Group 1 - Gold prices experienced a sudden drop during the Asian trading session on November 13, with spot gold and New York futures both falling below $4,200 per ounce after a previous increase of over 2% on November 12 [1] Group 2 - The U.S. House of Representatives passed a temporary funding bill on November 12, moving closer to ending the longest government shutdown in U.S. history [4] - The bill will provide continued funding for the federal government, allowing most government agencies to operate until January 30, 2026 [4] - President Trump is expected to sign the bill on the evening of November 12, fully restoring government operations [5] - The Senate previously passed the bill with a vote of 60 in favor and 40 against, but it only includes three of the twelve annual appropriations, leaving nine budgets still undecided [5] - Ongoing negotiations between the two parties regarding annual appropriations may lead to another potential government shutdown in over two months [5]

Core Viewpoint - The U.S. federal government has been in a shutdown for three weeks, leading to significant economic distress for federal employees who are now relying on food assistance programs to meet their basic needs [1][8]. Group 1: Impact on Federal Employees - Federal employees are forming long lines to receive free food due to unpaid wages caused by the government shutdown [1][10]. - The Capital Area Food Bank has initiated food distribution events specifically for federal employees and contractors, with the first event taking place on October 21 [7][8]. - Employees express concerns about their financial stability, with one stating that their emergency funds may only last a month, raising fears about the future [5][14]. Group 2: Political Stalemate - The political deadlock continues, with the Senate's 11th attempt to pass a temporary funding bill failing, as Democrats and Republicans remain at odds over budgetary issues [8][10]. - Accusations are exchanged between party leaders, with Democrats blaming Republicans for the shutdown and Republicans accusing Democrats of making extreme demands [10][12]. Group 3: Broader Economic Effects - The shutdown is causing widespread disruptions, including significant flight delays, with nearly 20,000 flights affected between October 18 and 20 [10]. - Over 70% of employees at the National Nuclear Security Administration are on unpaid leave, raising concerns about national security despite reassurances from the Energy Secretary [12][14]. - The economic situation is described as dire, with rising prices and increased difficulty for families to make ends meet during the shutdown [14][15].

Group 1 - The U.S. government remains in a shutdown due to the Senate's failure to pass a new temporary funding bill, resulting in over 20,000 flight delays nationwide since October 6 [1][2] - The Republican proposal received only 54 votes, falling short of the 60 votes needed for passage, with the next vote scheduled for October 10 [1] - The ongoing deadlock between the two parties is primarily over healthcare subsidies, diminishing the likelihood of a quick resolution [1] Group 2 - During the government shutdown, air traffic controllers and airport security personnel are required to work without pay, with a reported shortage of approximately 3,500 air traffic controllers [2] - The Trump administration has begun airing videos at airports blaming the Democrats for the shutdown and the resulting flight delays, emphasizing the impact on federal operations [2] - The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the shutdown will force about 750,000 federal employees to take unpaid leave [2]