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Economy

Trump Postponing Tariff Hike Buoys Buying Interest

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trump anti-globalisation

By Investors Hub

The major U.S. index futures are pointing to a higher opening on Monday, with positive developments on the trade front generating buying interest.

The upward momentum on Wall Street comes after President Donald Trump announced he intends to postpone a planned increase in U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports.

Trump said the decision to delay the tariff increase reflected ?substantial progress? in the ongoing trade talks between the U.S. and China.

The president said the U.S. and China have made progress on ?important structural issues including intellectual property protection, technology transfer, agriculture, services, currency, and many other issues.?

Assuming additional progress is made, Trump said he will be planning to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping to conclude an agreement.

Trading activity may be somewhat subdued, however, as traders look ahead to the second summit between Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

?With complete Denuclearization, North Korea will rapidly become an Economic Powerhouse,? Trump said on Twitter ahead of the summit. ?Without it, just more of the same. Chairman Kim will make a wise decision!

Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell?s testimony before Congress in the coming days may also keep some traders on the sidelines.

Stocks moved mostly higher over the course of the trading day on Friday, more than offsetting the moderate weakness seen on Thursday. With the upward move, the major averages reached their best closing levels in over three months.

The major averages fluctuated late in the session but ended the day firmly positive. The Dow climbed 181.18 points or 0.7 percent to 26,031.81, the Nasdaq jumped 67.84 points or 0.9 percent to 7,527.54 and the S&P 500 rose 17.79 points or 0.6 percent to 2,792.67.

For the holiday-shortened week, the Nasdaq advanced by 0.7 percent, while the Dow and the S&P 500 both climbed by 0.6 percent.

The strength on Wall Street came as traders continued to express optimism about ongoing trade talks between the U.S. and China.

Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin revealed later in the day that Chinese negotiators will extend their visit to Washington in an effort to build on the progress made during this week’s talks.

Mnuchin told reporters a meeting between Trump and Xi reportedly under discussion for next month may depend on the outcome of the next few days of negotiations.

Meanwhile, Trump said during a meeting with Chinese Vice Premier Liu that U.S. and Chinese officials are making “a lot of progress” in the trade talks.

Trump said there was a “very good chance” the U.S. and China could reach a long-term trade deal but at the same time said “who knows” whether a final agreement will be struck.

A report from CNBC said China has committed to buying up to $1.2 trillion worth U.S. goods, although sources said the two sides remain far apart on issues concerning the forced transfer of intellectual property.

Trading activity was somewhat subdued, however, with a lack of major U.S. economic data keeping some traders on the sidelines.

A batch of disappointing U.S. economic data weighed on the markets on Thursday, although trade talk optimism helped limit the downside.

Tobacco stocks saw considerable strength on the day, extending the strong upward move seen in recent sessions. The NYSE Arca Tobacco Index surged up by 2.6 percent to its best closing level in well over three months.

Significant strength was also visible among computer hardware and networking stocks, with the NYSE Arca Computer Hardware and NYSE Arca Networking Index jumping by 2 percent and 1.7 percent, respectively.

Reflecting optimism about increased Chinese demand, steel stocks also turned in a strong performance, driving the NYSE Arca Steel Index up by 1.4 percent.

Biotechnology, software, and housing stocks also moved notably higher, while telecom stocks bucked the uptrend by the broader markets.

Modupe Gbadeyanka is a fast-rising journalist with Business Post Nigeria. Her passion for journalism is amazing. She is willing to learn more with a view to becoming one of the best pen-pushers in Nigeria. Her role models are the duo of CNN's Richard Quest and Christiane Amanpour.

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Economy

How to Choose Between Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Fiat for Online Bets?

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Ethereum

Online betting has changed with the rise of digital currencies, giving players new ways to manage deposits and payouts. Bitcoin and Ethereum stand out as the leading crypto options, while traditional fiat money remains a familiar choice. The best option depends on personal priorities: Bitcoin for simplicity and stability, Ethereum for flexibility and faster transactions, and fiat for convenience and predictability.

Each method serves a different purpose. Bitcoin offers a sense of security backed by years of adoption, Ethereum supports smart contracts that make transactions faster, and fiat money appeals to those who prefer standard banking systems. Choosing between them depends on individual comfort with technology, desired transaction speed, and tolerance for value changes.

Understanding these differences helps bettors make smarter, safer choices. Those who compare security, speed, and ease of access before placing bets can move forward with confidence. The next sections explain what sets these currencies apart and how to select the ideal one for any betting goal.

Key Differences Between Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Fiat Currency

Bitcoin and Ethereum work on decentralized networks, while fiat money depends on centralized control through banks and governments. They also differ in processing time, cost, and price behavior. These differences affect how players handle deposits, withdrawals, and bet sizing for online gambling platforms.

