Here are the latest news items and commentary on current economics news, market trends, stocks, investing opportunities, and the precious metals markets. In this column, JWR also covers hedges, derivatives, and various obscura. This column emphasizes JWR’s “tangibles heavy” investing strategy and contrarian perspective. Today, another look at the Evergrande debacle. (See the Economy & Finance section.)
Precious Metals:
Global Silver Demand Forecasted to Rise to 1.2 Billion Ounces in 2024.
o o o
Over at Gold-Eagle.com: Andy Schectman: $2,000 Floor For Gold Continues To Hold.
Economy & Finance:
In China, the other shoe has dropped, to wit:
Evergrande shares halted after Hong Kong court orders liquidation.
and,
o o o
Bundesbank Says Germany Already Likely In Recession.
o o o
A report from Reuters: Global debt hits new record high at $313 trillion – IIF.
o o o
Buying votes: Biden Admin Cancels $1.2B More of Student Loans. JWR’s Comment: I am not thrilled to learn that my taxes are paying off the student debts of some Gender Studies B.A. graduate, in New York.
o o o
At Newsmax: Rising Credit Card Interest Costs Consumers Extra $25 Billion.
Commodities:
Reader C.B. sent us this: US farmers face harsh economics with record corn supplies in silos.
o o o
EIA forecast: What is the outlook for the natural gas spot price in 2024 and 2025?
o o o
U.S. residential propane prices historical chart.
o o o
From OilPrice News:
Inflation/Deflation Watch:
Here’s the inflation breakdown for January 2024 — in one chart.
o o o
o o o
Gas prices: National average jumps to 2-month high.
o o o
Consumers are tired of inflation. But some retailers fear falling prices.
o o o
Retail sales tumbled 0.8% in January, much more than expected. JWR’s Comment: One sobering reality of ongoing inflation is that at some point, folks simply decide to make do with less.
o o o
I found this Fox News segment linked at Whatfinger.com: Making $150K is considered ‘lower middle class’ in these high-cost US cities.
Forex & Cryptos:
Dollar on track for first weekly fall in 2024.
o o o
US Judge approves Binance’s $4.3 Billion fine in plea deal.
o o o
FTX settles dispute, sells European arm for $33M.
o o o
US prosecutors want Changpeng Zhao to surrender all passports.
Tangibles Investing:
Gun companies reckon with declining demand after pandemic surge. JWR’s Comment: The recent dip in gun prices represents an opportunity to “stack” in your vault, as a hedge on future inflation. Consider this an investment to benefit your children and grandchildren. Oh, and save those factory boxes!
o o o
So far this month, wholesale vehicle values down double-digit percentage from year-ago levels.
o o o
Natchez Shooters Supplies (one of our affiliate advertisers) is having a one-day Flash Sale On Bulk Ammo today (March 1, 2024). All Bulk Ammo on the landing page is dramatically marked down with savings of up to $330. And the really great news is that they are offering Free Shipping! To get free shipping, use Promo Code FS24030 at checkout. This sale ends at 11:59pm EST, so get your order in ASAP!
Provisos:
SurvivalBlog and its Editors are not paid investment counselors or advisers. Please see our Provisos page for our detailed disclaimers.
News Tips:
Please send your economics and investing news tips to JWR. (Either via e-mail or via our Contact form.) These are often especially relevant because they come from folks who closely watch specific markets. If you spot any news that would be of interest to SurvivalBlog readers, then please send it in. News items from local news outlets that are missed by the news wire services are especially appreciated. Thanks!