THREAD: asian markets shock chinas stimulus fails

TRAGIC STABBING Spree at London Market Shocks Community

11 November 2024 — A stabbing spree at East Street Market in south London left one dead and two injured on Sunday morning. Police arrested a man in his 60s at the scene. While they have not shared details about the suspect or his motives, they do not believe it is terror-related, hinting that mental health issues might be involved.

Witnesses described a chaotic scene as the attacker randomly targeted people. An unnamed fabric seller said, “I just saw a bloke running through the market stabbing people willy-nilly.” The attack happened around 10:30 am when the market was getting busy.

The witness immediately called police after seeing two men stabbed, noting one appeared severely injured. Emergency services quickly arrived but sadly, one victim died from injuries despite their efforts.

The investigation continues as authorities work to understand what led to this tragic event and ensure community safety moving forward.

US DEMANDS TOUGH Sanctions on China for Fentanyl Crisis

19 October 2024 — A group has filed a petition with the U.S. Trade Representative, urging action against China under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974. This section allows the U.S. to impose sanctions on countries that violate trade agreements or harm American commerce. Attorney Nazak Nikakhtar emphasized that sanctions are within legal rights and necessary to pressure China economically.

The opioid crisis cost the U.S. nearly $1.5 trillion in 2020, according to a House Joint Economic Committee report from September 2022. An investigation by Reuters revealed that Chinese companies openly sell fentanyl ingredients online and ship them easily to the U.S., contributing significantly to this crisis. These suppliers often send shipments to Mexican cartels, which then manufacture synthetic opioids like fentanyl, worsening the problem further.

In May 2023, the CDC reported that synthetic opioids caused over 81,000 American deaths in one year, mainly due to fentanyl overdoses. The ongoing crisis highlights an urgent need for effective measures against foreign suppliers fueling this epidemic affecting countless American families daily.;

Biden’s BORDER Policies are FAILING: Shocking New Data Exposed

29 June 2024 — New data reveals that President Biden’s border policies are not working. The number of illegal crossings has skyrocketed, causing major concerns. Border Patrol agents are overwhelmed, and many believe the administration is not doing enough to secure the border.

Critics argue that Biden’s approach is too lenient and invites more illegal immigration. They say stronger measures are needed to protect the country and ensure safety. This includes building more barriers and increasing patrols along the border.

Supporters of stricter policies claim that current strategies fail to address the root problems. They emphasize that without tougher enforcement, illegal crossings will continue to rise, putting a strain on resources and communities near the border.

The debate over how to handle immigration continues, but one thing is clear: Biden’s current policies are facing serious challenges. Many Americans want change and demand action to secure the nation’s borders effectively.

CHINA’S Moon Landing: A Bold Step in Space Race

04 June 2024 — China’s space program reached a major milestone by landing a module on the moon’s far side. The lander touched down at 6:23 a.m. Beijing time in the South Pole-Aitken Basin, according to the China National Space Administration. This mission is China’s sixth in its moon exploration program, aiming to compete with the United States, Japan, and India.

The mission involves using a mechanical arm and drill to gather up to 2 kilograms of surface and underground material over two days. An ascender will then transfer these samples to another module orbiting the moon, which will return them to Earth by June 25. The samples are expected to land in China’s Inner Mongolia region.

Landing on the far side of the moon presents unique challenges due to lack of direct communication and difficult terrain. Neil Melville-Kenney from the European Space Agency noted that automation is particularly challenging at high latitudes because long shadows can confuse landers. Despite these difficulties, China continues its ambitious plans with an eye on putting a person on the moon by 2030, making it only the second country after America to achieve this feat.

SUNAK SHOCKS Nation: Calls Surprise Election for July 4

23 May 2024 — British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has shocked many by calling a general election for July 4. Known for being thorough and evidence-led, this move contrasts sharply with his usual cautious approach.

Opinion polls suggest that Sunak’s Conservative Party is trailing behind the opposition Labour Party, which could spell trouble for his leadership. Sunak took office in October 2022, replacing Liz Truss after her economic policies caused market turmoil.

