MORTGAGE INTEREST SUBSIDIES IN CHINA
Yuan holds firm against dollar as seasonal corporate selling offsets greenback strength
China's yuan remained stable against the US dollar as seasonal year-end dollar sales by exporters offset greenback strength following robust US jobs data. Beijing's efforts to manage currency appreciation, alongside foreign exchange reserve adjustments, supported stability. Meanwhile, inflation trends and subdued domestic demand continued influencing monetary policy and currency movements.
Trump says likely to meet Putin, Xi in China
US President Donald Trump is expected to meet with Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The meetings will occur during the Asia-Pacific summit in Shenzhen, China, on November 18-19. Discussion topics will include denuclearisation and efforts to end the ongoing war in Iran.
Rare earth magnet scheme: Coal India, IRP seek no sops; other contenders include ReNew, Prozeal
The scheme will run for seven years from the date of award, including a two-year gestation period for setting up an integrated manufacturing facility, and five years for incentive disbursement on the sale of REPM. These magnets are among the most powerful in the world and are widely used in electric vehicles, wind turbines, high-end electronics, aerospace and defence systems.
Gold's short-term volatility contrasts with long-term bullishness
Recently, gold prices have leveled out at approximately $4,000 an ounce after experiencing notable volatility throughout the year. This stabilization has attracted increased investor interest, spurred by central bank acquisitions amid economic unpredictability. Moreover, demand for gold jewelry has seen a significant uptick in regions like India and China, thanks to decreased prices.
Gold, silver prices may sway with US-Iran tensions
As the US-Iran conflict and crude oil pricing remain in focus, bullion prices are set to encounter downward pressure. Key economic data releases from China, the US, Germany, Japan, and India will significantly impact inflation and interest rate expectations. Market watchers will be attentive to Federal Reserve remarks and US job market indicators for cues on trends.
BoE’s Pill sees scope for interest rate cuts if UK growth stalls
Bank of England chief economist Huw Pill indicated that interest rates could remain steady or decline if economic growth stalls. Recent financial market predictions suggest potential for at least two interest rate increases within the next year. Economic growth has shown surprising strength, yet households are beginning to tighten their spending due to rising energy costs. While GDP growth is projected at 1.
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Gold edges up as softer crude tempers inflation concerns
Gold prices edged higher on Monday as softer oil prices eased inflation concerns, though gains were capped by expectations that the Federal Reserve will keep US interest rates higher
How China's clean-tech machine is reshaping the global climate fight
In 2024, China took the lead as the top investor in global clean technology, directing $132 billion to developing nations to aid carbon reduction efforts. This unprecedented infusion of resources could potentially reshape the landscape of international climate finance.
China confirms discussions are underway on a historic Xi-Trump-Putin meeting
Beijing has officially indicated it is coordinating a meeting between the leaders of China, the U.S., and Russia. This historic gathering may take place in Shenzhen later this month during a regional summit. Experts suggest the discussions will likely be superficial and primarily focused on optics rather than substantive issues. Both the U.S. and China are dealing with ongoing trade tensions and disagreements over multiple topics.
Nicki Minaj's $20 million Hidden Hills mansion nearly went to auction over a $503,318 debt before her last-minute payment
Nicki Minaj narrowly avoided a forced sale of her $20 million Hidden Hills mansion after paying a $503,318 court judgment on January 22, 2026. The payment came just before a judge was expected to decide whether the California property could be auctioned to recover the money owed to a former security guard.
China blocks SoftBank's $5.4 billion acquisition of ABB Robotics
China has blocked SoftBank’s $5.4 billion acquisition of ABB’s robotics business, disrupting the Japanese group’s AI-powered robotics expansion. The intervention highlights Beijing’s growing scrutiny of cross-border deals involving strategically important technologies.
The average US 30-year mortgage rate falls to 7.18% this week, its third straight decline
The average long-term mortgage rates in the U.S. decreased for the third consecutive week, offering some respite. The average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage declined to 7.18% from 7.24%, according to Freddie Mac. Additionally, the 15-year fixed-rate mortgages saw a drop to 6.57%, slightly down from last week. These lower rates help to alleviate the financial burden on prospective homebuyers facing increased costs.
US yields fall in choppy session as oil rises and equities sink
As geopolitical tensions change the landscape, US Treasuries are witnessing a spike in demand while equity markets take a hit and oil prices show volatility. Investors are reassessing their outlook on the US-Iran relations following new election results. The labor market remains resilient with dropping unemployment claims and heightened productivity levels, pointing towards ongoing inflation risk.
Bank of England set to raise interest rates for first time in three years as Iran war fuels inflation
The Bank of England is widely expected to raise interest rates for the first time in three years as the US-Iran conflict fuels energy prices and inflation. Policymakers remain divided over the need for further tightening and the risks to economic growth.
Iran lifts Hormuz transit curbs for ships from India, China, Iraq and Qatar, could ease pressure on India’s oil and gas supply
Iran has announced the lifting of transit restrictions for vessels from India, China, Iraq, and Qatar. This decision aims to enhance regional cooperation and facilitate trade, particularly in medicines from India. Iranian officials have noted that American forces do not intercept these ships, showing Tehran's strategic interests.
