Political news can either positively influence the markets or spark panic. So far, we’ve seen a generally optimistic atmosphere in the markets following Donald Trump’s election, but there’s a corner of the market that begs to differ.
I’m referring, of course, to the panic that has gripped major pharmaceutical companies and food industry players due to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (RFK Jr.).
And because you’re probably wondering what I’m talking about, let’s break it down.
WHAT HAPPENED?
So, a few days ago, it was announced that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. might be a candidate for the position of U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). This caused quite a stir in the markets, leading to a sudden sell-off in major pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer, as well as in food-related companies such as Pepsi.
Why such a reaction to RFK, though? Well, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is known for his anti-vaccine stance and has strongly advocated for radical changes to the FDA—the organization responsible for approving drugs and food in the U.S. He’s even publicly stated his intent to downsize the agency, which could slow the approval process for new drugs.
And, of course, delayed drug approvals don’t sit well with pharmaceutical companies, which rely on quick approvals to maintain profitability.
Okay, but what about the food industry?
Fair question. RFK recently took to social media to criticize Novo Nordisk’s well-known drug Ozempic, often used to treat obesity. He argued that drugs are just a temporary fix and that the real enemy of obesity is diet.
As a staunch advocate of healthy eating, his statement sparked fears of potential regulations or changes in the food industry, making investors nervous.
So there you have it—a mix of market optimism on one hand and industry-specific panic on the other, all thanks to one man and the potential changes he could bring.
More Things to have in mind this week USA
Although the Fed has no scheduled announcements this week, investors will closely monitor unemployment data and home sales for clues about future interest rate policy.
Canada
October's inflation data will be in the spotlight as the central bank forecasts potential rate cuts ahead.
Eurozone
Key market indicators from France, Germany, and the broader Eurozone will provide insight into economic activity, while political uncertainty in Germany adds to potential risks.
UK
Inflation figures and retail sales data will shed light on Q4 consumption trends, offering valuable signals for the economy.
China
The focus will be on loan prime rates and the trajectory of the yuan, as markets await the upcoming Central Economic Work Conference for policy directions.
Japan
The Bank of Japan governor’s speech and inflation data could shape expectations for future rate hikes.
Australia & New Zealand
The Reserve Bank of Australia is set to provide guidance on interest rate policy, with markets anticipating possible future rate cuts.
Posted Using InLeo Alpha
@tipu curate
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Algo me dice que Doge explotara, con estos locos juntos jjjj 😄.. y bitcoin creo que subirá más antes de 2025 saludos desde cuba 🇨🇺 @steemychicken1, espero también ver alguna subidita de Hive, pero lo que más necesitamos con esta moneda es adopción más mundial, en exchange y demás que aporten más capital, para un buen levante 🥳😎 🚀
I don't speak Spanish
OMG--that picture 😅. Although, I have to admit RFK Jr. does not look comfortable with the food in front of him. Check out his expression.
I loved this line in your blog, written without apparent irony:
These parasites! I'm no fan of RFK Jr., but if he can put the fear of God in those rascals, well then he has some value. I don't know how much access to mainstream advertising you have, but the airwaves are literally flooded with ads for pharmaceuticals. And junk food--equal saturation. So, it would be nice to see these purveyors of ill health take a hit. Might save some lives in the long run.
Online I use brave to be ad free but it also depends on your cookies ads are extremely personalized now. I like that RFK Jr put all his fortune into Bitcoin but at the same time his views about health are idiotic. Yes Pharma companies are profiting on our backs but that doesn't mean that we don't need vaccines or that we must stop disinfecting our water. When people did not have that it was a miracle to live past 40
He is an idiot. There's the dead bear in Central Park and the worm that ate his brain for example. Thank heavens for vaccines...I was one of the first children in the U. S. to get the Salk Vaccine in the early fifties. It was a relief for families across the country. Polio was a scourge.
However, he has a point about food additives and about the influence on Big Pharma. Even in a trash heap (JFK Jr. ideas), you might sometimes find a bit of treasure.