Marketplace Morning Report Worlds apart on generative AI use
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Jan 21, 2026 Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell, shares insights on the contrasting generative AI adoption rates between the U.S. and countries like Nigeria and India, where about 85% of adults are using AI. He highlights the U.S. figure at just 40%, probing into the reasons behind this divide. The conversation also touches on market reactions to geopolitical tensions and President Trump's speech at Davos, linking these dynamics to investor sentiment and equity momentum.
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Geopolitics Shakes Market Momentum
- Markets reacted sharply to geopolitical uncertainty, with major U.S. indexes falling and traders puzzled about next moves.
- Analysts note renewed talk of tariffs and geopolitical risk is denting early-year market momentum.
Fed Asserting Independence Publicly
- Jerome Powell signaled a firmer stance toward the White House after DOJ subpoenas related to Fed renovations.
- His new posture shows the Fed defending its independence against political pressure.
Big Global Gap In AI Adoption
- Americans report far lower generative AI use than many other countries, about 40% versus ~85% in places like Nigeria and India.
- Cultural and economic factors shape whether people see AI as a huge upside or a job threat.