News Gist .News

Articles | Politics | Finance | Stocks | Crypto | AI | Technology | Science | Gaming | PC Hardware | Laptops | Smartphones | Archive

Brazil's Coffee Stockpiles Dwindle as Prices Hit Record Highs

Brazil's coffee stockpile nearly depleted due to drought and high global prices, leaving low inventory levels. Farmers sold most of their 2024 crop, months before the new crop is ready, as global prices soared 70% in 2024. Roasters face challenges as coffee prices rise, threatening quality and potentially leading to declines in taste.

See Also

Brazil's Coffee Stockpiles Dwindle as Prices Hit Record Highs. Δ1.95

Brazil's coffee farmers have been forced to sell almost all their beans months before the new crop due to a drought that has ravaged the country's coffee production. The global prices of coffee have nearly doubled in the past 14 months, with arabica prices soaring 70% and robusta prices surging 72%. As a result, consumers are facing higher prices for their daily cup of coffee.

What the 7 C's of Commodities Signal About Inflation Δ1.75

Peter Borish asserts that the seven C's of commodities—coffee, corn, cotton, copper, crude oil, cocoa, and cattle—are essential indicators for understanding inflation trends and stock market shifts. Despite a decrease in inflation from its peak in 2021, recent price hikes in several of these commodities suggest potential inflationary pressures, with notable increases in coffee and corn prices. Borish emphasizes that while fluctuations in individual commodities may occur, a simultaneous rise across all seven C's could indicate a significant uptick in inflation that warrants careful monitoring.

Coal's Four-Year Lows Hide a Coming Global Supply Squeeze Δ1.74

Languishing global prices today mask a very different future for the world’s most-consumed source of power, where investment in new production has dwindled due to a lack of investor confidence. Demand continues to rise in emerging markets, particularly in India and China, which could lead to a sharp rebound in internationally traded coal. This shift highlights the increasing importance of coal as a fuel for artificial intelligence and other industries, posing challenges to climate targets.

Businesses Told Fed They Will Raise Prices With Onset of Trump's Tariffs Δ1.73

Businesses across various sectors are anticipating price increases due to President Donald Trump's tariffs, even in the face of potential consumer resistance, as indicated in the Federal Reserve's latest Beige Book. The report highlights challenges in passing increased input costs onto consumers, with many companies expressing concerns over the inflationary effects of tariffs amidst slower economic growth. Fed officials will use these insights to inform monetary policy decisions, particularly as they navigate the risks of stagflation.

Grocery Shoppers Are Using These Strategies to Combat Inflation: Survey Δ1.73

For the vast majority of Americans who don't grow what they eat, it's not feasible to avoid eye-watering prices at the grocery store. However, a recent study found that most shoppers are getting creative to save money. A LendingTree survey of 2,000 people found that 88% of shoppers said they're approaching grocery aisles differently as prices continued to grow from Dec. 2024 to Jan. 2025, jumping up .7%. January's food prices were 2.5% higher than the same month in 2024.

Global Commodity Markets Set for Shift as Oil Supplies Rise and Prices Fall Δ1.73

Oil supplies are on the way up, with prices dropping below $70 a barrel, giving little incentive for US shale drillers to increase production. The increasing output of President Donald Trump's America is expected to have a lasting impact on global energy markets, but its effects will depend on how long this period of influence can last. As the industry adjusts to new dynamics, companies are also navigating changing commodity prices and trade policies that could affect the market.

China to Boost Food Imports From Latin America, Europe as US Trade War Escalates Δ1.73

China is set to increase its purchases of meat, dairy, and grains from countries such as Brazil, Argentina, Spain, the Netherlands, and others in Europe. China's reliance on U.S. farm exports has decreased since the 2020 trade war, prompting the country to seek alternative sources. China's tariffs on U.S. agricultural goods are expected to reshape global trade flows.

Us Stagflation Fears Rise with Latest Economic Data Δ1.73

A string of recent US data showing resurgent inflation and slowing activity is stoking fears the world’s biggest economy could be heading toward a period of stagflation. Economists caution against making too much of one month’s data, especially when skewed by factors like freezing weather. The Federal Reserve would face a tough choice between supporting the labor market or finishing its years-long inflation fight.

