THREAD: bullish or bearish unraveling the...

GOLD PRICES Soar: How Trade Uncertainty is Shaking Markets

14 March 2025 — Gold prices have hit a record high of $2,985 as trade tensions shake up markets. Mixed signals from the Trump administration are fueling fears of a trade-induced recession. Investors are flocking to gold and the Japanese Yen, pushing the metal closer to the $3,000 mark.

The S&P 500 index has seen its first 10% drop from its peak since 2023. Market volatility is increasing, with many stocks showing big daily declines. This correction shows growing uncertainty in financial markets amid ongoing economic challenges.

Despite risks, variable-rate mortgages are attracting borrowers looking for lower initial rates. The current economic climate is influencing mortgage trends and borrower behavior significantly. Homebuyers must weigh potential savings against future rate increases in their financial decisions.

The IRS warns that over one billion dollars in unclaimed tax refunds for 2021 will expire soon if not claimed by April 15, 2025. After this deadline, these funds will revert to the U.S Treasury permanently. Taxpayers should act quickly to claim their refunds before it’s too late.

TRUMP’S Trade WAR: Global Markets in Chaos

05 March 2025 — President Donald TRUMP’s recent tariffs have sparked swift retaliation from Mexico, Canada, and China. These actions have thrown financial markets into chaos, raising fears of inflation and uncertainty for businesses.

Imports from Canada and Mexico now face a 25% tariff, with Canadian energy products specifically taxed at 10%. This move has heightened global trade tensions significantly.

China responded quickly to the U.S. tariffs, escalating an already heated international dispute. A Chinese spokesperson warned that these measures could harm the U.S. economy by disrupting beneficial trade relations.

Analysts worry about potential backlash against U.S. exports as these trade disputes unfold. The situation is seen as a risky maneuver that might reshape global trade dynamics and impact both consumers and businesses in the long run.

CHINA’S Tech Boom: How Deepseek AI is Shaking Global Markets

15 February 2025 — China’s tech industry is booming, thanks to the rise of the DeepSeek AI model. Major companies like Alibaba, Baidu, and Xiaomi are seeing big benefits. This surge has pushed Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Tech Index up this year.

Alibaba, co-founded by Jack Ma, stands out in this market rally. The company’s growth shows the broader impact of tech advancements on China’s economy. Investors are watching these changes for possible global effects.

The rise in China’s tech stocks might affect U.S. investments and international trade ties. As U.S. markets close with small changes in the S&P 500, global investors keep an eye on shifts in Chinese tech trends.

This ongoing rally highlights China’s growing influence on worldwide economic dynamics, making it a key player to watch in global markets.

TRUMP’S Bold Trade Plan Sends Global Markets Into Turmoil

14 February 2025 — President Donald TRUMP is set to announce new reciprocal tariffs on Thursday. These tariffs aim to match the tax rates other countries impose on U.S. imports. This move is part of Trump’s strategy to reshape international trade and counteract barriers that hurt American businesses.

Trump’s plan has sparked discussions among global trading partners, potentially impacting economic relations and market stability. The announcement follows a memo he signed, directing his team to calculate duties that align with those charged by other nations.

In addition to trade policy changes, the Trump administration has started workforce reductions across federal agencies, affecting recent hires in departments like Education and Energy. These actions reflect a broader agenda focused on reducing government size and boosting efficiency.

Meanwhile, Southern California faces severe weather threats as heavy rains prompt evacuations due to potential debris flows in wildfire-scarred areas. Residents are urged to stay alert as CalTrans crews work tirelessly to reduce flooding risks in affected regions.

TRUMP’S Bold Trade Plan: A Shockwave For Global Markets

14 February 2025 — Former President Donald Trump is set to announce a new RECIPROCAL tariff policy on Thursday. This plan aims to match the higher duty rates imposed by other countries on U.S. goods. Trump’s strategy seeks to counteract foreign trade barriers, including regulations and subsidies, that hinder American exports.

The proposed tariffs are part of Trump’s broader effort to reshape trade in favor of American interests. By imposing equivalent charges on countries taxing U.S. products, the plan could escalate global trade tensions. This approach marks a significant shift in U.S. trade policy towards a more competitive stance against international markets deemed unfair.

Investors and analysts are watching closely as this announcement could impact stock markets, especially sectors dependent on international trade. The potential for increased tariffs may affect industries vulnerable to such changes, leading to market volatility.

