Saudi Arabia has achieved a major leap forward in its Vision 2030 ambitions, with a significant number of its key initiatives either completed or advancing on schedule, according to the Vision 2030 Annual Report 2024. As of the end of last year, 85 per cent of the 1,502 active projects under the reform plan are either finalised or progressing as planned, demonstrating an accelerated pace towards economic […]
Technology stocks surged on April 24, 2025, lifting broader U.S. markets as optimism grew over easing tariff tensions between the United States and China. Investors responded positively to reports suggesting that trade officials from both countries were nearing a compromise to de-escalate tariffs imposed over the past two years. The Nasdaq Composite climbed 2.5% to close at 16,012.34, marking its highest level in over five months. The […]
Matein Khalid The last time the U.S. Dollar Index plummeted 9% in the first four months of a year was way back in 1973, when Richard Nixon sat in the White House on the eve of Watergate, the October War in the Sinai/Gulan, the Arab oil boycott and a savage 40% bear market in U.S. equities. Last week provided a respite from the tsunami of greenback selling […]
Trinidad and Tobago’s political landscape intensified as the ruling People’s National Movement and the opposition United National Congress delivered final appeals to voters, promising to revitalise the economy and curb surging crime rates ahead of Monday’s election. Both parties, addressing energetic crowds across the islands, positioned economic resilience and public safety as their foremost commitments. Prime Minister Keith Rowley, leading the PNM, outlined a vision to modernise […]
Dr Imran Khalid President Donald Trump’s erratic dance with tariffs continues to confound not just global markets but even his own team. On April 22, in a move that underscored the White House’s habitual policy incoherence, Trump declared that the “very high” tariffs on Chinese goods would soon be “substantially reduced.” This comes after days of raising them dramatically at the start of the month, then selectively exempting key electronics sectors – moves that reflect both strategic […]
The SPDR Gold Shares ETF , the world’s largest gold-backed exchange-traded fund, experienced a significant outflow of $1.3 billion on April 22, 2025—the largest single-day withdrawal since 2011. This substantial movement reflects a notable shift in investor sentiment, as market participants reallocate assets in response to evolving economic indicators and geopolitical developments. Sees Largest Weekly Outflow Since 2022 on Trump Win – Bloomberg)
The outflow coincided with a decline in gold prices, which fell nearly 2% to $3,318.71 per ounce. This drop followed U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to retract his threat to dismiss Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell and his expression of optimism regarding a potential trade agreement with China. These developments reduced the perceived need for safe-haven assets like gold, prompting investors to reassess their portfolios.
Simultaneously, the U.S. dollar and stock markets rebounded, further diminishing gold’s appeal. Analysts, including OANDA’s Kelvin Wong, cited these factors as triggers for the selloff, though he noted that potential upside movement in gold remains. Despite this short-term dip, gold had previously surged to a record high of $3,500 per ounce, and JP Morgan anticipates it could exceed $4,000 next year.
The broader context includes a significant surge in gold prices earlier in April, driven by investor concerns over the weakening U.S. dollar and President Trump’s economic policies. Gold reached a new peak of over $3,500 per ounce before settling at $3,426, marking a nearly 30% increase since Trump’s return to office. Analysts at JPMorgan predict gold could hit $4,000 by mid-2026, fueled by purchases from central banks and retail investors.
However, the easing of trade tensions and positive developments in U.S.-China relations have led to a reassessment of risk, with investors moving away from traditional safe havens. European gold funds, for instance, experienced significant inflows earlier in April, with approximately €1 billion poured into gold exchange-traded commodities during the week ending April 18, 2025. This marked the highest level of inflows since mid-January, reflecting rising investor demand for safe-haven assets amid escalating market volatility sparked by U.S. trade tariffs.
Despite these inflows, the subsequent outflows from GLD indicate a shift in investor strategy. The Bank of America’s April 2025 Fund Manager Survey revealed that institutional investors are adjusting their portfolios in response to global economic fears driven by U.S. tariff policies and escalating concerns of a recession. The survey indicated that investor expectations for economic growth have dropped to 30-year lows, with 82% predicting a weaker global economy this year. In response, money managers are moving away from high-risk sectors like technology and U.S. equities, instead turning to safer investments.