Democrats’ Senate win could shield Federal Reserve from Trump’s influence, but risks persist
Democrats’ midterm victory could strengthen the Federal Reserve’s independence by limiting President Donald Trump’s ability to appoint allies to its board. A Democrat controlled Senate could also intensify scrutiny of Fed Chair Kevin Warsh, with Elizabeth Warren likely to lead the Senate Banking Committee and challenge the administration’s banking reforms.
Battery component makers may get up to 50% capital subsidy
The ministry of heavy industries is evaluating various subsidy models to enhance domestic battery component manufacturing capacity. Proposed support includes capital subsidies and sales-linked incentives to promote local production. India aims for sufficient manufacturing capacity to support 50 GWh of annual battery cell production by 2032. Current costs of battery materials are significantly higher compared to those from China.
Pull it, not just for better FPIs: Scrap FPI capital gains tax to boost inflows, strengthen rupee and cut fiscal deficit
Scrapping the long-term capital gains tax could significantly enhance foreign portfolio investment in India. This move would likely lead to a stronger rupee and reduced fiscal deficit for the government. Historical data suggests that foreign capital flows have a direct correlation with the value of the rupee. The elimination of this tax could also support higher valuations and better disinvestment proceeds.
Indian battery component makers face up to 61% cost disadvantage against imports: Report
Indian battery component manufacturers are facing cost challenges that make local production more expensive than imported goods. The report indicates that high input costs hinder the growth of domestic manufacturing capabilities. Battery demand in India is expected to rise significantly by 2037, creating urgency for improvements in local production. The government is considering incentive options to support the industry and bridge the cost gap.
China Banks' applications for PBOC stock loan scheme exceed 200 billion yuan
China's central bank said applications for loans under its stock-purchase financing scheme have exceeded 200 billion yuan. The PBOC has also cut the relending rate to 1%, stepping up efforts to support share buybacks and stabilise equity markets.
Health insurance marketplace 2027: Obamacare premiums set to rise 13% as subsidies expire - will you pay more?
Healthcare marketplace: Obamacare premiums are expected to rise in 2027 as enhanced federal subsidies expire and eligibility rules change. With benchmark silver plan premiums projected to increase by 13%, many Americans could face higher costs, switch to cheaper coverage or struggle to keep their health insurance.
India likely to meet FY27 fiscal deficit target despite spending pressures: Goldman Sachs
The Centre appears on track to meet the fiscal deficit target set for FY27. Strong corporate tax collections are offsetting some revenue pressures observed in the first half of the fiscal year. The government's fiscal position improved significantly in September compared to August, aided by higher direct tax revenues. Focused expenditure reallocation will be crucial in achieving the deficit goals.
China lowers funding costs with shift to overnight policy rate
China's central bank has implemented a major alteration to its monetary policy by establishing an overnight lending rate, which injects substantial liquidity into the banking sector. This initiative seeks to alleviate costs for financial entities and stimulate economic growth in light of increased credit risks. Experts estimate this change could lower interest rates by 15 basis points, thereby maintaining profitability among financial institutions.
COP17 adopts Yerevan Pathway to fast-track biodiversity priorities
"Over these two weeks, we have demonstrated that differences can be bridged, commitments can become decisions and cooperation can deliver," said Matevosyan. While countries agreed to intensify efforts to halt biodiversity loss and protect nature, contentious factors including the thorny issue of who pays for initiating steps to protect nature were addressed through compromises.
Fiscal deficit in H1 rises to 42.1% of FY27 target on higher capex, subsidies
By September 2026, the Centre's fiscal deficit had escalated to ₹7.14 lakh crore, exceeding last year's figures. This increase is fueled by a 10.7% rise in total expenditure, largely a result of heightened capital spending and food subsidies, while petroleum subsidies sharply declined. Gross tax revenue, however, saw a modest growth of 6.1%, even with lower excise duty collections attributed to tax reforms.
'Height of insanity:' Trump ends VA mortgage rescue program; 15,000 veterans face higher payments, 700 see $1,000 hike
After the discontinuation of the Veterans Affairs Servicing Purchase program, many veterans are encountering significantly higher mortgage payments. Over 15,000 veterans have experienced payment increases of at least $150 due to loan modifications. More than 700 veterans have reported payment hikes exceeding $1,000 monthly, creating financial distress. The decision to end the program has left veterans with fewer options to manage their mortgages.
Will VA foreclosures rise further? Veterans with modified loans face higher monthly payments after VASP ended, and the new partial claim program does not help them
More than 15,000 US veterans have seen their monthly mortgage payments rise by at least $150 after the Trump administration ended a key VA relief programme in 2025. For over 700 veterans, the increase exceeded $1,000. An NPR investigation found that many were pushed into higher-interest loans, raising concerns about affordability and the risk of losing their homes.
Big dividends, bigger losses? The hidden risk in Wall Street's highest-yielding stocks
Several US stocks offer dividend yields exceeding 10%, led by mortgage REITs Annaly Capital Management and AGNC Investment above 16%. However, significant share-price declines highlight risks surrounding dividend sustainability, payout ratios, debt and overall investment returns.
Fed holds rates as inflation stays high, signals more hikes amid AI boom and energy costs
The Federal Reserve held its key rate steady at around 3.9%, signaling cautious optimism about inflation trends. Chairman Kevin Warsh emphasized the importance of inflation control while dismissing political influences on monetary policy decisions. Analysts expect a potential rate increase at the next meeting as inflation persists, affecting consumer sentiment. Some Fed officials dissented, indicating ongoing discussions about future rate hikes remain relevant.
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