China and Japan, With Trump in the Middle, Are in a Showdown

Japan's leading indicator of service inflation rose to 2.7% in October, reflecting ongoing pressures on consumer prices. This increase is significant as it indicates a persistent inflationary trend that exceeds the Bank of Japan's target, prompting discussions about monetary policy adjustments.

Oil prices have steadied near a month-low following indications of progress towards a peace deal in Ukraine, which could lead to the lifting of restrictions on Russian crude supplies amid a looming global oversupply. This stabilization comes after a period of volatility influenced by geopolitical developments.

China's stock and bond markets are showing signs of decoupling, as the traditional inverse correlation between equities and debt is breaking down. Recent market dynamics indicate that expectations of monetary easing by the People's Bank of China (PBOC) are not driving bond prices higher despite stock losses.

U.S. presidential envoy Steve Witkoff recently advised a senior Kremlin official on a phone call about collaborating on a plan for Ukraine, indicating a potential shift in diplomatic strategies concerning the conflict. This outreach suggests an effort to align perspectives between the U.S. and Russia regarding Ukraine's future.

Volkswagen has announced the completion of a new R&D centre in Hebei, eastern China, enabling the company to develop new cars entirely outside Germany for the first time in its history. This move aims to strengthen its position in the world's largest auto market.

South Korea's private equity fund industry has proposed new self-regulation measures following controversies, including the failed buyout of Homeplus Co. by MBK Partners, led by billionaire Michael Kim, which has eroded public trust and prompted calls for stricter oversight.

On November 25, 2025, Bloomberg Businessweek Daily featured a discussion on the potential nomination of Kevin Hassett as the next Federal Reserve Chairman, alongside insights into US cybersecurity challenges linked to AI and the philanthropic priorities of affluent women. The episode highlighted the growing influence of AI technologies, particularly in the context of companies like Google and Nvidia.

The ongoing trade war with the United States, coupled with bans on U.S. wine imports and a recent distributor strike in British Columbia, has prompted Canadians to increasingly support their local wine industry. Notably, sales at Cannon Estate Winery in Abbotsford have surged by 66 percent this year.