🌳 Iran ultimatum
Marhaba! Trump's sending an armada to the Gulf while threatening Iran with strikes, gold hits another record high as investors flee to safety, and Lebanon's parliament keeps debating the budget. Meanwhile, China and the UK are cozying up for trade deals. Here's what matters today.
TOP STORIES
Trump Issues Iran Ultimatum as US Military Buildup Escalates
- President Trump warned Iran that "time is running out" for a nuclear deal, threatening military strikes "far worse" than previous attacks as a US carrier strike group reaches the Gulf
- The USS Abraham Lincoln and accompanying warships arrived within striking range of Iran Sunday, while F-15E Strike Eagles and B-52 bombers deploy to the region
- Iran's military says its forces are ready "with their fingers on the trigger" to respond to any aggression, while Tehran's foreign minister heads to Turkey for crisis talks
Why it matters: This is the most serious US-Iran military standoff in years. With an armada positioned for strikes and diplomatic channels narrowing, the region holds its breath for what comes next.
Gold Surges Past $5,500 as Investors Flee to Safety
- Gold prices surged past $5,500 per ounce for the first time, hitting a fresh record as Iran tensions and dollar weakness drive safe-haven demand
- Spot gold jumped 4.56% to $5,543 by market close, with global demand hitting a record high in 2025 according to World Gold Council data
- Weakening confidence in Federal Reserve independence and concerns about US monetary policy are boosting demand for the precious metal among global investors
Why it matters: For Lebanese diaspora sending money home or Lebanese holding savings in gold, this surge reflects global economic uncertainty. Gold's traditionally been the go-to when everything else feels shaky.
UK and China Signal Economic Partnership Reset
- Prime Minister Keir Starmer became the first British PM to visit China since 2018, meeting President Xi Jinping to promote business ties with the world's second-largest economy
- The UK exports £45 billion worth of goods and services annually to China, making it Britain's third-largest trading partner despite past diplomatic tensions
- Xi expressed hope that China and the UK can "rise above differences" as both countries seek economic stability amid Trump's tariff threats disrupting global trade
Why it matters: Britain's courting China for economic relief just as Trump reshapes global trade. It's a risky bet that could pay off—or backfire spectacularly if Washington objects.
QUICK HITS
- Lebanon Energy Ministry Under Fire: MP Nada Bustani accused the Energy Ministry of saving money "at citizens' expense" while supporting private generator operators instead of improving state electricity provision.
- Banking Confidence Key to Budget: Former MP Tony Frangieh warned that any national budget failing to consider trust in the banking sector would remain incomplete, emphasizing financial sector stability for economic recovery.
- Contaminated Baby Formula Concern: Health Minister Firas Abiad is coordinating with the Economy Ministry over reports of potentially contaminated baby formula, with investigations ongoing to verify safety concerns.
- Hamas Ready for Gaza Transition: Hamas announced readiness for "complete transfer of governance" to a technocratic committee in Gaza, demanding full reopening of the Rafah border crossing without Israeli obstacles.
- Amazon Cuts 16,000 Jobs: The tech giant confirmed 16,000 corporate job cuts as part of its AI efficiency push, completing a broader plan for 30,000 reductions since October under CEO Andy Jassy.
INTERNATIONAL
Vietnam and EU Strengthen Trade Ties Amid Trump Tariffs
- Vietnam and the European Union upgraded diplomatic relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, paving the way for deeper trade ties as Trump's tariffs disrupt global commerce
- The partnership comes as the EU seeks reliable trading partners while Trump threatens widespread tariffs that could strain long-held alliances and reshape global supply chains
- Vietnam represents a growing market for European businesses looking to diversify away from China, while Hanoi gains access to EU technology and investment
Why it matters: As Trump reshapes global trade through tariffs, smaller economies are forging new partnerships. This signals a multipolar world where traditional alliances matter less than economic opportunity.
Japan's First Female PM Calls Early Election
- Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi called an early election for February 8, seeking a broad public mandate for change as Japan's first female leader
- Takaichi has proven surprisingly popular since taking office, presenting herself as a force for real change in Japanese politics traditionally dominated by men
- The unconventional leader is pulling out all stops to differentiate herself from predecessors, focusing on economic reform and social issues
Why it matters: Japan's betting on transformational change under its first female PM. If Takaichi wins big, it could reshape one of Asia's most traditional political systems.
Deutsche Bank Posts Record Profits Despite Money Laundering Probe
- Germany's biggest bank announced record profits just one day after offices were searched as part of a money laundering investigation
- The bank's fourth-quarter fixed-income and currency revenue beat estimates, helping drive the strong financial performance despite ongoing legal scrutiny
- The timing highlights the disconnect between Deutsche Bank's business success and regulatory challenges that continue to shadow the institution
Why it matters: Even with investigations swirling, Deutsche Bank's strong earnings show how major banks can thrive despite regulatory headwinds. It's a reminder that legal troubles don't always equal financial troubles.
GHER HEK
- 3-Year-Old Snooker Prodigy Sets Records: Jude Owens has already scored two Guinness World Records for his snooker skills—and he's only 3 years old and needs a stool to reach the table. Talk about starting early!
- Morocco and Senegal Face AFCON Bans: Africa's governing football body issued over $1 million in fines after chaotic scenes at the AFCON final, with both teams facing bans and several players suspended.
- South Korea's Former First Lady Sentenced: Kim Keon Hee, wife of former president Yoon Suk Yeol, received a 20-month jail sentence for bribery in a country where high-level prosecutions have become standard fare.
- Samsung and SK Hynix Post Record Earnings: South Korea's top chipmakers posted record earnings driven by AI demand, though they warned capacity expansion will be limited this year and next amid supply constraints.