Expand Your Global Reach with Access to More Than 150 Languages for Life

In a last-minute effort to avert a government shutdown, the US House passed a stop-gap funding measure without addressing the debt ceiling, defying Donald Trump's demands. The bill gained bipartisan support and must now be voted on by the Senate before reaching President Joe Biden's desk. The passage marked a victory for House Speaker Mike Johnson, who navigated through Trump and Elon Musk's influence over hardline Republicans to secure the legislation and prevent a government...

The UK stock market will be closed on New Year's Day, Wednesday, January 1, 2024. In 2025, the London Stock Exchange will observe certain holidays, including New Year's Day, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day, affecting trading hours. Investors can refer to the provided list of bank holidays to plan their trading activities accordingly. Full Article

Europe's Russian liquefied natural gas imports have hit a record high this year, reaching 16.5mn tonnes as of mid-December, despite the EU's aim to reduce dependence on Russian gas. Spot market purchases of Russian LNG have increased, with 33% of EU imports under spot contracts this year. EU officials are working towards ending all imports of Russian fossil fuels by 2027, with plans to increase US imports as an alternative. Full Article

Europe's "Franco-German engine" is facing challenges as Macron appoints his fourth prime minister and Germany heads for early elections. Economic uncertainty looms due to manufacturing pressures, tepid Chinese demand, and Trump's tariff threats. However, peripheral countries like Spain are thriving post-eurozone crisis, with strong economic growth and competitiveness in services. Despite European stock market fluctuations, there's optimism for a potential relief rally in the future. Full Article

and special characters out of the summary. Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky's £3.6 billion takeover of International Distribution Services, the owner of Royal Mail, has passed a national security review, with the state retaining a "golden share" in the company. Unions have praised the deal, with promises of employee dividends and a say in company decisions, while shareholders are expected to approve the takeover despite concerns about weakening Royal Mail's finances and the long-term viability of...

In a legislative crisis, the US Congress must find a deal to keep the government open, with the House of Representatives voting down a funding bill supported by Donald Trump. The failed deal aimed to extend government spending, provide disaster relief, and suspend federal borrowing limits, but fell short of passing. Trump and Elon Musk criticized the bill, leading to a scramble for a new solution before a government shutdown deadline. Full Article