U.S Archives - Uluzon

Blinken to announce new funding in relation to Sudan Amid Ongoing Crisis

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is expected to announce more aid for humanitarian programs in Sudan and strategies to support civil society during a closed UN Security Council debate on Thursday. This is a meeting, which Blinken will be convening, is aimed at drawing attention to the suffering of Sudanese people and push for safeguarding of civilians.

China’s export growth rate declines, imports fall ahead of Trump’s additional tariffs

According to exports and imports data that China released for November, export expansion has considerably decelerated far quicker than analysts had estimated while imports shrank prominently than what was anticipated earlier as Trump prepares to bring back unfriendly trade practices.

Key Trade Figures

Exports Growth: Increased by 6.7%, less than estimates of an 8.5% increase and below October when the figure was 12.7%.

Imports: Sinking by 3.9%, it was the lowest increase in nine months, in contrast to the forecast of a 0.3% rise.

Trade Surplus: Rose to $97.44 billion in November from $95.72 billion October owing to lower import levels.

Tariff Tensions Loom

Trump has said he will slap a 10% tariff on Chinese products to deal with the issues such as trafficking of precursor chemicals for fentanyl, which may lead to tariffs above 60%. They go a long way in aggravating the trade war between the two countries, unlike China which relies so much on exports.

China also perceives rising trade tensions with EU, where chargers ranging from 17.5% to 45.3% on imported electric vehicles from China is indicative of another potential trade war.

Internal Factors and Micro Level Forces

China’s economy is already grappling with:

An extended property market plunge, which has undermined hoping among homeowners and firms.

Slow global demand recovery as marked by subdued export numbers from other competing economies such as Korea and Vietnam.

Reduced import numbers that have been attributed to a decline in commodity prices.

Commodity Imports: Mixed Signals

Despite the overall drop in imports, specific commodities showed resilience:

Crude oil imports were up by 14.3% annually for the same reasons including low Middle Eastern oil prices and stockpiling.

Coal imports increased by 26% to new record levels because it is cheaper than domestic products.

There were mixed opinions on when copper imports could return to the levels before their decline in May, but they edged up to their highest in a year, which could have contributed to more optimistic signs in property and construction markets.

Policy Outlook

Ministers and other consultants are urging more potent fiscal measures at home to counter any negative effect of the new tariffs from the United States. Proposed measures include:

Specifically, it has sustained the growth rate to 5% in 2024.

Promoting the domestic consumers as a way of avoiding over dependence in exports.

Oasis for the local governments and the troubled property market.

Industry and Market Reactions

Manufacturers said business conditions have recovered in November at the highest level in seven months, albeit export orders remain subdued. They are storing products in foreign premises, a trend set to rise, thanks to exporter’s inventory management strategies.

Xu Tianchen, a senior economist at the Economist Intelligence Unit, cautioned that whether due to front-loading of imports prior to Trump’s tariffs, the real consequence has not started yet and will begin to emerge in the coming months.

Global Trade Context

China’s imports and exports have decelerated in line with other big exporters such as South Korea where exports to China shrank for the first time in eight months presumably due to slump in demand for re-exported components.

There are many factors that negatively affect China’s economy, which come from global and internal environment. As Trump has continued a tariff on China’s exports, Beijing has to manage increasing trade risks internally in order to support the economy. Biff Economic and Politics With China’s economy under tremendous pressure, investors and policymakers are waiting for signals from the Politburo based on upcoming Politburo meetings.

Bitcoin Surges to Ksh. 13 Million as Expectations on Trump’s Crypto Plan Rises

The red-tracking digital currency raced through the $100,000 (around Shs13 million) for the first time on Thursday, fuelled by positive vibes on Trump’s incoming administration policy on the virtual money. This hallmark is indicative of increasing institutional acceptance fees, regulatory certainty, and optimism over the futures of digital resources under Trump’s presidency.

Since Trump’s election win, the digital currency has risen more than 45 percent due to optimistic view on less smokey and Trump’s promise to make America a hub for bitcoins.

