US Withdraw Paris Agreement | Colombia Against Guerrilla Violence | Biden Pre-Emptively Pardons

Market Update

• First Lady, Melania Trump launches meme coin too. (seriously.. come on.)

• Bitcoin rallies over 7%, reaching an all-time high.

• Tesla's stock surged ahead of Trump's inauguration.

• Index Futures continue to rise.

• Netflix is releasing Q4 earnings on 21/1/2025.

• Dollar drops, European stocks jump on Trump tariff delay.

• Tech billionaires take center stage at Trump inauguration.
  

US to withdraw from Paris agreement, expand drilling

U.S. Withdrawal: The Trump administration announced its intention to withdraw from the Paris climate accord for the second time, rejecting global efforts to combat climate change.

Expansion of Drilling: Trump declared a "national energy emergency" to significantly expand drilling and scrap upcoming pollution standards for vehicles.

Impact on Global Efforts: This move undermines international cooperation on reducing reliance on fossil fuels and could encourage other major polluters to scale back commitments.

Defiant Stance: Trump's actions are seen as a stark contrast to former President Biden's climate efforts, as Trump aims to support U.S. oil and gas production. [Learn more]

Colombia vows 'war' as guerrilla violence kills 100

Escalation of Violence: Recent guerrilla violence in Colombia led to more than 100 people dead and displaced thousands in regions across the country, threatening the ongoing peace process.

Government Response: President Gustavo Petro abandoned his negotiation strategy and signaled a tougher approach, vowing "war" against the National Liberation Army (ELN) and other guerrilla groups.

Military Deployment: In response to the violence, around 5,000 troops were sent to the affected areas, particularly the border regions where clashes between rival groups have intensified.

Humanitarian Crisis: The violence has led to severe humanitarian crises, with thousands of residents fleeing to safer areas and relief being provided in shelters and across the border in Venezuela. [Learn more]

Biden pre-emptively pardons Trump foes

Pre-emptive Pardons: In his final hours in office, President Joe Biden issued pre-emptive pardons to former COVID-19 adviser Anthony Fauci, retired general Mark Milley, and others to protect them from potential politically motivated prosecutions under the incoming Trump administration.

Exceptional Circumstances: Biden justified the pardons by citing the exceptional circumstances and the need to protect public servants who served with honor and distinction.

Trump's Retribution: The pardons were issued in response to Trump's repeated promises of "retribution" against his political opponents and threats of criminal prosecution.

No Admission of Guilt: Biden emphasized that the pardons should not be seen as an acknowledgment of wrongdoing or an admission of guilt by the individuals. [Learn more]

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