Sunak had warned against Truss’s unfunded tax cuts, predicting economic havoc that indeed followed. His rise to power was rapid, becoming Britain’s first leader of color and youngest prime minister in over two centuries at age 42.

Sunak previously served as Treasury chief during the coronavirus pandemic, where he introduced an unprecedented economic support package. Now at age 44, he faces a critical test with this upcoming election amid challenging political landscapes.

CHINA’S Failed Nicaragua Canal: A Symbol of Lost Ambitions

10 May 2024 — The Interoceanic Grand Canal, also known as the Nicaragua Canal, was a bold initiative intended to link the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans via Central America’s largest lake. Daniel Ortega’s government in Nicaragua promoted this $50 billion project as a competitor to the Panama Canal. It also risked boosting China’s influence in the region with a 50-year lease given to HKND Group, led by Chinese tycoon Wang Jing.

Despite breaking ground in December 2014 amid much celebration, no substantial progress ensued. Wang Jing saw his wealth plummet by 85% shortly thereafter. By 2021, he and his company were ousted from the Shanghai Stock Exchange due to unethical practices, signaling a sharp fall from their lofty ambitions.

Following these setbacks, Nicaragua’s National Assembly enacted legal reforms at Ortega’s behest. They annulled previous laws that had granted canal concessions and declared these changes essential for “strengthening” Nicaragua’s legal framework for improved national governance. Critics suggest these actions were mere attempts to recover dignity following an embarrassing failure

In sum, while initially seen as a strategic geopolitical move and economic boon for Nicaragua, the failed canal project has instead become emblematic of overreach and mismanagement under Ortega’s rule.

COVID-19 SHOCKER: Pompeo’s Intel Suggests Chinese LAB Leak

05 May 2024 — Mike Pompeo, the former U.S. Secretary of State, has reportedly shared critical intelligence with the United Kingdom indicating a “high likelihood” that COVID-19 originated from a lab in China. This information was part of a confidential briefing to allies including Canada, Australia, and New Zealand as part of the Five Eyes alliance in early 2021.

The shared intelligence raised alarms about the lack of transparency from China and potential military ties at the Wuhan Institute of Virology. It was revealed that Chinese authorities hindered global investigations and showed signs of corruption and incompetence at critical times. Moreover, it emerged that researchers at the institute experienced illnesses just before the pandemic spread globally.

Despite these concerning revelations, UK officials led by then-Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab seemed to downplay these findings initially. Pressure from some scientists who supported theories of natural transmission played a role in this skepticism. However, two ex-officials from Trump’s administration described the evidence pointing to a lab leak as "gobsmacking.

This disclosure not only questions China’s handling of crucial data but also challenges global understanding about COVID-19’s origins, potentially reshaping international relations and public health strategies moving forward.

SOUTH KOREAN Election Shocker: Voters Lean Left in Historic Turn

11 April 2024 — South Korean voters, upset by the economic slump, are showing their disapproval towards President Yoon Suk-yeol and his ruling People Power Party (PPP). Early exit polls indicate a dramatic tilt in the National Assembly, with the opposition DP/DUP coalition on track to win between 168 and 193 of the 300 seats. This would leave Yoon’s PPP and its partners trailing with just 87-111 seats.

A record-breaking turnout of 67 percent — the highest for a midterm election since 1992 — reflects widespread voter engagement. South Korea’s unique proportional representation system aims to give smaller parties a chance but has resulted in a crowded field that confuses many voters.

PPP leader Han Dong-hoon has publicly recognized the disappointing exit poll figures. He pledged to honor the electorate’s decision and wait for the final tally. The election results could mark a pivotal change in South Korea’s political landscape, hinting at broader shifts ahead.

This electoral outcome underscores growing public discontent with current economic policies and signals a desire for change among South Korean voters, potentially reshaping the nation’s policy direction in years to come.

