Global Political and Economic Update
Good Morning
U.S. Intensifies Strikes Against Yemen's Houthis
The U.S. has launched more airstrikes against Yemen's Houthis due to an "imminent threat" to merchant vessels and U.S. Navy ships in the Red Sea area. This action triggered a series of chain reactions including a rise in oil prices. Meanwhile, Pakistan launched retaliatory missiles against militants in Iran, escalating tensions in the region.
TSMC Anticipates "Healthy Growth" This Year
Leading chipmaker TSMC expects to achieve "healthy growth" this year. With AI as the main driver, the company predicts its revenue could grow by as much as 25%. This news boosted TSMC's stock price in pre-market trading.
US-Japan-South Korea Joint Naval Exercise
The US Navy's USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier strike group participated in a joint naval exercise with Japan and South Korea in the waters off Jeju Island. From January 15 to 17, the three countries conducted a three-day joint exercise in the southern waters of the Korean Peninsula, focusing on blocking the maritime transportation of weapons of mass destruction and other maritime security threats. The exercise involved one US aircraft carrier, three warships, and two warships each from Japan and South Korea. The South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs also announced sanctions this week against individuals and entities involved in illegal maritime activities and supporting North Korea's nuclear and missile development.
UK's Largest Rolex Seller Sees Stock Plunge
Watches of Switzerland, the UK's largest seller of Rolex watches, saw its stock price fall nearly 30% after cutting its sales and growth forecasts. However, Cartier owner Richemont's shares rose due to strong jewelry demand in China and the U.S.
White House Meeting Boosts Hopes for Border Security and Ukraine Funding Deal
A recent White House meeting with congressional leaders raised hopes for a deal on stricter border security and funding for Ukraine. Despite limited concrete progress, House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed "cautious optimism."
China-Ireland Leaders' Meeting Strengthens Bilateral Ties
On January 16, 2023, Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar in Dublin. During the two-day official visit, the leaders discussed bilateral cooperation and China-Europe relations. Premier Li emphasized the healthy and stable development of China-Ireland relations over the past 45 years and announced unilateral visa exemption for Irish citizens. The Irish Prime Minister appreciated China's socio-economic achievements and reiterated Ireland's adherence to the One-China principle, expressing the desire to expand bilateral investment and strengthen cooperation in agriculture, innovation, and green technology. In 2022, bilateral trade between China and Ireland reached $23.8 billion, a 3.8% increase year-on-year.
Investment Experts' Advice on Where to Invest
In response to the question of "Where to invest $1 million," we sought the advice of four investment experts. Their suggestions include focusing on small caps, monitoring economic growth prospects in Vietnam and the Philippines, and paying attention to statements from Goldman's international chief at the Davos forum, who mentioned that the bank is looking to make fresh hires in its wealth and asset management units.
Kim Jong-un Announces Abandonment of Reconciliation and Unification Policy with South Korea
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un announced the complete abandonment of the policy of reconciliation and unification with South Korea. He plans to dismantle several institutions responsible for North-South dialogue and cooperation and advocates removing phrases like "peaceful unification and national solidarity" from the constitution, replacing them with content about "complete occupation, pacification, and recovery of South Korea" in case of war. Kim warned that war would lead to the total destruction of South Korea and vowed to use all means, including nuclear weapons, to punish enemies.
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