UBS is advancing in the crypto sector with its pilot project "UBS Digital Cash," aimed at enhancing blockchain-based payments for better transparency and liquidity management. This initiative follows J.P. Morgan's successful "Onyx" platform, which facilitates rapid cross-border transactions. The pilot has already enabled transactions in multiple currencies, including dollars, francs, euros, and yuan, using smart contracts on a private blockchain network.
China's Finance Ministry will hold a briefing at 4 p.m. on Friday in Beijing to discuss a debt swap program aimed at allowing local governments to refinance off-balance-sheet debt. Officials are expected to announce additional fiscal support for the economy following a weeklong meeting of the National People's Congress.
After Donald Trump's arrival in the White House eight years ago, Chinese leaders reacted strongly to his tariffs and aggressive rhetoric. This response escalated into a trade war, significantly deteriorating relations between the world's two largest economies to multiyear lows.
Investors are reassessing their enthusiasm for 'Trump Trades' as doubts emerge regarding the feasibility of Donald Trump's ambitious tariff proposals. The dollar has reversed much of its post-election gains, while Treasury yields have stabilized. Meanwhile, Chinese stocks and the yuan have recovered from earlier losses linked to tariff concerns.
US equity markets surged following a red sweep in the presidential election and a 25 basis point Fed rate cut, bringing the Federal Funds rate to 4.50%-4.75%. The ASX 200 also rose by approximately 2%, supported by US market trends, while the RBA maintained its rate at 4.35%. Key economic indicators are set for release next week, including US CPI and Australia's employment report.
Chinese stocks are poised for their best weekly performance in a month, driven by optimism for stronger growth stimulus from authorities as a key legislative meeting concludes. The onshore CSI 300 Index rose 0.3% by 10:26 a.m. Beijing time, marking a 6.9% increase for the week following a significant 3% surge in the previous session.
China's new J-35A stealth fighter will debut at the China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai, highlighting the country's growing aerospace capabilities amid regional military tensions. The event, which runs for six days, also showcases China's ambitions in commercial aviation through state-owned COMAC, as it seeks to reduce reliance on foreign imports. The air show marks the 75th anniversary of the People's Liberation Army Air Force, featuring significant international participation despite Boeing's absence.
UBS has launched a blockchain-based solution for cross-border payments, addressing delays and challenges in international transactions. This technology enhances transaction speed, reduces costs, and increases transparency, benefiting both businesses and the underbanked. With instant payments clearing in seconds, users can mitigate currency fluctuation risks, enabling global commerce for small businesses without traditional banking barriers.
UBS has successfully tested its blockchain-based payment solution, UBS Digital Cash, aimed at enhancing the efficiency and transparency of cross-border payments for corporate and institutional clients. The pilot involved transactions in multiple currencies and demonstrated faster processing and seamless traceability through a private blockchain network utilizing smart contracts. This initiative aligns with UBS's strategic focus on blockchain solutions and complements other projects like the Swiss National Bank's Helvetia initiative for central bank digital currency.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer's commitment to reducing trade barriers faces a significant challenge with Donald Trump's potential return to the presidency, which could reignite trade tensions. Trump has proposed imposing a 60% tariff on Chinese imports and up to 20% on goods from other nations, prompting the UK to prioritize securing a trade deal with the US to mitigate these risks.
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