THREAD: global markets plunge investors face...

VERTICAL THEME’S BIG Move: Alliance Bank Stake Sale to DBS?

17 January 2025 — Investment firm Vertical Theme Sdn. plans to seek approval to start talks about selling its stake in Alliance Bank Malaysia Bhd. Sources close to the situation revealed this potential sale, which could lead to big changes in the bank’s ownership. This move hints at a strategy shift for Vertical Theme as it explores opportunities with DBS, a major player in banking.

RUPIAH and WON SHOCKED by Central Bank SURPRISES

The Indonesian rupiah is near six-month lows, and the South Korean won ended a three-day winning streak after unexpected central bank decisions. Investors were surprised as both countries’ central banks made unanticipated interest rate calls, causing market fluctuations. These moves highlight today’s volatile and unpredictable global financial markets.

HEXTAR INDUSTRIES BREWS UP Luckin Coffee LAUNCH THIS MONTH!

Hextar Industries Bhd is gearing up for a soft opening of five Luckin Coffee outlets by month’s end through its subsidiary Global Aroma Sdn Bhd (GASB). This expansion marks Hextar’s entry into the competitive coffee market, aiming to capture consumer interest with Luckin Coffee’s brand appeal. The openings show Hextar’s strategic growth ambitions within Malaysia’s food and beverage industry.

GOLD PRICES Soar: What You Need to Know About Plunging US Yields

16 January 2025 — Gold prices climbed for the second day, fueled by falling U.S. yields and hints of easing core inflation. Investors are keeping a close eye on upcoming U.S. retail sales data, unemployment claims, and Federal Reserve announcements for more market insight.

The stock market saw a big lift after a surprisingly good consumer inflation report. The Dow surged 700 points while the Nasdaq jumped 2.5%. This shows optimism even though there are worries about high rates affecting stock performance.

Financial powerhouses Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan started the earnings season strong with impressive trading revenues, boosting the S&P 500’s financial sector to its best day in two months. Citigroup announced a $20 billion share buyback program as it tackles rising regulatory costs and compliance issues.

The U.S. dollar was volatile as traders analyzed inflation data showing core inflation dipped slightly from 3.3% to 3.2%. Market players await more direction from the Federal Reserve on interest rate policies amid these economic changes.

UK on EDGE: Anti-Immigrant UNREST Sparks Fear

15 January 2025 — British authorities are on high alert due to rising anti-immigrant tensions. Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the need for vigilance at a press conference in Solihull. Emergency meetings with law enforcement have been held to address potential violence.

Far-right activists circulated a list of over 100 targets, including immigration lawyers’ offices. Despite fears, anticipated protests did not materialize as planned. A strong police presence and counter-protesters helped prevent unrest.

Counter-protesters carried signs like “Refugees Welcome” and chanted slogans to protect immigrant service centers from attacks. Their efforts were crucial in maintaining order amid xenophobic sentiments.

Authorities remain committed to peace as tensions persist across the UK, preparing for any further disturbances that may arise from anti-immigrant unrest.

CHINA’S SHOCKING TikTok Move: Will Musk Take Over?

15 January 2025 — Chinese officials are thinking about selling TikTok’s US operations to Elon Musk. This idea comes as the app faces a possible ban in the United States. The talks highlight ongoing worries about national security risks linked to TikTok, owned by ByteDance.

The potential sale of TikTok’s US operations shows the tension between the United States and China over data privacy issues. Regulatory scrutiny is growing, with technology and foreign investments at the heart of these global challenges.

Elon Musk’s involvement could change how TikTok operates in America if a sale happens. This development marks an important moment in US-China relations regarding technology and data privacy concerns.

CHINA’S Record Trade Surplus Sparks Global Alarm

14 January 2025 — In December 2024, CHINA reached a record trade surplus of $104.8 billion. This was due to a surge in exports before President-elect Donald Trump could impose tariffs. The New York Times reported that China’s export boom is causing friction with many trade partners, not just the United States. Several nations are now erecting tariff barriers against Chinese products to protect their markets.

China’s export success has been an economic boon, creating millions of jobs in sectors like manufacturing and engineering. The nation dominates industries such as solar panels and is becoming self-sufficient in areas like commercial jets. However, China still struggles with energy independence outside solar power.

The automobile industry showcases China’s manufacturing strength, evolving from a major importer to the world’s largest car exporter in two decades. Critics argue that China’s overcapacity and government subsidies distort global auto markets by flooding them with cheap vehicles amid declining local demand.

While record exports might seem beneficial for China, they could lead to financial strain if companies face bankruptcy due to low prices and excess inventory as tariff barriers persist globally. The auto industry may have peaked, facing strong resistance from politically influential foreign markets protecting their own electric vehicle sectors through tariffs and subsidies.

