The global economy is facing concerns that US President-elect Donald Trump's tariff plan will lead to inflation, particularly if interest rates are forced to stay elevated due to higher consumer prices. This has led to a sell-off in bond markets worldwide and caused the yield on 30-year UK Treasury Gilts to reach its highest level since 1998. The eurozone inflation rate accelerated to 2.4% in December, making it difficult for the European Central Bank to cut interest rates to boost sluggish growth. Meanwhile, US services data showed a mixed picture, with the dollar rising against major rivals after initially falling back from earlier gains. Asian stocks closed higher due to speculation that Trump's tariff plans may be scaled back, following reports that his aides are considering applying tariffs only in certain critical sectors.
https://www.khaleejtimes.com/business/markets/inflation-concerns-pull-rug-out-from-wall-street-rallyThe United States froze billions of dollars of central bank assets after the Taliban regained power in August 2021, but humanitarian aid to Afghanistan has continued under the supervision of the United Nations' UNAMA mission. The UNAMA mission refutes allegations that it is diverting funds to the Taliban, instead transporting cash into the country for use by vetted partners and U.N. agencies to assist millions of Afghans in need. This aid is deposited in designated U.N. accounts at a private bank before being distributed directly to approved entities, not the Central Bank of Afghanistan or the Taliban authorities.
https://www.voanews.com/a/taliban-refute-trump-s-claims-on-us-financial-aid-to-afghanistan/7929790.html