US News
LAST UPDATE: September 29, 2025
Republicans urge Democrats to agree to short-term bill to keep US government open
Republican lawmakers pushed Democrats to approve a stopgap funding bill to prevent a U.S. government shutdown ahead of funding deadlines.
Insight
The maneuver underscores continuing fiscal brinksmanship in U.S. politics, raising risk of economic disruption if talks falter.
Wall Street regulator vows light touch and end to quarterly reporting
SEC Chair Paul Atkins announced plans to downshift the regulatory posture, potentially phasing out mandatory quarterly corporate reporting in favor of a “minimum effective dose” of oversight. (Financial Times)
Insight
Reducing reporting frequency could ease compliance burdens—but may erode investor transparency and raise market volatility concerns.
Fed’s Hammack says US needs to maintain restrictive policy amid inflationary pressures
Cleveland Fed President Beth Hammack said the U.S. should sustain a restrictive monetary stance until inflation is firmly under control. (Reuters)
Insight
Her hawkish position signals caution among Fed officials against premature easing despite slowing growth and political pressures.
Economists favour Christopher Waller to lead Fed but expect Trump to pick a loyalist
A Financial Times poll found that while economists largely prefer Waller as the next Fed chair, most expect President Trump to select a more politically aligned candidate. (Financial Times)
Insight
This split between merit-based expectations and political realities highlights ongoing tension over the Fed’s independence.
Donald Trump’s erratic policymaking frays nerves at multinational groups
Multinational corporations have criticized abrupt and unpredictable U.S. policies—such as shifting tariff rules and visa changes—creating uncertainty in investment and operations. (Financial Times)
Insight
The instability may drive relocation of capital and talent away from the U.S., especially toward more predictable jurisdictions.

