Matein Khalid Thank God my macro instinct flashed a “get out” SOS in late February and I dumped King Dollar for Bonnie King Charlie’s British pound before New Year late last year and thus averted fate worse than death/Matty miskeen. My macro guardian angel now whispers a few subliminal ideas. One, Chinese factories shed 20 million workers last week and hiring is down 30%. So the youth […]
Fifteen publicly listed Bitcoin mining firms collectively sold more than 40% of their mined BTC in March, marking the most significant monthly liquidation since October 2024. This trend underscores the mounting financial pressures faced by miners due to escalating operational costs and evolving market dynamics.
Marathon Digital, one of the largest Bitcoin mining companies, reported selling over 60% of its mined Bitcoin in May, amounting to 390 BTC out of 616 BTC produced. This move reflects a broader strategy among miners to liquidate assets in response to reduced profitability following the Bitcoin halving event in April, which cut mining rewards from 6.25 BTC to 3.125 BTC per block.
Other major players, such as Riot Platforms and CleanSpark, have adopted varied approaches. Riot Platforms disclosed no BTC sales in May despite producing 215 BTC, while CleanSpark sold only a small portion of its 417 BTC production. These decisions highlight the diverse strategies miners are employing to navigate the post-halving landscape.
The sell-off trend is not isolated to a few companies. In February, the combined market capitalization of 15 major Bitcoin mining stocks dropped by $13 billion, reflecting broader market volatility and the challenges miners face in maintaining profitability. Companies like Bitdeer and Hut 8 experienced significant declines in their stock prices, with Bitdeer leading the downturn with a 55% loss.
To mitigate these challenges, miners are exploring various strategies. Marathon Digital is expanding its operations overseas, partnering with the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum of the Republic of Kenya to optimize renewable energy projects. The company also initiated a pilot project in Paraguay to enhance its energy structure, aiming to have 50% of revenues coming from overseas by 2028.
Hut 8, in collaboration with Eric Trump, launched a new Bitcoin mining company named American Bitcoin. This venture focuses on building a significant Bitcoin reserve and plans to go public in the future to enhance capital access. Hut 8 will serve as American Bitcoin’s exclusive infrastructure and operating partner, indicating a strategic shift towards energy and digital infrastructure.
CHENGDU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 April 2025 – On April 16, the “2025 Chengdu International Friendship Cities Cooperation and Development Forum”, hosted by the Chengdu Municipal People’s Government and organized by the Foreign Affairs Office of the Chengdu Municipal People’s Government, officially kicked off in Chengdu. This conference was themed on “Hand in Hand, Sharing and Winning Together”. Major activities included the opening ceremony, […]
Gold prices in Dubai have surged to unprecedented levels, with 24-karat gold breaching the Dh400 per gram mark for the first time, while 22-karat gold has climbed to Dh372.5 per gram. This significant uptick reflects a broader global trend, driven by escalating geopolitical tensions, central bank acquisitions, and concerns over U.S. fiscal policies.
The global spot price of gold has experienced a notable increase, currently trading around $3,024 per ounce. This marks a gain of over 15% since the beginning of the year, propelled by economic and geopolitical uncertainties. Bank of America has adjusted its gold price forecasts accordingly, now projecting an average of $3,063 per ounce for 2025 and $3,350 for 2026, up from previous estimates of $2,750 and $2,625 respectively. The bank also suggests that increased investment demand could push prices to $3,500 within two years.
In the United Arab Emirates, the surge in gold prices has been particularly pronounced. The Dubai Jewellery Group reported that 24K gold reached Dh400 per gram, while 22K gold rose to Dh372.5 per gram. This trend is consistent with the global market, where gold has been rallying due to its status as a safe-haven asset amidst economic instability.
Analysts attribute the surge to several factors. The ongoing trade policies of the U.S., particularly under President Donald Trump’s administration, have introduced significant uncertainty into global markets. The imposition of tariffs and the potential for reciprocal measures have heightened investor anxiety, leading to increased demand for gold.
Central banks have also played a pivotal role in the gold market’s dynamics. Currently, they hold about 10% of their reserves in gold, but there is potential for this figure to rise beyond 30%, offering additional support to prices. The anticipation of increased central bank purchases is contributing to bullish sentiment in the market.
In the Middle East, geopolitical tensions have further fueled the demand for gold. The region’s instability has historically led investors to seek refuge in precious metals, and the current climate is no exception. The combination of regional conflicts and global economic concerns has created a perfect storm for gold prices to soar.
