US-China tango, Fed cuts & QT end and Dr Copper’s pulse

Howie Lim YH
Published Fri, Oct 31, 2025 · 05:46 PM
    • What’s next for the US and China, two economic powerhouses and global markets?
    • What’s next for the US and China, two economic powerhouses and global markets? PHOTO: AFP

    This week on Market Focus Weekly, we unravel the intricate dance between the US and China. Did their much-anticipated meeting bring genuine relief or merely a temporary truce? Correspondent Howie Lim and portfolio manager Pete Tan from Phillips Securities, dig into the implications of this crucial geopolitical tango for global markets and those two economic powerhouses. You’ll gain insights into whether we’re witnessing a structural reset or just a relief rally, and what to expect from future diplomatic encounters.

    Decoding the Fed’s double-edged sword

    The Federal Reserve delivered an expected rate cut, but their pronouncement of possibly “no more this year” left many scratching their heads. More critically, the Fed’s plans to end quantitative tightening have sparked intense debate. Tan explains how this move could inject much-needed liquidity into the markets, potentially ending the year on a high note despite persistent inflationary pressures and downside risks to employment. Discover how other central banks are navigating this complex landscape and what it means for your investments.

    AI’s price tag and Dr Copper’s crystal ball

    Corporate earnings season has left investors grappling with the hefty cost of the AI build-out. While some mega-caps soared, others stumbled. Tan offers a penetrating analysis of Meta, Microsoft, Google, and Amazon’s performance, revealing the underlying messages about AI investment. Is Nvidia’s staggering valuation justified? Plus, Dr Copper - the ultimate economic bellwether - is smashing all-time highs. Tan deciphers what copper’s unprecedented surge signals. Tune in to understand the forces shaping the global economy.

    Listen to more episodes at bt.sg/podcasts. Got feedback? Email us at btpodcasts@sph.com.sg.

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    Written and hosted by: Howie Lim (howielim@sph.com.sg)

    With Pete Tan, portfolio manager, Phillip Securities

    Edited by: Chai Pei Chieh & Claressa Monteiro

    Produced by: Howie Lim & Chai Pei Chieh

    A podcast by BT Podcasts, The Business Times, SPH Media

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