Fed on hold leaves Wall Street asking what it will take to cut interest rates

South Africa had become a global leader in medical research, particularly in HIV and TB, thanks to years of investment and collaboration. But recent funding cuts by the Trump administration—slashing nearly $2 billion from programs like PEPFAR—have gutted critical projects, shuttered labs, and left scientists scrambling. The damage isn’t just local; it weakens the world’s ability to fight infectious diseases.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about budgets—it’s about real-world consequences. South Africa’s research was a lifeline for global health, especially in tackling diseases that don’t stop at borders. Cutting funds doesn’t just hurt one country; it leaves everyone more vulnerable. And rebuilding what’s been lost could take years, if it happens at all.

The UK's new Labour government is pushing a major investment in affordable housing, arguing that the initial costs could be offset by broader economic gains—like job creation and reduced social inequality. It’s a big bet, but one that’s been a long time coming given the country’s housing crunch.

Editor’s Note: Affordable housing isn’t just about roofs over heads—it’s a domino effect. More homes mean lower rents, more stable families, and a healthier economy. After years of short supply and soaring prices, this could be a turning point if the numbers add up.

China is ramping up its exports in a big way, and it's sending ripples through global markets. Think of it like a sudden surge of Chinese goods hitting shelves worldwide—from electronics to machinery—often at prices that undercut local producers. This isn't just about more stuff being shipped; it’s a strategic move that could reshape trade dynamics, squeeze competitors, and even spark tensions with countries trying to protect their own industries.

Editor’s Note: When China floods the market with cheap exports, it’s a double-edged sword. Consumers might benefit from lower prices, but industries elsewhere could struggle to compete. This could lead to job losses, trade disputes, or even new tariffs. For anyone watching the economy, it’s a sign that the global trade chessboard is shifting—again.

The head of global energy trader Vitol predicts a small dip in U.S. oil production this year, blaming softer prices for making some drilling less profitable. While not a dramatic collapse, it signals that even the world's top oil producer isn't immune to market swings.

Editor’s Note: Oil prices dictate everything—from what you pay at the pump to geopolitical power shifts. If U.S. output slows, even slightly, it could tighten global supply just enough to nudge prices back up. Not earth-shattering, but a reminder of how delicate the energy balance really is.

The Bank of Japan (BOJ) is signaling a more cautious approach to reducing its bond purchases next year, as new economic risks loom. Instead of aggressively pulling back, they’ll ease off the brakes—a shift that suggests they’re wary of destabilizing markets or stifling growth.

Editor’s Note: The BOJ’s move reflects a balancing act central banks worldwide are facing: how to unwind pandemic-era stimulus without causing shocks. For Japan, it’s especially tricky—they’ve got stubborn inflation, a fragile yen, and global uncertainty. Slowing the taper might buy them time, but it also hints they’re not out of the woods yet.