Financial Summary: Friday, December 19, 2025

Japan's MUFG is investing $4.45 billion in Shriram Finance, marking the largest foreign direct investment in India's financial services sector.

The India-U.S. trade deal remains stalled due to a lack of political will, despite strong economic incentives for both nations.

Japan's core consumer inflation remains steady at 3% for the 44th month, leading to speculation about a potential interest rate hike.

The EU has approved a €90 billion loan to Ukraine and is considering using frozen Russian assets for reparations.

The Bank of Japan has raised interest rates to 0.75%, marking the highest level in 30 years and a significant shift in monetary policy.

The UK government has linked a recent cyber attack on the Foreign Office to China, raising serious security concerns.

President Putin claims that Ukraine is retreating and insists that Russia's demands should guide peace negotiations.

The US is set to release hundreds of thousands of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, with more expected in the coming weeks.

The UK has ruled out using frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine, stating plans depend on collaboration with allies.

Concerns about misinformation affecting perceptions of London are being addressed, highlighting the city's resilience.

Palo Alto Networks has secured a multibillion-dollar deal with Google Cloud, enhancing their strategic partnership.

TikTok has avoided a U.S. ban after ByteDance reached a deal with investors, ensuring its continued operation in the country.

In 2025, Google hired 20% of its AI software engineers as boomerang employees, reflecting the competitive landscape for AI talent.

The GameFi sector is facing challenges due to a struggling crypto market and rising concerns about Web3 gaming malware.

Stock investors reacted positively to a lighter inflation report, boosting the Dow and S&P despite concerns over its reliability.

ICICI Prudential AMC shares debuted at a 20% premium, marking it as the second-best performer among large IPOs this year.

Indian equity benchmarks rebounded sharply, with several stocks hitting new 52-week highs, driven by positive global cues.

HDFC AMC shares fell over 3% after profit booking, following a significant rally due to new SEBI regulations.

Groww shares surged 13% after Jefferies initiated coverage with a Buy rating, indicating strong growth potential.

U.S. stocks opened higher as technology stocks rebounded, although Nike's shares fell sharply due to disappointing sales in China.

Friday is anticipated to be a record 'Witching' day, which could lead to increased volatility in the stock market.

Trading of Infosys' American Depository Receipts (ADRs) was halted on the NYSE after a 40% surge to $26.62.

The Sensex closed above 84,900 and Nifty approached 26,000 as global risk appetite improved.

Federal Reserve President John Williams indicated no immediate need for further interest rate cuts following last week's reduction.

Goldman Sachs has revised its gold price target for 2026, signaling changes in market expectations.

U.S. natural gas futures experienced a daily gain despite a weekly loss, influenced by fluctuating weather forecasts.

TikTok has launched a new joint venture to strengthen its operations and market presence in the U.S.

Nike's shares dropped 10% following disappointing sales in China, despite reporting better-than-expected earnings.

Anupam Rasayan's stock surged after announcing a $150 million acquisition of Jayhawk Fine Chemicals.

HCL Technologies has acquired HPE's Telco Solutions Business for $160 million, expanding its service offerings.

Reliance Consumer Products has acquired a majority stake in Udhaiyams Agro Foods to enhance its portfolio.

ICICI Prudential AMC's shares rose 19% on their market debut following a successful IPO.

Oracle's stock increased by 7% after it joined an investor group to manage TikTok's U.S. operations.

BioMarin Pharmaceutical has acquired Amicus Therapeutics for $4.8 billion, enhancing its biotech portfolio.

Morgan Stanley is reportedly leading the management of SpaceX's upcoming IPO, highlighting interest in the aerospace sector.

Italy has sold its digital payment unit PagoPA to Poste and the state mint for up to 500 million euros, marking a significant fintech move.

Nine major pharmaceutical companies have agreed to reduce drug prices for Americans, addressing price disparities.

Starbucks has appointed a new chief technology officer from Amazon Grocery, indicating a strategic shift in its tech leadership.

The DOJ has released files related to Jeffrey Epstein after significant public demand and previous resistance.

The Kennedy Center has officially added Donald Trump's name to its signage following a board vote.

Financial experts are discussing the advantages of side gigs versus passive income for building wealth.

'Avatar: Fire and Ash' has earned $12 million in its Thursday preview screenings, indicating a strong box office start.