In December, the U.S. trade deficit saw a marginal uptick, a contrast to the significant contraction observed throughout 2023. The Commerce Department’s Census Bureau reported a 0.5% increase, bringing the deficit to $62.2 billion. November’s figures were revised, showing a narrower gap of $61.9 billion compared to the previously stated $63.2 billion. Despite expectations for […]

International investors have continued to reduce their holdings in Chinese equities, with a net outflow of $2.6 billion recorded in January, according to data released by Morgan Stanley. Despite a slight moderation from the previous month, this trend highlights the ongoing challenges facing Chinese stock markets. In January, China’s CSI 300 Index fell by 6%, […]

Recent economic data has catalyzed a surge in mortgage rates, with the average rate on the 30-year fixed mortgage surpassing 7% for the first time since December. This rapid escalation followed stronger-than-expected reports, including January’s robust employment figures and positive indicators from the manufacturing sector. The fluctuations in mortgage rates since the summer, reaching a […]

India’s $4 trillion stock market has become a magnet for both domestic and foreign investors, drawing in billions of dollars as they seek a robust alternative to the challenges faced by China. Despite concerns about overpriced shares, impending elections, and regulatory uncertainties, the market has witnessed a surge in investments, propelling the benchmark NSE Nifty […]

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) recently released data indicating a decline in the world food price index, marking its lowest level in nearly three years. This decrease was driven by notable drops in cereals and meat prices. Wheat export prices saw a decline due to heightened competition among exporters and increased supplies from southern […]

In a noteworthy divergence, the Bank of England (BoE) opted to maintain its current interest rates at a 15-year high of 5.25%, marking the first split decision since the onset of the global financial crisis in August 2008. The decision, with six out of nine members of the Monetary Policy Committee voting to retain rates, […]

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised its global growth forecast for 2024, predicting a 3.1% expansion. This adjustment reflects the continued resilience of the global economy despite prevailing challenges. During a recent press briefing in Johannesburg, IMF Chief Economist Pierre Olivier-Gourinchas highlighted the unexpected strength of various economies, including the United States and key […]

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised upwards its growth projections for emerging Asian economies, foreseeing a solid expansion of 5.2% in 2024, despite a modest deceleration from the previous year. This adjustment, reflecting stronger-than-anticipated growth in China, signals promising economic resilience across the region. China, a pivotal driver of regional growth, has seen its […]

Morocco has announced a strategic move to bolster its renewable energy sector with a substantial annual investment of $1 billion in solar power projects. This initiative reflects the nation’s commitment to advancing its renewable energy goals while simultaneously reducing dependence on energy imports. According to a report from Hespress, Morocco’s plan entails steadily increasing its […]

NEW YORK/LONDON – Global stocks edged up marginally on Friday following the release of US inflation data by the Federal Reserve. The MSCI world equity index, tracking shares from 49 nations, recorded a slight 0.08% gain, reflecting cautious optimism among investors amidst concerns over government debt. The US Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation gauge, the Personal […]