
- Summary: Israeli forces carried out raids and drone strikes in the occupied West Bank, resulting in at least eight Palestinian deaths. The incidents sparked condemnation from the international community.
1. Destination XL Receives Offer to Be Taken Private by Fund 1 Investments (Business): Destination XL, a retailer of big and tall men's clothing, has received an offer from Fund 1 Investments to take the company private. The offer values Destination XL at approximately $445 million. [Link](https://finance.yahoo.com/news/destination-xl-receives-offer-taken-155422070.html)
2. Party City Closing Spurred by Sudden Drop in Inventory Value (Business): Party City, a party supply retailer, is closing stores due to a sudden drop in inventory value. The company has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and plans to close up to 500 stores. [Link](https://finance.yahoo.com/news/party-city-closing-spurred-sudden-153635329.html)
3. Biden Signs Defense Bill Despite Objections to Ban on Transgender Health Care for Military Children (Politics): President Biden has signed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) into law, despite objections to a provision that bans transgender health care for military children. The provision has been criticized as discriminatory and harmful to transgender service members and their families. [Link](https://www.foxnews.com/politics/biden-signs-defense-bill-despite-objections-ban-transgender-health-care-military-children)
4. Wall Street Sides With Fed and Sees Lower US Bond Yields in 2025 (Economy): Wall Street analysts are predicting that the Federal Reserve will keep interest rates low in 2025, leading to lower US bond yields. This is in response to the Fed's decision to increase interest rates by 0.25% in December 2024. [Link](https://finance.yahoo.com/news/wall-street-sides-fed-sees-151522793.html)
5. Xerox to Buy Printer Maker Lexmark in $1.5 Billion Deal (Business): Xerox has announced plans to buy printer maker Lexmark in a $1.5 billion deal. The acquisition is subject to approval from US and Chinese regulators. [Link](https://finance.yahoo.com/news/xerox-buy-printer-maker-lexmark-145804667.html)
1. Starbucks Strike: Union members have announced a strike affecting over 300 Starbucks stores on Christmas Eve, according to an Inc. article. The strike is over wage and benefit demands. [Link](https://www.inc.com/reuters/starbucks-strike-to-affect-to-over-300-stores-on-christmas-eve-union-says/91092052)
2. Bitcoin "Santa Rally": Bitcoin's price surged to $98,000 due to a "Santa rally" as buyers stepped in, according to a CoinTelegraph article. [Link](https://cointelegraph.com/news/bitcoin-santa-rally-buyers-drive-btc-price-to-98k?utm_source=rss_feed&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss_partner_inbound)
3. Elon Musk and Anthony Scaramucci: Elon Musk reacted to Anthony Scaramucci's warning to "stick to business," as reported by Times of India. [Link](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/elon-musk-reacts-to-anthony-scaramuccis-veiled-stick-to-business-warning/articleshow/116638946.cms)
4. Russian Cargo Vessel Sinks: The Russian cargo vessel Ursa Major sank in the Mediterranean Sea after an explosion in its engine room, according to Times of India. [Link](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/russian-cargo-vessel-ursa-major-sinks-in-mediterranean-sea-following-explosion-in-engine-room/articleshow/116635329.cms)
5. Trump's Christmas Wishes: Former US President Bill Clinton was discharged from the hospital after flu treatment, according to Times of India. Trump also shared his Christmas wishes, including ditching Denali in favor of Mt. McKinley, as reported by Fox News. [Link 1](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/former-us-president-bill-clinton-discharged-from-hospital-after-flu-treatment/articleshow/116638534.cms) [Link 2](https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-pledges-ditching-denali-favor-mt-mckinley-alaska-senators-pan-plan-awful-idea)
1. Foxconn Investment in EV Battery Plant: Foxconn, a major electronics manufacturer, announced an investment in an EV battery plant in China. This move is part of the company's strategy to diversify beyond Apple's iPhone business. (https://finance.yahoo.com/news/foxconn-invests-ev-battery-plant-093000586.html)