This development is breaking news and has not yet appeared in existing news timelines, highlighting its significance for economic observers and policymakers alike. The implications for U.S.-foreign trade relationships remain a critical point of focus moving forward.

Bank of England’s RATE CUT Sends Shockwaves Through Markets

07 February 2025 — The Bank of England has cut interest rates by 25 basis points, causing the Pound Sterling to drop sharply against the US Dollar. This move shows worries about economic growth and inflation. Experts expect more rate cuts in 2025, signaling a careful approach to monetary policy.

Market analysts warn this could affect savings rates and borrowing costs, urging people and businesses to rethink financial plans. The immediate effect saw GBP/USD fall by 0.93%, hitting a session low of 1.2359.

This has increased market volatility, raising concerns about future economic stability in the UK. As uncertainty grows, many wonder how these changes will impact their finances and investments moving forward.

MARKETS UNDER Pressure: How Budget and Trade Uncertainty Impact You

01 February 2025 — The BSE Sensex and Nifty have often closed lower on budget days over the past decade. Recent sessions continue this trend. However, a JM Financial report shows that Nifty usually rebounds within a week after the budget, posting positive results 75% of the time. The Nifty Mid-Cap Index also shows strength, closing higher 67% of the time with an average return of 1.5%.

In commodities, silver prices have fallen below $31.50 per ounce despite a bullish market outlook. Gold remains strong above $2,800 as fears over tariffs and inflation drive demand for safe-haven assets. Analysts predict growth toward $3,000 if current conditions persist.

The US Dollar Index is gaining strength due to expected tariffs on Mexico and Canada this weekend. These tariffs could affect grocery prices in America as President Trump plans a 25% levy on goods from these countries. Meanwhile, crude oil prices are dropping as analysts wait for confirmation before making further predictions about market trends.

In banking news, several branches of Lloyds Bank, Halifax, and Bank of Scotland will close in February 2025 due to broader economic adjustments. The Financial Conduct Authority is now empowered to address the impacts of these closures on communities and customers alike.

DOUBLE ROYAL Shock: Future Monarchs Undergo Surgery — Unraveling the Mystery

19 January 2024 — Britain’s future rulers, Catherine, Princess of Wales and her husband, are both in recovery after undergoing separate medical procedures. The 42-year-old princess is recuperating well after abdominal surgery earlier this week, a royal insider revealed.

In an unexpected turn of events, Buckingham Palace also disclosed that the future King will be admitted for a non-cancerous prostate procedure next week. This transparency is a departure from the reign of Queen Elizabeth II when such health matters were kept confidential often leading to rampant speculation.

With both successors to the throne requiring medical attention, other members of the Royal Family are temporarily stepping back from their duties. Prince William is taking time off to care for his wife while Princess Anne, known for her unwavering dedication to duty, is expected to take on much of their responsibilities during this time.

The princess’s return to official duties isn’t anticipated until after Easter and she’s expected to spend up two weeks in hospital before continuing her recovery at home.

EMERGENCY Alert Test: The NATIONWIDE Drill You Can’t Ignore

04 October 2023 — The federal government is set to conduct a nationwide test of the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System on Wednesday. This system, designed to deliver a presidential message to Americans within 10 minutes during a national crisis, uses the Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alerts.

Wireless phone users in the U.S. will receive an alert at 2:20 p.m. Eastern time that reads: “THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.” Along with this message, phones will emit sound and vibration signals. If any phones are switched off at this time, they will display the alert once powered back on within a half-hour window.

For those tuning into broadcast or cable television or radio during this period, they’ll encounter a one-minute message stating: “This is a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System by Federal Emergency Management Agency covering United States from 14:20 to 14:50 hours ET. This is only a test. No action required by public.”

Marcos Jr STANDS UP to China: The Bold Challenge Over South China Sea Barrier

30 September 2023 — Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has taken a firm stance against China’s installation of a 300-meter barrier at the entrance to Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea. This marks his first public opposition to this move, following his directive to dismantle the barrier. Marcos asserted, "We’re not seeking conflict, but we won’t back down from defending our maritime territory and our fishermen’s rights.”

This recent face-off between China and the Philippines follows Marcos’ decision earlier this year to increase U.S. military presence under a defense pact from 2014. This move has raised concerns in Beijing, as it could lead to an increased American military presence near Taiwan and southern China.

