China Cancels Platinum Tax Rebates That Have Stood Since 2003

U.S. stocks have surged recently, driven by optimism surrounding trade relations with China and a keen focus on upcoming corporate earnings reports. This surge is significant as it reflects investor confidence and could signal a positive shift in the market, potentially leading to increased economic activity and growth.

Ethiopia is engaging in discussions with China to convert a portion of its $5.38 billion debt into yuan-denominated loans. This move follows Kenya's lead and is significant as it supports China's goal of promoting the yuan on the global stage. By shifting to yuan, Ethiopia could potentially benefit from more favorable loan terms and strengthen its economic ties with China, which is increasingly becoming a key player in international finance.

China's GDP growth is projected to hit a one-year low in the third quarter, primarily due to a significant slump in the property sector and ongoing trade tensions that are dampening demand. This slowdown is concerning as it reflects broader economic challenges that could impact global markets and trade relationships, making it a critical issue for investors and policymakers alike.

Australia is emerging as a potential alternative source of rare earths for the United States, which is crucial for various high-tech industries. This shift is significant as it could reduce U.S. dependence on China, the current dominant supplier. By investing in Australian mining operations, the U.S. aims to secure a stable supply chain for essential materials used in everything from smartphones to electric vehicles, enhancing national security and economic resilience.

Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. (CATL) has reported a remarkable 41% increase in profit for the third quarter, showcasing its strong position as the world's leading electric vehicle battery manufacturer. This growth is significant as CATL not only maintains its dominance in the Chinese market but also expands its reach into international territories, highlighting the increasing global demand for electric vehicles and sustainable energy solutions.

Crude oil prices are continuing to decline due to concerns over supply and demand. Factors such as weak growth projections, the ongoing energy transition in China and the EU, and tensions from U.S.-China tariffs are contributing to this negative outlook. This matters because fluctuations in oil prices can significantly impact global economies and consumer behavior.

Soybean futures have reached a month-high in Chicago, driven by speculation that US President Donald Trump and China's President Xi Jinping may meet soon. This potential meeting has sparked optimism about a revival in agricultural trade between the two largest economies in the world. Additionally, stronger Chinese GDP figures are providing further support to soybean prices, highlighting the interconnectedness of global markets and the importance of diplomatic relations in trade.

China's economy is facing significant challenges as the ongoing trade war and weak domestic demand reveal deeper structural risks. This slowdown is concerning not just for China but for the global economy, as it could lead to reduced trade and investment flows. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for businesses and policymakers worldwide, as they navigate the implications of a less robust Chinese economy.

TheRealReal's stock has reached a 52-week high of $11.79, marking a significant milestone for the luxury consignment retailer. This surge reflects growing investor confidence in the brand's business model and its ability to thrive in the competitive e-commerce landscape. As more consumers turn to sustainable shopping options, TheRealReal's success could signal a positive trend for the resale market.

JPMorgan has raised alarms about the fallout from First Brands, indicating that it could lead to increased funding costs for banks. This situation highlights the growing concerns regarding hidden exposures to private capital firms and hedge funds, especially following recent instability in the credit market. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as they could impact the broader financial landscape and the stability of banking institutions.

Cleveland-Cliffs recently held its Q3 2025 earnings call, where despite reporting a revenue miss, the company's stock surged. This unexpected rise in stock value highlights investor confidence and optimism about the company's future prospects, suggesting that the market may be looking beyond short-term financial results to the long-term potential of Cleveland-Cliffs.

Wedbush has upgraded the stock rating of Replimune Group following the FDA's acceptance of their Biologics License Application (BLA). This is significant as it reflects confidence in Replimune's potential to bring innovative therapies to market, which could enhance investor interest and drive stock performance.

Liberty Broadband's stock has reached a concerning 52-week low, now priced at 57.7 USD. This decline raises alarms for investors, as it reflects broader market challenges and potential issues within the company. Understanding the reasons behind this drop is crucial for stakeholders looking to navigate their investments wisely.

The US government shutdown is expected to come to an end this week, according to White House adviser Kevin Hassett. This development is significant as it could restore normal operations and alleviate the financial strain on federal employees and services. The resolution of the shutdown reflects ongoing negotiations and the importance of bipartisan cooperation in addressing critical issues.