Bloomberg Daybreak: US Edition

Bloomberg Daybreak Weekend with Host Nathan Hager take a look at some of the stories we'll be tracking in the coming week. In the US – a look ahead to U.S GDP data and a tech outlook for 2026. In the UK – a look at UK politics and what 2026 may hold in store for Prime Minister Keir Starmer. In Asia – a look ahead to the challenges facing China’s economy in 2026. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alexander Pearson, Bloomberg Breaking News editor, shares incisive insights on the tragic Brown University rampage and MIT professor's murder. He reveals how tips and video led to the suspect’s identification. The discussion shifts to the Trump administration's pause on the green card lottery, a move linked to the shooter. Pearson also touches on potential broader immigration restrictions and the ramifications of the upcoming release of Jeffrey Epstein's documents, raising questions about political and social accountability.

Terry Haynes, founder of Pangea Policy, shares insights on Trump's recent address, highlighting his $1,776 holiday payment plan for military service members aimed at tackling price anxiety. Haynes discusses the potential impact of this affordability messaging on the political landscape. Meanwhile, Stephen Carroll reports live from Brussels on the EU summit, focusing on the controversial $11 billion arms sale to Taiwan and its implications for U.S.-China relations, as well as the complexities surrounding financing Ukraine.

In this engaging discussion, Will Kennedy, Bloomberg News director for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, shares insights on President Trump's recent blockade of Venezuelan oil tankers, a move aimed at crippling the nation's shaky economy. He examines how this pressure could potentially affect Venezuela's oil revenue. Meanwhile, John Tucker delivers quick news headlines, including fresh U.S. sanctions targeting Russia's energy sector if peace talks with Ukraine falter. Together, they explore the geopolitical landscape shaping global markets.

Oliver Crook, Bloomberg's Senior Europe Correspondent, dives into the U.S. offering Ukraine significant security guarantees similar to NATO's Article 5, aimed at bridging diplomatic discussions amidst the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He discusses the complexities of negotiating peace, including territorial concessions that may be required by Ukraine. Crook also examines Russian resistance to these guarantees and emphasizes the importance of legal backing in Congress to solidify Ukraine's security concerns.

Rosalind Matheson, Bloomberg News Chief Asia Correspondent, brings firsthand insight into the Bondi Beach attack and its ramifications for Australia. Paul Allen, Bloomberg's Australia correspondent, shares local reactions on the scene. They delve into the disturbing rise in antisemitism and the implications for national policy as Prime Minister Albanese vows to tighten gun laws. The conversation also touches on the human element, highlighting a hero bystander who intervened during the attack.

Michael McKee, Bloomberg's international economics and policy correspondent, dives into the U.S. jobs market's vulnerabilities and their implications for the Fed. Ben Sills shares insights on Europe's economic struggles and the urgent need for effective responses to security challenges. Paul Jackson analyzes the Bank of Japan's potential interest rate hike amidst persistent inflation and geopolitical risks. They also discuss the impact of international tensions on trade and economic growth in Asia.

Valerie Teitel, a Bloomberg Markets reporter, provides keen insights into the stock market's recent record highs, driven by Fed interest-rate easing. She discusses the significant December value rotation, highlighting the Russell 2000's impressive performance. Teitel also analyzes Broadcom's disappointing sales outlook amid a massive $73 billion AI product backlog, prompting investor concern. Additionally, she warns about upcoming data risks and positioning as the year ends, raising questions about tech valuations and market expectations.

The U.S. has escalated tensions with Venezuela by seizing a sanctioned oil tanker, complicating the country's crude exports. In Ukraine, a coalition of allies is discussing a revised peace proposal involving Trump's outreach and strategic military actions. Meanwhile, Oracle's disappointing earnings have sparked a market sell-off in tech shares. The Federal Reserve's recent rate cut has led to mixed market reactions, with discussions around the influence of political pressure on monetary policy gaining traction.

Bloomberg reporters Michael McKee, Valerie Teitel, Ed Ludlow, and others discuss the market's anticipation of the Fed's 2026 interest rate outlook. They delve into President Trump's defense of tariffs at a Pennsylvania rally, claiming increasing public support. In the entertainment sector, Paramount and Netflix brace for a protracted bidding war over Warner Bros. Discovery, while insights into Wall Street ties from Epstein's emails reveal intriguing connections. Additional highlights include sports updates and local political shifts.