Akintunde Oyedokun
Research Analyst
Oil prices dipped Monday after Iran said protests were under control, easing supply fears. Brent fell to $63.19, WTI to $58.93. Optimism over Venezuela resuming exports, potentially adding 50 million barrels, also weighed on gains. Analysts say the market is still cautious, watching for real supply disruptions.
India’s Inflation Rises in December
Retail inflation rose to 1.33% in December as food price declines slowed, while core inflation hit 4.6%. Economists expect a gradual increase but remain below 4% through mid-2026. The RBI recently cut rates, and a new CPI series launching next month may affect future readings. Strong economic growth of 7.4% this fiscal year is helping offset inflationary pressures.
German Exports Fall as Industrial Activity Recovers
German exports dropped 2.5% in November, hurt by weaker shipments to the U.S. and EU, while industrial production rose 0.8% for the third straight month. Industrial orders climbed 5.6%, signaling domestic stabilization. Exports to China increased 3.4%, but trade tensions with the U.S. continue to weigh. Overall imports grew 0.8%, narrowing Germany’s trade surplus to €13.1 billion.
Morocco Aims $10B GDP Boost from AI by 2030
Morocco plans to add $10 billion to its GDP via AI by 2030, creating 50,000 jobs and training 200,000 graduates. Key steps include AI centers, digital infrastructure expansion, a renewable-powered data center in Dakhla, and a partnership with France’s Mistral AI. The move is part of Morocco’s broader push to become a regional hub for AI and data science.
Nigeria’s 2026 Budget: N92.9B for Electricity and Diesel
The government will spend N92.9 billion on electricity and diesel for federal agencies in 2026, with Defence, Health, and Education topping the list. The allocation reflects continued reliance on generators due to unreliable grid power despite ongoing sector reforms.
This underscores the slow progress in improving Nigeria’s electricity supply for public institutions.
