Discuss Full coverage · 2 →
C CNBC· 2h

Supertanker chartered from Gulf Coast to China for $76 million, 10 times higher than pre-war level

Shipping costs have exploded as the war in the Persian Gulf has led to a shortage of available tankers.

Analysis

Oil prices have retreated from recent highs as Saudi Arabia ramps up exports despite infrastructure attacks and diplomatic talks between the U.S. and Iran continue. While these supply adjustments offer some relief, consumers in Europe and elsewhere face ongoing pressure from high fuel costs, prompting government interventions like tax cuts in Germany. Moving forward, observers are monitoring whether these supply stabilization efforts can offset the risks of a potential energy crunch during the upcoming winter.

2 stories 2 outlets

1 story says getting worse

Early reports

Forecast

Will the European Union report a diesel supply shortage or implement emergency rationing by January 15, 2027?
Supply remains stable 65%
Shortage or rationing reported 35%

Poll

Should your country produce more of its own oil and gas?

Poll

How should governments respond to high fuel prices?

Discuss Full coverage · 2 →
C CNBC· 2h

Americans grow more pessimistic about their finances, New York Fed finds — expert warns of ‘tough choices’ ahead

As affordability pressures mount, Americans are increasingly concerned about their financial future, the New York Fed's data shows.

Analysis

Rising mortgage rates have surpassed 7% for the first time in 20 months, further straining housing affordability for Americans already grappling with stagnant wages and high prices. While shoppers are increasingly turning to bulk retailers like Costco to manage expenses, reports of price discrepancies at major convenience chains and limited grocery access in some areas highlight ongoing challenges for household budgets. Moving forward, observers are monitoring potential policy shifts regarding energy exports and legislative efforts to increase grocery store competition.

2 stories 2 outlets

2 stories say getting worse

Early reports

Forecast

What will be the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in the United States on January 15, 2027?
Between 6.0% and 7.0% 43%
Above 7.0% 37%
Below 6.0% 21%

Poll

What should be the main tool to bring prices down?

Poll

Which rising cost hits your budget hardest right now?

Discuss Full coverage · 2 →
C CNBC· 2h

Fed officials see another hike coming, but no sign as to when, minutes show

The Federal Reserve on Wednesday released minutes from its Sept. 15-16 policy meeting.

Analysis

Bond yields have surged to multi-year highs as investors anticipate further interest rate increases from the Federal Reserve to combat persistent inflation. This trend is directly impacting consumers by pushing mortgage rates above 7% and threatening to increase costs for other loans like auto financing. Market observers are now closely watching upcoming Federal Reserve economic projections and policy statements to gauge the duration and severity of these higher borrowing costs.

2 stories 2 outlets

1 story says getting worse

Early reports

Forecast

Will the Federal Reserve raise the federal funds target rate at or before the December 2026 FOMC meeting?
Target rate increases 58%
Target rate remains same or decreases 42%

Poll

Should central banks be more worried about inflation or jobs right now?

Poll

What should the central bank do at its next meeting?

Discuss Full coverage · 1 →
T The Guardian· 2h

‘Chaos and cruelty’: the kids trapped in Trump’s immigration enforcement campaign

Children are being detained in record numbers, sometimes alone and where lawyers and family cannot find themThe image of immigration officers arresting five-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos – in a blue bunny hat and Spider-Man backpack – in January sparked outrage across the country.Celebrities from Ms Rachel to Madonna call

Analysis

The US Supreme Court has temporarily allowed the Trump administration to resume deporting migrants to third countries, a policy UN experts warn is increasing risks of rights abuses and torture. This shift impacts thousands of migrants who may now be sent to nations where they have no existing ties, while US lawmakers simultaneously introduce legislation to limit ICE's detention and arrest powers. Observers are now watching for further legal rulings on the legality of these third-country deportations and the potential political fallout for officials facing pressure over these enforcement operations.

1 stories 1 outlets ↑ Getting worse

1 story says getting worse

Early reports

Forecast

Will the U.S. Supreme Court issue a ruling or stay that allows the Trump administration to proceed with third-country deportations by March 15, 2027?
Supreme Court allows deportations 85%
Deportations remain blocked or undecided 15%

Last move: Supreme Court grants emergency stay · Sep 30 ago

Poll

Should long-term undocumented residents have a path to legal status?

Poll

What should immigration policy prioritise?

Discuss Full coverage · 15 →
C CNBC· 2h

Republican megadonors dominate 2026 midterm election as crypto and AI money surges, CNBC analysis finds

Fourteen of the 20 biggest donor groups CNBC analyzed are Republican-aligned as crypto, AI and betting money reshapes 2026 midterm spending.

Analysis

Global elections are currently marked by high-stakes shifts, including runoff presidential contests in Brazil, leadership transitions in Serbia and Kosovo, and nationalist gains in Bosnia. In the U.S., Supreme Court rulings on congressional maps and voter databases, alongside surging political spending from crypto and AI sectors, are actively shaping the landscape for upcoming midterms. Observers are now watching how these judicial decisions and shifting donor influences will impact voter access and the final composition of legislative bodies.

12 stories 12 outlets

2 stories say getting worse

Reported by several outlets

Forecast

Will the 2026 US midterm election results be officially certified in all states by December 31, 2026?
All states certified by deadline 72%
One or more states delayed 28%

Poll

Should social media platforms remove false claims about voting?

Poll

What would most improve trust in elections?