An internal war in Syria, and the effect of martial law in South Korea took centerstage this week among all major events across the globe, and remains the highlight of this week's list of center stage events.
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Profit loss
Centerstage events of week 1
Volkswagen workers rally under “Ready to strike”...
Volkswagen workers rally under “Ready to strike” banners, with 66,000 employees protesting €18 billion in budget cuts, including pension changes and three German plant closures. IG Metall vows “the toughest wage dispute” amid stoppages lasting through Tuesday. The strike reflects Germany’s broader economic challenges, including declining industrial orders and shrinking exports. VW faces shrinking profits, a dwindling Chinese market, and looming EU-China tariff conflicts, reporting a 64% profit drop in October alongside losses from BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
Monday, 2 December, 2024
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declares martial law...
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declares martial law, citing threats from North Korean forces and anti-state elements. Army General Park An-su is appointed Martial Law Commander, imposing media control and banning protests. Protesters clash with police at the National Assembly, which unanimously votes to revoke martial law, prompting soldiers to withdraw. Facing opposition from his own party and others, Yoon lifts the martial law hours after its declaration.
Tuesday, 3 December, 2024
Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealthcare...
Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealthcare, is fatally shot outside a Manhattan hotel on Wednesday morning in a targeted attack. The 50-year-old executive is rushed to a hospital but pronounced dead. Police are investigating the motive, with the gunman still at large. Thompson, who led UnitedHealth's insurance division since 2021, oversaw profits rising to $16 billion in 2022. Known for his low profile, he earned an annual compensation of $10.2 million
Wednesday, 4 December, 2024
Bitcoin surpasses $100,000 for the first time...
Bitcoin surpasses $100,000 for the first time, reaching a market value of nearly $2 trillion, driven by institutional demand, corporate adoption, and expectations of crypto-friendly policies under President Trump. Spot Bitcoin ETFs from firms like BlackRock and Fidelity attract $30 billion in assets, while MicroStrategy’s strategy influences other companies. Despite election-related regulatory uncertainty, Bitcoin rebounds after Trump’s victory, marking a 130% rise this year. Bitcoin now rivals major corporations in market capitalization.
Thursday, 5 December, 2024
After 25 years of negotiations, the EU and Mercosur finalize...
After 25 years of negotiations, the EU and Mercosur finalize a historic free trade deal, covering 700 million people and 25% of global GDP. The agreement reduces tariffs, simplifies trade, and integrates the Paris Agreement as a key element, allowing suspension if commitments are breached. It includes deforestation commitments by 2030 and a €1.8 billion EU fund to support green and digital transitions in Mercosur countries. New provisions address public procurement, export duties, and vehicle regulations.
Friday, 6 December, 2024
External Affairs Minister of India S. Jaishankar responds...
External Affairs Minister of India S. Jaishankar responds to BRICS Currency for BRICS nations, asserting that India has "no interest" in weakening the US dollar as of now. His statement comes amid growing concerns over potential economic tensions, emphasizing India’s commitment to stable international financial systems. Jaishankar’s remarks reflect India’s focus on constructive economic engagement while addressing unilateral tariff threats by the US administration.
Saturday, 7 December, 2024
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad flees...
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad flees Damascus, reportedly seeking asylum in Moscow. The Syrian Army declares his rule over, halting all operations. Rebels seize the Presidential Palace, prisons, and state TV, releasing prisoners and announcing a new government. Celebrations erupt in Damascus and abroad, with statues toppled and embassies defaced. Meanwhile, Israel establishes a buffer zone in Syria, targeting key military sites, while the U.S. launches airstrikes on ISIL. Turkey intensifies attacks on Kurdish forces, complicating Syria’s fragile transition.
Sunday, 8 December, 2024