After the Philippine coast guard removed the Chinese barrier at Scarborough Shoal, Filipino fishing boats managed to catch around 164 tons of fish in just one day. “This is what our fishermen miss out on... it’s evident that this area belongs to the Philippines,” stated Marcos.

Despite these efforts, two Chinese coast guard vessels were seen patrolling the shoal’s entrance by a Philippine surveillance aircraft on Thursday. According to Commodore Jay Tar

UK’S BIG Green Light to NORTH SEA OIL Drilling: A Jobs Boost or an Environmental Nightmare?

27 September 2023 — The UK’s North Sea Transition Authority recently approved new oil and gas drilling in the North Sea. This move has triggered a wave of criticism from environmentalists, who argue it contradicts the country’s climate objectives.

The Conservative government stands by its decision, stating that drilling in the Rosebank field will not only create jobs but also bolster energy security. Rosebank is one of the largest untapped reserves in UK waters and is believed to contain around 350 million barrels of oil.

Equinor, a Norwegian company, and Ithaca Energy based in the UK oversee operations at this field. They have plans to inject $3.8 billion into the project’s initial phase, with production anticipated to kick off between 2026 and 2027.

Caroline Lucas, a Green Party lawmaker, harshly criticised this decision as “morally obscene.” In response, the government maintains that projects like Rosebank will produce significantly less emissions compared to past developments.

NET NEUTRALITY Revival Pushed by Biden’s New FCC Pick: The Real Impact on Telecom Companies

26 September 2023 — Following the unsuccessful Senate endorsement of Gigi Sohn, President Biden has now confirmed Anna Gomez as the new commissioner for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This appointment breaks a 2-2 deadlock at the Commission. In response, Democrats and progressive nonprofits have begun to advocate for the return of Title II regulations on telecom companies.

On Monday, a group of 27 Senate Democrats, which included Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), called on FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel to reestablish Title II regulations on internet service providers. These were regulations that had been withdrawn during Trump’s tenure.

Last week, progressive nonprofit Free Press also stepped up its efforts by starting a petition urging the FCC to bring back net neutrality rules. These rules were first introduced during Obama’s presidency before social media censorship became widespread. Net neutrality was initially touted as a means to safeguard an open internet by classifying telecom companies as common carriers.

Free Press emphasized that net neutrality is essential for preserving an internet that is “free, open and accessible to all.” However, critics contend that such regulation could potentially stifle innovation and competition within the sector.

ASIAN MARKETS in Chaos: Evergrande Crisis and Wall Street Woes Trigger Shockwaves

25 September 2023 — Asian stock markets experienced a significant downturn on Monday, with Tokyo standing as the sole major regional market to register gains. This follows on the heels of Wall Street’s most dismal week in half a year, which subsequently boosted U.S. futures and oil prices.

Investor confidence was shaken due to multiple factors including worries over China’s real estate sector, a potential shutdown of the U.S. government, and an ongoing strike by American auto industry workers. European markets weren’t spared either with Germany’s DAX, Paris’ CAC 40, and Britain’s FTSE 100 all experiencing a 0.6% drop.

China Evergrande Group saw its shares plummet nearly 22% after it disclosed its inability to secure additional debt due to an ongoing investigation into one of its subsidiaries. This revelation threatens the restructuring of its staggering debt that exceeds $300 billion. In response, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng dropped 1.8%, Shanghai Composite index fell by 0.5%, while Japan’s Nikkei 225 managed to climb by 0.9%.

Elsewhere in Asia, Seoul’s Kospi dipped by 0.5%. On a brighter note though, Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 managed to claw back some ground ending with a modest

Chris PACKHAM’S RADICAL Call to Break the Law: Is It Justified or a Threat to Democracy?

23 September 2023 — In his most recent show, “Is It Time To Break The Law?”, seasoned BBC presenter Chris Packham hinted that legal protests might not be enough for environmental causes. On Channel 4, Packham suggested that law-breaking could potentially be a necessary step to save our planet.

Known for his wildlife programs and involvement in left-wing climate marches like Extinction Rebellion (XR), Packham is currently rallying support for a “Restore Nature Now” demonstration. This protest is scheduled later this month outside the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) headquarters in London.

The provocative comments made by the Springwatch host on public broadcaster Channel 4 have ignited considerable controversy. Critics contend that endorsing illegal activities erodes democratic procedures and establishes a perilous precedent.

