Equities rebound after Trump cools China rhetoric but gold at record highs

Donald Trump recently stated on Fox News that the U.S. workforce lacks certain talents, suggesting the need for H-1B visas to fill these gaps. This comment has sparked anger among his MAGA base, who may feel that it undermines American workers. The controversy highlights ongoing debates about immigration and the skills available within the domestic labor market, raising questions about the balance between attracting foreign talent and supporting local employment.

New communications released by House Democrats allege that Donald Trump spent hours at Jeffrey Epstein's house in the company of a victim of sex trafficking. This revelation raises serious questions about Trump's associations and behavior, particularly in relation to Epstein, a convicted sex offender. The claims, which are based on an email, remain unverified but contribute to ongoing scrutiny of Trump's past connections and the implications they may have for his public image and political future.

The Senate has opted not to address health insurance subsidies, which is a significant factor contributing to the ongoing government shutdown. This decision reflects the complexities of legislative negotiations surrounding healthcare funding and its implications for millions of Americans relying on these subsidies. The failure to resolve this issue may prolong the shutdown and exacerbate the challenges faced by those dependent on health insurance support. The article also touches on other topics such as BillionToOne's IPO, China's advancements in biotechnology, and Lilly's recent eye drug deal, highlighting the broader context of innovation in the healthcare sector.

On November 12, 2025, a new memo from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) set the stage for President Trump to issue an executive order aimed at making deregulation a permanent fixture in U.S. policy. This move is significant as it could fundamentally alter the regulatory landscape, potentially impacting various sectors by reducing government oversight and intervention. The implications of such a permanent deregulation could lead to increased business freedom but also raise concerns about public safety and environmental protections.

Solvay, a Belgian company, has signed two contracts to supply rare earths to the United States, highlighting Europe's struggle to compete with the U.S. in breaking China's dominance in this critical market. The deals are significant as they underscore the ongoing geopolitical competition over rare earth resources.

The longest government shutdown in U.S. history has raised concerns about the future of SNAP benefits for the poorest Americans. President Trump's refusal to fund food stamps, a program favored by Democrats, has left many in doubt and anxiety about their access to essential support. This situation could lead to lasting damage to the safety net for vulnerable populations.

President Trump has stated that U.S. companies require specialized labor from foreign workers, claiming there aren't enough talented individuals in the U.S. to fill available jobs. This statement comes after he imposed an additional fee of $100,000 on the H-1B visa, which is used by companies to hire foreign skilled workers. Trump also remarked that it is not feasible to employ individuals who have been unemployed for five years. This situation raises concerns about the balance between domestic labor availability and the reliance on foreign talent, highlighting ongoing debates about immigration and labor policies in the U.S.

Former President Donald Trump has intensified his efforts to secure a pardon for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is currently embroiled in a long-running corruption trial. Trump has sent a letter to Israel's president advocating for this unprecedented intervention, which highlights the political dynamics surrounding Netanyahu's legal challenges. This development is significant as it reflects Trump's ongoing influence in international politics and raises questions about the implications of such a pardon on governance and accountability in Israel.