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China's 'Singles Day' shopping spree in spotlight as spending flags
China's 'Singles Day' shopping spree in spotlight as spending flags
by  AFP

China's largest online shopping bonanza wraps up on Monday, with analysts and investors watching for signs that consumption is rebounding in the world's second-largest economy after recent efforts by Beijing to boost activity. This year's Singles Day could represent a major boon for retail giants as analysts watch for signs that recent measures are having an impact.

Asian stocks drop as China support plan falls flat, bitcoin hits record
Asian stocks drop as China support plan falls flat, bitcoin hits record
by  AFP

Asian markets fell Monday after China's keenly anticipated plans to support the world's number two economy fell short of expectations, while traders were also keeping tabs on Washington as Donald Trump puts his cabinet together after last week's election win. "Yet President-elect Donald Trump’s policy proposals could lead to heightened macroeconomic volatility.

Trump victory poses challenges for the Fed's independence
Trump victory poses challenges for the Fed's independence
by  AFP

Donald Trump's return to the White House could put the independence of the US Federal Reserve under strain, potentially weakening its ability to fight against inflation and unemployment free from political interference. The Fed has a dual mandate from Congress to act independently to tackle both inflation and unemployment -- primarily by raising and lowering interest rates.

US farmers gird for trade wars on Trump tariff pledges
US farmers gird for trade wars on Trump tariff pledges
by  AFP

Donald Trump's first White House term saw a bruising trade war with China that left a lingering impact on farmers -- and many are bracing for further fallout as the President-elect threatens higher levies on Beijing.