ANC on SHAKY Ground: South Africa’s Opposition Parties Gaining Momentum

14 March 2024 — Recent polling data indicates a potential shift in South Africa’s political scene, the likes of which haven’t been seen since 1994. The ruling party, the African National Congress (ANC), has experienced a decline in support from 44% to 39% since November 2022.

On the other hand, the opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) has seen its share rise from 23% to a notable 27%. A newcomer on the scene, the MK Party, has made an impressive debut with a surprising 13%, while support for the radical Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party has dwindled to just 10%.

This changing landscape could potentially pave the way for DA to form a majority coalition with other parties excluding ANC and EFF. This tactic proved successful in Cape Town’s municipal elections back in 2006. Despite ANC’s historical appeal due to its instrumental role in ending apartheid, ongoing issues such as electricity and water shortages, high crime rates, and rampant corruption have strained voters’ loyalty.

The shifting political climate suggests that voters are seeking change and are willing to look beyond traditional party lines. This could lead to significant changes in South Africa’s political landscape moving forward.

AUSTRALIAN Activist’s SHOCKING Sentence in China Sparks Global Outrage

05 February 2024 — Yang Hengjun, an Australian pro-democracy activist and former Chinese government worker, faces a surprising sentence in China. Born as Yang Jun in 1965, he served the Chinese government before moving to Australia in 2002. He also spent time as a visiting scholar at Columbia University.

Yang was arrested during a family trip to China in 2019. His arrest happened during the height of the Hong Kong pro-democracy movement and amidst tense relations between Australia and China. The Australian government and human rights groups have consistently condemned his detention, calling him a political prisoner.

The trial has been slammed for its secrecy, with claims of torture and forced confessions emerging. Yang reportedly faced a secret trial on vague espionage charges three years ago. In August 2023, he voiced fears of dying from an untreated kidney cyst while waiting for his verdict

The sentencing has ignited international outrage with Australia condemning it as an “appalling” obstacle to better relations with China. Human Rights Watch Asia Director Elaine Pearson labelled Yang’s treatment as making a mockery of legal proceedings.

TIME to STOP Iran’s Terror Funding: The Unholy Alliance Exposed

31 January 2024 — The current geopolitical landscape has raised serious concerns, according to a recent statement by Lawler. He drew attention to an emerging alliance between China, Russia, and Iran that is becoming increasingly visible. Notably, he identified China as the largest consumer of Iranian petroleum. These sales are providing financial support for dangerous terrorist groups.

Lawler stressed the need for immediate action against Iran in response to over 150 attacks on U.S. military bases and personnel since October 7. Tragically, these assaults have resulted in three servicemembers losing their lives. He called on the administration for a decisive response against Iran.

A bipartisan bill designed to curb illegal funds supporting terrorism was approved in the House after October 7 but has hit a roadblock in the Senate. Lawler urged both Senate and administration officials to advance this bill as part of a comprehensive strategy against these threats.

Lawler believes that an effective response should not only be military or diplomatic but also economic: cutting off funding at its roots. This multi-pronged approach is essential for effectively fighting terrorism.

US STEEL Takeover: BLOCKING Japanese Buyout Could Save American Jobs

22 December 2023 — Nippon Steel, Japan’s leading steel company, is facing a storm of criticism over its planned $14 billion acquisition of U.S. Steel Corporation. The deal, unveiled on Monday, values U.S. Steel at $55 per share and has sparked immediate opposition, especially in the Rust Belt where U.S. Steel has been a cornerstone since 1901.

Despite U.S. Steel’s assurances that the merger would unite “two storied companies with rich histories,” lawmakers are demanding action. Senators J.D. Vance (R-OH), Josh Hawley (R-MO), and Marco Rubio (R-FL) have written to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen urging the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to halt the deal.

The senators contend that domestic steel production is vital for national security and needs careful scrutiny before permitting foreign investment. CFIUS, led by Yellen, holds the authority to stop such investments after a review process.

