This past weekend saw a flurry of activity across global economic and political landscapes. From China’s ambitious economic plans to international trade disputes and geopolitical maneuvering, here are the top stories that shaped the news cycle:

Economic Updates

• China Maps Out Plan to Raise Incomes and Boost Consumption
  In a strategic move to stimulate domestic demand, China has outlined a plan focused on increasing household incomes and encouraging spending. This initiative is expected to be a key driver in sustaining economic growth amid global uncertainties.
• Canada Flexes Economic Muscle Amid Tariff Negotiations
  As global trade tensions persist, Canada is asserting its economic influence in ongoing tariff negotiations. The country is positioning itself as a key player in shaping future trade policies.
• France’s Economic Landscape: Credit Rating Affirmed but Job Market at Risk
  France received a boost as Fitch affirmed its credit rating, offering some relief to investors. However, concerns remain as the nation’s job market faces a potential ‘tipping point’ due to slowing growth.

Trade and Policy Shifts

• US Senate Passes Stop-Gap Bill to Avert Government Shutdown
  In a crucial move to keep government operations running, the U.S. Senate approved a stop-gap bill, preventing an imminent shutdown and ensuring federal services remain uninterrupted.
• US Secretary Rubio Hints at Future Trade Deals Post-Tariffs
  With global trade negotiations evolving, U.S. Secretary Marco Rubio suggested that the country might engage in new trade agreements following adjustments to existing tariffs.
• French PM Criticizes EU Retaliatory Tariffs on the US
  France’s Prime Minister expressed concerns that the European Union is targeting the wrong sectors in its retaliation against U.S. trade policies, suggesting a need for a more strategic approach.
• Macron Calls for European Unity: ‘Stop Buying American, Buy European’
  French President Emmanuel Macron urged EU nations to prioritize European products over American imports, signaling a stronger push for economic self-reliance within the bloc.

Geopolitical Tensions and Security

• US Launches New Strikes Against Houthis in Yemen
  In response to ongoing security threats, the U.S. conducted a fresh wave of airstrikes targeting Houthi forces in Yemen, escalating tensions in the region.
• US Secretary Rubio and Russia’s Lavrov Discuss Ceasefire Deal
  High-level diplomatic discussions took place between U.S. Secretary Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, focusing on ‘next steps’ in advancing a ceasefire agreement.
• Trump May Speak to Putin on Ukraine This Week
  According to a U.S. envoy, former President Donald Trump may engage in direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
• Ukraine’s Allies Plan Military Chiefs’ Meeting
  In a bid to coordinate strategies and support, Ukraine’s allies are organizing a meeting of military leaders next week to discuss further military aid and tactical planning.

Financial and Market Reactions

• Federal Reserve in ‘Wait-and-See’ Mode Amid Investor Uncertainty
  As investors seek reassurance, the U.S. Federal Reserve remains in a cautious stance, monitoring economic conditions before making any major policy shifts.
• Treasury Secretary Bessent: White House Preventing a Financial Crisis
  U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent reassured the public that the White House is proactively addressing economic vulnerabilities to prevent potential financial instability.
• Trump Administration to Oil and Gas Industry: ‘You’re the Customer’
  In an apparent effort to bolster domestic energy production, the Trump administration reaffirmed its commitment to prioritizing the interests of the oil and gas industry.

Looking Ahead

With economic policies shifting, geopolitical tensions rising, and trade negotiations continuing, the coming weeks promise to be eventful. Stay tuned for further updates as these developments unfold.