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China Manufacturing PMI Rebounds in December, Offering Boost to Economic Growth Outlook 
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Forex Markets Hold Steady as Traders Await Fed Minutes Amid Thin Year-End Volumes 
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Asia Manufacturing PMI Rebounds as Exports and Tech Demand Drive Growth into 2026 
U.S. Stock Futures Slip as Year-End Trading Turns Cautious 
U.S. Dollar Slides Toward Biggest Annual Loss Since 2017 as 2026 Risks Loom 
Asian Stock Markets Start New Year Higher as Tech and AI Shares Drive Gains 
South Korea Factory Activity Returns to Growth in December on Export Rebound 
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Oil Prices Stabilize at Start of 2026 as OPEC+ Policy and Geopolitical Risks Shape Market Outlook 
Asian Markets Slip as Precious Metals Cool, Geopolitical Tensions Weigh on Sentiment 
South Korean Won Slides Despite Government Efforts to Stabilize Currency Markets 
China Imposes 55% Tariff on Beef Imports Above Quota to Protect Domestic Industry 
U.S. Boosts Military Support to Ukraine with Expedited Missile Shipment
The United States plans to accelerate the delivery of more than 500 interceptor missiles to Ukraine in the coming weeks, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal on Saturday. This rapid deployment underscores Washington's commitment to support Ukraine as it defends against intensified Russian attacks.
Key Details of the Missile Delivery
The interceptors are primarily designed for Ukraine’s Patriot missile defense system and National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS). These systems are essential for countering aerial threats, with the new shipment anticipated to cover Ukraine's air defense needs through the remainder of the year, WSJ reports, citing a Pentagon source.
The increased urgency in delivery comes ahead of the U.S. presidential election, with recent political shifts influencing the decision timeline. This aid boost is part of a broader strategy to equip Ukraine with vital weaponry before potential leadership changes in Washington.
Ukraine’s Call for Continued Military Support
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has consistently urged NATO allies for additional military support, particularly longer-range missiles, to strengthen Ukraine’s defenses. The ongoing conflict, now in its third year, represents the most severe standoff between Russia and Western powers since the Cold War, with Russian officials warning of escalated tensions.
New Policy Shift in Defense Assistance
In a recent move, President Joe Biden’s administration authorized U.S. defense contractors to operate in Ukraine for the maintenance of Pentagon-supplied weaponry. This policy change aims to streamline Ukraine's access to critical resources as it continues to resist Russian advances.
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