‘Kink’ in VIX Curve Shows Anxiety Over Trump’s Meeting With Xi

The recent escalation in tensions between Colombia and the US has caused Colombian dollar bonds to decline, disrupting a recent rally. President Donald Trump's accusation against Colombian President Gustavo Petro, labeling him an 'illegal drug leader,' has raised concerns about potential economic retaliation. This situation is significant as it not only affects the bond market but also highlights the fragile diplomatic relations between the two nations, which could have broader implications for trade and investment.

Soybean futures have reached a month-high in Chicago, driven by speculation that US President Donald Trump and China's President Xi Jinping may meet soon. This potential meeting has sparked optimism about a revival in agricultural trade between the two largest economies in the world. Additionally, stronger Chinese GDP figures are providing further support to soybean prices, highlighting the interconnectedness of global markets and the importance of diplomatic relations in trade.

Donald Trump's venture into the cryptocurrency world through DT Marks Defi LLC is proving to be a lucrative endeavor, potentially earning him billions. This development is significant as it highlights the intersection of politics and finance, showcasing how influential figures are leveraging emerging technologies like cryptocurrency to enhance their wealth. As the landscape of digital currencies evolves, Trump's involvement could shape public perception and investment trends in this space.

As trade talks between the U.S. and China resume, President Donald Trump has outlined key issues, including rare earth minerals and fentanyl, which are critical to the negotiations. This is significant as it highlights the ongoing tensions and the potential for tariffs, which could impact global markets and supply chains. The focus on these specific demands underscores the complexities of U.S.-China relations and the importance of finding common ground.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and top Communist Party officials are gathering in Beijing to outline the country's next five-year plan, focusing on industrial development. This meeting is crucial as it sets the direction for China's economic policies. However, recent economic data suggests challenges ahead, highlighting the importance of this planning session in addressing potential issues.

This week, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is set to meet with China's Vice Premier He Lifeng in Malaysia for crucial trade talks. With key issues like rare earths, fentanyl, and soybeans on the agenda, these discussions could significantly impact the economic relationship between the two nations. Understanding the outcomes of these talks is essential for businesses and investors alike, as they could shape future trade policies and market dynamics.

Copper prices have surged over 1% following US President Donald Trump's efforts to alleviate trade tensions with China. This positive movement comes as Beijing reassures that its economy is on track to meet growth targets for the year. This development is significant as it reflects a potential stabilization in US-China relations, which could benefit global markets and investors alike.

South Korea's top policy chief announced that significant advancements have been made in tariff discussions with the US, highlighting the importance of these negotiations for both economies. The talks, which took place over the weekend, included a unique golf event attended by South Korean business leaders and Donald Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate. This progress could lead to improved trade relations and economic benefits for both nations.

TheRealReal's stock has reached a 52-week high of $11.79, marking a significant milestone for the luxury consignment retailer. This surge reflects growing investor confidence in the brand's business model and its ability to thrive in the competitive e-commerce landscape. As more consumers turn to sustainable shopping options, TheRealReal's success could signal a positive trend for the resale market.

JPMorgan has raised alarms about the fallout from First Brands, indicating that it could lead to increased funding costs for banks. This situation highlights the growing concerns regarding hidden exposures to private capital firms and hedge funds, especially following recent instability in the credit market. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as they could impact the broader financial landscape and the stability of banking institutions.

Cleveland-Cliffs recently held its Q3 2025 earnings call, where despite reporting a revenue miss, the company's stock surged. This unexpected rise in stock value highlights investor confidence and optimism about the company's future prospects, suggesting that the market may be looking beyond short-term financial results to the long-term potential of Cleveland-Cliffs.

Wedbush has upgraded the stock rating of Replimune Group following the FDA's acceptance of their Biologics License Application (BLA). This is significant as it reflects confidence in Replimune's potential to bring innovative therapies to market, which could enhance investor interest and drive stock performance.

Liberty Broadband's stock has reached a concerning 52-week low, now priced at 57.7 USD. This decline raises alarms for investors, as it reflects broader market challenges and potential issues within the company. Understanding the reasons behind this drop is crucial for stakeholders looking to navigate their investments wisely.

The US government shutdown is expected to come to an end this week, according to White House adviser Kevin Hassett. This development is significant as it could restore normal operations and alleviate the financial strain on federal employees and services. The resolution of the shutdown reflects ongoing negotiations and the importance of bipartisan cooperation in addressing critical issues.