Originally published at: https://peakprosperity.com/daily-digest/bhattacharya-confirmed-at-nih-trump-signs-election-security-order-record-demand-for-gold/
Economy
The Chicago Mercantile Exchange is experiencing increased demand for gold, with 10 million ounces delivered in 58 trading days. This rise is affecting the exchange’s fractional reserve system, leading to an 8% increase in margin requirements to manage trading activity. Demand could potentially reach 60 million ounces by year-end, surpassing the previous record of 25 million ounces. Mutual funds and ETFs are reportedly seeing inflows, contrasting with past outflows, indicating a shift in market dynamics. Swiss refineries are prioritizing shipments to the US and UK to support the fractional reserve system, impacting other buyers’ access. While some analysts suggest the margin increase is a response to market stress, others argue it is a standard risk management practice amid high volatility in gold prices.
Health
Dr. Bhattacharya has been confirmed as the Director of the NIH, with no Democratic votes in favor, highlighting political tensions surrounding health and environmental policy in the US. Dr. Bhattacharya’s leadership is expected to influence the NIH’s approach to health research and policy, with potential implications for environmental health initiatives. His confirmation has sparked debate over his past views on public health measures, with supporters advocating for open debate and critics fearing a rollback of effective policies.
Meanwhile, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has launched an online tool to track chemical contaminants in food, part of an initiative to promote transparency and informed consumer choices. The tool allows users to search for contaminant levels in various foods, such as fruits and vegetables. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. emphasized the importance of transparency in health initiatives. While the tool is praised for transparency, critics argue it does not address the root causes of contamination
In a related development, the CDC, under RFK Jr., has halted $11 billion in COVID funding, declaring the pandemic over. This move reflects a shift in focus from pandemic response to broader health initiatives. The funding cut has raised concerns about preparedness for future health crises.
US Politics
President Trump has signed an executive order on election security, which includes the possibility of cutting federal funding for non-compliant states. The order directs the Department of Homeland Security to ensure illegal immigrants are not voting and adds a citizenship question to the federal voting form. It also addresses the prosecution of foreign interference in US elections and seeks to end sanctuary cities.
In related news, Speaker Mike Johnson has proposed changes to federal courts to address what he describes as radical injunctions, asserting congressional authority over the judiciary.
Additionally, Trump is urging Congress to codify certain tax cuts and executive orders, focusing on sanctuary cities’ cooperation with law enforcement.
Critics argue that these measures could lead to voter suppression and undermine judicial independence, while supporters claim they are necessary for election integrity and judicial balance.
Canadian Politics
Canada is preparing for a snap election called by Prime Minister Mark Carney, scheduled for April 28, 2025. This decision follows ongoing trade tensions with the US and aims to secure a mandate for Carney’s government. The election comes after Carney’s recent assumption of office following Justin Trudeau’s resignation. Economic forecasts predicting changes for the Canadian dollar may have influenced the decision. Carney’s policies, including his stance on joining the EU, have sparked debate over Canada’s future direction. Some analysts view the election as a strategic move to address economic pressures, while others see it as a distraction from domestic issues.
Geopolitics
A US-brokered ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine aims to revive the Black Sea Grain deal, facilitating Ukraine’s global grain exports. The agreement, announced after talks in Riyadh, seeks to ensure safe navigation and prevent the use of commercial vessels for military purposes. Despite ongoing drone and missile attacks, both sides have agreed to develop measures to prevent strikes against energy infrastructure. However, the ceasefire’s longevity is uncertain, with accusations of violations already reported. The US plans to assist in restoring Russia’s access to global markets for agricultural exports, contingent on Ukraine’s compliance with the agreement. While some view the ceasefire as a step toward peace, skepticism remains due to historical precedents of broken agreements and ongoing tensions.
US Intelligence Chief Tulsi Gabbard has stated that Iran is not pursuing a nuclear weapons program, with Supreme Leader Khamenei reportedly not activating such efforts. This statement reportedly provides insight into Iran’s nuclear intentions and contrasts with past instances of disputed intelligence. The confirmation may influence US-Iran relations and broader geopolitical dynamics in the region. While some see this as a move toward de-escalation, others remain concerned about Iran’s nuclear capabilities and potential covert activities.