Gold has emerged as the top asset, with 42% of fund managers favoring it—up from 23% in March—due to its reputation as a safe haven in volatile markets and hedge against inflation. This surge in interest is mirrored by the SPDR Gold Shares ETF surpassing $100 billion in assets under management and gold prices hitting record highs above $3,300 an ounce.
Walmart China has introduced a programme aimed at assisting Chinese exporters in enhancing their domestic sales, aligning with Beijing’s efforts to mitigate the impact of escalating US tariffs. The initiative seeks to integrate these exporters into Walmart’s supply chain, simplifying the approval process and facilitating easier access to the domestic market. This move comes as Chinese exporters face challenges due to a 145% tariff hike from the US, prompting the Chinese government to encourage local businesses to pivot towards domestic sales.
Despite government encouragement, many Chinese exporters remain hesitant to redirect their goods to the domestic market. Factory owners cite lower profits, weak demand, aggressive price competition, delayed payments, and high return rates as significant deterrents. Efforts by China’s commerce ministry, including organizing local matchmaking events and issuing support through firms like JD.com and Meituan, have been met with skepticism by small and medium-sized enterprises. These businesses argue that the proposed support falls short of addressing structural challenges, emphasizing the need for fiscal stimulus, rising consumer incomes, and stronger social safety nets to boost domestic consumption.
Walmart’s initiative also includes expanding its e-commerce platform, Walmart Marketplace, within China. The company has established offices in 11 cities nationwide, including Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Hangzhou, offering support in product selection, operational guidance, and both online and offline training to help international sellers grow their businesses on the platform. Additionally, Walmart unveiled its 2025 new seller incentive programme, offering up to $75,000 in incentives, with benefits such as preferential logistics services.
However, Walmart’s efforts to mitigate the impact of US tariffs have not been without controversy. The company has faced pushback from Chinese suppliers after requesting significant price reductions to offset the cost of tariffs. Some suppliers, including producers of kitchenware and clothing, have been asked to lower their prices by as much as 10% per round of tariffs, essentially shouldering the full cost of the duties. This approach has led to tensions with Chinese authorities, who have summoned Walmart executives for discussions. State broadcaster CCTV’s official social media account criticized Walmart’s demands, stating that they “may violate commercial contracts” and warning that “the consequences for the company will go beyond just a discussion” if it continues to press for discounts.
Dubai has become a premier destination for real estate investment, drawing attention from around the world due to its favorable regulatory environment, economic stability, and strategic location. The emirate’s real estate sector has consistently attracted international investors, and the regulatory changes implemented over the past few years have only strengthened its appeal. In this article, Elkhan Salikhov, CEO and co-founder of Elite Merit Real Estate LLC […]
President Donald Trump is set to host an exclusive dinner on May 22 at the Trump National Golf Club in Washington, D.C., inviting the top 220 holders of his $TRUMP memecoin. This announcement has led to a significant surge in the coin’s value, with prices climbing over 60% to reach $16.17, marking its highest level since early March.
The event, organized by Fight Fight Fight LLC, stipulates that eligibility is determined by average holdings between April 23 and May 12. Attendees must pass a background check and cannot be from countries on Know Your Customer watchlists. The top 25 holders will receive additional perks, including a VIP reception and a special tour with the president. However, the event terms note that Trump may not attend, in which case winners would receive a limited edition Trump NFT instead.
Launched on January 17, 2025, just days before Trump’s inauguration, the $TRUMP coin is hosted on the Solana blockchain. Initially, 200 million tokens were released, with plans to expand the total supply to 1 billion over three years. Approximately 80% of the tokens are held by CIC Digital LLC and Fight Fight Fight LLC, entities linked to the Trump Organization. The coin’s market capitalization has reached approximately $2.6 billion, ranking it as the 37th-largest cryptocurrency.