Control and Decentralization

Bitcoin and Ethereum both rely on decentralized blockchain systems. No government or single entity controls them, which means users manage their funds directly through digital wallets. This independence reduces the need for third-party approval, giving bettors faster access to their winnings.

Fiat currencies like the dollar or euro operate under national banking systems. Transactions run through intermediaries that can impose limits, fees, or delays. In contrast, decentralized assets allow players to move money freely across borders without such barriers.

Decentralization also influences transparency. Crypto transactions are recorded on public ledgers, allowing verification without revealing private identities. For users of a crypto casino with fiat payment options, this setup provides both modern digital flexibility and the familiar structure of government-backed cash.

Transaction Processing and Speed

Bitcoin processes an average of seven transactions per second, while Ethereum handles more through its advanced design. However, both face network congestion during heavy use, which can slow transaction times or increase fees. Ethereum aims to address this through upgrades that use proof-of-stake mechanisms to improve speed and efficiency.

Fiat transfers rely on centralized banking networks and payment processors. Bank wires or card payments may take hours or even days, especially across countries. Crypto transactions can be completed within minutes, making them appealing for users who prefer instant deposits or payouts on gaming sites.

The difference in transaction speed can determine convenience. A player who wants quick access to winnings may prefer digital currency. Someone who values predictability might choose fiat, even if it takes longer to process.

Price Stability and Volatility

Fiat currency prices remain relatively stable because central banks manage their value through regulation and monetary policy. This makes fiat suitable for users who prefer steady account balances, especially for budgeting gambling limits.

Bitcoin and Ethereum, on the other hand, experience price swings. Their value can shift within a day due to market trends, investor demand, or global events. Volatility creates both risk and opportunity, depending on how much the user can tolerate short-term changes.

Some players convert crypto profits to fiat quickly to avoid potential losses. Others keep their balance in digital form to benefit from possible gains. Each approach offers trade-offs, but understanding price behavior helps players manage both winnings and deposits effectively.

How to Choose the Best Payment Method for Your Online Bets

The best payment method for online betting depends on how much flexibility, privacy, and transaction speed a user needs. Each method, either crypto or fiat, offers specific strengths in cost, liquidity, and accessibility that matter for different betting profiles. Choosing well affects everything from deposit timing to withdrawal limits and exchange risks.

Use Cases and User Profiles

Each user approaches online betting differently, so the right payment method depends on individual goals and habits. Bitcoin attracts users who want privacy and independence from banks. It offers fast transfers and low fees for deposits and withdrawals. However, its price can change quickly, which might affect balance stability.

Ethereum suits bettors interested in decentralized finance (DeFi). Thanks to smart contracts and automated market makers (AMMs), users can link wallets to liquidity pools without intermediaries. This flexibility supports advanced users who trade in digital assets or hold altcoins. Still, higher network fees may discourage small deposits.

Fiat currencies, such as USD or EUR, appeal to users who prefer traditional regulation and consistent value. Bank transfers and debit cards often include buyer protection and wider acceptance. However, they can involve longer processing times or extra verification steps.

Platform Support and Liquidity

Payment compatibility varies by betting platform. Some sites readily support cryptocurrency markets, while others stay focused on fiat transfers. Bitcoin and Ethereum both offer strong global liquidity, which means users can fund or cash out faster in most regions. Many exchanges and wallets connect directly to betting sites for easier movement of funds.

Fiat still holds an advantage on platforms that link to local banks or prepaid systems. Users who deposit in fiat avoid exchange-rate concerns, though payout times may run slower. On crypto-focused sites, liquidity pools and AMMs supply quick access to BTC or ETH funds. This structure allows players to move assets between wallets and betting accounts with minimal friction.

Security also influences choice. Crypto wallets rely on private keys; fiat systems depend on card encryption and bank-level protection. Each user must balance convenience with personal control over funds.

Future Trends in Online Betting Payments

The payment landscape continues to evolve toward greater decentralization and cross-asset compatibility. Betting sites now explore integration with DeFi tools, letting users stake funds or trade within pools. Technologies built on Solana and similar blockchains promise faster confirmations and lower fees than older networks.

Interest in Bitcoin ETFs also affects bettors who prefer indirect exposure to crypto without holding coins directly. This trend could lead to more fiat-based betting platforms that interact with crypto markets behind the scenes.

Developers aim to connect traditional and blockchain systems so users can deposit in one currency and withdraw in another. Over time, a mix of stablecoins, fiat channels, and direct crypto access is likely to become standard, giving bettors more consistent control and faster financial movement across platforms.

Conclusion

Each payment type, either Bitcoin, Ethereum, or fiat, serves different needs in online betting. Bitcoin offers strong security and wide acceptance across many platforms. Its slower speeds and higher fees, however, can limit appeal for frequent or small wagers.