BORDER CHAOS Escalates: Migrants from Around the Globe Swarm Southern Border, Agents Struggle to Cope

22 September 2023 — In a remote corner of Southern California, a diverse group of migrants hailing from countries such as China, Ecuador, Brazil, and Colombia have surrendered to Border Patrol agents. Their makeshift desert campsite is a stark symbol of the recent surge in asylum-seekers that has put immense pressure on various parts of the U.S.-Mexico border. This influx has led to shutdowns at border crossings in Eagle Pass (Texas), San Diego and El Paso.

The Biden administration finds itself scrambling for solutions following a brief dip in illegal crossings due to new asylum restrictions introduced in May. With Democrats pushing for more resources to accommodate asylum-seekers and Republicans using this issue as ammunition for the upcoming 2024 elections, Temporary Protected Status has been granted to an estimated 472,000 Venezuelans already residing in the U.S., adding to the 242,700 who had previously qualified.

In response to this crisis, an additional 800 active-duty military personnel have been deployed at the border joining an existing force of 2,500 National Guard members. Furthermore, holding facilities are being expanded by an additional capacity of 3,250 spaces. The administration

RUSSELL BRAND’s Career Hangs in the Balance: Sexual Assault Allegations Emerge

18 September 2023 — British comedian Russell Brand is facing serious allegations of sexual assault from multiple women. This has resulted in the postponement of his live performances and a severed relationship with his talent agency and publisher. The U.K. entertainment industry is now wrestling with whether Brand’s celebrity status protected him from accountability.

Brand, now 48, denies the accusations made by four women through a Channel 4 documentary and articles published in The Times and Sunday Times newspapers. Among these accusers is one woman who alleges she was sexually assaulted by Brand at age 16, while another claims he raped her in Los Angeles back in 2012.

The Metropolitan Police force has been notified of an alleged sexual assault that occurred in Soho, central London, back in 2003 — earlier than any assaults reported by media outlets so far. Although they did not directly name Brand as the suspect, police acknowledged the TV and newspaper allegations during their announcement.

In response to these serious allegations, Brand insists all his past relationships were consensual. As more women step forward with accusations against him, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s spokesman Max Blain labeled these claims as “very serious and concerning.” Conservative legislator Caroline Nokes has called on British and U.S. law enforcement to investigate these alarming allegations.

US, UK UNVEIL ‘20 Days in Mariupol’ to the WORLD: A Shocking Expose of Russia’s Invasion

11 September 2023 — The United States and Britain are shining a spotlight on the atrocities of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. They’ve organized a U.N. screening of the acclaimed documentary “20 Days in Mariupol”. This film documents the experiences of three Associated Press journalists during Russia’s brutal siege on the Ukrainian port city. UK Ambassador Barbara Woodward stressed that this screening is vital, as it exposes how Russia’s actions challenge the very principles that U.N. upholds — respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Produced by AP and PBS series “Frontline”, “20 Days in Mariupol” presents 30 hours worth footage recorded in Mariupol after Russia launched its invasion on February 24, 2022. The film captures street battles, extreme pressure on residents, and deadly attacks that took innocent lives including pregnant women and children. The siege concluded on May 20, 2022 leaving thousands dead and Mariupol devastated.

U.S ambassador to U.N., Linda Thomas-Greenfield referred to “20 Days in Mariupol” as a vivid record of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s war aggression. She called upon everyone to witness these horrors and recommit themselves towards justice and peace in Ukraine.

The AP’s coverage from Mariupol has drawn ire from Kremlin with its U.N ambassador

CONVICTED KILLER on the Loose: Danelo Cavalcante’s Daring Escape from Pennsylvania Prison

07 September 2023 — Convicted murderer, Danelo Cavalcante, is now a fugitive. After a daring escape from Chester County Prison in Pennsylvania, he has successfully evaded capture. The U.S Marshals Service has confirmed that Cavalcante, sentenced to life for the 2021 murder of his ex-girlfriend, is also implicated in a homicide case in Brazil.

Acting Warden Howard Holland unveiled surveillance footage of Cavalcante’s escape during a press briefing. The video captures the moment when Cavalcante scales a wall and braves through razor wire to make his audacious exit.

Cavalcante’s breakout commenced at 8:33 a.m., as he mingled with other inmates in the exercise yard. By 9:45 a.m., prison officers reported him missing—an unsettling indication of severe lapses in prison security measures.

