EU members seek safeguards in US tariff deal to protect industry

Silver prices have surged to a new record high, driven by persistent supply tightness and increasing expectations for an interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve in the United States this month. This rise reflects a significant demand for silver amid concerns over future supply constraints.

Australia's Treasury Wine has announced a potential impairment of its U.S. assets, leading to a significant drop in its share price, which has now reached a decade low. This development highlights ongoing challenges faced by the company in the U.S. market, raising concerns among investors about its financial health.

Asian stocks experienced fluctuations between gains and losses following modest increases in the US markets, as investors shifted their focus to upcoming economic data and an anticipated interest-rate cut by the Federal Reserve this month.

On Black Friday, brands like Edikted, Kendra Scott, and Bath & Body Works attracted the most shoppers in crowded stores across the US, indicating a shift in consumer preferences during the holiday shopping season.

The European Union (EU) is preparing to announce a plan aimed at reducing its dependency on raw materials sourced from China, reflecting increasing concerns over reliance on Chinese imports. This initiative is expected to address the bloc's vulnerabilities in supply chains amid rising geopolitical tensions.

The upcoming holiday season in the US is expected to reflect a divide, with wealthier consumers likely to spend more while others face financial constraints. Average salaries have risen, and certain regions report high household incomes, suggesting a robust market for luxury goods.

Global bond investors are increasingly viewing select emerging markets as safer investment options compared to the United States, marking a significant shift in market dynamics. This trend is expected to influence the performance of bonds in these regions positively, as investors seek stability amid global uncertainties.

The European Union is exploring the possibility of utilizing frozen Russian assets to provide significant financial support to Ukraine, potentially overcoming a Belgian block that has hindered progress. This move comes amid ongoing discussions about a proposed €140 billion EU loan to aid Kyiv in its financial needs.