While experts predict CFIUS is more likely to block deals involving countries perceived as adversaries like Russia or China rather than allies like Japan, this situation highlights bipartisan worries about foreign control over crucial industries.

UK INFLATION TUMBLES to 39%: Central Bank May Slash Rates Sooner Than Predicted

21 December 2023 — The Office for National Statistics (ONS) recently announced a surprising drop in UK inflation to 3.9% in November, a decrease from the previous month’s 4.6%. This dip, larger than what financial markets had forecasted, marks the lowest inflation level since September 2021.

This decline is primarily attributed to falling fuel and food prices according to the ONS. However, despite this optimistic news, the Bank of England’s primary interest rate remains at a staggering high of 5.25%, not seen for over a decade and a half.

Governor Andrew Bailey hinted that this stringent interest rate policy might continue for some time. Yet Samuel Tombs, chief U.K economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics suggests an alternative view — that this sharp fall in inflation could trigger an earlier-than-expected cut in interest rates; perhaps as early as the first half of next year.

While elevated interest rates initially helped curb inflation sparked by supply chain disruptions and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, they have also put pressure on consumer spending and slowed economic growth. As such there are growing worries that maintaining high rates could inflict unnecessary damage on the economy.

US-CHINA Economic Reset PROPOSED: Will Higher Tariffs Be the New Norm?

12 December 2023 — A bipartisan committee in the House has put forth a proposal for a complete overhaul of US economic ties with China. This includes the suggestion of implementing higher tariffs. The pivotal recommendations were released in an extensive report by the House Select Committee on Strategic Competition Between the United States and Chinese Communist Party, chaired by Mike Gallagher (R-WI) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL).

The report posits that since its induction into the World Trade Organization in 2001, Beijing has been engaged in an economic conflict against both the US and its allies. It outlines three key strategies: revamping America’s economic relationship with China, limiting U.S. capital and technological inflow into China, and strengthening U.S. economic resilience with allied support.

One notable recommendation is to shift China to a new tariff column to enforce more robust tariffs. The committee also suggests imposing tariffs on essential semiconductor chips used in everyday devices like phones and cars. This move aims to prevent Chinese domination in this sector from granting Beijing undue control over global economy.

Bipartisan Committee CALLS for END of China’s Trade Status: A Potential Jolt to US Economy

12 December 2023 — A bipartisan committee, led by Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-WI) and Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), has been studying the economic effects of China on the US for a year. The investigation centered on job market changes, manufacturing shifts, and national security concerns since China joined the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2001.

The committee released a report this Tuesday recommending President Joe Biden’s administration and Congress to implement nearly 150 policies to counteract China’s economic influence. One significant suggestion is to cancel China’s permanent normal trade relations status (PNTR) with the U.S., a status endorsed by former President George W. Bush in 2001.

The report argues that granting PNTR to China did not bring anticipated benefits for the US or trigger expected reforms in China. It asserts that this has led to a loss of vital U.S. economic leverage and inflicted damage on U.S industry, workers, and manufacturers due to unfair trade practices.

The committee proposes shifting China into a new tariff category that reinstates U.S economic leverage while reducing dependence on Chinese

ITALY’S Bold Exit from China’s Belt and Road Initiative: A Triumph for Western Independence

06 December 2023 — Italy recently declared its departure from China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), signifying a major shift in Western attitudes towards Beijing’s economic clout. After four years of involvement, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani noted that nations not participating in the initiative have seen superior results.

The official withdrawal notice was issued by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s administration this week, well before the initial agreement expires next year. This decision sets the stage for an upcoming summit hosted by China with European Union leaders who have lately adopted a more wary stance towards Beijing.

In response to mounting skepticism, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi advocated for mutually beneficial relationships between Europe and China to boost global development. However, such views are increasingly met with suspicion in Europe as Western societies strive to steer clear of economic connections that might give Beijing an upper hand during political upheavals.

