Headlines 24/11: German economy shrinks as economic pressures pile up
The German economy shrank by 0.1% in the third quarter, confirming the initial estimate released in October, as Europe’s largest economy continues to struggle against economic headwinds, including higher interest rates, high energy costs and weak global demand. Consumer spending, which accounts for two-thirds of GDP was 0.3% lower than the previous quarter. The figures come as the German government struggle with a court ruling that threw its budget into disarray and is causing major uncertainty amongst investors.
The Riksbank held their interest rates steady at 4% yesterday, not raising the rate for the first time since February 2022. The Swedish central bank kept a hawkish tone in their comments, saying that while inflation, which had peaked at 10%, was now moving in the correct direction, they were prepared to hike again in their next meeting in January 2024 if it remained too high.
A coalition agreement has been sealed between three New Zealand parties, after protracted negotiations over ministerial roles and future government priorities and policies. The new government confirmed they will amend the aims of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand to remove the dual mandate on inflation and employment, to solely focus on price stability.
Emerging Markets:
The agreed upon ceasefire in Gaza between Israel and Hamas started this morning, and appeared to be holding, with no major bombings or rocket strikes being reported, though both sides have been accused of violations. The first group of 13 Hamas hostages are expected to be released later today, and aid trucks have started entering the enclave from the Egyptian crossing.
Following a request from the World Health Organisation (WHO), Chinese health authorities have confirmed that they have not detected any unusual or novel pathogens in reported clusters of pneumonia in children. Clinical information and laboratory results were provided to the WHO and the data suggests the rise in respiratory illness is a result of the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions.
Ecuador’s new president, Daniel Noboa was sworn in yesterday, as he vowed to reduce violence and provide more employment to citizens in a country plagued by intense economic challenges and spiralling crime rates. Noboa is expected to call a state of emergency to allow him to propose legislation to the assembly, as he tries to fulfil his pledges in the 17 months before the next presidential election is due in 2025.
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