Inflation in the United States slowed more than expected: in March, the consumer price index fell by 0.1% (0.23% was forecast). Core inflation was 2.8% year–on-year, and overall inflation – 2.4% (in February: 3.1% and 2.8%). Morgan Stanley forecasts an acceleration in inflation in May-June due to tariffs. The decline is due to weakness in the hotel business, air transportation and insurance. The Luxembourg Ministry of Finance has become more likely to issue individual licenses for unblocking assets of Russian citizens in the Clearstream depository. Earlier, it was reported only about the only case of obtaining such a license, while in the Belgian Euroclear, the assets of Russians were unfrozen much more often. The United States does not intend to forcibly annex Greenland. The White House National Security Council has sent relevant instructions to agencies to implement the plan for the island's annexation to the United States. Washington plans to conduct a media campaign to convince the people of Greenland of the need to apply for membership in the United States, which implies a peaceful approach to this initiative. Annual inflation in Germany slowed to 2.2% in March from 2.3% in February, which coincided with the preliminary estimate. Prices for the month increased by 0.3% against 0.4% in February. Core inflation was 2.6% (2.5% was forecast). Food prices rose by 3% y/y (2.4% in February), while energy prices fell by 2.8% (previously -1.6%). Services increased by 3.5%, goods – by 1%. The former White House administration warns of possible isolation of the United States. Former Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said that Trump's protectionist policy in the field of import control could lead to the «loneliness» of the country. He noted that just a few months ago, the United States and its partners in Europe and Asia held common positions, but now the situation has changed. This may raise doubts among other countries about the reliability of the United States as a trading partner.
RYCHLÉ ODKAZY