Ken Griffin Advocates Caution: Urges Fed to Proceed Slowly with Interest Rate Cuts Amid Stubborn Inflation

At the International Futures Industry conference, Citadel CEO Ken Griffin advised the Federal Reserve to exercise patience in reducing interest rates to combat persistent inflation. Griffin warned against hasty rate cuts followed by abrupt reversals, emphasizing the need for a measured approach. He highlighted ongoing inflationary pressures stemming from government spending and deglobalization trends. With inflation remaining above the Fed’s target, Griffin’s remarks suggest a cautious stance ahead of the Fed’s upcoming policy meeting. (CNBC)

China’s Property Crisis Deepens: Vanke Faces Debt Crunch Amid Evergrande Fallout

China’s real estate turmoil escalates as Evergrande’s liquidation triggers a broader crisis, with plummeting home sales and prices. Analyst Charlene Chu warns of further distress, indicating the sector’s ongoing collapse. Concerns mount over state-backed developer Vanke’s financial woes, prompting Beijing’s intervention to avert default. Despite its sound financial standing, Vanke’s debt restructuring signals deepening market instability. With fears of contagion looming, China’s property crisis poses risks to both domestic and global economies. (Business Insider)

Global Dividend Payouts Reach Record $1.66 Trillion in 2023, Led by Banking Sector Growth

According to Janus Henderson’s latest report, global dividend payouts surged to a new high of $1.66 trillion in 2023, with a 5% year-on-year increase on an underlying basis. The banking sector drove much of this growth, benefitting from high interest rates. However, mining sector cuts offset some gains, with major companies like BHP and Rio Tinto slashing dividends. Despite this, 86% of listed companies maintained or increased dividends, with Europe notably leading the growth, indicating robust global dividend trends. (CNBC)