Retailers in Dubai are witnessing the impact of these price movements firsthand. The surge in gold prices has led to a shift in consumer behavior, with many opting for lighter jewelry pieces or alternative investments. Despite the higher costs, demand remains robust, underscoring gold’s enduring appeal as a store of value.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 April 2025 – Loft Logistics, a 3PL logistics service provider in Singapore, is proud to announce its business expansion into Malaysia with a new warehouse in Shah Alam, Selangor. Loft Logistics Shah Alam Warehouse Driving Growth in Southeast Asia This strategic move enhances Loft’s capabilities, providing seamless logistics and fulfilment services that support businesses in both Singapore and Malaysia. Since […]
By Dr. Gyan Pathak The game of political hunting, which is typically characterised in India by cases, raids, seizures, and arrests, which generally do not lead to conviction, but enable the government to pin its adversaries down for years without trial in cases registered by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), seems to be reaching its climax. […]OpenHarmony, the open-source operating system founded by Huawei, has made significant strides in its global outreach with the debut of its first-ever European Technical Forum in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. The event marked a key milestone for the project, showcasing its potential for cross-industry innovation and emphasising its commitment to an open, collaborative technological ecosystem. The OpenHarmony project has rapidly evolved since its inception, attracting developers, industry experts, […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Majid Al Futtaim, the Emirati retail conglomerate, has unveiled a substantial AED 5 billion expansion plan for Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates, aiming to enhance its status as a premier shopping and entertainment destination in the Middle East. The project will introduce an additional 20,000 square metres of retail space and accommodate 100 new stores, reinforcing the mall’s position in the region’s competitive […]
Global capital turned its back on ESG last year. But that shift, we believe, is temporary and mistaken. ESG investing should and will return to favour, not just because it’s aligned with the challenges and priorities of our time, but because it remains one of the most rational long-term strategies for investors and economies alike. The numbers from 2024 were stark. Global sustainable fund inflows halved. In […]
HAIKOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 April 2025 – The fifth China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE), held on the tropical island province of Hainan, has reaffirmed the country’s position as a vital marketplace for global enterprises. The high-tech exhibits and beachside fashion shows at the 5th CICPE. This year’s expo has drawn record participation from over 4,100 brands across 71 countries and regions, reflecting […]
Insights on the Potential of Commercial Data: A Path to Enhanced Financing Efficiency and Financial Inclusion HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 April 2025 – The World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit 2025 held for the first time in Hong Kong. PAO Bank Limited (“PAObank”) has been invited to participate in the World Internet Conference Asia-Pacific Summit 2025, held for the first time in Hong […]
Google will implement a new advertising policy across the European Union from April 23, mandating that all cryptocurrency-related advertisers be authorised under the Markets in Crypto-Assets regulation and certified by Google. This move aligns the tech giant’s advertising standards with the EU’s comprehensive crypto regulatory framework, aiming to enhance consumer protection and market integrity.
Under the updated policy, advertisers promoting crypto exchanges, wallets, or related services must obtain Google certification, which requires proof of authorisation as Crypto Asset Service Providers under MiCA. Non-compliance will trigger a minimum seven-day warning period before potential account suspension.
MiCA, fully applicable since December 2024, establishes a unified regulatory framework for crypto assets across the EU. It aims to streamline the adoption of blockchain and distributed ledger technology while safeguarding users and investors. The regulation mandates that CASPs adhere to stringent requirements, including capital reserves, governance standards, and consumer protection measures.
Google’s policy update reflects a broader industry trend towards stricter oversight of crypto advertising. The company had previously revised its policies in January 2025 for the UK market, requiring advertisers to be registered with the Financial Conduct Authority and certified by Google. Similar measures are now being extended to the EU, with specific transition periods for certain member states: Finland until June 30, 2025; France until June 30, 2026; and Germany until December 30, 2025.
The enforcement of these policies is expected to impact a wide range of crypto businesses operating within the EU. Advertisers must ensure compliance with both Google’s certification process and MiCA’s regulatory requirements to continue promoting their services on the platform. This dual-layered approach aims to mitigate risks associated with unregulated crypto promotions and enhance the overall trustworthiness of crypto-related advertisements.
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 April 2025 – In online trading, speed is king. Below, the experts at Octa, a regulated and trusted broker since 2011, break down the aspects of trading where speed matters most and offer an accessible way to accelerate trading progress. The modern world revolves around speed and solutions that solve problems faster than their predecessors. Speed advantage determines […]
Saudi Arabia is preparing to pay off Syria’s outstanding $15 million debt to the World Bank, a move that could unlock significant international aid for the country’s reconstruction and support its struggling public sector. This initiative marks the first known instance of Saudi financial assistance to Syria since the Islamist-led overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. The debt repayment is expected to facilitate the […]
Global oil demand projections for 2025 have been adjusted downward by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries , marking the first such revision since December. The updated forecast anticipates a growth of 1.30 million barrels per day in 2025, a reduction of 150,000 bpd from previous estimates. Similarly, the 2026 forecast has been lowered to 1.28 million bpd. This adjustment reflects weaker-than-expected data from the first […]
President Donald Trump has affirmed that Chinese-made electronics, including smartphones and laptops, will not be exempt from U.S. tariffs, signaling a continuation of his administration’s protectionist trade policies. Despite a temporary 90-day pause on certain tariffs, Trump clarified that these products remain subject to existing levies and may face additional duties under national security considerations. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick announced that electronics will be reclassified under semiconductor […]
The Bank also sponsored buka puasa meals for over 300 foodpanda riders in Melaka, Terengganu, Negeri Sembilan, and Perak KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Neswire – 14 April 2025 – In conjunction with the holy month of Ramadhan, Hong Leong Islamic Bank (“HLISB” or the “Bank”) distributed 1,000 buka puasa meals to foodpanda e-hailing delivery riders in its ‘Senyum-Senyum Ramadhan‘ initiative, bringing the festive spirit and […]
Pi Coin has gained significant momentum, increasing by over 25% in a single day, with its price surpassing $0.75. This surge places Pi Coin among the leading altcoins for the day, reflecting growing optimism in the cryptocurrency community. Over the last 24 hours, Pi Coin has recorded a remarkable 30% rise, with its value climbing approximately 52% over the past week. The recent jump in Pi Coin’s […]
U.S. shale oil producers are confronting a challenging landscape as falling crude prices, escalating tariffs, and global market shifts undermine the sector’s profitability and growth prospects. Despite technological advancements that have bolstered production efficiency, the convergence of economic and policy pressures is prompting a reassessment of the industry’s trajectory.
