The U.S. gold reserve remains a topic of suspicion as calls for an audit grow stronger. Elon Musk and several politicians advocate for transparency, sparking heated debate.
Rising Demand for U.S. Gold Reserve Audit, Musk Joins the Push
Many question whether the U.S. truly holds 4,580 tons of gold, as the last full audit was conducted in 1974. Some suggest Elon Musk should leverage his influence to push for an audit, though he argues that the gold reserve is inspected annually. Senator Rand Paul supports a comprehensive audit, continuing the stance of his father, Ron Paul. Meanwhile, Senator Cynthia Lummis proposes replacing gold with Bitcoin as the national reserve asset.
Gold Prices Stabilize After Adjustment, Market Focuses on Fed Policy and Trade Uncertainty
Gold prices hover around $2,895 per ounce after a sharp decline but maintain a seven-week winning streak. The adjustment is attributed to profit-taking by investors following a rapid price surge. Expectations of a Fed rate cut in September support gold prices, as lower interest rates reduce the appeal of bonds. Central banks, particularly in Asia, continue to buy gold, reinforcing a long-term bullish trend.
Trump Proposes 50% Stake in Ukraine’s Mineral Resources, Kyiv Rejects Deal
Trump has proposed that Ukraine cede 50% of its mineral rights in exchange for military aid. However, President Zelensky has rejected the offer, citing concerns over national sovereignty and the lack of long-term aid commitments. The U.S. argues that its presence in Ukraine’s mining sector would help deter Russia. Ukraine, meanwhile, seeks European participation in resource extraction to reduce dependency on the U.S.
Dallas Fed President: Lower Inflation Doesn’t Guarantee Immediate Rate Cuts
Dallas Fed President Lorie Logan warns that despite inflation nearing 2%, the Fed is not certain to cut interest rates immediately. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for January 2025 rose by 0.5%, the highest increase since 2023, raising concerns about persistent inflation. Some Fed officials prefer to wait for additional data before making a decision. Logan emphasizes that the Fed prioritizes price stability and controlling inflation at the 2% target.
UK Prime Minister Ready to Deploy Troops to Ukraine for Peacekeeping
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has expressed readiness to deploy peacekeeping forces if a peace agreement is reached in Ukraine. He will meet European leaders in Paris to discuss the matter. Starmer’s statement could pressure other European nations, while the UK aims to position itself as a mediator between Europe and the U.S. in Ukraine’s peace process.
Hamas Ready to Hand Over Gaza to Palestinian Authority
Hamas has declared its willingness to transfer control of Gaza to the Palestinian Authority. Hamas government employees will either be reintegrated or retire with financial guarantees. This marks a significant step in Palestinian reconciliation efforts.
U.S. Sends Heavy Bombs to Israel, Shifting Middle East Policy
The Trump administration has lifted a suspension and sent MK-84 bombs to Israel, signaling a major shift in U.S. Middle East policy. This move comes as Israel and Hamas negotiate a ceasefire. Far-right Israeli factions urge leveraging Trump’s support to continue attacks on Hamas. The conflict, ongoing since October 2023, has resulted in over 48,000 deaths in Gaza.
Trump Declares State of Emergency in Kentucky Due to Flooding
Trump has declared a state of emergency in Kentucky due to severe storms, flooding, and landslides starting on February 14. He has also ordered federal aid to assist the state in recovery efforts.
Trump Plans to Meet Putin Soon
Trump stated that both President Putin and President Zelensky want to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict soon. While a meeting date with Putin has not been set, it is expected to take place in the near future. Trump believes Zelensky may also participate in negotiations regarding Ukraine.
Munich Security Conference Ends with U.S.-Europe Divide
The 61st Munich Security Conference has concluded, highlighting a clear divide between the U.S. and Europe. U.S. Vice President Vance’s speech raised European concerns about shifting U.S. policies. The conference chairman stressed that Europe must take a more proactive approach to security to avoid being sidelined.
Ukrainian President Zelensky Visits UAE for Prisoner Exchange, Investment Talks
Zelensky has traveled to the UAE to seek support in negotiating prisoner exchanges with Russia. He also aims to strengthen economic cooperation and investment between Ukraine and the UAE.
Legislative Reform to Unblock Economic Bottlenecks
Vietnam is working toward refining its socialist-oriented market economy. The focus is on creating a fair competitive environment and streamlining administrative reforms to boost growth.
Bitcoin Price on February 17: Market Remains Flat
Bitcoin hovers around $41,938 after failing to break the $45,821 resistance level. Selling pressure persists as prices undergo correction.
Russia-Ukraine War: Russian Paratroopers Raid Bakhmut Stronghold
A Sputnik video from February 15 shows Russian paratroopers attacking a Ukrainian stronghold in Bakhmut. With support from BMD-2 armored vehicles, they launched an assault and eliminated Ukrainian forces in the area.
Conclusion
The debate over auditing the U.S. gold reserve continues to attract attention from politicians and influential figures. While there are differing opinions on the approach, this issue is expected to remain a hot topic in the near future. A comprehensive audit could clarify information about this crucial national asset, and for Elon Musk, it presents an opportunity to showcase his influence in American politics.
