Money

Taylor Swift’s concert deals spark international trade dispute

Published

2 years ago

March 5, 2024

Pop superstar Taylor Swift has found herself at the center of an international trade dispute following exclusive concert arrangements in Singapore.

The controversy has ignited discussions among politicians and trade experts, raising concerns about anti-competitive practices and the economic impact of Swift’s tour.

The dispute stems from negotiations between Swift’s team and Singaporean authorities, resulting in an agreement for the singer to perform exclusively in Singapore, bypassing other Southeast Asian countries.

Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin alleged that Swift received substantial sums, nearly $US3 million per show, for these exclusive performances, leading to criticism from neighboring nations.

Critics argue that Swift’s exclusive deal with Singapore could be perceived as anti-competitive, potentially violating World Trade Organization (WTO) rules.

Filipino politicians have condemned the arrangement as a “hurtful betrayal” and have called for diplomatic protests against Singapore.

Defending the deal

Despite the controversy, Singaporean officials, including Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, defended the deal, highlighting the economic benefits of hosting Swift’s concerts.

Estimates suggest that Swift’s tour has generated significant revenue, with the economic impact in Australia could reach up to $1 billion.

Prime Minister Lee says the decision to host Swift exclusively in Singapore was made through negotiations and did not involve coercive measures.

He asserted that it was ultimately Swift’s prerogative to determine her tour destinations.

Money

U.S. and China approve TikTok sale to American investors

US and China approve TikTok’s sale to Oracle and Silver Lake amid regulatory scrutiny, with ByteDance retaining 20%.

Published

1 day ago

January 23, 2026

Harvey Vargas

US and China approve TikTok’s sale to Oracle and Silver Lake amid regulatory scrutiny, with ByteDance retaining 20%.

The United States and China have officially approved a deal for TikTok’s US operations to be sold to American investors, led by Oracle and Silver Lake.

This marks a major shift in the social media landscape as the platform navigates increasing regulatory scrutiny.

Under the new agreement, ByteDance will retain just under 20% of TikTok US, while Oracle and Silver Lake will each take 15% stakes. Other investors will also participate, forming a structure designed to satisfy both commercial and regulatory demands.

The new US-based entity will have a majority American board tasked with overseeing data protection and content moderation. Despite these safeguards, concerns remain about ByteDance’s influence and whether the deal fully complies with recent legislation.

Subscribe to never miss an episode of Ticker – https://www.youtube.com/@weareticker

#TikTokSale #USChinaDeal #Oracle #SilverLake #ByteDance #TechNews #SocialMedia #DataProtection

Money

Markets tumble as Trump tariffs, Greenland rhetoric and Europe backlash collide

U.S. stocks plummet over 800 points amid renewed tariff threats and political tensions from Trump, sparking global trade concerns.

Published

3 days ago

January 21, 2026

Harvey Vargas

U.S. stocks plummet over 800 points amid renewed tariff threats and political tensions from Trump, sparking global trade concerns.

U.S. equities took a sharp hit as markets reacted to renewed tariff threats and heightened political rhetoric from President Donald Trump. The Dow plunged more than 800 points, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq also sliding as investor nerves rattled risk assets.

The sell-off highlights growing concern around global trade tensions and geopolitical uncertainty, with markets struggling to price in what comes next for U.S. economic leadership and policy direction.

Subscribe to never miss an episode of Ticker – https://www.youtube.com/@weareticker

#USMarkets #WallStreet #TrumpTariffs #GlobalMarkets #USDebt #Europe #Davos #Ticker

Money

Gold hits record highs as investors flee risk

Gold surges amid global uncertainty, with February futures rising 1.71% to $4,674.20 per ounce, signaling safe-haven demand.

Published

4 days ago

January 20, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Gold surges amid global uncertainty, with February futures rising 1.71% to $4,674.20 per ounce, signaling safe-haven demand.

Gold is shining brighter than ever as investors flock to safe-haven assets amid global uncertainty. U.S. gold futures for February delivery jumped 1.71% to $4,674.20 per ounce, while spot gold rose 1.6% to $4,668.14.

The surge comes as geopolitical tensions continue to worry traders, prompting a rush into metals perceived as stable and secure. Analysts say gold is proving its status as the ultimate hedge during turbulent times.

Investors are closely watching markets as gold sets new benchmarks, signalling growing caution across the financial landscape.

Subscribe to never miss an episode of Ticker – https://www.youtube.com/@weareticker

#GoldRally #SafeHaven #InvestingTips #FinancialMarkets #GoldPrices #GlobalEconomy #MarketUpdate #TickerNews