Spiraling Power Costs Are Now a Major Political Issue in the US

Fuel and energy prices are on the rise this year, contradicting earlier claims of stability. The increases in diesel and electricity prices are particularly alarming, raising concerns about the economic impact on consumers and businesses alike.

The rate of inflation in the UK has decreased, leading to expectations of lower mortgage rates. However, food prices continue to rise, creating a disparity in the economic landscape that affects consumers' purchasing power.

The European Union has raised its growth expectations for the eurozone this year. However, it has lowered its outlook for 2026 due to higher-than-forecast tariffs from the United States, which are anticipated to negatively impact economic growth in the region.

Japan and Switzerland's economies have contracted, primarily due to the impact of US tariffs on exports. The European Commission has raised its growth forecast for the eurozone, citing better-than-expected economic performance in the first nine months of the year. This growth was driven by a surge in exports and strong investment in equipment and intangible assets, particularly in Ireland. The continued growth in the third quarter indicates resilience in the European economy despite challenges.

The U.S. is making significant efforts to establish rare earth supply chains both domestically and internationally as it faces China's substantial control over these critical materials. This initiative is part of a broader competitive landscape referred to as 'Cold War 2.0.' The U.S. aims to reduce its dependence on China for rare earths, which are essential for various technologies and industries.

Grant Thornton International Ltd. is exploring options for its Indian unit, which is valued at $2 billion. A senior executive in India indicated that the company is considering a potential minority stake sale or a merger with its operations in the US or Europe.

India's trade deficit reached a record high in October, driven by a surge in imports linked to increased domestic demand following a reduction in consumption tax. In contrast, exports experienced a decline, largely attributed to tariff policies imposed by the United States. This situation highlights the challenges faced by India's trade balance amid changing global trade dynamics.

U.S. data flow is set to resume, which is expected to have significant implications for the markets. Investors are closely monitoring Nvidia's upcoming earnings report, as it could influence market trends and investor sentiment. The anticipation surrounding Nvidia's performance highlights the company's critical role in the tech sector and its potential impact on broader economic indicators.