Shanghai Composite Index

Taiwan's lawmakers have decided to extend a tax cut for day trading for an additional three years, just before it was about to end. They voted to keep the transaction tax at 0.15%, down from 0.3%, which will now remain in effect until the end of 2027. This tax reduction, first introduced in 2017, has been recognized for increasing trading activity on the island.

Many companies have revealed their intentions to list shares in Hong Kong in the coming month, indicating a recovery in the city's IPO market. At least six firms plan to conduct initial public offerings by the end of January, aiming to raise a total of HK$3.3 billion (approximately $429 million), according to exchange filings. Among these companies are the Chinese toy manufacturer Bloks Group Ltd. and a firm focused on autonomous vehicles.

Asian stocks fell slightly on Tuesday as investors became more cautious at the end of the year, reducing expectations for significant U.S. rate cuts in 2025 and preparing for the new Trump administration. Trading volumes were low due to the upcoming New Year holiday and Japan being closed for the week, while rising Treasury yields affected high stock valuations and strengthened the dollar. The MSCI index for Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan dipped by 0.2%, but it is still on track for an 8% increase in 2024, marking its second consecutive year of gains.

The housing affordability crisis in the U.S. is mainly caused by rising home prices and high mortgage rates, leaving over 100 million households unable to buy a median-priced home. Property taxes, which vary by location, are a significant expense for homeowners and are crucial for funding local services like schools and roads. A recent report shows that the average American household paid nearly $1,900 in property taxes in 2021, but this amount can differ greatly depending on where one lives.

An in-depth look at what is influencing markets and the current events in the global economy.

The downgrade happened after the CBI cautioned Chancellor Rachel Reeves that the UK economy is moving towards a very difficult situation.

These stocks have shown the main market trends of 2024 and have attracted a lot of attention from investors.

According to ONS data, the number of job openings in the UK dropped by 31,000 in November, reaching a three-year low of 796,000.

An in-depth look at what is influencing markets and the current events in the global economy.