Squawk Pod 5 Things to Know Before the Opening Bell 12/15/2025
Dec 15, 2025
China's economic slowdown deepens, revealing troubling data on consumption and investment. Sanofi faces setbacks with its multiple sclerosis drug, impacting share prices. In entertainment news, Zootopia 2 impressively crosses the $1 billion mark at the box office. Meanwhile, Hong Kong's pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai faces serious charges in a historic trial. Lastly, ServiceNow is in talks to acquire cybersecurity firm Armis, highlighting the ongoing tech industry dynamics.
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China's Slowdown Deepened In November
- China showed fresh signs of economic slowdown with consumption, investment, and industrial output missing expectations in November.
- These weak data points suggest the deceleration in China's recovery intensified heading into year-end.
Landmark Conviction Of Jimmy Lai
- Hong Kong convicted Jimmy Lai on sedition and collusion under its national security law enacted in 2020.
- The verdict underscores continued legal pressure on pro-democracy activists and media figures in Hong Kong.
Sanofi's MS Drug Faces Setbacks
- Sanofi flagged another U.S. regulatory delay and disappointing late-stage results for its experimental MS drug, pushing shares lower.
- The setbacks highlight development and regulatory risks that can sharply move biotech and pharma stocks.