Stefano Stefanini, former Italian Ambassador, underscored an official G7 policy termed “de-risking”, spotlighting U.S.'s opposition against Italy’s participation in BRI. Despite U.S warnings labeling it as a “predatory” lending scheme aimed at controlling strategic infrastructure, Italy joined the initiative back in 2019.

EXPOSED: BIDEN and Elites’ Unsettling Alliance with China

22 November 2023 — President Joe Biden’s recent actions have stirred up a storm of controversy. His apparent dismissal of the idea of “decoupling” from China is causing concern among conservatives. These revelations come from a new book, Controligarchs: Exposing the Billionaire Class, Their Secret Deals, and the Globalist Plot to Dominate Your Life.

The book suggests that global elites and politicians like Biden and California Governor Gavin Newsom are actively pushing for a closer resemblance between the U.S. and its Communist adversary. It alleges that these individuals view Beijing’s elites not as threats or rivals but as business partners.

Among those named in these claims are influential figures such as BlackRock’s Larry Fink, Apple’s Tim Cook, and Blackstone’s Stephen Schwarzman. These business leaders were reportedly present at a dinner honoring Chinese Communist Party Leader Xi Jinping where they stood in applause for Chairman Xi.

This revelation comes at a time when concerns over China’s influence on global politics are growing. It highlights the urgent need for transparency in dealings between American leaders and foreign powers.

BIDEN-XI Summit: A Bold Leap or a Blunder in US-China Diplomacy?

16 November 2023 — President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping have committed to keeping direct lines of communication open. This decision follows their lengthy four-hour discussion at the 2023 APEC summit in San Francisco. The leaders unveiled an initial agreement aimed at halting the influx of fentanyl precursors into the U.S. They also plan to restore military communications, which were cut off after China’s disagreement with the Pentagon following Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan in 2022.

Despite rising tensions, Biden made efforts during Wednesday’s meeting to strengthen U.S.-China relations. He also vowed to persistently challenge Xi on human rights issues, arguing that frank discussions are “critical” for successful diplomacy.

Biden voiced positivity about his rapport with Xi, a relationship that began during their vice-presidential terms. However, uncertainty looms as a congressional investigation into COVID-19 origins threatens US-China relations.

It is unclear whether this renewed dialogue will result in substantial progress or further complications.

BIDEN and XI: Critical Trade Talks Amid Escalating Tensions

11 November 2023 — President Joe Biden is scheduled to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping in California this Wednesday. This marks their first rendezvous in a year, amidst the backdrop of strained U.S.-China relations. The world’s two largest economies will put trade and Taiwan at the forefront of their discussions.

The White House has been alluding to this meeting for some time now. It will occur on the fringes of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in San Francisco. Both leaders are aiming to “responsibly manage competition” and collaborate where mutual interests overlap.

Meanwhile, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has been engaging with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng for a second day of dialogue on Friday. Yellen underscored America’s aspiration for a robust economic relationship with China, while also urging Beijing to take action against firms suspected of circumventing sanctions to transact with Russia.

Yellen additionally expressed apprehensions about China’s export controls on graphite – an essential component in electric vehicle batteries – amidst escalating tensions between the nations that could see thousands protesting during the summit.

Rishi Sunak’s TURBULENT First Year: Is History About to REPEAT Itself for the Conservatives?

26 October 2023 — Rishi Sunak, UK Prime Minister, has marked his first year in office amidst a storm of international conflicts and domestic challenges. His Conservative Party is haunted by the ghost of 1996, when they were dethroned by the Labour Party after ruling for more than a decade.

Recent opinion polls reveal that the Conservatives are lagging 15 to 20 points behind Labour. This gap has remained steady throughout Sunak’s term. An Ipsos poll showed that a whopping 65% of respondents felt the Conservatives did not deserve another term, while merely 19% believed they did.

The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and Russia’s war in Ukraine have added layers of complexity to Sunak’s situation. Despite acknowledging his challenging year and vowing to continue serving hardworking families nationwide, there are widespread fears these hurdles may trigger another Conservative downfall.