Brazil Considers Cutting Ethanol Import Tax in Nod to Trump, Report Says Δ1.72

Brazil's government is considering cutting import taxes on ethanol in a bid to appease U.S. President Donald Trump and as a way to help tame inflation, newspaper O Globo reported on Friday, citing sources. The move comes as Brazil faces criticism from the U.S. over its tariffs on sugar, which is typically negotiated alongside ethanol imports. By reducing ethanol import taxes, Brazil hopes to persuade the U.S. government to make an exception to the recently announced 25% tariff on aluminum and steel imports.

Farmers Face Soaring Fertilizer Prices Amid Trump Trade War Δ1.72

Canadian and US farmers are bracing for another economic blow: even bigger fertilizer bills amid a North American trade war, as tariffs on Canadian products have increased potash prices nearly 20% this year ahead of US duties. The price of potash has risen from $303 per short ton to $348 on February 28, with phosphate prices also surging since hurricanes hit the Florida mines and facilities that make the product. Fertilizer companies are rushing to meet demand, but analysts predict higher costs for farmers, who already face low grain prices.

US Trade Deficit Hits Record High in January on Imports Surge Δ1.72

The U.S. trade deficit widened to a record high in January amid front-loading of imports ahead of tariffs, suggesting that trade could be a drag on economic growth in the first quarter. Imports soared 10.0%, the most since July 2020, to $401.2 billion, driven by industrial supplies and consumer goods. The surge in gold imports may have been related to fears of tariffs on the precious metal, but the underlying causes of the trade deficit remain unclear.

Gold Sees Surge in 2025 as Market Uncertainty and Geopolitics Driving Demand Δ1.72

Gold had a standout year in 2024, with investors adding to their gold holdings and central banks buying up the metal, despite slowing consumer demand. Rising market uncertainty and geopolitical tensions have made gold a safe-haven asset, driving its price higher. Analysts predict that gold prices could rise further in 2025, driven by optimistic investor sentiment.

US Services Sector Expansion Brings Tariff Uncertainty and Inflation Concerns Δ1.72

U.S. services sector growth unexpectedly picked up in February, with prices for inputs increasing amid a surge in raw material costs, suggesting that inflation could heat up in the months ahead. Rising price pressures are worsened by tariffs triggered by President Trump's new levies on Mexican and Canadian goods, as well as a doubling of duties on Chinese goods to 20%. The Institute for Supply Management survey showed resilience in domestic demand but was at odds with so-called hard data indicating a sharp slowdown in gross domestic product this quarter.

Best Buy Warns of Potential Price Increases as Fresh US Tariffs Roll In Δ1.72

Best Buy has issued a warning to American shoppers about potential price increases due to the implementation of new tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada, which took effect on Tuesday. The company, which relies heavily on Chinese goods, expects fiscal year 2026 comparable sales to be in the range of flat to up 2%, largely below analysts' average expectations of a 1.71% rise. Shares of Best Buy reversed earlier gains to be down 1.3% in premarket trading as the pain from tariffs overshadowed a surprise rise in comparable sales during the holiday quarter.

Cyclone Looms as Aussie Staple Disappears From Shop Shelves Δ1.72

Panic buying has struck supermarkets across South East Queensland amid forecasts of Tropical Cyclone Alfred crossing the east coast, leaving shelves bare of essential items like bottled water, eggs, milk, and bread. Supermarkets are struggling to keep up with demand for these staples, leading some customers to resort to panic buying in preparation for possible supply outages ahead of the category 1 system intensifying off the coast. As the cyclone approaches, residents are being urged to prepare for intense rainfall and damaging winds.

Emerging Markets Rattled on Threats to Trade, Ukraine Deal Δ1.71

Emerging markets are reeling from investor concerns over US President Donald Trump's trade threats and the fading prospect of a Ukraine ceasefire, leading to their biggest drop since August. The turmoil follows Trump's announcement of further tariffs on China, along with plans for levies on imports from Mexico and Canada in the coming week. As tensions between the world's two largest economies continue to escalate, emerging markets are feeling the pinch.

