A recent economic survey from the Bank of Canada reveals that business concerns over tariffs have eased slightly, leading to a modest recovery in confidence. However, elevated uncertainty in global trade continues to weigh on sentiment, prompting most companies to remain cautious in their strategies. Diverging expectations around inflation and interest rates highlight ongoing market hesitation. For investors in Hong Kong, staying attuned to shifts in Canadian monetary policy is essential for optimizing capital allocation and managing risk in an increasingly volatile global environment.
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U.S.-EU trade talks are in the final stretch, with the August 1 tariff deadline fast approaching. Global markets are watching closely to see if the two sides can strike a deal in time. Failure to reach a compromise could trigger a new wave of trade tensions, posing serious risks to the global economy and disrupting already fragile supply chains.
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As the U.S. housing market moves into the second half of 2025, it faces a tough balancing act between stubbornly high interest rates and declining buyer affordability. Homebuilder confidence continues to wane, and the pace of new construction is slowing, tightening supply in many areas. At the same time, home prices are beginning to adjust, with growing divergence between regions. These shifts are adding new layers of uncertainty to an already complex market. Stay informed with the latest real estate trends and key indicators shaping the future of housing.
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The U.S. dollar climbed past 147.90 against the Japanese yen, hitting its highest level in nearly five months. This surge was driven by stronger-than-expected U.S. retail sales and growing market expectations surrounding future trade policy shifts. Resilient consumer spending continues to bolster the greenback, while the yen remains under pressure due to ongoing economic weakness in Japan. Investors are closely watching the Federal Reserve’s next moves and the Bank of Japan’s policy stance. In the short term, USD/JPY appears to have further room to rise.
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The Federal Reserve’s $2.5 Billion Headquarters Renovation Draws Political Scrutiny
A proposed $2.5 billion renovation of the Federal Reserve’s historic headquarters is drawing political attention, with lawmakers questioning the scale and necessity of the project. In a rare move, Fed Chair Jerome Powell personally reached out to the White House to explain the rationale behind the overhaul. Powell emphasized that the renovation is both essential and compliant with all relevant regulations, assuring that the central bank remains committed to fiscal responsibility and rigorous oversight.
Curious how the Federal Reserve plans to balance preserving the building’s historic integrity while meeting modern operational needs? Click here to explore the full story.
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U.S. retail sales rose by 0.6% month-over-month in June 2025, beating market expectations and signaling strong consumer resilience. Despite persistent inflation and economic uncertainty, American households continue to spend on essentials and premium brands. Brick-and-mortar retail and the food service industry are showing signs of recovery, reflecting a shift toward a post-pandemic spending normal. Going forward, interest rates and consumer confidence will remain key factors influencing economic momentum.