🚀 Bybit has officially re-entered the UK market after a two-year hiatus. The crypto exchange aims to enhance its presence in the region and provide innovative trading solutions to customers. This move reflects Bybit's commitment to expanding its global footprint and engaging with the growing crypto community in the UK.

🌟 Japan's Asian company 'Strategy', Metaplanet, announces the launch of trading in the U.S. today. The ticker symbol is MPJPY.

🇷🇺 President Vladimir Putin expressed confidence that the Russian economy will be just fine. He made these remarks during a live Q&A session, assuring citizens about the nation's economic stability. For more details, viewers can watch the session on Smotrim. Additional insights can be found at MT in MAX.

🚨🛢 Goldman Sachs forecasts a continued decline in prices for both Brent and WTI crude oil. The average prices are projected to reach $56 and $52, respectively, by 2026. According to Goldman, a reduction in prices will be necessary to restore balance in the oil market by that year.

🚨 Vladimir Putin has labeled the potential confiscation of Russian assets as "theft," warning that such actions could set a precedent for seizing sovereign assets across Europe under various pretexts. He cautioned that international investors are closely observing these developments, which could undermine trust in the Eurozone and lead to direct financial losses for the EU. Putin stated, "Eventually, everything will have to be returned." For more details, visit MT в MAX. To watch the live broadcast, click here.

🛢🇷🇺 Exchange prices for Ai-95 gasoline have dropped by 10%, while Ai-92 prices decreased by 5% over the past week.

⚠️🇻🇪 In a recent interview with NBC News, former President Donald Trump indicated that he does not rule out the possibility of war with Venezuela. He also mentioned that there will be new seizures of oil tankers. 🛢

🚨 AHEAD

🇷🇺 Russia - Central Bank rate announcement at 13:30 Moscow time.

CONSENSUS: The Central Bank is expected to reduce the rate by 0.5% to 16%.

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🔥🇷🇺 The Central Bank of Russia has set the interest rate at 16%, aligning with expectations but down from the previous 16.5%. Current inflation growth indicators have declined, however, inflation expectations have risen in recent months. The Bank of Russia intends to maintain a tight monetary policy to bring inflation back to target, indicating a prolonged period of strict monetary measures. For more details, visit the release and check MT at MAX.

❗️🇷🇺 Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that the increase in VAT will not be permanent, emphasizing that taxes should decrease in the future. He explained that the aim of the VAT hike is to achieve a balanced budget. For more details, visit MT in MAX. Watch the live broadcast of Putin’s direct line here.

❗️🇷🇺 On January 14, Mosenergo will hold a meeting regarding dividends for 2024.

📅 On December 23 at 18:00 (online), "BCS World of Investments" will host a conference titled "Investments in 2026: From Forecasts to a Ready Plan." Experts will discuss the trends that will drive the market in 2026 and how to transform forecasts into a clear personal investment plan. The agenda includes bonds, currencies, gold, stocks, and more, with top speakers guiding attendees in their choices. Registration is available at this link.

📈 Starting December 20, the Moscow Exchange will expand the number of securities traded on weekends, as well as during morning and evening sessions. Shares of DOMRF will be available for trading on weekends and in both morning and evening sessions. For more details, visit here.

🐹 Physicists have increased short positions in platinum futures to a record high, according to data from MSCinsider. Platinum prices have reached their highest level in 17 years.

⚠️🛢🇷🇸 Russia expects its ally Serbia to fulfill commitments regarding the joint venture NIS amid pressure from US sanctions. President Putin addressed the sanctions imposed on NIS, in which Gazprom Neft holds a stake, during a live Q&A session. For more details, you can watch here.

🇷🇺🇨🇳 President Vladimir Putin has described Chinese leader Xi Jinping as a reliable friend and a stable partner and ally of Russia. Putin emphasized the collaboration between Russia and China in the military sector. For more details, you can watch here.

🔥🇷🇺 Russia's First Live Trader Battle

The "Live Trading" event by T-Investments features teams "Rocket Builders," "Mamba Angels," and "Lineup" competing for the second hour in response to the Central Bank's decision. MarketTwits is covering the action live from the venue. Participants are risking personal deposits of 1 million rubles each, with the winning team set to receive 1.5 million rubles. The event is hosted by Vasily Oleynik and Yuri The Professional.

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🚗 AutoStat reports that new car sales for Sollers fell by 25% in November, totaling 909 units sold.

🇪🇺 NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has faced criticism following a recent speech, with some questioning his understanding of the new US security strategy that does not identify Russia as an enemy. Critics suggest he should be more aware of his responsibilities. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin referred to Rutte as an "intelligent person," expressing confusion over his remarks about a potential war with Russia. Putin highlighted that the US remains NATO's main financial backer and noted that Russia is no longer considered a threat in the US strategy.

🇷🇺 Fix Price will consider a reverse stock split of 1000 to 1. The decision is set to be discussed on January 21. For more information, visit the official announcement at this link.

🛢 Citadel has reported its worst results since 2018, primarily due to faltering investments in natural gas. The firm faced significant challenges in the market, reflecting broader struggles within the sector. For more details, visit this article. The allure of gas continues to attract investors, yet many are experiencing losses.