Natural rubber production decreased by 11.8 per cent in November 2022 (28,048 tonnes) as compared to October 2022 (31,795 tonnes). Year-on-year comparison also showed that the production of natural rubber decreased by 8.0 per cent (November 2021: 30,493 tonnes). Production of natural rubber in November 2022 for Malaysia was mainly contributed by smallholders sector (87.2%) as compared to estates sector (12.8%). 

China's annual consumer inflation rate accelerated in December, driven by rising food prices even as domestic demand wavered amid restrained economic activity.

U.S consumer prices fell for the first time in more than 2-1/2 years in December as gasoline and motor vehicles prices declined, offering hope that inflation was now on a sustained downward trend, though the labor market remains tight.

The US government’s budget deficit widened by 12% for the first quarter of the fiscal year, presaging what’s set to be an intense political battle over fiscal policy.

International Monetary Fund Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said on Thursday that there is mounting evidence that the United States can avoid recession this year and achieve a "soft landing" for its economy.

The International Monetary Fund is not expected to downgrade its forecast for 2.7% growth in 2023, the head of the global lender said on Thursday, noting that concerns about an oil price spike had failed to materialize and labor markets remained strong.