Originally published at: https://peakprosperity.com/daily-digest/blackrock-to-buy-ports-in-panama-canal-fed-predicts-recession/
Geopolitics
Russian President Vladimir Putin has reportedly agreed to mediate talks between the United States and Iran regarding Iran’s nuclear program, following a request from President Donald Trump. This initiative was purportedly discussed during a phone call between Trump and Putin, with further details explored during US-Russia talks in Riyadh. While neither the US nor Iranian governments have officially commented, Russian state media confirmed Moscow’s willingness to facilitate negotiations. Iran’s Foreign Ministry has expressed a general openness to diplomatic efforts, though Iranian leaders remain skeptical due to past US actions, such as the withdrawal from the JCPOA in 2018. This development occurs amid ongoing tensions, with Iran’s missile sites reportedly on high alert due to concerns about a potential Israeli preemptive strike.
In South America, BlackRock has led a consortium to purchase key ports near the Panama Canal, previously operated by Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd. This acquisition aligns with Trump’s “America First” agenda, potentially reducing China’s influence over the strategic waterway. The Panamanian government has not yet made an official statement, but there are mixed reactions regarding the economic implications of reducing ties with China. The deal, which requires government approval, is viewed as a significant geopolitical move for the U.S., potentially easing tensions with Panama and diminishing China’s presence in the region.
US Politics
General Michael Flynn has accused Victoria Nuland of involvement in assassination plots against Trump and described Ukraine as a significant money laundering operation. Flynn’s claims, supported by Elon Musk, suggest that financial aid to Ukraine is misused to benefit political elites rather than the intended recipients. Victoria Nuland has denied these allegations, calling them “baseless and defamatory,” while the Ukrainian Embassy in the U.S. condemned the accusations as misrepresentations.
Trump delivered a policy address to Congress, outlining key initiatives. He proposed tax cuts, border security measures, and a campaign to remove certain ideas from government programs. Trump also defended tariffs and announced a new White House Office of Shipbuilding to counter China’s industry dominance. Additionally, he paused U.S. aid to Ukraine, calling for peace with Russia, and invited Greenland to join the U.S., citing strategic importance. Danish officials have reiterated that Greenland is not for sale, emphasizing its autonomy.
Economy
The Atlanta Federal Reserve has issued a warning about a potential recession, drawing parallels to past economic downturns. Current economic indicators, such as overvalued equities and record-high consumer debt, suggest a possible market correction. The inversion of the Treasury yield curve, a reliable recession predictor, has reverted, reinforcing concerns of an economic downturn.
Energy
The British transition to renewable energy is under scrutiny, with experts warning of potential blackout risks. Despite claims of affordability, household electricity spending in the UK has increased, and subsidies for renewables continue. The energy market faces challenges, including grid stability and inaccurate demand forecasts. The UK government has announced plans to extend subsidies for renewable energy projects, arguing that these measures are crucial for meeting climate targets. The UK may need to reconsider its energy policies to balance growth with climate commitments. Some have suggested a shift towards nuclear power a more stable and cost-effective solution.
Sources
Putin Steps In: Russia to Mediate Iran Nuclear Talks at Trump’s Request
Putin Agrees To Mediate Iran Nuke Talks After Trump Request
General Flynn Alleges Victoria Nuland’s Role in Trump Assassination Plot and Ukraine Money Laundering Scheme
General Michael Flynn has just exposed Victoria Nuland as one of the key players behind the assassination attempts on President Donald Trump.
Atlanta Fed Warns of Imminent Recession as Economic Indicators Flash Red
Atlanta Fed now projecting that Q1 GDP will be minus 1.5, a contraction.
Renewable Energy: The Costly Myth and Looming Blackout Risks
We have not seen any benefit to bills of having renewables, so all of this talk about renewables being cheap that is being pushed by the government, pushed by Ofgem, pushed by the system operator, is total fiction.
Source | Submitted by PeakCovid
Trump 47’s Congressional Debut: Tax Cuts, Tariffs, and a Greenland Gambit
America is back
BlackRock’s Panama Ports Acquisition: A Strategic Win for Trump’s ‘America First’ Agenda
BlackRock’s Purchase Of Hong Kong-Owned Panama Ports Marks Victory For Trump’s ‘America First’
In addition to sources submitted by community members, the following were also used in the creation of this report: TASS, Times of Israel, Victoria Nuland on X, Ukrainian Embassy on X, Defense News, Bloomberg, The Hill, Guy Capital, The Guardian, The Telegraph, The Copenhagen Post, and La Prensa.