Institutional Adoption and Regulatory verde

Entrepoeneurs of the crypto industry such as the CEO of Galaxy Digital Mike Novogratz said the price increase signified a ‘paradise shift’ and digital currencies were set to become mainstream within financial systems. Market demand supported by institutional investors has provided traction to it along with high-profile developments in the blockchain and tokenized financial economics.

Confidence has also found its footing from the expectations for Trump’s deregulation plan. The appointment of Paul Atkins for nomination as the director of the SEC is an indication that Owen will now relax the polices implemented by the current SEC Chair, Gary Gensler.

Over $4 billion has been invested in Bitcoin ETFs that are listed in the United States since the election, and acceptance is now ramping up. Such ETFs have provided institutional and retail investors opportunity to invest in the Bitcoin and therefore contributed to the market activity.

Trump’s Crypto Agenda

Trump has promised to transform the United States into the “crypto capital of the planet,” highlighting plans for:

National Bitcoin Stockpile: Trump has suggested the country should start stockpiling Bitcoin.

Crypto Advisory Council: As the struggle for influencing the regulatory framework continues, major industry actors such as Ripple and Circle are ready to step into the center of the fight.

Business Investments: Trump World Liberty Financial and his media company’s proposed purchase of crypto trading firm Bakkt establish him as a player in the industry.

They have also been backed by Elon Musk, a Trump friend and a crypto enthusiast.

Market Reactions

Bitcoin’s rally has lifted other crypto-related assets:

Some stocks related to the use of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies such as mining firms including MARA Holdings gained 65% in November.

Trading of options on crypto ETFs has increased, and call options have dominated puts.

Crypto gurus are also bullish with some expecting Bitcoin to cross $120,000 before Christmas.

Caution Amid Optimism

Despite the optimism, critics warn of potential risks:

The extraction of bitcoins is still an energy-consuming process.

The industry is still in a process of overcoming numbers of scandals, especially FTX and new restrictions and bans.

Speculative activity can cause the stock market cycling up and down, and generate bracketing of stocks for quick profits.

Market participants are waiting to see how Bitcoin will handle above $100,000 with prognoses that such a level could attract more institutional investors.

The Road Ahead

Breaking the Ksh.13 million mark, provided further bullish signals for the cryptocurrency market, with each new price rise giving a thumbs up for mainstream adoption. That Trump administration is set to push through drastic changes in regulating cryptocurrency means that the situation remains ripe for increased growth within the sector although it’s not without controversy and opposition.

Trump Picks Devin Nunes and Richard Grenell for Top Positions

Donald Trump has made new appointments prior to his inauguration on the 20th of January, signaling that he continues to bring in individuals that have supported him throughout their campaign and early into his presidency.

The White House has scheduled Devin Nunes, the former chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, to head of the intelligence advisory board.

Trump chose Devin Nunes, CEO of Truth Social and the former Republican Congressman from California, for heading the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board (PIAB). Nunes is best known for his loyalty to Trump, especially when he was head of the House Intelligence Committee, serving as the main defender of Trump in cases of meddling by Russia in the presidential campaign.

Trump praised Nunes for the work he did in what Trump called a “Russia hoax” and his leadership in the matter of holding intelligence accountable. Nunes will continued to serve as the CEO of Truth Social where he will also sit in the advisory board.

For instance, the PIAB is an autonomous body formed mid 20th century that oversees and reports on the intelligence operations. Trump plainly defined its role as convening individuals who are part of America’s elite outside of the federal government to advise on the functioning of intelligence agencies.

Former acting director of national intelligence, Richard Grenell, appointed Presidential envoy for special missions

In another glamorous appointment, Trump appointed Richard Grenell, a staunch supporter of Trump and his administration and a former US ambassador to Germany as special presidential envoy for missions. Grenell, who came out as the first gay member of the cabinet in presidential history in 2020 when he served as Acting Director of National Intelligence wants to explain pressing global matters in regions such as Venezuela and North Korea.

Now Grenell is firmly within Trump’s orbit and ardently denying the results of the 2020 election.

