Why stop here, let’s look at the USD Index skyrocketing above the 102.50 level after looking like the mouse I caught behind the fridge at mom’s house, flat and dead with the living life sucked out of it, previously hitting below the 101.0 level. This week the markets were geared to the Consumer Price Index(CPI) a measurement for inflation. Markets built high expectations, yet larger disappointment was the result. The CPI number increased to 3.4% in December vs the (3.2%) expected. 

Initially, the USD slipped on the result, but the outcome suggests that interest rates could remain firm or even potentially rise further. As a result, the USD Index initially slipped toward the 102.0 level on the disappointment then quickly rose above the 102.60 as fear of the unknown caused a flight to safety. 

Nonetheless, the New Year started and we could be witnessing the demise of the USD as the benchmark currency of the world this leap year. It will be an election year in America therefore all the stops will be pulled to try and bury the devastation caused in people’s lives.  Click below for a very interesting perspective of what outcomes could be seen in 2024, a year of tremendous change as we enter the Age of Aquarius. 

https://youtu.be/AdMCb8fdIsU?si=INdrrLt21k-PvPCI

Canadians should also be geared toward a spring election as life will get a lot more expensive moving forward. Toronto homeowners are in for a 16.5% municipal property tax increase.  Leftists were placed in power, I doubt any sane person would vote for a pottery instructor, but here we are. 

Unfortunately, things also quickly changed when the Canadian government announced plans for a Universal Basic Income plan. I assume those accepting the handout will be all for it despite losing their autonomy and self-respect. The question is where does the money come from and who pays for all of it? Surprise, yes you guessed correctly, it will be productive individuals in society, being complacent, allowing thievery to occur. Nonetheless, Canadians are in for a rude awakening. 

Consequently, I guess my expectations arrived a little premature with annual GDP. A small disappointment as the previous figure was revised from 5.2% to (4.9%) for October in America. Precious Metals rose in response, like my blood pressure when I heard the Canadian Immigration Minister send $10 Million to Iraq for youth unemployment when people are living in tents in our own country and the government is handing out fentanyl in Vancouver to anyone who requests it.  Click and read for yourself.

https://www.theepochtimes.com/world/bc-government-plans-to-offer-safe-fentanyl-for-minors-and-adults-5563468?utm_source=ref_share&src_src=ref_share&utm_campaign=gv-cc&src_cmp=gv-cc

Previously, Gross Domestic Product (GDP)  came out for Canada, England and the USA. The overall trend showed stagnant growth overall. With the combination of heightened interest rates and slowing growth in markets, we can continue to expect uncertainty.  There will be many layoffs starting in the banking sector and echoing throughout the economy. No money, no honey! In the USA growth slid to 2.6% vs expected (2.9%), In Canada flat for three consecutive months 0.1% expected(0.2%) and In England, The King wants everyone to eat bugs, own nothing and be happy.