European Politics
Marine Le Pen, a French political figure, faces potential legal actions that could lead to a political ban and imprisonment. Reports suggest these actions could escalate soon, raising concerns about political freedom and opposition in France. This development occurs amid heightened political tension in Europe, with implications for the broader political landscape. While some view the legal actions as necessary for accountability, others see them as politically motivated attempts to suppress dissent, arguably indicative of a trend in Europe regarding right-wing candidates such as Romania’s Calin Georgescu and Ireland’s Conor McGregor.
Meanwhile, reports coming out of the UK indicate banks are demanding customers prove how they intend to spend their money prior to allowing them to make withdrawls. Critics warn this means British banks are no longer respecting their customers’ ownership of funds, while proponents argue its a measure put in place for security purposes.
Sources
Gold Rush: COMEX Faces Exposure Threat as Record Deliveries Strain Fractional Reserve System
The COME, the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, they are under threat that their fractional reserve scam scheme might become exposed.
Elon Musk’s DOGE Targets Consulting Firms Over Government Contract Spending Accountability
DOGE is turning its attention to massive government contracts, and consulting firms are scrambling to justify their funding
US-Brokered Black Sea Ceasefire: A Fragile Step Toward Peace Amid Ongoing Tensions
Russia, Ukraine Agree To US-Brokered ‘Ceasefire At Sea’
Trump Signs Executive Order on Election Security, Threatens Funding Cuts for Non-Compliant States
Trump Tackles Election Integrity With Sweeping Executive Order; Will Punish States That Don’t Comply
Source | Submitted by Redneck Engineer
Canada’s Snap Election: Carney’s Gamble or Prelude to Political Upheaval?
Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney has called a snap election to be held on April 28th, 2025, primarily to address the ongoing trade war with the U.S. and to seek a strong mandate for his government.
Source | Submitted by Acorn Endeavors
HHS Unveils Online Tool for Tracking Chemical Contaminants in Food
HHS is committed to radical transparency to give Americans authentic, informed consent about what they are eating,
US Intelligence Chief Gabbard Confirms: Iran Not Pursuing Nuclear Weapons Program
Iran is not building a nuclear weapon and Supreme Leader Khamenei has not activated the nuclear weapons program
Speaker Mike Johnson Proposes Eliminating Federal Courts to Curb Radical Injunctions
We do have the authority over the federal courts, as you know.
Dr. Bhattacharya Confirmed as NIH Director Amidst Partisan Divide
Dr. Bhattacharya was confirmed as the Director of the NIH today and not a single Democrat voted to confirm him.
CDC Under RFK Jr. Halts $11 Billion COVID Funding, Declares Pandemic Over
The COVID-19 pandemic is over, & HHS will no longer waste billions of taxpayer dollars responding to a non-existent pandemic that Americans moved on from years
Trump Urges Congress to Codify ‘DOGE Cuts’ and Executive Orders, Targets Sanctuary Cities
I’m calling on @SpeakerJohnson and @LeaderJohnThune to publicly announce their plans to get this stuff codified!
UK Bank Blocks Customer’s Withdrawal, Demands Proof of Purchase Intent
You’ll need to prove how you’re going to spend it.
Marine Le Pen Faces Potential Political Ban and Imprisonment Amid Controversy
Marine Le Pen could be banned from politics and sent to jail as early as next week, per Reuters
In addition to sources submitted by community members, the following were also used in the creation of this report: Bloomberg, Reuters, The Washington Post, CNN, The Guardian, Al Jazeera, Fox News, Financial Times, ZeroHedge, Election Watch, Canadian Political Analysis Blog, Ukraine War Analysis Blog, Food Safety News, The Hill, Science and Policy Blog, Health Watch Blog, The Liberty Beacon, The Intercept, The Financial Watchdog, French Politics Insider, and EU Watchdog.