GPU Shortage Reaches New Heights: Scalpers Cash In at Skyrocketing Prices Δ1.71

The latest RDNA 4 GPUs from AMD are experiencing unprecedented demand, with scalpers capitalizing on the shortage by selling them at inflated prices. Despite having an ample supply of stock at launch, retailers are now struggling to meet the high demand for mid-range GPUs. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges in the global supply chain, particularly in the tech industry.

Brazilians Find SOLACE in Bonds as Trump Ramps Up Tariff Threats Δ1.71

Brazil's government bonds are gaining popularity among investors due to their unique characteristics and relatively low correlation with global markets. The bond market is driven by idiosyncratic factors such as fiscal policy and inflation outlook, making it an attractive option for those seeking diversification. Brazil's 10-year government bond yield currently stands at 15.267%, marking a significant jump compared to the same period last year.

China Consumption Slump Deepens as February Prices Drop Δ1.71

Consumer prices in China have fallen for the first time in a year, with authorities struggling to revive spending amid intensifying trade headwinds. The country's exports are expected to be impacted by US tariffs, which could limit economic growth this year. A prolonged trade war would likely keep inflation at bay, but also mean that consumers cannot rely on exports for strong economic recovery.

Tariffs Take Toll on Target's Holiday Season Sales and Profits Δ1.71

Target reported strong fourth-quarter profits but warned that tariffs and other costs would put pressure on its earnings in 2025. The retailer beat estimates, however, and shares rose slightly before the opening bell. Despite a decline in sales revenue, comparable sales rose 1.5% during the quarter, higher than the previous quarter's gain.

US Inflation Set to Stay Sticky as Tariff Risk Looms Δ1.71

US consumer prices probably rose in February at a pace that illustrates plodding progress on inflation, with annual price growth elevated and lingering cost pressures expected to continue. The magnitude of the increase leaves room for concern among Federal Reserve officials, who have an inflation goal of 2% and are keenly monitoring policy developments from the Trump administration. However, moderate economic growth and steady payrolls growth tempered by hints of underlying cracks in the labor market are also contributing to a more nuanced view on inflation.

China Trade Surge Pposes Challenge for Trump's South America Influence Δ1.71

China's huge and growing trade lead dulled the impact of Trump's measures, a warning sign of the potential limits more broadly of a punitive approach in a world where the United States has a growing number of economic rivals. South America's exports to China have more than doubled in the past decade, driven by booming commerce in recent years that boosted China's influence. The pragmatic U-turn by a natural U.S. ally underscores the challenge for President Trump in resource-rich South America, where booming trade with China has undermined his efforts to promote U.S. interests.

Target Faces Near-Term Profit Squeeze From Tariffs, Cautious Spending Δ1.71

Target's forecast full-year comparable sales came below estimates after a discount-driven holiday quarter results beat, and said uncertainty around tariffs as well as consumer spending would weigh on first-quarter profits. The company joined Walmart and Best Buy in raising caution about their expectations for the year as sticky inflation and tariffs temper demand. Target expects comparable sales to be flat in the year through January 2026, compared with analysts' average estimate of 1.86% growth.

Best Buy and Target Warn of Price Jumps Caused by Trump's Tariffs Δ1.71

Best Buy and Target are alerting consumers to expect immediate price increases as a result of President Trump's recently implemented tariffs on imported goods from Canada, Mexico, and China. Retail leaders indicate that manufacturers will likely pass these costs onto retailers and ultimately the consumers, affecting a substantial portion of retail goods, particularly in the food and electronics sectors. The tariffs could disrupt international supply chains, heightening financial strain on markets both domestically and globally.

China to Accelerate Annual Stockpiling of Strategic Commodities Δ1.71

China said on Wednesday it would accelerate the annual stockpiling of strategic fuels, food and other commodities. In a report on Wednesday, China's state planner said it would steadily advance the construction of storage facilities for grain, petroleum and other commodities. The move aims to bolster the country's energy security and food supplies amid rising global tensions.