latest news in economy
US Envoy Confirms Critical Trade Talks Resume Jan 13 as India Joins Strategic Alliance
New Delhi, Monday, 12 January 2026.
Ambassador Sergio Gor confirmed trade negotiations resume January 13. Crucially, he announced India’s invitation to the exclusive US-led Pax Silica alliance next month, signaling deeper cooperation despite recent tariff tensions.
Criminal Investigation Opened Into Fed Chair Powell Over Renovation Testimony
Washington D.C., Monday, 12 January 2026.
In an unprecedented move challenging the Federal Reserve’s independence, U.S. prosecutors have opened a criminal investigation into Chair Jerome Powell. The probe centers on allegations that Powell misled Congress regarding the scope and costs of the central bank’s headquarters renovation. While the inquiry focuses on construction details, Powell contends this legal action is a political pretext used by the Trump administration to pressure the Fed into lowering interest rates, raising critical questions about the future of monetary policy autonomy.
Investors Demand Practical AI and Metabolic Results Ahead of Major Healthcare Conference
San Francisco, Sunday, 11 January 2026.
As the healthcare industry gathers for the 2026 J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference, Black Book Research reveals a critical pivot in capital allocation. Investors are abandoning speculative hype in favor of “AI that ships” and differentiated metabolic assets, with 65% now requiring strict clarity on unit economics. This rotation signals a high-precision market where funding flows exclusively to teams demonstrating immediate workflow integration and tangible outcomes. Notably, this scrutiny has sparked renewed interest in special-situations capital, including carve-outs, as engineered pathways to value become essential in a data-driven investment landscape.
Record Surge in US Business Applications Signals Economic Dynamism
Washington, Sunday, 11 January 2026.
Recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau confirms that weekly business applications have surged to all-time highs in early 2026, signaling a profound shift in the American economic landscape. This record-breaking entrepreneurial activity represents a structural evolution, with nearly 30 million solopreneurs now contributing approximately $1.7 trillion to the economy. While traditional sectors like housing and manufacturing face headwinds, this wave of innovation underscores a unique domestic resilience. Financial experts suggest this rise in filings—occurring amidst broader market volatility—validates the theory that economic disruption often catalyzes new enterprise. As entrepreneurship decentralizes beyond traditional hubs, this sustained momentum in business formation points toward significant future job creation and distinguishes the U.S. as the world’s most dynamic economy.
Tech Giants' AI Spending Spree Creates Rivalry for U.S. Government Bonds
New York, Sunday, 11 January 2026.
As U.S. debt exceeds $38 trillion, a predicted $2.25 trillion wave of corporate bonds funding AI infrastructure is flooding the market, stealing buyers from Treasuries and risking higher yields.
Economic Analysis Casts Doubt on Profitability of Venezuela’s Vast Oil Reserves
Berkeley, Sunday, 11 January 2026.
Economists warn Venezuela’s 300 billion barrels are likely stranded assets, as the “peanut butter” consistency crude requires unjustifiable capital to extract amidst a global green transition.
Local Government Investments Drive Surge in Outdoor Business Demand
Washington, Sunday, 11 January 2026.
With the sector now generating $1.2 trillion annually, outdoor businesses are booming as local governments increasingly prioritize recreation infrastructure to attract talent and drive economic resilience.