MNI POLITICAL RISK - DOJ Probe Into Powell Falls Flat w/GOP

Download Full Report Here

Executive summary:

• President Donald Trump will deliver his first major economic address of the year at 14:00 ET 19:00 GMT, as he pivots towards affordability. 
• The DOJ's criminal probe into Fed Chair Jerome Powell has fallen flat with Republican lawmakers, former Fed officials, and the international central banking community. The level of dissent suggests the Trump administration may look to quash the investigation to contain further fallout.
• Trump announced 25% tariffs on countries “doing business” with Iran, potentially complicating a trade truce with China. Tehran said a “communication channel” with US special envoy Steve Witkoff “is open and messages are exchanged whenever necessary.”
• Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) said the Senate will stay in session until work is completed on government funding bills.
• The Republican Study Committee is set to release its framework for a second reconciliation bill today, aimed at lowering costs.
• Senate Banking Republicans are inching closer to finalising a major crypto regulation bill.
• Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent hosted counterparts from the G7, Australia, India, the EU, South Korea, and Mexico, to discuss critical minerals.
• Former House Rep Mary Peltola (D) announced a Senate run, boosting Democrats' chances of flipping the Senate in November.  
• Trump is expected to meet Venezuelan opposition leader Mara Corina Machado at the White House on Thursday.
• The Trump administration is closing in on a tariff and semiconductor deal with Taiwan.
• G7 leaders will press Trump on Ukraine security guarantees at Davos.
• Poll of the Day: A record high 45% of US adults identify as political independents.

Please find the full article attached below: US DAILY BRIEF