Global Market Movers: Oil, China, and Geopolitical Shifts

Energy and Geopolitics - Former President Trump announced a meeting with the top 14 oil companies at the White House, emphasizing the potential for the U.S. to capture "trillions of dollars worth of oil" from Venezuela following the ousting of Nicolás Maduro [2][7] - U.S. officials indicated the necessity for the U.S. to control Venezuela's oil sales and revenues to restore its oil industry, with Trump stating American oil companies are ready to invest billions in infrastructure [2][7] - Proceeds from seized Venezuelan oil are planned to be placed into U.S.-controlled offshore accounts [2] Lithium and International Relations - Ukraine has awarded its Dobra lithium field to a consortium with connections to Trump allies, indicating a shift towards business-driven ties with the U.S., although significant mining and profits are expected to take years [3][7] China's Economic Dynamics - China is experiencing its fastest inflation rate in nearly three years, primarily due to rising food costs, while domestic car sales are cooling, leading to a projected increase in car exports [4][7] Healthcare Sector Developments - Johnson & Johnson has finalized an agreement with the U.S. government to reduce drug prices, part of broader efforts to make medications more affordable [5][7] International Diplomacy - Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is set to visit South Korea to enhance strategic partnerships and cultural exchanges [6][7] - Japan's Finance Minister Katayama will meet with U.S. counterparts to discuss rare earth supplies, noting that Japan's consumption trends remain stable [6][7] Market Movements - The KOSPI index in the Seoul Stock Market reversed an early loss of 1.14% to turn positive, reflecting broader global economic shifts [6]