2. Israeli Forces Raid West Bank: Israeli forces conducted raids in the occupied West Bank, leading to clashes with Palestinian protesters in Jenin. The incident is part of ongoing tensions between Israel and Palestine. (https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/12/24/israeli-forces-raid-occupied-west-bank-as-clashes-continue-in-jenin?traffic_source=rss)
3. Crypto Hacks Wipe Out $2.3B: Cryptocurrency hacks resulted in the theft of $2.3 billion in 2024, marking a 40% year-over-year surge. This highlights the growing concern over cybersecurity in the cryptocurrency market. (https://cointelegraph.com/news/crypto-hackers-2024-record-2-3-b-thefts?utm_source=rss_feed&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss_partner_inbound)
4. Nvidia Stock Rises: The price of Nvidia stock saw a boost, driven by strong demand for the company's AI chips. This is a positive sign for the tech industry and the broader market. (https://www.barrons.com/articles/nvidia-stock-price-ai-chips-c842b7ce?siteid=yhoof2&yptr=yahoo)
5. Oil Prices Drift Higher: Oil prices rose slightly due to thin holiday trading, marking a slight recovery from recent declines. This is a positive development for energy producers and consumers. (https://www.wsj.com/finance/commodities-futures/oil-rises-amid-low-inventories-6c1320a4?siteid=yhoof2&yptr=yahoo)
1. US-Japan Steel Deal: The panel overseeing the US-Japan steel deal deadlocked, and the decision now moves to President Biden for a final decision. (aljazeera.com/economy/2024/12/24/us-japan-steel-deal-goes-to-biden-for-final-decision-after-panel-deadlocks?traffic_source=rss)
2. Israel Assassinates Hamas Leader: Israel acknowledged for the first time that it was responsible for the July killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran. (timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/israel-acknowledges-it-assassinated-hamas-chief-haniyeh-for-first-time/articleshow/116613905.cms)
3. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle: The Netflix documentary series on Meghan Markle and Prince Harry caused controversy, leaving Prince Harry "red-faced" over her actions. (timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/uk/why-was-prince-harry-left-red-faced-over-meghan-markles-actions-in-netflix-docu-series/articleshow/116617555.cms)
4. Former US President Bill Clinton Hospitalized: Bill Clinton was hospitalized in Washington with a fever but is reportedly in good spirits. (aljazeera.com/news/2024/12/24/former-us-president-bill-clinton-hospitalised-with-fever?traffic_source=rss)
5. US Military Airstrike in Syria: The US military carried out an airstrike in Syria, killing two ISIS operatives. (foxnews.com/world/us-military-carries-out-airstrike-syria-killing-2-isis-operatives)
1. Matt Gaetz Ethics Scandal: The House Ethics Committee released a report alleging that Republican Congressman Matt Gaetz paid for sex and used drugs. The report also found that Gaetz had a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old girl. [Link](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/matt-gaetz-regularly-paid-for-sex-used-drugs-ethics-panel/articleshow/116612314.cms)
2. Wall Street Gains on Tech Strength: U.S. stock markets finished higher on Tuesday, with tech stocks leading the way. The Nasdaq Composite rose by 1.3%, while the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.8% and 0.6%, respectively. [Link](https://www.cnbc.com/2024/12/24/asia-stock-markets-live-updates.html)
3. Trump's 25% Tariff on Canadian Auto Industry: U.S. President Donald Trump's proposed 25% tariff on Canadian auto imports could have a significant impact on Canada's auto industry. The tariff could be an existential threat to the country's auto industry, which is heavily dependent on exports to the United States. [Link](https://www.cnbc.com/2024/12/23/trumps-25percent-tariffs-an-existential-threat-to-canadas-auto-industry.html)
4. NATO Leaders Predict Era of 2% Defense Spending 'Probably History': NATO leaders are predicting that the era of member countries spending at least 2% of their GDP on defense is likely over. U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly floated the idea of raising the target to 3%. [Link](https://www.foxnews.com/world/nato-leaders-predict-era-2-defense-spending-probably-history-trump-reportedly-floats-higher-target)