Tensions between OPEC+ members are escalating, with Kazakhstan’s defiance in adhering to production quotas leading to renewed volatility in the global oil market. This clash, stemming from the group’s efforts to enforce stricter production controls, has driven a fresh downturn in crude oil prices. Kazakhstan’s resistance to cuts is threatening to ignite a price war, undermining the coalition’s broader strategy of stabilising global oil prices. Since early […]
S&P Global has downgraded Bahrain’s economic outlook from “stable” to “negative,” citing growing concerns over the country’s financial stability. The global ratings agency’s decision reflects a combination of market volatility, higher social spending, and an increasingly strained fiscal environment. The shift in outlook suggests that Bahrain faces heightened risks that could further destabilise its economic trajectory. The decision comes at a time when Bahrain is grappling with […]
By Nitya Chakraborty Chinese President Xi Jinping has won the first round in the protracted battle against Donald Trump over his declaration of tariff war against China. After waiting for long three weeks for a personal call from XI Jinping offering talks to discuss the proposed tariff hikes, Trump partially retreated on Tuesday when he […]Global markets have been jolted by the ongoing trade dispute between the United States and China, with far-reaching consequences on global economies. Amid this financial instability, India stands out as one of the countries managing the storm with resilience, both politically and economically. While several nations have seen their stock markets fluctuate and their economies face setbacks, India’s performance remains relatively stable, prompting analysts to look closer […]
The International Monetary Fund has sharply downgraded its global economic outlook for 2025, attributing the slowdown to U.S. President Donald Trump’s expansive tariff regime and the resulting policy uncertainty. In its latest World Economic Outlook, the IMF projects global growth at 2.8% for 2025, down from 3.3% forecasted in January, marking the slowest pace since 2020 and the second weakest since the 2009 financial crisis. The U.S. […]
Oil prices experienced a significant decline of over 2% on Monday, with Brent crude falling to $66.81 per barrel and West Texas Intermediate dropping to $63.58. This downturn is attributed to progress in US-Iran nuclear negotiations and escalating concerns over the impact of US tariff policies on global demand. The potential easing of sanctions on Iran could reintroduce over a million barrels per day of crude into the market, intensifying supply pressures.
The decline in oil prices poses a substantial challenge to Gulf economies, particularly those heavily reliant on hydrocarbon revenues. S&P Global Market Intelligence has indicated that Oman, Bahrain, and Iraq are at heightened risk of financing pressures if the current price trends persist. These nations, already contending with fiscal deficits and limited sovereign reserves, may face increased borrowing costs and potential credit downgrades.
Conversely, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar are better positioned to withstand prolonged periods of lower oil prices. Their diversified economies and substantial sovereign wealth funds provide a buffer against market volatility. However, even these nations are not immune to the broader economic implications of sustained low oil prices.
The broader financial markets have also reacted to these developments. Major Gulf stock indices experienced declines, with Saudi Arabia’s TASI index falling by 0.7% and Qatar’s index decreasing by 0.3%. These market movements reflect investor apprehension regarding the stability of oil-dependent economies in the face of fluctuating energy prices.
Adding to the complexity is the political climate in the United States. President Donald Trump’s renewed criticism of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has raised concerns about the central bank’s independence. This political interference is contributing to market uncertainty and could have implications for global economic stability.
The potential for a US recession further exacerbates concerns. Analysts warn that the combination of tariff policies and political instability could dampen economic growth, leading to decreased demand for oil. This scenario would place additional strain on oil-exporting nations, particularly those with less diversified economies.
Cardano founder Charles Hoskinson has reaffirmed his commitment to foundational principles over market valuations, emphasising that the long-term success of cryptocurrencies hinges on decentralisation, transparency, and real-world utility rather than short-term price movements.
In a series of public statements and interviews, Hoskinson has consistently highlighted the importance of adhering to the core values that underpin the cryptocurrency movement. He argues that the true potential of blockchain technology lies in its ability to empower individuals and foster global inclusivity, rather than serving as a vehicle for speculative gains.
Hoskinson’s perspective is shaped by his extensive experience in the crypto industry, having co-founded Ethereum before establishing Cardano. He has witnessed the volatility and hype cycles that often dominate the market, cautioning against the distractions they pose. Instead, he advocates for a focus on building robust, scalable systems that can deliver tangible benefits across various sectors, including finance, education, and healthcare.
Central to Cardano’s philosophy is the emphasis on scientific research and peer-reviewed development. This approach aims to ensure that the platform’s evolution is grounded in rigorous analysis and long-term viability. Hoskinson believes that such a foundation is essential for achieving “perfect operability,” where information, value, and state can seamlessly move across different blockchain networks.
However, he acknowledges that regulatory challenges remain a significant hurdle. Hoskinson points out that inconsistent and often restrictive policies across jurisdictions can impede innovation and adoption. He calls for a more harmonised regulatory framework that balances oversight with the need to foster technological advancement.
