In a landmark move on Friday, the Bank of Japan (BoJ) raised its short term interest rate by 25 basis points to 0.75%. This unanimous decision raises borrowing costs to their highest level since 1995, sending a powerful signal that the nation is decisively exiting its era of ultra-loose monetary policy.

The European Central Bank kept its policy rate unchanged at 2.00% at the December meeting, opting to maintain current settings as the macro picture shows signs of resilience.

The latest Bureau of Labor Statistics report reveals a softening labor market as 2025 concludes. Total nonfarm payrolls grew by a modest 64,000 jobs in November, following an October loss of 105,000. This indicates that employer demand is no longer as strong as it was earlier in the economic cycle.

China Vanke, long considered one of the most resilient major developers amidst the country's severe property downturn, is now facing escalating debt pressure and growing risks of default. The sharp decline in its bond prices signals a potential turning point in China’s ongoing real estate crisis.

The US Supreme Court is preparing to hear a high-stakes case that could reshape the balance between the White House and independent federal institutions.

The United States military seized a large oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela on Wednesday, widening Washington’s efforts to pressure Nicolás Maduro’s government.

The Federal Reserve delivered its third consecutive 25-basis-point reduction in December, bringing the federal funds rate down to 3.5%-3.75%, its lowest level since 2022.

Markets are approaching the last FOMC meeting of the year with one dominant view: the Federal Reserve is preparing to cut rates again.