5. Raiders' Antonio Pierce Slams Critics: Oakland Raiders analyst Antonio Pierce slammed critics who wanted the team to lose in order to improve their draft position. The Raiders won their final game of the season, but missed out on the playoffs due to tiebreakers. [Link](https://www.foxnews.com/sports/raiders-antonio-pierce-slams-critics-who-wanted-team-lose-vs-jaguars-improve-draft-position)
1. Matt Gaetz Sex and Drug Allegations: House Ethics Committee releases report accusing Republican Representative Matt Gaetz of paying for sex, using drugs, and accepting improper gifts. (Source: foxnews.com)
2. Nordstrom Goes Private: Department store chain Nordstrom announces it will go private in an all-cash $6.25 billion deal. (Source: finance.yahoo.com)
3. Honda and Nissan Merger Talks: Japanese automakers Honda and Nissan announce plans to work towards merging, which would make them the world's third-largest automaker. (Source: zerohedge.com)
4. CFPB Sues Walmart and Fintech Partner: The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) sues Walmart and its fintech partner for illegal account openings. (Source: fortune.com)
5. China-Sweden Baltic Sea Cable Probe: China claims it cooperated with a Baltic Sea cable probe, but Sweden disputes this claim. (Source: aljazeera.com)
1. Honda and Nissan Merger Plans: Honda Motor Co. and Nissan Motor Co. announced plans to set up a joint holding company, potentially creating the world's third-largest carmaker. This merger is aimed at strengthening their competitiveness in the global automotive industry. (Source: <https://www.wsj.com/business/autos/honda-motor-nissan-motor-plan-to-set-up-joint-holding-company-8e36baf1?siteid=yhoof2&yptr=yahoo>)
2. Israeli Strikes on Gaza: Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Gaza, resulting in the death of 50 Palestinians in 24 hours. The escalating conflict has led to widespread destruction and displacement of civilians, according to reports. (Source: <https://www.aljazeera.com/gallery/2024/12/23/escalating-israeli-strikes-on-gaza-kill-50-palestinians-in-24-hours?traffic_source=rss>)
3. Rumble Shares Erupt After $775 Million Tether Investment: Shares of the social media platform Rumble surged after it was announced that Tether, a stablecoin issuer, had invested $775 million in the company. This investment is seen as a significant boost for the company's growth and future prospects. (Source: <https://www.zerohedge.com/technology/rumble-shares-erupt-after-775-million-tether-investment>)
4. Tether Investment in Crypto Projects: Tether, the issuer of the stablecoin USDT, announced that it invested $1 billion in various cryptocurrency projects. This move is aimed at boosting the adoption and development of cryptocurrencies, according to the company. (Source: <https://www.coindesk.com/tether-invested-1-billion-in-crypto-projects-ceo-says>)
5. Fortune 500 CEOs Double Down on Decarbonization: The CEOs of major Fortune 500 companies have reaffirmed their commitment to decarbonization, stating that they are taking aggressive actions to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and transition to a low-carbon economy. (Source: <https://fortune.com/2024/12/23/exclusive-fortune-500-ceos-double-down-on-decarbonization/>)
1. Chinese EV makers facing challenges in EU due to tariffs: Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers are facing increased costs in importing their vehicles to the EU due to tariffs, which is making their products less competitive and affecting their sales in the region. (https://fortune.com/asia/2024/12/23/chinese-ev-makers-hit-eu-wall-as-tariffs-inflate-cost-of-imports/)
2. Bitcoin sees first major weekly price decline since Trump's election win: The price of Bitcoin has experienced a significant drop in value, marking the first major weekly decline in its price since Donald Trump was elected as US president in 2016. (https://cointelegraph.com/news/bitcoin-first-major-weekly-price-slump-since-trump-win?)
3. Trump threatens to regain control of Panama Canal: US President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to take control of the Panama Canal unless a deal can be reached with the Panamanian government. (https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c98l9wj67jgo)
4. Bitcoin sees first major weekly price decline since Trump's election win: The price of Bitcoin has experienced a significant drop in value, marking the first major weekly decline in its price since Donald Trump was elected as US president in 2016. (https://cointelegraph.com/news/bitcoin-first-major-weekly-price-slump-since-trump-win?)
