China Hacked Treasury Dept. in ‘Major Incident,’ US Says
Dec 31, 2024
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Alan Hibbard, Precious Metals and Alternative Money Specialist at GoldSilver.com, discusses the rising significance of gold as a safe haven, projecting prices may soar beyond $3,000 per ounce by 2025, while contrasting it with Bitcoin's challenges as a transactional currency. Madison Muller, Bloomberg News Health Reporter, dives into the healthcare sector's future, highlighting the impact of emerging weight loss drugs and potential market challenges, including accessibility and competition driven by telehealth innovations.
The hacking incident involving China's intelligence agency underscores the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures across government institutions.
As geopolitical tensions rise, gold is anticipated to surpass $3,000 per ounce, highlighting its role as a safe haven amidst economic uncertainty.
Deep dives
Concerns Over Treasury Market Dynamics
The U.S. Treasury market is facing significant challenges due to a decrease in the number of primary dealers and the rise of electronic trading. This decline raises concerns about the market's stability as the amount of outstanding U.S. debt is on the rise, potentially reaching $50 trillion within the next decade. The primary dealer system was created to ensure smooth operations in Treasury security transactions, but its efficacy is being undermined by regulatory changes and market consolidation. This shrinking dealer presence could lead to difficulties in managing auctions and maintaining market order during times of economic stress.
Cybersecurity Breaches in Government Institutions
A recent cybersecurity incident involving the U.S. Treasury Department has raised alarms about the effectiveness of security measures against state-sponsored hacking, specifically from Chinese actors. The breach was facilitated through vulnerabilities in third-party technology, leading to unauthorized access to critical documents and secure systems. Such incidents highlight the importance of robust cybersecurity protocols and the need for quick detection and response to potential threats. As government institutions increasingly rely on interconnected systems, they must prioritize a holistic approach to security that encompasses prevention, detection, and rapid incident response.
Market Reactions to Geopolitical Tensions and Investment Strategies
Amid geopolitical turmoil and economic uncertainties, gold is predicted to experience price increases, potentially exceeding $3,000 per ounce in 2025. Investors are turning to gold as a safe haven, particularly as countries like China ramp up their gold purchases amidst inflationary pressures resulting from ongoing conflicts. Additionally, the competition from Bitcoin poses a unique challenge for gold, as it becomes an alternative store of value for investors. The intertwined dynamics of global events, inflation, and financial alternatives will shape investment strategies in the upcoming year.
Weight Loss Drugs Under Scrutiny and Market Dynamics
The advent of weight loss medications has sparked both interest and concern regarding accessibility and potential misuse. Companies like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly faced supply challenges throughout 2024, with ongoing legal battles regarding the availability of their products. The increasing trend of telehealth services offering these drugs has led to instances where individuals, including those with eating disorders, obtain medications inappropriately. Moving into 2025, further advancements in drug delivery methods, including the development of oral medications, and the outcome of regulatory discussions around insurance coverage could greatly impact the landscape of weight loss treatment options.
Watch Carol and Tim LIVE every day on YouTube: http://bit.ly/3vTiACF. Bloomberg News Rates Reporter Michael Mackenzie and Wendy Thomas, President and Chief Executive Officer at Secureworks, share their thoughts on one of China’s intelligence agencies hacking the US Treasury Department, gaining access to the workstations of government employees and unclassified documents, according to the Biden administration. Alan Hibbard, Precious Metals and Alternative Money Specialist at “GoldSilver.com” compares and contrasts Bitcoin and Gold. Bloomberg News Health Reporter Madison Muller discusses what to watch for in the healthcare sector in 2025. Matt Stucky, Chief Portfolio Manager at Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management, looks at investing in equities in the new year. Hosts: Carol Massar and Vonnie Quinn. Producer: Paul Brennan.