STOCK MARKET Chaos: Inflation Fears Shake Investor Confidence

13 January 2025 — The U.S. STOCK market took a big hit today, with major indexes dropping over 3% due to rising inflation fears. Investors worry about possible Federal Reserve policy changes after high inflation numbers came out earlier this week. This is one of the steepest drops in months, shaking confidence that had been boosted by strong job reports.

Bond yields are up, with the 10-year Treasury bond yield hitting about 4.1%, its highest since late 2023, signaling increased inflation expectations. Big tech stocks like Apple and Microsoft saw sell-offs over 5%, adding to the market slump. Analysts warn that ongoing inflation might push the Federal Reserve to rethink interest rate policies, possibly leading to more hikes instead of cuts.

The decline comes after a strong holiday shopping season that initially suggested steady economic growth but is now overshadowed by ongoing inflation problems. Retail and consumer sectors face rising costs and reduced spending, making investors cautious in these areas. Companies like Walmart and Target report higher holiday sales but shrinking profit margins due to inflation pressures, prompting them to rethink annual forecasts.

Banks like JPMorgan are bracing for possible loan defaults as consumers struggle with higher living costs by setting aside more reserves. Market analysts expect continued volatility as investors digest new inflation data and Fed policy implications.;

“UK on EDGE: ANTI-Immigrant Unrest Sparks Fears of Violence”

13 January 2025 — British authorities are gearing up for more unrest despite efforts to calm far-right demonstrations. Prime Minister Keir Starmer stresses the need for vigilance as anti-immigrant violence rises.

The government aims to ease tensions worsened by heated immigration debates. Local police remain on high alert as violence grows, sparking fears of more clashes.

Starmer’s administration plans to work with community leaders and law enforcement to prevent potential flashpoints. The Prime Minister declared, “We will not tolerate violence or intimidation.”

This situation follows intense protests and counter-protests, especially in cities. Civil rights groups urge the government for a comprehensive approach to tackle xenophobia and violence in society.

ECONOMISTS SOUND Alarm: 2025 Financial Crisis Looms

07 January 2025 — Economists are raising alarms about a potential financial crisis in 2025. David Kelly from JPMorgan warns that high stock market valuations pose a significant risk despite strong economic indicators like low layoffs and cooling inflation. Investors should be cautious as these inflated values could lead to a sudden market downturn.

Current economic signs show paychecks growing faster than prices, and stable gas prices offer optimism for Americans. However, the high asset valuations remain a critical concern for analysts. They suggest preparing for increased market volatility throughout 2025, with a crisis potentially emerging early in the year.

These warnings have led to cautious trading, especially in tech stocks that previously drove gains. Traders are balancing concern with optimism, causing fluctuating stock prices in early sessions.

This situation may prompt investors to reassess their portfolios and strategies as they navigate potential shifts due to changing market conditions. The economic concerns highlighted could significantly influence investor behavior and market dynamics moving forward.

WALL STREET Surges: Oil Price Drop Sparks Investor Optimism

05 January 2025 — Wall Street is climbing today, driven by a 6% DROP in oil prices. Investors are gearing up for a crucial week of earnings reports from major tech firms.

Tech and energy stocks are leading the way, with analysts hopeful about tech giants’ futures. However, there is still caution about the overall economic outlook.

The fall in oil prices comes from oversupply worries and easing geopolitical tensions, affecting inflation rates and consumer spending that Wall Street closely monitors.

While U.S. markets rise, Asian markets face recession fears linked to U.S. economic performance, showing global interconnectedness and financial volatility.

TRAGIC PLUNGE: Truck Plummets Into Ethiopian River, 66 Lives Lost

04 January 2025 — A tragic accident in southern Ethiopia claimed the lives of at least 66 people when a truck plunged into a river. The incident happened on January 4, 2025, involving market traders heading to a local market.

Rescue teams rushed to recover bodies and help survivors amid chaotic scenes described by eyewitnesses. This accident is one of the deadliest in recent history for the region, raising concerns about road safety.

Ethiopia struggles with road safety and infrastructure challenges, prompting government promises for thorough investigations and preventive actions. Overloaded vehicles are a major concern as authorities continue their probe.

TRAGIC CHAOS: Car Attack at German Christmas Market Sparks Fear

21 December 2024 — A Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, turned tragic when a car plowed into a crowd, killing five and injuring over 200. Authorities suspect terrorism as they investigate the incident. Several victims remain in critical condition.

U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller condemned the event as an “attack,” expressing condolences and support for Germany. Cardinal Dolan offered words of hope, stating that “light will prevail” after this tragedy.

