1. FTSE 100: Stocks hold bumper gains as US inflation eases
US inflation pressure eased a touch at the end of last year, according to figures on Friday, strengthening the case for the Federal Reserve to consider cutting interest rates.
2. Fed's preferred inflation gauge cools boosting rate cut hopes
According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the core personal consumption expenditure grew 2.9% on-year in December, easing from November's 3.2% rise.
3. Investigation into Vodafone and Three UK merger launched by competition watchdog
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said it has started a 'phase one' probe, where it will take up to 40 days before deciding whether the merger may result in a substantial lessening of competition that would require a deeper 'phase two' inquiry.
4. New letter details Boohoo’s mounting supply chain woes
Commenting on the newly disclosed correspondence, Environmental Audit Committee chair Philip Dunne MP, stated: “Over the years, the Committee has shone a light on issues around sustainability and alleged concerns of poor working practices in the fast fashion industry.”
5. Musk's xAI startup looking to raise up to $6bn to mount ChatGPT challenge
The company has hired Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS), which is looking to tap investors in Asia, including Hong Kong, and the Middle East with talks about equity investments at a potential $20 billion valuation, the Financial Times reported today.