Kash Patel is Nominated for FBI Director Position

The announcements come on the heels of Trump’s recent nominations of Kash Patel as FBI director, Wray’s replacement. Patel, who has worked in national security at the Pentagon and has ties to Nunes and Grenell, has been highly critical of the intelligence community and is part of the cohort of Trump allies who oppose the ‘deep state’.

Tightening Loyalists in Strategic Places

Some of Trump’s recent appointments show that as he gears up for the second term, he is aiming at filling key positions with people he trusts. Many of these individuals have publicly endorsed Trump’s claims of fraud in the recent election and doubts about federal agencies meaning that the US intelligence and diplomatic posture may shift in the next administration.

China Wakes up to the Thought of Talks as Trump’s Threatens Tariffs

While Donald Trump increases threats to impose new tariffs on Chinese goods, Beijing is devising a more sophisticated tactic that involves rewards as well as sanctions to encourage the US counterpart to the negotiating table. Citing this, they say it is to avoid a full-blown trade war and focus on stabilizing relations if Trump returns to power in 2021.

China’s Strategy: Negotiation Over Escalation

Drawing from lessons of the 2018 trade war, China is taking proactive steps, including:

The Chinese regulators preparing to launch an investigation against U.S. chipmaker Nvidia for supposed antitrust offences.
Enlarging measures to ban leading American industries from importing strategic materials, including some rare earths used in hi-tech industries.

According to Fred Neumann, HSBC’s Chief Asia Economist rounding it off that these moves indicate China’s ‘opening bid to encourage negotiations rather than engage in a tariff battle.

Economic Readiness and Strategic Coexistence
China is in a better situation than before to face tariffs with new developments in areas such as electric vehicles and clean energy. However, the fact that requires import of high technology products especially advanced microchips from the US is its weakness.

George Magnus of Oxford University’s China Centre highlighted that despite the opening up of the economy and decrease of reliance on products such as Boeing jets from the United States, a new round of trade war would still be disadvantageous to China.

Main Factors to Inspire Those Involved in Negotiation

China aims to:

Prevent Additional U.S. Export Controls: Indrade restrictions to critical input such as microchips can greatly affect especially the Chinese technology industry.
Renew Scientific Cooperation: An area of concern is that the U.S.- China Science and Technology Agreement expired in August:It also supports joint research.

Although companies such as China’s Huawei has ramped up efforts to have chipmaking capabilities onshore, it is yet to prove sustainable on the market.

Trump’s Position and Leverage

Trump has threatened to raise tariffs on Chinese imports by 10 % for economic and political factors such as curbing in fentanyl smuggling to the U.S and Beijing considers this as political making the likelihood of reaching an agreement highly unlikely.

However, the probable US increase of its own oil and gas production, Trump might find it suitable to gain enhanced Chinese imports of energy exports, and in line with his “drill baby, drill” campaign.

The Business Climate

The current difficulties of U.S. companies located in China continue to grow and business confidence has hit lows not seen since 1999, per the American Chamber of Commerce. Trade imbalances have forced Washington to act over issues to do with market access and regulatory measures.

Outlook

Indeed both countries have grounds that compel them to engage in talks but given their politically and economically charged relationship any talks would be far from easy. Reference to political objectives like human rights or fight against drug trafficking complicates trade relations and their settlement.

China’s moves reflect a dual strategy: negotiating with promises to get the best deals while admitting strategies if negotiations collapse. The decision making in the current matrix depends with both the economic view of the two players, and the politicking involved.

Box Office Bonanza: ’Moana 2’ claims Thanksgiving records with $28 Million on its first day.

Box Office Bonanza: ’Moana 2’ claims Thanksgiving records with $28 Million on its first day

Disney again and again gives their fans every movie they crave for and Moana 2 did wash over the platforms as it earned $28 million on Thanksgiving Day. This performance not only guarantees the animated film high records, but also revives the movie industry which has had a difficult few years.

