Global Politics and Markets in Flux

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize winner, is set to meet with President Trump at the White House. Despite Trump's previous criticism of Machado's lack of support within Venezuela, the two are scheduled to discuss the country's future after the U.S. military operation to remove former President Nicolás Maduro. Machado has praised Trump and even considered giving him her Nobel Peace Prize, although the Norwegian Nobel Institute has stated that the prize cannot be transferred. Trump has expressed frustration at not receiving the award himself, citing his administration's efforts to settle global conflicts. Machado has also met with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican to request his intervention in releasing hundreds of political prisoners held in Venezuela.

Japanese stocks have reached a record high due to expectations of a snap election called by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, likely in February. The 'Takaichi trade' has been driving the market, characterized by a weak yen and rising equity markets. The Nikkei 225 index rose 1.48% to 54,341.23, while the Topix gained 1.26% to 3,644.16. The yen has weakened past the 159 mark against the dollar, its lowest level since July 2024. Other Asia markets were mixed, with some rising and others falling. The news has been driven by expectations of Takaichi's policies stimulating the economy.

The article discusses how job applicants are using AI tools like ChatGPT to generate job applications, overwhelming recruiters. While recruiters initially saw AI as a way to streamline their work, they are now facing a surge in AI-generated applications, making it difficult for them to manage the recruitment process.

Venezuelan officials, including acting President Delcy Rodriguez, have returned to using the social media platform X, apparently ending a ban imposed by Nicolas Maduro in 2024. Maduro had blocked the site after an online clash with X owner Elon Musk. The return to X comes after Maduro was ousted and captured by the United States. Officials are now using the platform to post messages, with Delcy Rodriguez stating that Venezuela 'remains standing, with strength and historical awareness.' The official account of Maduro also appeared active, posting about his capture and calling for his return.