Crude oil prices have declined to approximately $55 per barrel, a level below the $65 threshold that many U.S. shale companies require to maintain profitable operations. This price drop is attributed to a combination of increased output from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and the impact of tariffs on imported equipment, which have raised operational costs for domestic producers. The U.S. Energy Information Administration has adjusted its 2025 crude price forecast downward from $70.68 to $63.88 per barrel, reflecting these market dynamics.
The rig count, a key indicator of drilling activity, has experienced a significant decline. According to Baker Hughes, the number of active oil rigs in the U.S. fell by nine in the past week, marking the largest single-week drop since June 2023. The Permian Basin, the nation’s most prolific shale region, saw its rig count decrease by five to 289, the lowest level since December 2021. This trend suggests a cautious approach among producers in response to the current economic environment.
President Donald Trump’s administration has advocated for increased domestic energy production as part of its “America First” agenda. However, the imposition of tariffs, particularly on steel and other imported equipment essential for drilling operations, has inadvertently strained the sector. Industry analysts warn that these policies may counteract efforts to achieve energy dominance by making U.S. oil less competitive on the global stage.
Efforts to expand U.S. energy exports have also encountered obstacles. The administration’s proposal for the European Union to purchase $350 billion worth of American energy products to address trade imbalances has been met with skepticism. European officials cite logistical challenges, existing long-term contracts with other suppliers, and a strategic emphasis on energy diversification as barriers to such a substantial shift in procurement.
Despite these challenges, U.S. shale production is projected to reach new heights. BloombergNEF forecasts a 4.5% increase in output, bringing production to a record 13.9 million barrels per day in 2025. This growth is attributed to improved drilling techniques and efficiencies that allow for greater output with fewer rigs. However, the sustainability of this growth is uncertain amid the current economic pressures.
The industry’s focus has shifted toward capital discipline and shareholder returns, moving away from aggressive expansion strategies. This shift, combined with the financial strain of tariffs and low oil prices, has led to a more conservative approach to drilling and investment. Some companies are exploring mergers and acquisitions as a means to consolidate resources and reduce operational costs.
Technological advancements continue to play a role in enhancing production efficiency. Innovations such as longer lateral wells and simultaneous fracturing of multiple wells have improved output per rig. However, the benefits of these technologies may be offset by the increased costs associated with tariffs and the need for significant upfront investment.
Matein Khalid “We went eyeball to eyeball and the other guy blinked” – JFK said about Nikita Peasantovich Shoe Bangarov after Stalin’s henchman in the Red Terror back down in the Cuban missile crisis. Trump has gone eyeball to eyeball with the bond market and Xi Jinping but only the Dragon Empire’s Emperor for Life has blinked while the bond vigilantes have gone berserk in the netherworld […]
By Anjan Roy Just as Donald Trump’s tariffs had shaken the world and the financial markets, a sudden brake on their implementation had equally shocked leaders to market sloggers as much. President Trump had equally abruptly pushed back the time when his “reciprocal” tariffs were to kick in. He deferred it by ninety days and […]
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 April 2025 – Hong Kong-listed International Entertainment Corporation (1009.HK)(IEC or the Company), a Manila-based casino and hotel operator, has struck a provisional licensing deal with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), pledging $1 billion USD to $1.2 billion USD to fuel its forward-thinking growth plans in the Philippines’ booming gaming sector. International Entertainment Corporation has struck a […]
Ajman Bank has divested its stake in Gulf Navigation Holding, concluding a series of direct share transactions valued at AED 173.4 million over the past month. Data from the Dubai Financial Market indicates that nine direct deals, each ranging between 2.6 million and 9 million shares, were executed since March 5. This move signifies the bank’s complete exit from its investment in the Dubai-based shipping company. Previously, […]
First Abu Dhabi Bank PJSC , the largest lender in the United Arab Emirates by assets, is undergoing another wave of executive departures as it implements a significant internal restructuring aimed at reinforcing its regional dominance and enhancing shareholder value. Chief Credit Officer Neil Barrable is stepping down less than a year after his appointment, citing personal reasons. Barrable joined FAB in June 2024 from HSBC Holdings […]