5. Cognizant discrimination case highlights flaws in H-1B visa system: A discrimination case against Cognizant Technologies Solutions highlights the difficulties faced by foreign workers on H-1B visas in the US, including wage discrimination and mistreatment. (https://www.zerohedge.com/political/cognizant-discrimination-case-highlights-flaws-h-1b-visa-system)
1. Nissan-Honda Merger Deal: Nissan and Honda are reportedly in talks to merge, with the potential deal being a focus in Asia markets. The merger could help the struggling Japanese automakers better compete in the global market. (Link: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/12/23/asia-markets-live-nissan-honda-merger-singapore-cpi-in-focus.html)
2. Great Wealth Transfer and Family Offices: Gen X and millennials are set to inherit over $80 trillion, and they are changing the face of traditional family offices. These younger generations are innovating and modernizing the way wealth is managed and invested. (Link: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/12/23/great-wealth-transfer-how-gen-x-millennials-are-innovating-family-offices.html)
3. Dire Situation in China and Honda-Nissan Merger: The dire situation in China is one of the reasons why Honda and Nissan are considering a merger. The Chinese market is crucial for carmakers, and the current economic and political climate is making it challenging for them to operate there. (Link: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/dire-situation-china-one-reason-200000291.html)
4. Stocks and Markets: Asian stocks are expected to begin the Christmas week higher, with Singapore's Straits Times Index being Southeast Asia's best performing index for 2024. The US worries are easing, and markets are looking for cautious gains. (Link: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/asian-stocks-eye-cautious-gains-223501752.html)
5. Biden Mental Health Cover-Up: There are reports of a Biden mental health cover-up, with big revelations and dominoes falling. This is a significant political event that could have implications for the US presidency. (Link: https://www.zerohedge.com/political/dominoes-are-falling-fast-over-biden-mental-health-cover)
1. German Christmas Market Attack: A suspect has been charged in connection with a deadly attack at a Christmas market in Strasbourg, France. The attack left at least 4 people dead and 15 injured. (Suspect charged in connection with German Christmas market attack - https://www.npr.org/2024/12/22/nx-s1-5236820)
2. Inflation Concerns and Fed Meeting: Wall Street is reevaluating the "higher for longer" rates post-Fed meeting as investors are concerned about rising inflation and the potential impact on the economy. (Wall Street reevaluates 'higher for longer' rates post Fed meeting - https://finance.yahoo.com/news/wall-street-reevaluates-higher-for-124537119.html)
3. Ukraine-Russia Tensions: Russian President Vladimir Putin has vowed "destruction" on Ukraine after a drone attack in Kazan. The situation remains tense between the two countries. (Russian President Vladimir Putin vows 'destruction' on Ukraine after Kazan drone attack - https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/europe/russian-president-vladimir-putin-vows-destruction-on-ukraine-after-kazan-drone-attack/articleshow/116568904.cms)
4. Market Volatility and Recession Fears: The market is experiencing increased volatility as investors are worried about a potential recession. Some experts are warning about a "bubble" in the stock market and advising caution. (Market timers have given up on stocks — which is exactly what you want to see now - https://finance.yahoo.com/news/market-timers-given-stocks-exactly-182800368.html)
5. China-US Tensions: There are ongoing tensions between the US and China, with China sanctioning Canadian institutions active on Uyghurs and Tibet issues, and the US threatening to take back the Panama Canal or demanding lower transit fees. (China sanctions Canadian institutions active on Uyghurs, Tibet - https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/china-sanction-uyghur-human-rights-1.7417415?cmp=rss, Trump demands Panama lower transit fees or return canal - https://fortune.com/2024/12/22/trump-panama-canal-return-lower-transit-fees-us-navy-merchant-ships/)
1. Market Attack in Magdeburg, Germany: A man drove a vehicle into a crowded Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, causing several injuries and deaths. The incident has led to calls for improving security measures and investigations into possible warnings that were ignored. (https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy09y32rlnxo)
2. US Government Shutdown Avoided: After days of political turmoil, the US government managed to avoid a government shutdown at the eleventh hour. The budget for 2025 was passed, averting a potential economic crisis. (https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cqjzwq7pg0go)
3. Israeli Strikes in Gaza: At least 16 Palestinians, including five children, have been killed in Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip. The escalation in violence has led to renewed calls for peace and an end to the conflict. (https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/israeli-strikes-gaza-kill-16-palestinian-officials-117027143)
4. US-China Tensions: The US has accused China of "dangerous" and "provocative" military activities near Taiwan. The incident has raised concerns about the potential for a further escalation in tensions between the two superpowers. (https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c7ve11lr247o)
5. Global Economic Uncertainty: The stock market has been sending warning signals that 2025 could be a tough year for investors. Analysts have pointed to a potential stealth correction as the top stocks need to continue winning to avoid a downturn. (https://finance.yahoo.com/news/stock-market-sending-worrying-signal-002058513.html)
1. US Navy pilots shot down over Red Sea in apparent 'friendly fire' incident (Most relevant link: https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/us-navy-pilots-shot-red-sea-apparent-friendly-117024543)
- Two US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet jet pilots were shot down over the Red Sea on December 22, 2024, in an apparent "friendly fire" incident during a strike against Houthi forces in Yemen.
