China’s record trade surplus reveals its biggest strength – and hidden weakness

US initial jobless claims rose by 44,000 to 236,000 for the week ending December 6, marking the largest increase since the pandemic began. This surge in unemployment benefit applications contrasts with a narrowing trade deficit, which unexpectedly shrank to its smallest level since mid-2020 due to increased exports.

The US trade deficit unexpectedly narrowed in September to its smallest level since mid-2020, driven by a significant surge in exports. This development indicates a positive shift in the trade balance, reflecting stronger demand for American goods abroad.

Mexico has approved tariffs of up to 50% on various imports from China, prompting a strong response from Beijing, which criticized the measures as unilateral and harmful to Chinese interests.

China, along with several European nations, has raised objections to a proposed exemption for US multinationals from the OECD's global minimum tax framework, effectively stalling the agreement. This move highlights the tensions surrounding international tax policies and the influence of major economies in shaping these regulations.

China's oil demand is projected to plateau between 2025 and 2030, according to research from CNPC. This forecast indicates a significant shift in the country's energy consumption patterns as it navigates economic challenges and seeks to stabilize its energy market.

Chinese officials have announced a commitment to prioritize domestic demand in their economic policy roadmap for 2026, signaling a shift in focus towards internal consumption. This decision comes as part of broader efforts to stabilize and sustain economic growth in the country.

The US Federal Reserve has reduced its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points, responding to persistent inflation and slowing job growth amid a lack of government data due to a shutdown. This marks a significant monetary policy shift as the Fed navigates economic uncertainties.

European stocks have risen, showing resilience against a backdrop of declining markets in the US driven by concerns over artificial intelligence (AI) valuations. This upward movement in Europe comes despite a challenging week for the region's stocks, which had recently suffered their worst performance since August.