In line with his vision for a decentralised future, Hoskinson has been vocal about the importance of community governance. He envisions a system where stakeholders have a direct say in the protocol’s development, ensuring that the network evolves in a manner that reflects the collective interests of its users. This democratic approach is exemplified by Cardano’s ongoing efforts to implement on-chain governance mechanisms.
Hoskinson’s commitment to principles over price is further evident in his stance on market speculation. He warns against the dangers of equating a cryptocurrency’s value solely with its market price, arguing that such a narrow focus can lead to unsustainable practices and undermine the technology’s broader potential. Instead, he urges the community to consider the societal impact and transformative capabilities of blockchain solutions.
This ethos is reflected in Cardano’s initiatives aimed at driving real-world adoption. The platform has been actively involved in projects across Africa, seeking to provide decentralised solutions for identity verification, supply chain management, and financial inclusion. Hoskinson views these efforts as critical steps toward demonstrating the practical benefits of blockchain technology.
Oil prices surged over 3% on Thursday, marking the first weekly gain in three weeks. Brent crude futures settled at $67.96 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate closed at $64.68 per barrel. The uptick was driven by renewed optimism over a potential trade agreement between the United States and the European Union, coupled with the imposition of new sanctions targeting Iran’s oil exports. The prospect of a […]
JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 April 2025 – VinFast announces the milestone of delivering 400 VF 3 electric vehicles to Indonesian dealers and customers in just two months after its launch. This milestone not only affirms VinFast’s superior production capacity and process optimization capabilities but also demonstrates the strong appeal of the VinFast VF 3 to consumers in Indonesia and the wider region. Just […]
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 April 2025 – Even the most seasoned CFD traders can fall into psychological traps—from chasing the hype to holding poor trades out of stubborn hope. Emotional biases can cloud judgment and lead even experienced traders to costly blunders. However, psychological resilience reduces the risk of a loss. Octa Broker, as part of its commitment to traders’ education, explores […]
Leading premium bathroom brand ARROW is expanding its presence in Vietnam, bringing a world-class living experience to local consumers through a strategic partnership with DASH Co., Ltd. HO CHI MINH, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 April 2025 – Global smart bathroom solutions provider ARROW has officially entered the Vietnamese market, attracting widespread attention and positive reception from consumers and industry partners alike. With over 30 […]
Abu Dhabi is intensifying its investment in cultural infrastructure, exemplified by the development of the 17,000-square-metre teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, despite fluctuations in oil prices. Situated within the Saadiyat Cultural District, this immersive digital art museum is poised to become a significant attraction in the emirate’s cultural landscape.
The teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi is designed to offer visitors an interactive experience where art, technology, and nature converge. The installations are dynamic, responding to environmental stimuli such as light and air, creating a constantly evolving artistic environment. This approach aligns with the broader vision of the Saadiyat Cultural District, which aims to be a hub for cultural dialogue and innovation.
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, has emphasized the role of such institutions in fostering creativity and cultural exchange. He highlighted that the Saadiyat Cultural District hosts a concentration of cultural institutions that narrate stories of the UAE and the world, promoting artistic expression and creativity.
The Saadiyat Cultural District is already home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, which has attracted over five million visitors since its opening in 2017. The district is also set to include the Zayed National Museum and the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, further solidifying its status as a global cultural destination.
The development of these institutions is part of Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to diversify its economy and reduce reliance on oil revenues. By investing in cultural tourism, the emirate aims to attract a global audience and position itself as a center for arts and culture in the region.
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 April 2025 – Trading success often depends on whether or not one can pinpoint potentially profitable assets before sharp price movement. This is particularly evident in crypto, where high volatility is the norm. Technical analysis—an analysis of historical price action and chart patterns—is one of the main methods to predict price direction. Candlestick analysis, a part of technical […]
By Nitya Chakraborty Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser to the interim government Dr. Muhammad Yunus is presently in the midst of his diplomatic triumph by successfully outreaching to the major countries of the world including the two super powers. After having a major success in getting all the support from the Chinese President Xi Jinping during his […]Oil prices have plummeted to a four-year low, posing significant challenges for Saudi Arabia’s budget, which heavily relies on oil revenues to fund its extensive economic transformation initiatives. The decline is attributed to a combination of factors, including increased oil output from OPEC+ members and escalating trade tensions between the United States and China. Brent crude, the benchmark for Middle Eastern oil, has experienced a drop of […]
