Chile’s, Colombia’s central banks expected to hold rates this week

Colombia's government is taking a proactive step by purchasing gold directly from small-scale producers to combat illegal mining and criminal activities. This initiative aims to formalize the booming gold market, which has been driven by rising prices, and could significantly reduce the influence of criminal organizations in the region. By supporting legitimate miners, the government hopes to create a more sustainable and regulated industry, benefiting both the economy and local communities.

In a recent statement, Pete Hegseth highlighted the alarming impact of drug cartels, claiming they have caused more American deaths than Al-Qaeda. This comes as the U.S. military conducted strikes on alleged drug boats off the coast of Colombia, resulting in the deaths of 14 individuals. This action underscores the ongoing battle against drug trafficking and its devastating effects on communities, emphasizing the need for robust measures to combat this crisis.

Chilean police have conducted a raid on the offices of Codelco, the world's largest copper producer, as part of an investigation into a fatal accident at one of its mining sites. This incident raises serious concerns about safety practices in the mining industry and the accountability of major companies like Codelco. The outcome of this investigation could have significant implications for mining regulations and public trust in the industry.

Anglo American has issued a warning that its copper production for 2026 may fall short of expectations due to difficulties at a mine in Chile. This news is significant as it could exacerbate the existing tightness in the copper market, impacting prices and supply chains globally.

Copper prices have dipped even with the positive sentiment surrounding U.S.-China trade discussions and the mining company Anglo American reassessing its output guidance in Chile. This decline highlights the volatility in the commodities market, where optimism can quickly shift to caution, impacting investors and industries reliant on copper.

Banco del Estado has made headlines by issuing Chile's first blue bond on global markets, marking a significant step in the growing trend of blue bond sales across Latin America. This unexpected surge in the market not only highlights the increasing interest in sustainable investments but also signals that more issuances may be on the horizon. Investors are optimistic about the potential for further growth in this sector, which aims to fund projects that benefit ocean and water resources.

A recent Reuters poll indicates that Taiwan's economic growth is expected to slow in the third quarter, primarily due to the impact of tariffs. This slowdown is significant as it reflects the ongoing challenges faced by Taiwan's economy amidst global trade tensions. Understanding these economic shifts is crucial for investors and policymakers alike, as they navigate the complexities of international trade and its effects on local markets.

Malaysia's trade minister has confirmed that the country's ban on raw rare earths exports will continue, despite a recent deal with the U.S. This decision is significant as it reflects Malaysia's commitment to managing its natural resources sustainably while balancing international trade relations. The ongoing ban may impact global supply chains, particularly for industries reliant on rare earth materials.

Former President Donald Trump has indicated that he might have a conversation with China's President Xi Jinping regarding Nvidia's latest 'super-duper' Blackwell chip. This potential dialogue highlights the ongoing technological competition between the U.S. and China, particularly in the semiconductor industry, which is crucial for advancements in AI and computing. As both nations vie for leadership in technology, discussions like these could shape future collaborations or tensions.

John Denton, the Secretary General of the International Chamber of Commerce, recently shared insights on the impact of trade wars on businesses during an interview at the APEC CEO Summit in Gyeongju, South Korea. His discussion highlights the uncertainties that arise from these trade conflicts, which are crucial for understanding the current global economic landscape. As businesses navigate these challenges, Denton's perspective sheds light on the importance of international cooperation and dialogue in mitigating risks and fostering a more stable trade environment.

SoftBank, Panasonic, and Hitachi are experiencing a surge in their stock prices following the announcement of new investment plans in the United States. This development is significant as it reflects a growing confidence in the U.S. market and the potential for these companies to expand their operations and influence in a key global economy.

Oil prices have dipped as concerns grow over potential sanctions on Russia and an increase in output from OPEC+. This situation is significant as it reflects the ongoing geopolitical tensions and their impact on global oil supply, which could lead to higher prices for consumers and affect economic stability.