Currencies

Japan’s post-1989 experience provides a long-running case study on the limits of monetary and fiscal stimulus. After the collapse of a combined equity and property bubble, Japan relied on sustained deficits, near-zero interest rates, and repeated stimulus to stabilize growth. While markets eventually recovered in nominal terms, the process took decades and coincided with a sharp rise in government debt. In 2026, rising bond yields and higher debt servicing costs are testing the durability of this approach. The Japanese experience offers a relevant framework for assessing similar policy paths now being followed globally.

Gold’s rise to over $4,500/oz in 2025 reflects deep structural imbalances in global currency management. As inflation erodes purchasing power, gold’s share of global financial assets has begun to recover from historic lows. Central banks, particularly in emerging markets, are diversifying away from the U.S. dollar and increasing gold holdings. The U.S. government’s long-standing influence through major financial institutions is weakening as AI-driven trading and geopolitical shifts reshape the market. The reassertion of the physical gold market marks a turning point for investors evaluating the future of monetary stability.

The historical relationship between the U.S. dollar and the U.S. stock market has shifted from a weak positive correlation to a stronger inverse pattern. While global capital flows once linked a stronger dollar to rising U.S. equities, recent years show the opposite movement as risk-on and risk-off dynamics dominate. During risk-off periods, investors seek safety in the dollar, pushing it higher as equities fall. Conversely, a weaker dollar often aligns with a stronger global risk appetite. This article examines this correlation and the implications for investors.

Gold recently surpassed $3,500/oz, attracting investors looking for protection from economic uncertainty and global instability. With rising sovereign debt and reduced confidence in fiat currencies, analysts see potential for gold to reach $10,000 to $25,000 per ounce. Central bank accumulation, underinvestment in mining, and geopolitical risks add to the bullish case. Investment strategies include physical gold, mining stocks, and ETFs such as GDX and GDXJ. Companies like Barrick Gold, New Gold, and Lake Victoria Gold are noted for their positioning. The article outlines why gold may become a key investment theme heading into 2025.

The United States has been keeping a close eye on its trade relationships over the years. In 2023, trade deficits with many key partners were a major focus. These deficits are influenced by everything from policy changes to shifts in the global economy. While the numbers may change, the fundamental challenges frequently remain the same: striking a balance between free …

A soaring gold price is a vote of "no confidence" in the central bank and the dollar [and]... reflect a growing restlessness with the increasing money supply, our budgetary and trade deficits, our unfunded liabilities, and the inability of Congress and the administration to reign in runaway spending. Words: 1911

Donald Trump has outlined a series of cryptocurrency policy proposals aimed at positioning the United States as a global leader in the digital asset space. Trump's cryptocurrency policies, particularly his proposal to establish a strategic Bitcoin stockpile, could have significant implications for the gold and silver markets.

On Monday, major U.S. stock indexes experienced their most significant decline since 2022. The S&P 500 fell by approximately 3%, while the NASDAQ dropped over 6%. As investors navigate through the current financial turbulence, attention is increasingly turning towards assets that can provide stability amidst uncertainty. Silver, historically known as a safe haven during economic downturns, is garnering interest due to its potential to hedge against market volatility.

The Gold/Silver Ratio has been rising along with the strength of the US dollar.

The BRICS nations are coming of age....The bloc of five emerging countries—Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa—  will welcome six new members: Saudi Arabia, Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).