A Historic Holiday Run

Eva celebrates Thanksgiving holiday, and it will easily gross more than $175 million within the Thanksgiving five days period to erase pre-existing records. These include Frozen II’s $125 million in 2019 and The Hunger Games: Catching Fire with $109 million in 2013. Observers in the industry are optimistic that it could gross over $200 million domestically by the weekend. It has grossed $85.5 million in domestic territories and has become the highest-grossing Thanksgiving release ahead of the $15 million opening-day record held by Frozen II.

A Boost for the Box Office

This is not to mean that the success of Moana 2 is happening just anywhere in isolation. Audiences are also coming to see Universal’s Wicked and Paramount’s Gladiator II, two other hits which opened just one week prior.

Wicked: The Broadway adaptation earned $16.9 million on its Thanksgiving, the five days estimate $105.6 million. It also cost a significant amount of money to produce costing $300 million making it the first part of a two part film.

Gladiator II: The follow up to the much acclaimed 2000 epic sci-fipic cashed $6.7m on Thanksgiving and should gross $45m during the Thanksgiving season. This is another massive risk for Paramount as this film was made for $250 million out of their $500 million budget.

Gladiator II is expected to earn $112.2m in the domestic market by Sunday; Wicked could gross as much as $250.6m in North America.

Star Suite – Von Streamingstar zum Kinoallstars

Moana 2 was once planned for Disney+ but then it switched to the feature Moana format. The first Moana released in 2016 grossed $687.2 million all over the world, but the film really found its success in streaming, becoming one of the most popular movies in Disney+. This streaming success convinced Disney that a sequel could emerge in theaters—and the success has paid off.

On Revitalising the Experience of Theatre

The victories of these play hits couldn’t have arrived at the theaters at a perfect moment. There is nothing worse than when the COVID-19 pandemic and industry-wide strikes in recent years have not allowed you to regain the occupancy.” Indications of a much-awaited recovery have been observed with the start of business during Thanksgiving.

Future Problems and Opportunities of the Successful Holiday Season
While people were getting their turkey fix with a string of blockbuster movies in Thanksgiving, the holiday season itself is not very rich in this regard. Big names like Paramount’s Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King will arrive in December, but there isn’t an Avatar-like follow-up or a big Marvel movie.

The Verdict: A New Chapter for Theaters

The astounding sales figured in Moana 2 are therefore indicative of what most industry insiders and analysts have long been waiting for – a new dawn for the film business as the audience comes back in droves to get their fix of quality movies. But as Thanksgiving starts it off, it is yet to be seen if the playing field can be sustained throughout the leaner winter season.

Biden to Attend Trump’s Inauguration: A Commitment to Democracy

Honor democracy is a theme White House focuses on according to this article.

Biden to Keep His Promise Amidst Record Breaking Inauguration

Later this month, in a show of support for the U.S. Constitution, President-elect Joe Biden will attend the inauguration of ex-President Donald Trump in January, the White House said on Monday.

Deputy Press Secretary in the Joe Biden’s camp, Andrew Bates stressed on the significance of the gesture and pointed out, “The president promised he would attend the inauguration of whoever won the election. Republicans would protest this year if He and the First Lady are going to honor that promise.

But despite past tensions, a show of unity was evident at the meeting.

This is quite a historic occasion especially since Trump did not attend Biden’s inauguration on the 20th of January in 2021 after having enjoined his supporters on the 6th of January 2021 to storm the US Capitol over his claims of electoral fraud.

Bates further said, “This is a concern to show concern to the people as we embrace democratic dispensation and respect for the people’s voice. It’s about making sure that the transition is as smooth and efficient as it should be.”

The historic election involving Biden

Biden’s decision to attend comes after he scaled down his own bid for the second term in July this year. His endorsement of Kamala Harris vice president candidate was sparked by questions on his age and his performances during a decisive debate against Trump.

However, after Trump’s win over Harris on November 5, Biden invited Trump to the White House proving good intention in ensuring a transfer of power.

The America That We All Know: A Legacy of Upholding Democracy

While attacking Trump as dangerous for democracy during the 2024 campaign, Biden proved to be quite consistent in his pursuit of democracy after the election.

