International News 26/01
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China has reduced the bank reserve ratio in order to improve liquidity.
China's People's Bank of China (PBOC) has reduced the bank reserve ratio to boost the economy. This will allow banks to issue more money, injecting CNY 1 trillion (US $139 billion) into the market. The PBOC has indicated that further interest rate cuts are forthcoming, making this the first such move since last year's interest rate cuts. Some analysts believe that the reduction in bank reserve ratios aims to smooth liquidity ahead of the Lunar New Year holiday, while others suggest that it could have a broader impact on the Chinese economy. By freeing up liquidity, banks will be able to lend to customers and purchase more bonds, which in turn supports economic growth. However, some investors may see this as a chance for a short-term market rebound, unless additional policies are put in place to tackle structural issues in the property market.
https://internasional.kontan.co.id/news/china-memangkas-rasio-cadangan-bank-demi-bantu-likuiditas
Ford is recalling 2.24 million Ford Explorer SUVs.
Ford Motor is recalling 2.24 million Explorer SUVs globally due to an issue with trim retaining clips that may not be properly attached. The recall affects 1.89 million SUVs in the United States, ranging from 2011 to 2019 models, as the trim may detach. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) initiated the recall. Ford has not received any reports of accidents or injuries related to this issue. Dealers will inspect and replace the A-pillar trim if necessary. Ford estimates that around 5% of vehicles will be affected. Owners of affected vehicles may notice gaps around the loose A-pillar trim or excessive rattling or wind noise from that area. This issue was first brought to Ford's attention by the NHTSA in 2018. After investigation, Ford determined that it did not pose a significant safety risk. Nonetheless, they have decided to recall the affected vehicles.
https://internasional.kontan.co.id/news/ford-recall-224-juta-mobil-suv-ford-explorer
Google invests $8 million in Israeli AI companies and Palestinian businesses.
Google is investing $8 million to support Israeli tech companies and Palestinian businesses. $4 million will be allocated to AI startups in Israel, and the remaining $4 million will go to early-stage Palestinian startups and businesses. This support aims to help these companies continue operating during challenging times. The grants given to Israeli AI startups will be in addition to the emergency fund established by the Israel Innovation Authority after the recent conflict. The funding is intended for startups with short funding periods of up to six months. Google has committed to assisting around 20 startups in the field of AI solutions and services. In addition, Google plans to provide loans and grants to 1,000 Palestinian small businesses through partnerships with non-profit organizations. They will also provide seed grants to 50 tech startups in the Palestinian territories, ultimately safeguarding around 4,500 jobs.