Taiwan's presidential election defies China, China's view on the politician elected, implications on China's threats, the political race in Iowa, and US banks' outlook
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Quick takeaways
Taiwan's presidential election showcases the defiance of voters against China's claim of Taiwan as its territory.
US banks report high earnings from high interest rates, but anticipate a decline from lending, impacting their profits.
Deep dives
Taiwan's Election Results and Beijing's Reaction
Taiwan's presidential election resulted in the victory of Lie Ching Day, a setback for Beijing which claims Taiwan as part of its territory. China strongly detests Lie due to his support for more formal independence for Taiwan, in contrast to Beijing's claim that Taiwan is part of China. Despite this tension, Lie has expressed a desire to restart dialogue with China and work towards peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
2024 US Presidential Election Kickoff and Potential Challenges for Banks
The 2024 US presidential election begins with the Iowa caucuses, and major US banks report high earnings due to high interest rates. However, banks anticipate a decline in earnings from lending this year. Savers' pressure for higher savings rates and potential interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve are expected to impact bank profits. Nonetheless, a decrease in interest rates may be advantageous for other segments of banking businesses, such as investment banking and trading.
Taiwan’s presidential election shows that voters are willing to defy China, the 2024 US presidential election kicks off today, and American banks say that American consumers are in good shape.
The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music.