The U.S. Federal Reserve is expected to hike its short-term interest rate this week. The move is seen as a sign of confidence in the economy, but it could put the brakes on some sectors of the economy. Federal Reserve Chairman Janet Yellen had planned to raise the benchmark rate earlier in the fall but delayed the move after financial markets tumbled when China devalued its currency. ARN's US Correspondent Mary MacCarthy has the details.
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Stocks gain with oil prices easing on optimism from possible ceasefire talks
Global equity markets, including from the U.S., Europe and Asia, rose while oil prices fell on Wednesday, as traders cheered news of ceasefire proposals to de-escalate the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Australia moves to double fines for fuel gouging amid shortages
Australia's centre-left government has introduced legislation in the parliament to double penalties for fuel price gouging on Wednesday as global supply disruptions due to the Iran war triggered fuel shortages in some rural regions.
Gulf stocks mixed amid confusion over US-Iran talks
Gulf markets ended mixed on Tuesday, with Qatar extending losses while other bourses steadied as investors parsed conflicting signals on potential US-Iran talks.
Australia, EU seal long-awaited trade deal
Australia and the European Union on Tuesday signed a trade deal marking the culmination of years of negotiations, as Europe seeks to diversify its export markets and expand ties beyond its traditional partners.
Weaponising Strait of Hormuz is an act of economic terrorism: Sultan Al Jaber
Weaponising the Strait of Hormuz is an act of economic terrorism with global impact far beyond energy markets, asserted Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, while addressing CERAWeek in Houston, Texas.