2. Fed and Trump Trade Drive Dollar to Best Quarter Since 2016 (Most relevant link: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/fed-trump-trade-drive-dollar-155559904.html)
- The US dollar strengthened against major currencies in the fourth quarter of 2024, driven by a combination of higher interest rates and a stronger US economy, as well as geopolitical tensions and the Trump administration's protectionist policies.
3. Stocks Rally on Hopes for More Rate Cuts (Most relevant link: https://www.wsj.com/finance/stocks/stocks-rally-on-hopes-for-more-rate-cuts-fdefe364?siteid=yhoof2&yptr=yahoo)
- Stocks surged on December 20, 2024, as investors bet on further interest rate cuts by central banks, including the Federal Reserve, to combat slowing global growth and support financial markets.
4. Estée Lauder Says It Spent $366 Million on Restructuring So Far (Most relevant link: https://www.wsj.com/business/estee-lauder-says-it-spent-366-million-on-restructuring-so-far-152a40a3?siteid=yhoof2&yptr=yahoo)
- Estée Lauder announced on December 19, 2024, that it had spent $366 million on restructuring efforts so far, as the company continues to streamline its operations and focus on high-growth categories such as skincare and makeup.
5. Trump threatens to regain control of Panama Canal over 'ridiculous' fees for US ships (Most relevant link: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/trump-threatens-to-regain-control-of-panama-canal-over-ridiculous-fees-for-us-ships/articleshow/116555011.cms)
- US President Donald Trump threatened to regain control of the Panama Canal on December 20, 2024, over what he described as "ridiculous" fees that US ships are charged to pass through the waterway. The move sparked concerns about potential disruptions to global trade and the wider impact on the US economy.
1. Germany Mourns After Christmas Market Attack
Summary: Five people were killed and over 200 injured in a terrorist attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany. The suspect, a 24-year-old Syrian man, was later arrested.
Link: https://www.nytimes.com/video/world/europe/100000009891809/german-market-magdeburg-memorial.html
2. US Scraps $10M Bounty On AQ-linked Jolani After One Visit From State Dept Officials
Summary: The United States announced it was withdrawing a $10 million bounty on Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula leader Qasim al-Rimi's deputy, Saif al-Adel, following a visit from a State Department official.
3. This Warren Buffett Index Fund Has a 100% Success Rate in the Stock Market -- and It Just Might Make You a Millionaire
Summary: A low-cost index fund that mirrors the S&P 500 has delivered impressive returns and outperformed many actively managed funds.
Link: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/warren-buffett-index-fund-100-210000875.html
4. Party City Files for Bankruptcy, to Shut Down 700 Stores
Summary: Party City, a retailer known for selling party supplies, announced it was filing for bankruptcy and would be closing 700 of its 875 stores.
Link: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/party-city-files-bankruptcy-shut-down-190704093.html
5. Biden Signs Funding Bill Into Law, Averting US Government Shutdown
Summary: President Joe Biden signed a funding bill into law, avoiding a potential government shutdown that was set to occur at midnight.
1. Christmas Market Attack in Germany: A man drove a truck into a crowded Christmas market in Ludwigshafen, Germany, resulting in at least five deaths and over 20 injuries. The attack has raised concerns about security during the holiday season. (Source: https://globalnews.ca/news/10929567/death-toll-in-attack/)
2. US Aid to Ukraine and NATO Spending: Former President Donald Trump is reportedly planning to continue providing aid to Ukraine while pushing for NATO members to increase their defense spending to 5%. This comes amidst tensions between Russia and Ukraine. (Source: https://www.zerohedge.com/geopolitical/trump-reportedly-plans-continue-aid-ukraine-will-raise-nato-spending-5)
3. Biden and Military Families: The incident of President Joe Biden reportedly napping while military families waited for the arrival of fallen service members' bodies has sparked controversy. The White House has denied the allegations. (Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/biden-napped-as-military-families-waited-for-bodies-white-house-says-never-happened/articleshow/116544910.cms)
4. Party City Bankruptcy: Party City, a popular party supply store, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy for the second time in two years. The company is looking to restructure debt and close some stores. (Source: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/party-city-files-bankruptcy-second-064600393.html)
5. China's Influence in US Elections: Yaoning "Mike" Sun, a Chinese citizen, has been accused of aiding China's influence in US elections. He is reportedly facing charges of acting as an unregistered foreign agent. (Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/who-is-yaoning-mike-sun-the-man-accused-of-aiding-chinas-influence-in-us-elections/articleshow/116545163.cms)