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Speculation surrounding the potential approval of a spot Ether ETF by the SEC has reignited bullish sentiments in the crypto market, driving up Ether's price. Analysts and investors are optimistic following positive signals from the SEC, with expectations of higher approval probabilities and market rally. While insiders in the crypto industry are anxious yet divided as the decision date approaches, hopes for ETF approval continue to drive prices of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. The Biden administration's softer stance on crypto, bipartisan support, and regulatory shifts indicate a potential shift towards a more favorable crypto environment. Market analysts predict significant inflows and price growth for Ether if spot Ether ETFs are approved, potentially reaching $10,000, albeit with some delays expected until 2025.

Janet Yellen, alongside US officials, urges the EU to join forces in addressing China's overproduction of green technology and excess industrial capacity. Yellen emphasizes the risk of a trade war and the need for unified efforts to counter China's dominance in Western markets. Discussions include imposing tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, complying with sanctions against Russia, and countering Chinese support for Russia. The focus on curbing Chinese exports will be central at the upcoming G7 finance ministers meeting in Italy.

Recent financial reports show that Trump Media & Technology Group, the company behind Truth Social, the social media platform launched by Donald Trump, suffered a significant net loss of $327 million in the first quarter, attributing this loss mainly to merger expenses. The company's revenue has consistently remained below $1 million for two consecutive quarters, despite having a valuation of $6.6 billion. The financial performance of Truth Social reflects its challenge in generating substantial revenue, with the latest earnings report indicating a decline in revenue to $770,500 from $1.1 million in the previous year. Trump's financial future is now closely intertwined with the performance of Trump Media & Technology Group, marking a significant shift in his business ventures.

The recent court ruling allows WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange to appeal his extradition to the US, sparking debates on press freedom and justice. Assange, indicted on espionage charges, argues his actions were journalistic, while the US government views them differently. Calls for the US to drop the case have intensified, emphasizing the importance of protecting whistleblowers. With uncertainty surrounding the final decision, Assange's legal battle continues, drawing attention to the boundaries between journalism and national security concerns.

OpenAI has decided to halt the usage of the ChatGPT voice named Sky, which unintentionally resembled Scarlett Johansson's voice. Despite Johansson's concerns about the voice's similarity to hers, OpenAI clarified that it was not an intentional imitation. The company aims to introduce more diverse voices in the future to avoid such controversies. This incident sheds light on the delicate balance between AI development and respecting individuals' rights to their likeness, raising important discussions about the use of celebrity voices in artificial intelligence technology.

Germany and the United Kingdom are set to create the first direct power link through the 'NeuConnect' initiative, with a projected capacity of 1.4 GW starting in 2028 to serve 1.5 million homes, at an estimated cost of 2.8 billion euros. The construction from Wilhelmshaven to Kent marks a significant step in enabling wind power exchange and potentially turning the UK into a net electricity exporter. This 720-kilometer line aims to enhance supply security, promote climate neutrality, and improve the price-performance ratio for consumers, indicating positive outcomes for both nations.

BMW, Jaguar Land Rover, and Volkswagen were found to have purchased auto parts from a Chinese supplier connected to forced labor in Xinjiang, as detailed in a US Senate finance committee investigation. Despite being informed about banned products, the automakers continued sourcing components from the supplier into the US, raising concerns about their supply chain practices and compliance with forced labor regulations. The report highlighted BMW's production of vehicles with parts made with forced labor, while Jaguar Land Rover and Volkswagen were also implicated in the use of such components, with VW having ongoing business ties to manufacturing in Xinjiang.

Javier Milei, the president of Argentina, has caused a diplomatic dispute between Argentina and Spain after insulting the wife of Spain's prime minister during a far-right gathering in Madrid. In response, Spain has temporarily recalled its ambassador from Argentina and demanded a public apology from Milei. The Spanish government considers Milei's remarks as a frontal attack on democracy and institutions. The diplomatic crisis continues to escalate, with Spain threatening further measures. Despite the tension, Argentina hopes that relations will normalize after the elections in Europe and rules out a rupture of relations with Spain.

Ryanair met expectations with 1.92 billion euros in earnings for the last fiscal year but faces a slight stock dip. The airline reported record profits and appointed Amber Rudd to its board, projecting up to 200 million passengers this year. Despite optimistic outlooks for the summer season, concerns linger regarding pricing pressure. Ryanair plans to attract new customers with discounts in the first quarter, potentially leading to ticket price increases in the upcoming summer months.