This historical moment has made it crucial for Americans to understand that their democracy irrespective of partisanship is strong. Before going to the inauguration, Biden sends a message of unity and respect to the electoral process.

Trump Vows Wide-Scale Tariffs on Mexico, Canada & China

Trade tensions escalate as Beijing threatens, “We won’t see any winners in a trade war.”

A Bold Trade Agenda: The increase of 25% tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada

The US President-elect Donald Trump, The Donald, has promised to introduce high tariffs into some of the major trading partners of the USA as part of his tough economic policy plans.

Trump in a thread on Truth Social said that he will sign an executive order to slap a 25% tariff on all Mexican and Canadian imports on the 20th of January since he became president.

China in the Crosshairs: 10% Tariff to Combat Fentanyl ‘Option’

He also proposed a 10% tariff on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports citing what he says is Beijing’s unwillingness to block the supply of fentanyl into the US. The move would be beyond any existing tariff that is already in place targeting China’s exports.

‘China believes that China-US economic and trade cooperation the cooperation between China and US is mutually advantageous,’ replied Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for China’s embassy in US pointing out that a trade war would be disadvantageous to all parties involved.

Canada and Mexico Push Back

Both Canada and Mexico laid most of their arguments on the positive impacts of trade relations with the US.

Canada’s Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland said that Canada is critical to US energy needs and will work with the incoming administration.

Mexico is poorly positioned to challenge Trump’s threats because a large amount of its exports go to the United States.

A Return to Protectionism: Implications of Trump’s First Term

His first regime was also characterized similarly by protectionism measures. He declared a trade war against China based on issues to do with the theft of intellectual property, imbalances of trade, and unfair competition. China fired back with equal tariffs which greatly affected American farmer.

His administration also reworked the NAFTA to the USMCA, solving his concerns about the giveaway to Mexican and Canadian industries.

Rich Measure of Economic Threats Foreseen

Many economists also warned that Trump’s tariff plans will lead to smaller economic growth as well as higher inflation. Usually it is importers who pay tariffs, while it is common practice that they transfer these additional costs to the consumers and possible raise prices.

“Mexico and Canada rely on the US market, hence their capacity to ignore threats from President-elect Trump is minimal,” said Wendy Cutler, who is a vice president of Asia Society Policy Institute.

Prospective Trade Averages In China

The new trade policies are expected to be led by Trump nominee for commerce secretary Howard Lutnick. We will revisit that in a moment but before that, Lutnick has suggested even more extreme measures such as a 60 percent tariff on Chinese imports and 10 percent tariff for all other imports.

William Reinsch, from the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said this was more of ‘bluster before bargaining’ and that, given the legal and political precedents, more tariffs on China are expected.

The Future of America’s Trade Policy

Canada, Mexico and the United States signed a new pact called United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) which is to replace NAFTA and can be renegotiate in 2026 which might give Trump another chance to alter the structure of the trade.

As the President-elect sharpens his protectionist agenda, the question remains: Does it possible for the US to ensure the balance between security and economic development as well as friendly relations with trade partners?

Watch out as these trade fights evolve, that transform the international relations system.

Elon Musk Joins Trump’s Cabinet: Key Picks and Surprising Choices for 2025

President-elect Trump’s Cabinet selections bring controversy, intrigue, and familiar faces.

Elon Musk Tapped to Lead New “Efficiency” Department

In a groundbreaking move, President-elect Donald Trump announced that Elon Musk, the world’s richest person, will co-lead a newly proposed Department of Government Efficiency (“DOGE”) alongside Republican primary contender Vivek Ramaswamy. This unprecedented department aims to overhaul federal bureaucracy with a focus on efficiency, spending cuts, and regulatory streamlining. Musk, a vocal Trump supporter, has pledged to bring his innovative vision to Washington.

Brooke Rollins to Head Agriculture Amid Focus on Farmland Security

Former Trump advisor Brooke Rollins has been nominated as Secretary of Agriculture. As president of the America First Policy Institute, Rollins has championed efforts to curb foreign ownership of U.S. farmland—a priority in Trump’s second term agenda.

