US Federal Reserve holds interest rates steady despite political pressure
The central bank will maintain rates at 3.5 to 3.75 percent and warned of ‘elevated’ economic uncertainty.
![The decision comes despite ongoing political pressure as US President Donald Trump has called for more aggressive interest rate cuts [File:Nathan Howard/Reuters]](/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/2026-01-13T144147Z_2075403647_RC2C0JA6N16M_RTRMADP_3_USA-TRUMP-FED-POWELL-1769627465.jpg?resize=770%2C513&quality=80)
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Iran’s army pledges to defend ‘national interests’ as protests continue
Rights groups condemn internet blackout amid reports of mass arrests at antigovernment protests across Iran.
Iran’s commercial hubs became flashpoints for frustration
Protests in Iran are predominantly driven by mounting economic pressure and desperation amid the economic crisis.
From: NewsFeed
Iran faces growing protests amid deepening economic crisis
Protests are intensifying in Iran as an economic crisis fuels anger over soaring prices and falling living standards.
Published On 2 Jan 2026
EXPLAINER
Five things you need to know about protests in Iran
Mass protests are spreading across Iran, but what’s driving them and where could they lead? Here’s what we know.
Several killed as Iran protests over rising cost of living spread
Iranian president seeks to calm tensions, acknowledging protesters’ ‘legitimate’ grievances over inflation.
Bulgaria adopts euro amid celebration and anxiety over inflation
Move comes nearly two decades after it entered the EU as hope for stability clashes with fear of rising prices.
From: NewsFeed
Bulgarians worry over rising prices as country adopts euro
Bulgaria is saying goodbye to the lev and officially adopting the euro, but some citizens worry about higher prices.
Published On 31 Dec 2025
EXPLAINER
Bulgaria set to adopt the euro – why is this causing controversy?
Some in the country are worried about loss of identity following the switch from the Bulgarian lev to the euro.
Iran’s government budget reveals tough road ahead as currency hits new low
Prices of basic items like food are only expected to grow over the coming months as Iranians get poorer.
EXPLAINER
Five key takeaways from Trump’s state-of-the-nation address
The US president blamed immigrants for the country’s woes and promised an ‘economic boom’ in 2026.