Ethereum provides faster transfers and supports smart contracts, which allow peer-to-peer bets without middlemen. This feature creates a more direct and transparent experience, but network congestion and fluctuating gas fees can still affect performance.

Fiat currency remains familiar and easy to use. It fits users who prefer traditional systems backed by banks and who value price stability over decentralization.

Therefore, players should match their payment choice with their goals. Those seeking trust and history may prefer Bitcoin, while speed and innovation point toward Ethereum. Conservative users who favor regulated systems might stay with fiat money.

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Economy

NASD Index Rises 0.15%

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NASD Unlisted Securities Index

By Adedapo Adesanya

The NASD Over-the-Counter (OTC) Securities Exchange rallied by 0.15 per cent on Tuesday, December 9, helped by a sole price gainer at the close of business, which suppressed the effect of two price losers.

Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) Plc expanded its value by N1.00 to close at N44.00 per share compared with the previous day’s N43.00 per share.

However, UBN Property Plc depreciated during the session by 23 Kobo to sell at N2.08 per unit compared with the preceding session’s N2.31 per unit, and FrieslandCampina Wamco Nigeria Plc shrank by 20 Kobo to finish at N58.25 per share, in contrast to Monday’s closing price of N58.45 per share.

At the close of transactions, the NASD Unlisted Security Index (NSI) jumped by 5.54 points to 3,613.06 points from 3,607.52 points, and the market capitalisation increased by N3.31 billion to N2.161 billion from the N2.158 trillion quoted in the preceding session.

Yesterday, the volume of securities bought and sold went up by 39.9 per cent to 81,534 units from the 58,300 units recorded in the preceding trading session, the value of securities surged by 120.6 per cent to N4.3 million from N1.9 million, and the number of deals soared by 100 per cent to 28 deals from 15 deals achieved in the previous trading session.

At the close of business, Infrastructure Credit Guarantee Company (InfraCredit) Plc was the most traded stock by value on a year-to-date basis with the sale of 5.8 billion units for N16.4 billion, trailed by Okitipupa Plc with a turnover of 171.8 million units worth N8.3 billion, and Air Liquide Plc with 507.6 million units traded for N4.2 billion.

In the same vein, InfraCredit Plc ended the trading day as the most traded stock by volume on a year-to-date basis with 5.8 billion units valued at N16.4 billion,  the second spot was taken by Industrial and General Insurance (IGI) Plc with 1.2 billion units worth N420.3 million, and the third position was occupied by Impresit Bakolori Plc with 537.0 million units sold for N524.9 million.

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Economy

Naira Trades Flat Against Dollar, Pound, Euro at Official FX Market

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Naira-Denominated Assets

By Adedapo Adesanya

The Naira maintained stability against the United States Dollar in the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEM) on Tuesday, December 9, at N1,451/$1.

Equally, it closed flat against Pound Sterling and the Euro in the same market window, remaining unchanged at N1,934.75/£1 and N1,691.13/€1, respectively.

Also, the Nigerian currency traded flat against the US Dollar in the parallel market yesterday at N1,465/$1 but lost N2 at the GTBank FX counter to sell for N1,460/$1 versus Monday’s N1,458/$1.

Although the local currency faces pressures from increasing year-end Dollar demand, stoked by imports and some multinationals that are upstreaming US Dollars abroad; according to Cowry Asset Management, this is still stable reflecting divergent currency dynamics between the regulated official segment and the informal markets.

The Naira’s movement remains within the trading band, suggesting that the FX market is adjusting gradually to seasonal pressures while awaiting further policy signals from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

As for the cryptocurrency market, it witnessed a recovery ahead of an expected Federal Reserve’s rate cut.

The US central bank is expected to lower benchmark interest rates by 25 basis points at its two-day meeting concluding on Wednesday. While the rate cut is largely anticipated by market participants, looser financial conditions with a resilient US economy could help bolster risk appetite on markets.

Market analysts noted that the change of pattern could point to seller exhaustion.

Cardano (ADA) appreciated by 8.7 per cent to $0.4637, Ethereum (ETH) jumped by 7.2 per cent to $3,312.63, Solana (SOL) rose by 5.3 per cent to $139.23, Dogecoin (DOGE) increased its value by 5.0 per cent to $0.1467, and Bitcoin (BTC) mounted a 3.2 per cent gain to sell at $92,617.61.

In addition, Litecoin (LTC) expanded by 2.3 per cent to $84.52, Ripple (XRP) grew by 2.0 per cent to $2.08, and Binance Coin (BNB) improved by 0.9 per cent to $894.14, while the US Dollar Tether (USDT) and the US Dollar Coin (USDC) were flat at $1.00 each.

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