Treasury Secretary: Hedge Fund Star Scott Bessent

Scott Bessent, founder of Key Square Management and a major donor to Trump’s campaign, has been selected to head the Treasury. Known for his pro-tariff stance, Bessent’s Wall Street experience will shape Trump’s economic policies as he navigates trade negotiations.

HHS Pick Sparks Debate: Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a polarizing figure for his vaccine skepticism, has been named Secretary of Health and Human Services. His nomination has drawn bipartisan concern, with critics questioning his potential impact on public health policies.

Defense Nominee Pete Hegseth Under Scrutiny

Pete Hegseth, Trump’s choice for Secretary of Defense, faces renewed allegations of misconduct. Despite this, Trump has praised his military background and commitment to national security.

Stephen Miller Returns as Policy Advisor

Trump has brought back Stephen Miller, architect of some of his most controversial immigration policies, as Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy and Homeland Security Advisor.

A Cabinet of Controversy and Change

Other notable picks include Sen. Marco Rubio as Secretary of State, Linda McMahon as Education Secretary, and former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence. Trump’s team is poised to drive bold changes in domestic and foreign policy as he prepares to take office in 2025.

Stay tuned for further updates as Senate confirmation hearings approach and these key players prepare to shape the next administration.

Kenya Eyes UAE Loan Amid IMF Debt Warnings: What’s Next?

Kenya Eyes UAE Loan Amid IMF Debt Warnings: What's Next?

Kenya is gearing up to secure a Sh193 billion ($1.5 billion) loan from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), raising questions about the country’s fiscal future as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) cautions against escalating debt risks.

Why Is Kenya Turning to the UAE?

The government, led by President William Ruto, views the loan as a vital lifeline to avert a looming budget crisis. Persistent revenue collection shortfalls by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) have left the treasury scrambling for solutions.

Yet, this loan comes at a critical juncture: the IMF has been pressing Kenya to implement stricter borrowing limits and expand its tax base.

IMF’s Take

The IMF isn’t entirely against the UAE loan but emphasizes a cautious approach. According to IMF Mission Chief for Kenya, Haimanot Teferra, the loan’s terms could prove advantageous—if they are more favorable than Kenya’s current high-cost debt.

However, Teferra warns

“Borrowing at high rates to finance the budget could worsen the situation. Careful consideration of the loan terms and their impact on Kenya’s debt dynamics is crucial.”

The IMF’s concerns are part of a broader effort to push Kenya toward fiscal discipline. IMF Deputy Managing Director Nigel Clarke is slated to visit the country in December to discuss debt mitigation strategies and revenue reforms with government officials.

What’s at Stake for Kenya?

With the loan expected in staggered disbursements, Kenya hopes to receive Sh91 billion ($700 million) early next year. But will this loan ease pressure on social programs like health and education, or will it deepen the debt hole?

Tax Woes: The Treasury has been struggling to introduce tax proposals that could generate Sh174 billion—far below the initial target of Sh346 billion. Strong opposition to tax hikes leaves their success in doubt.

Balancing Act: IMF representatives highlight the tough balancing act Kenya faces between funding urgent social needs and managing its swelling public debt.

What Are the Alternatives?

Should Kenya continue borrowing to finance its budget, or focus on reforms to expand the tax base and improve fiscal discipline? IMF First Deputy Managing Director Gita Gopinath puts it bluntly

What Are the Alternatives?

Should Kenya continue borrowing to finance its budget, or focus on reforms to expand the tax base and improve fiscal discipline? IMF First Deputy Managing Director Gita Gopinath puts it bluntly

“A credible fiscal consolidation strategy is essential to address debt vulnerabilities while safeguarding critical social and development spending.”

Your Voice Matters

What do you think about Kenya’s loan strategy? Could this move stabilize the economy or push it further into debt? How should the government balance social spending and debt management?

👉 Join the Conversation! Share your thoughts below. Let’s discuss the future of Kenya’s economy.