Magdeburg Police identified the suspect as a 50-year-old Saudi doctor believed to have acted alone. The driver reportedly covered 400 meters before police subdued him at gunpoint.

NATO SUMMIT In DC: Biden’s RE-Election Doubts Shake Ukraine Support

09 July 2024 — World leaders are heading to Washington, D.C., this week for a historic NATO summit as uncertainty rises over continued U.S. support for Ukraine. The summit marks the 75th anniversary of the alliance’s founding and comes amid skepticism about President Biden’s re-election chances and their impact on Ukraine’s war with Russia.

Key issues on the agenda include Ukraine’s success in its war with Russia, its future within NATO, and how the alliance plans to bolster collective defense. The U.S. has been a major supporter of Ukraine, providing significant aid, sparking debate over whether this level of support can continue under a different presidency.

Former President Donald Trump has not clarified what U.S. involvement with NATO would look like if he wins a second term, leaving questions about future American support for the alliance and Ukraine unanswered. Experts believe Trump is unlikely to pull out of NATO altogether but note that the alliance is taking steps to safeguard its support for Ukraine should Washington reduce its involvement.

GLOBAL Elections SHAKE-UP: Major Voter Impact in Coming Days

28 June 2024 — In the coming days, voters in countries like Mauritania, Mongolia, Iran, Britain, and France will head to the polls. These elections could significantly impact global politics amid ongoing conflicts and economic concerns.

Iran faces a critical election following the death of President Ebrahim Raisi. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei seeks a successor among hard-liners Saeed Jalili and Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, and reformist Masoud Pezeshkian.

National elections this year are happening in over 50 countries with significant political changes in India, Mexico, and South Africa. Russia remains unchanged despite global shifts.

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.

GREEN AGENDA Hits Hard: Ofgem Warns of Financial Burden on Low-Income Consumers

13 March 2024 — The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) sounded an alarm on Monday. It cautioned that the shift towards a “Net Zero” carbon emissions economy could unfairly impact low-income consumers. These individuals might lack the financial resources to acquire government-approved technology or modify their lifestyle habits.

In the past year alone, debts from energy consumers have skyrocketed by 50%, amassing a total of £3 billion. Ofgem voiced grave concerns about struggling households’ limited resilience to future price shocks. The regulator also highlighted that the burden of recovering bad debts could pose serious threats to the retail energy sector.

Economic difficulties have already pushed British consumers into rationing their energy consumption. This has led to “harms associated with living in a cold, damp home,” potentially triggering an increase in mental health issues rates.

Tim Jarvis, Ofgem’s director general, underscored the necessity for a long-term strategy to manage escalating debt levels and shield struggling consumers from future price shocks. He mentioned that measures such as altering standing charges for prepayment meter customers and tightening requirements on suppliers had been implemented.

BODY SHOP Faces Uncertain Future: Insolvency Administrators Step In Amid Financial Crisis

14 February 2024 — The Body Shop, a renowned British beauty and cosmetics retailer, has enlisted the help of insolvency administrators. This move follows years of financial struggles that have plagued the company. Established in 1976 as a single store, The Body Shop has grown into one of Britain’s most iconic high street retailers. Now, its future hangs in the balance.

FRP, the appointed administrators for The Body Shop, have revealed that past owners’ financial mismanagement has contributed to an extended period of hardship for the company. These issues are exacerbated by a challenging trading environment within the broader retail sector.

Just weeks before this announcement, European private equity firm Aurelius took over The Body Shop. Known for their expertise in revitalizing struggling companies, Aurelius now faces a significant challenge with this latest acquisition.

Anita Roddick and her husband established The Body Shop in 1976 with ethical consumerism at its core. Roddick earned herself the title “Queen of Green” by prioritizing corporate social responsibility and environmentalism long before they became fashionable business practices. Today however, her legacy is threatened by ongoing financial difficulties.

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.

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

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.

STATE DEPARTMENT’S ‘Worldwide Caution’: The Shocking Implications for American Holiday Travelers

20 November 2023 — As the holiday season draws near, the State Department’s recent “Worldwide Caution” travel advisory has sparked anxiety among many Americans. However, experts reassure that conditions in most popular tourist spots remain stable.

James Hess, a professor at the School of Security and Global Studies at American Public University System, encourages alertness during international travel. Despite a seemingly delicate global security scene due to the Israel-Hamas conflict, he believes that Americans are savvy travelers.

The advisory came in response to escalating conflict in Gaza and was reissued last week. It cautions about potential terrorist attacks or violent incidents targeting U.S. citizens and interests overseas.

Despite these warnings, Hess underscores that tourism is a vital economic lifeline for many nations who strive to make American tourists feel secure during their visits.