Amid a high approval rating of 70%, President Luis Abinader is poised for reelection in the Dominican Republic, lauded for his pandemic management and economic advancements. With early results showing Abinader leading with over 59% of the votes, the incumbent is on the brink of victory over rival Leonel Fernández. Abinader's pledges to combat corruption, address immigration issues, and boost tourism have resonated with voters. Despite some election day incidents, the process proceeded peacefully, with expectations of a lower voter turnout compared to previous elections. The President's firm stance on migration policies and economic stability have solidified his support, distinguishing him in the region.

Far-right leaders from around the world, including Marine Le Pen, Viktor Orbán, and Giorgia Meloni, gathered in Madrid at a convention organized by Spain's Vox party to bolster their prospects in the upcoming European Parliament elections on June 9. The event aimed to unite conservative and far-right parties against perceived threats of globalism and socialism, emphasizing the need for a strong and sovereign Europe. The alliance seeks to counter left-wing agendas, illegal migration, and what they perceive as excessive bureaucracy from Brussels. Vox, with increasing support, consolidates itself as the third political force in Spain, while the People's Party sees gains in Europe and the Socialist Party remains stable. The European elections are framed by some leaders as a critical battleground akin to a second round of national elections, highlighting divisions and polarization within Spanish politics.

China's commerce ministry has initiated an anti-dumping investigation into the import of POM copolymers, widely used in auto parts, electronics, and medical equipment, from the EU, US, Japan, and Taiwan. This move is in response to trade tensions with the US and EU, following measures like increased import tariffs and anti-dumping investigations by these Western economies. The probe targets chemical imports that can substitute metals, with potential tariffs looming as part of China's response to actions taken by Western countries in the ongoing trade conflict.

The EU Chamber of Commerce in China has raised alarms over the increasing likelihood of a trade war between the EU and China, citing disputes over market access and subsidies. This comes as the European Commission probes China's practices, particularly in the electric vehicle industry. US tariffs on Chinese goods have further complicated the situation, prompting discussions in Europe on how to respond. Concerns about China's manufacturing overcapacity in new energy goods are also fueling tensions, with the EU investigating the influx of cheap products in its market. The US tariffs on China are not just about trade practices but are also motivated by domestic factors like the upcoming election and concerns over China's dominance in sectors like electric vehicles, echoing challenges faced by the EU. These developments have caused divisions among EU Social Democrats regarding aligning with the US tariffs, while the European Commission takes steps under the Digital Markets Act to regulate platforms like Booking.com and investigate others.

Tax estimators in Germany have adjusted their revenue expectations downwards, indicating a substantial decrease in tax revenues for the federal government, states, and municipalities. Finance Minister Lindner's austerity policy is validated as the forecast reveals a total of 80.7 billion euros in lower revenues by 2028, attributed to a deteriorated economic outlook and current growth weaknesses. This revised estimate underscores the limited financial flexibility for the new federal budget, prompting the government to prioritize investments to stimulate economic growth and revenue generation. The traffic light coalition faces challenging budget negotiations as the reduced funds necessitate careful expense management highlighted by Lindner's assertive stance towards coalition partners.

Bitcoin is currently rangebound due to a mix of market fatigue, diminishing institutional interest amid postponed ETF approval, and ongoing selling pressure. Altcoins are gaining momentum as Bitcoin's dominance declines. Recent upticks in Bitcoin price are attributed to significant spot BTC ETF purchases by major U.S. investment firms. Despite volatility and support at $66,000 faltering post-U.S. inflation data, analysts remain optimistic about a potential $70,000 target. Traders anticipate a $74,000 high as selling pressure eases, driven by bullish market sentiment and increasing institutional investments in Bitcoin ETFs.

US tariffs on Chinese goods, particularly electric vehicles, have sparked concerns over potential retaliatory actions by China and a reshuffling of industries. The threat of collective duties from the West is looming, impacting sectors like automotive, IT, and renewable energy. Mexico is wary of becoming a trade gateway amid fears of repercussions on the USMCA agreement, while European Social Democrats are divided over similar measures. Biden's tariff strategy aims to safeguard domestic industries, but challenges persist amidst Chinese overcapacities and political uncertainties.

US President Joe Biden's recent tariff increases on Chinese electric vehicles and other goods are expected to trigger similar actions from Europe and prompt a reshuffle in Chinese industries. Concerns about Chinese industrial overcapacity and the threat of collective duties from the West loom over China. Biden's tariff decision aims to protect the American auto industry from competition with affordable Chinese EVs. The tariffs may have a psychological impact and encourage global counterparts to follow suit, potentially influencing the development of the domestic EV industry. The effects of the tariffs extend to Mexico, with fears arising about its role as a gateway for Chinese products to the US. European reactions to the US tariffs on Chinese goods are divided, with the EU conducting investigations into potential Chinese subsidies for electric cars. The differences in taxing Chinese goods between Biden and Trump underscore strategic variations in their approaches to trade relations with China.