Fed Governor Lisa Cook Warns Inflation Risks Remain as Rates Stay Steady 
U.S. Stock Futures Slide as Tech Rout Deepens on Amazon Capex Shock 
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U.S. Stock Futures Edge Higher as Tech Rout Deepens on AI Concerns and Earnings 
Trump Endorses Japan’s Sanae Takaichi Ahead of Crucial Election Amid Market and China Tensions 
Gold Prices Slide Below $5,000 as Strong Dollar and Central Bank Outlook Weigh on Metals 
Oil Prices Slip as U.S.–Iran Talks Ease Supply Disruption Fears 
Dow Hits 50,000 as U.S. Stocks Stage Strong Rebound Amid AI Volatility 
Global Markets Slide as AI, Crypto, and Precious Metals Face Heightened Volatility 
Japanese Pharmaceutical Stocks Slide as TrumpRx.gov Launch Sparks Market Concerns 
Oil Prices Slide on US-Iran Talks, Dollar Strength and Profit-Taking Pressure 
Gold and Silver Prices Rebound After Volatile Week Triggered by Fed Nomination 
Vietnam’s Trade Surplus With US Jumps as Exports Surge and China Imports Hit Record 
Trump Signs Executive Order Threatening 25% Tariffs on Countries Trading With Iran 
Singapore Budget 2026 Set for Fiscal Prudence as Growth Remains Resilient 
Asian Stocks Slip as Tech Rout Deepens, Japan Steadies Ahead of Election 
Australia’s December Trade Surplus Expands but Falls Short of Expectations 
Scott Bessent and John Paulson Emerge as Treasury Secretary Candidates
Key Investors in the Running
Prominent investors Scott Bessent and John Paulson are strong contenders for the role of U.S. Treasury Secretary in Donald Trump’s potential second term, according to sources close to the former president. Bessent met with Trump on Friday at Mar-a-Lago, Florida, and received positive feedback, signaling his favorable standing. Although a final decision rests with Trump, Bessent and Paulson are seen as top choices.
Influence of Treasury Secretary on Policy
The U.S. Treasury Secretary plays a pivotal role in economic, regulatory, and international finance matters. Wall Street has been attentive to Trump’s selection, given his agenda to reshape global trade policies with tariffs and tax reform. Trump has previously expressed interest in Paulson for this role due to his alignment with Trump’s economic vision.
Candidates’ Background and Qualifications
Bessent, a hedge fund veteran and former Yale professor, has established a warm relationship with Trump, notably supporting his approach to tariffs. Paulson, a billionaire investor and Trump donor, is known for his advocacy of tax cuts and deregulation. Other speculated candidates include FOX Business personality Larry Kudlow and former U.S. trade representative Robert Lighthizer. However, JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon reportedly has no plans to join Trump’s administration.
Upcoming Appointments and Odds
Trump recently appointed Susie Wiles as White House Chief of Staff and is expected to announce additional appointments soon. According to Polymarket betting odds, Bessent is the favorite for Treasury Secretary, with Paulson close behind.
