SEC approved Bitcoin ETF

US regulators have granted approval for the first exchange-traded funds directly investing in Bitcoin, marking a significant moment for the $1.7 trillion digital-asset sector. The Securities and Exchange Commission authorized 11 funds to commence trading, expanding access to the leading cryptocurrency on Wall Street and beyond.

Federal Reserve Bank of New York President John Williams believes monetary policy is sufficiently tight to guide inflation back to the Fed's target. However, he suggests waiting for more evidence of cooling inflation before considering interest rate cuts. Inflation has slowed, and the upcoming consumer price index data is expected to reveal further softening.

Former Bank of Japan board member Makoto Sakurai states that the central bank is fully prepared to end the world's last negative interest rate, with April being a likely timing. The Bank is reportedly waiting for one or two pieces of economic data before making this move, and the normalization process post-hike is expected to be gradual.

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov discussed key issues in a phone call. Wang expressed confidence in Russia achieving its domestic political goals and maintaining stability and growth. Both countries pledged joint efforts for a cease-fire in Gaza, emphasizing cooperation on international matters.