Russia Central Bank Unexpectedly Holds Key Rate

Russias central bank left its benchmark interest rate unchanged on Friday, confounding expectations for a sharp hike. The board of directors, led by Governor Elvira Nabiullina, retained the key interest rate at a record 21.00 percent. Markets anticipated a 200 basis-point rate hike. The bank has raised the key interest rate by 1,350 basis points...

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Bay Street Looks Headed For Weak Start

Lower U.S. and Canadian futures, a sell-off in European markets and weak crude oil prices point to a negative start for the Canadian market on Friday. Fears of a U.S. government shutdown and tariff hike concerns may weigh as well. Canadian retail sales data and U.S. PCE reading are set to significantly impact sentiment. Canadian...

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UK Retail Sales Rise Less Than Forecast

UK retail sales grew for the first time in three months in November but the pace of expansion was weaker than expected as consumers were cautious in the wake of governments first budget. A closely watched survey showed that retailers reported a moderate fall in retail sales in December despite festive season and they forecast...

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Philly Fed Index Unexpectedly Slides Further Into Negative Territory In December

Philadelphia-area manufacturing activity declined overall in the month of December, according to a report released by the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia on Thursday. The Philly Fed said its diffusion index for current general activity slumped to a negative 16.4 in December from a negative 5.5 in November, with a negative reading indicating contraction. Economists...

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