Week #1, 2024

Hello there, armchair economists and financial titans! ?? We're kicking off 2024 with another edition of our newsletter, "The Financial Helm," where numbers dance and markets never rest, not even in dreams. Let's dissect an exciting week in the world of economics! We bring you the most relevant news from December 29, 2023, to January 5, 2024. Get ready for an informative journey through the crazy world of economy, finance, and investment. And remember, if you like what you read, don't hesitate to subscribe for more! ???

Inflation: A Rising Global Phenomenon ???? Let's start with a look at inflation, that indicator that never ceases to amaze us. In the Eurozone, we've seen it reach 2.9% in December, its highest mark in eight months. This increase is due to the usual suspects: energy, food, and services. But the story doesn't end there. Across the Atlantic, in the United States, inflation has hit 7.5%, the highest level in four decades. What's going on here? Well, it seems that prices are also enjoying an endless party. In Latin America and Africa, the situation is similar, with inflation figures that arouse both astonishment and concern. These global numbers speak of a phenomenon that transcends borders, challenging economies and monetary policies alike.

Stock Markets: The Financial Roller Coaster ???? Let's now move on to the stock markets, those places where drama never lacks. The Ibex 35, the well-known Spanish stock index, closed with a drop of 1.7%, reaching 8,644.4 points. The reason? A mix of global uncertainty, interest rate hikes, and that unwelcome guest: inflation. But it's not all about downturns; in the United States, the Federal Reserve has decided to raise interest rates by 0.5 percentage points, its biggest increase since 2000. This strategic move aims to curb the inflation that's wreaking havoc on the economy. Will it be enough? That's the million-dollar question.

Spain: Between Retirement and Economic Growth ?????? Let's focus our attention on Spain, where there are interesting news on the labor and economic fronts. The retirement age has risen to 65.1 years in 2023. This change, driven by pension reform, reflects an adjustment in social policies in line with current demographic trends. But it's not all about working more years; there's also good news regarding economic growth. Spain's GDP experienced growth of 4.3% in 2023, a clear sign of recovery after the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. And on the employment front, there's a ray of hope: unemployment has fallen to 12.3% in December, its lowest level in six years, thanks in large part to the boost from tourism and construction.

The Corporate World: A Strategic Chessboard ???? In the realm of investments and corporate acquisitions, we've witnessed masterful moves that could redefine the business landscape. BlackRock, the investment fund giant, acquired a 5.3% stake in Iberdrola, marking a milestone in the Spanish electricity sector. On the other hand, KKR, not wanting to be left behind, purchased the cleaning services company Sodexo for a whopping 12.4 billion euros. And in the telecommunications field, CVC Capital Partners bought MásMóvil for 10 billion euros. These moves are more than simple transactions; they are statements of intent, strategies pointing to a future of expansion and consolidation in key sectors.

cousyAI and the Future of Investments: An Advanced Look ???? And now, let's talk about the future. Our AI, cousyAI, is not just a set of algorithms; it's a window into what's to come. Based on meticulous analysis of trends and data, cousyAI offers us a list of companies that could see significant growth in their dividends over the next three years. We're talking about names like T-Mobile US, Blackstone, Lennar, Kenvue, Targa Resources, LPL Financial, Endeavour Group, Howmet Aerospace, Williams-Sonoma, and American Homes 4 Rent. These projections give us a clue about where investment opportunities might lie in the future. But, as we always say, investing involves risks and requires careful analysis. These are not recommendations, but tools to help our readers make more informed decisions.

Closing: Want more? Of course, you do! ?????? If you've enjoyed this journey through the exciting world of economics and finance, don't miss our next issue. Subscribe to continue enjoying "The Financial Helm." Subscribe here to stay updated with "The Financial Helm." ????

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