Join LiveTrade to catch up on the hot news on December 5 about the Russia-Ukraine conflict and other major events around the world.
Russia-Ukraine Conflict: A Big Test for Trump’s Negotiation Skills
The Russia-Ukraine conflict has lasted nearly three years, presenting a challenging political puzzle for U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. He promised to stop the conflict within 24 hours of taking office through direct negotiations. However, it’s a tough challenge, as Ukraine maintains a firm stance, while Russia remains a nuclear power. The region’s future will depend on Trump’s negotiation abilities, which he proudly outlined in his book “The Art of the Deal.”
San Francisco Fed President: “No Rush to Cut Interest Rates”
President Mary Daly emphasized that there is no urgency to cut interest rates, as the U.S. economy remains stable. Fed Chairman Jerome Powell also agreed that the Fed will cautiously adjust to maintain growth. Forecast: The probability of the Fed cutting interest rates in December is 75%. Two additional 25 basis point cuts are expected in 2025.
Russia Should Negotiate with Trump Over Ukraine’s Future
Former Russian Prime Minister Sergey Stepashin believes Russia should begin negotiations with Trump, who will take office as U.S. President in January 2025. This move is deemed necessary after President Putin congratulated Trump, along with positive signals about U.S.-Russia relations.
Tensions Rise in Russia-Ukraine Situation
South Korean Opposition Pushes for Presidential Impeachment
The South Korean opposition needs eight votes from ruling party lawmakers to reach the two-thirds majority needed to pass an impeachment motion against President Yoon Seok-yue. If successful, Parliament could vote as early as Friday, with the Constitutional Court making the final decision. If approved, Yoon would be the second president impeached after Park Geun-hye in 2017. If suspended, Prime Minister Han Deok-soo will assume the presidency, and new elections will take place within 60 days.
Fed Cautious About Interest Rate Cuts
San Francisco Fed President Mary Daly emphasized that there is no immediate need to cut interest rates and recommended a careful policy adjustment in line with the current economy. Fed Chairman Jerome Powell stated that the strong U.S. economy and stable labor market allow the Fed to slow down rate cuts. Since September, the Fed has lowered rates by a total of 75 basis points. Market projections show a 75% chance of a rate cut this month, with two 25 basis point cuts in 2025.
Gold Prices Today: Continued Slight Increase
International gold prices reached $2,646.07 per ounce (updated at 09:30, December 5, 2024), up 0.03% in the last 24 hours (+0.83 USD). The small but steady increase keeps gold prices high.
Bitcoin Briefly Surpasses $104,000; Nearly 200,000 Positions Liquidated in 24 Hours
Bitcoin rose nearly 6% today, peaking at $104,000, a record high. Coinglass reported that nearly 200,000 people had their positions liquidated within the past 24 hours. Bitcoin’s strong rally is largely linked to the world entering a cycle of rate cuts, increasing investors’ risk appetite and Trump’s support. In his election speech, Trump said he would create a national strategic reserve for Bitcoin.
French Government Collapses for the First Time in 62 Years
The French Parliament passed a no-confidence motion, leading to Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s resignation after just three months in office. Reason: Deep disputes over the 2025 budget plan, including deficit-reduction measures. Consequence: President Macron is forced to appoint a new Prime Minister, while the economy faces uncertainty with a budget deficit exceeding 6% of GDP.
Fed Rate Cut Probability Increases to 77.5%
According to CME’s “Fed Watch,” the probability of a 25 basis point rate cut by the Fed in December has increased to 77.5%. This reflects high market expectations for economic stimulus measures.
Israel Admits to Airstrikes on Humanitarian Area in Gaza Strip
The Israeli Defense Forces confirmed they carried out an attack targeting senior Hamas members in the Khan Yunis humanitarian zone. The airstrike caused secondary explosions, raising suspicions about the presence of weapons in the area.
Explosion in Military Region 7: 12 Soldiers Injured
An explosion at the National Firing Range in Xuân Lộc District caused severe damage, leaving 12 soldiers injured. Authorities have recovered most of the remains. This tragic incident has inflicted heavy losses on the military.
UN Backs South Korea’s Decision to Lift Martial Law
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed support for President Yoon Suk-yeol’s decision to lift the emergency martial law. UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric noted that while martial law had caused significant chaos, Secretary-General Guterres appreciated the decision to remove the order.
International Crude Oil Eases Down 2%
Brent crude futures fell $1.31, or 1.78%, settling at $72.31 per barrel on Wednesday. U.S. crude futures (WTI) fell $1.40, or 2%, to $68.54.
Conclusion
December 5 saw significant developments, from the Russia-Ukraine conflict to global economic factors. From the Fed’s rate cuts and Bitcoin’s strong rebound to major political changes like the collapse of the French government, all signs point to the world entering a challenging yet opportunistic phase. With these hot updates, LiveTrade Pro will continue to bring you accurate, timely information to monitor market changes.