The Daily Brief

• • US tariffs have caused muted damage to the global economy, but experts warn this situation will not last, according to the Financial Times on 7 January 2026.
• • The tariffs, initially seen as a temporary measure, are expected to escalate and affect trade dynamics significantly in the coming months.
• • Businesses and consumers may face increased costs as supply chains adjust to the new tariff landscape, impacting various sectors globally.
• • Analysts predict that if the tariffs remain in place, we could see a ripple effect on inflation rates and economic growth projections by mid-2026.

• • On 7 January 2026, Russia reportedly deployed a naval escort for an ageing oil tanker near Iceland.
• • The vessel has a history of involvement in Venezuelan oil exports, raising concerns about geopolitical implications.
• • This deployment may signal an increase in Russian maritime activity in the North Atlantic region.
• • Further developments are expected as tensions in international waters continue to rise.

• • In 2025, China recorded only 7.92 million births, a 17% decrease from the previous year and the lowest number since records began.
• • The birth count has fallen by about 10 million from its 2016 peak, representing a decline of more than 50% in less than a decade.
• • This marks the fourth consecutive year of population decline, prompting concerns over a demographic crisis as the workforce shrinks.
• • Beijing is implementing policies to encourage marriage and childbirth among young people, but these efforts have yet to yield significant results.