Interest Rate

Bitcoin plunged to a six-month low due to risk aversion and speculation surrounding the Federal Reserve’s upcoming interest rate decision, triggered by strong U.S. jobs data that dampened expectations of a December rate cut. The cryptocurrency market experienced a broad decline, with XRP and Ether also falling. The downturn also impacted equities, despite Nvidia’s positive earnings, due to correlated trading patterns between AI stocks and Bitcoin. Ongoing liquidations of leveraged crypto positions further exacerbated the price decline.

Wall Street experienced an intraday reversal despite Nvidia’s strong AI outlook, highlighting market sensitivity to both tech and macroeconomic factors. Initial optimism fueled by Nvidia’s gains faded, impacting tech and industrial stocks. Broader economic concerns, particularly uncertainty surrounding future interest rate policy and mixed jobs data, drove a flight to safety. Investors are closely watching upcoming earnings reports and economic data releases, including PMI and consumer sentiment, for further insights.

Kronos Worldwide (KRO) is issuing €75M in additional 9.50% Senior Secured Notes due 2029 through its subsidiary, Kronos International, Inc. This increases the outstanding amount of these notes to €426.174M. Proceeds will primarily address maturing 3.75% Senior Secured Notes due September 2025, or repay amounts drawn from the Wells Fargo credit facility for the same purpose. The offering’s completion is subject to market conditions. The notes are guaranteed and secured by company assets.

Beijing is launching a program offering interest subsidies on individual consumer loans from September 2025 to August 2026. The subsidies, capped at ¥50,000 per transaction, target purchases in sectors like automobiles, elder care, education, tourism, home improvement, electronics, and healthcare. Borrowers can receive an annual 1% interest subsidy, up to 50% of the loan’s interest rate. Individuals are eligible for a cumulative subsidy of ¥3,000 per lending institution. The initiative aims to boost domestic consumption, sparking debate about consumer financing choices.

Jayden Resources Inc. (JDN) secured a $250,000 loan to support operations, with repayment due in one year or upon a private placement. The loan has a 10% annual interest rate and is subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval, earmarked for working capital. The announcement includes forward-looking statements and cautions about potential risks.