CANADA’S FREEDOM Convoy Trial Begins: Unmasking the Controversial Protest Tactics

06 September 2023 — The trial of Tamara Lich and Chris Barber, organizers of Canada’s Freedom Convoy, commenced on Tuesday. Prosecutors are focusing not on political ideologies but on the protest methods used.

Lich and Barber were arrested in February 2022 following nearly a month of protests in Ottawa. The demonstrators demanded the termination of federal mask and vaccine mandates amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Critics suggest that their actions extended beyond health measures to challenge the broader Liberal Canadian government.

Throughout their protest, truckers remained stationed outside Canada’s Parliament building, a move city officials labeled as an “occupation”. Over a 13-day trial (with an additional six days in October), The Crown Prosecution will argue that these gridlock tactics constituted dangerous action.

Alongside other organizers, Lich and Barber face charges including mischief, counseling others to commit mischief, intimidation and obstructing police. This case represents a pivotal point in evaluating how society perceives and conducts protests.

UNCOVERED: The SHOCKING Truth Behind Scott Johnson’s Mysterious Death in Australia

06 September 2023 — Scott Johnson, a bright and openly gay American mathematician, met an untimely death under a cliff in Sydney, Australia over three decades ago. Investigators initially deemed his death a suicide. However, Steve Johnson, Scott’s brother, doubted this conclusion and embarked on a long journey to seek justice for his brother.

A new four-part documentary series titled “Never Let Him Go” delves into the life and death of Scott. Produced by ABC News Studios in collaboration with Show of Force and Blackfella Films for Hulu, it also sheds light on Steve’s tireless quest to uncover the truth about his brother’s demise amidst Sydney’s notorious era of anti-gay violence.

Upon hearing about Scott’s passing in December 1988, Steve left the U.S. for Canberra, Australia where Scott resided with his partner. He then undertook a three-hour drive to Manly near Sydney where Scott died and met Troy Hardie — the officer who investigated the case.

Hardie insisted that he based his initial suicide verdict on evidence or lack thereof at the scene. He pointed out that authorities found Scott naked at the cliff base with neatly folded clothes and clear identification atop it. Additionally, Hardie mentioned speaking to Scott’s partner who disclosed that Scott had previously considered suicide.

McConnell’s Health SCARE: Capitol Physician CONFIRMS No Stroke or Seizure

05 September 2023 — Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell’s recent health concerns are not related to a stroke or seizure. This assurance comes from a letter penned by Capitol physician Brian P. Monahan, shared by McConnell’s office as the Senate reconvenes post-summer break.

In the past month, McConnell had two instances of freezing up during press conferences, sparking questions about his health. However, Monahan confirmed that there is no proof of McConnell suffering from a seizure disorder or experiencing a stroke or movement disorder like Parkinson’s disease.

The evaluations encompassed several medical assessments such as brain MRI imaging and consultations with neurologists for an extensive neurological assessment. These tests were conducted after McConnell fell and sustained a concussion earlier this year but has since been given the all-clear to proceed with his regular schedule.

Despite these episodes stirring unease among Republican senators and prompting speculation about McConnell’s capacity to stay on as leader, no alterations in treatment protocols are suggested. In other news, COVID-19 cases appear to be on the rise heading into fall with First Lady Jill Biden testing positive over the weekend.

UK Government LIFTS Wind Farm Restrictions: A Step Towards GREEN Future or Just Empty Promises?

05 September 2023 — The UK’s Conservative government has relaxed planning rules, effectively lifting the ban on new onshore wind farms in England. These regulations, implemented by former Prime Minister David Cameron in 2015, permitted a single objection to halt wind turbine applications. This resulted in a notable decrease in new turbines getting planning approval.

Under pressure from some Conservatives, the current government decided to revise these rules. Alok Sharma, lawmaker and president of the 2021 U.N. climate change conference, dubbed them as “outdated” and “not sensible.” With these eased restrictions, local authorities can now make final decisions based on community consensus rather than individual objections.

Communities that support wind turbines stand to gain from lower electricity costs. However, specifics about energy discounts will be discussed later. Although this decision took immediate effect, it faced backlash from environmental groups who argue that too many hurdles still remain for constructing wind farms.

Environmental organization Greenpeace dismissed the changes as “feeble tweaks” and “just more hot air.” Alethea Warrington from climate advocacy group Possible expressed concerns that it would still be challenging for communities wanting wind energy to obtain it. Experts caution that there needs to be a swift increase in onshore wind energy production for the U.K. to meet its climate change targets.