Republished with full copyright permissions from The San Francisco Press.

The global financial landscape has been abuzz with significant developments across various sectors. From central bank decisions to major investment moves, here’s a roundup of the latest news making waves in the financial world.

World Central Banks Signal Victory Over Inflation Is In Sight [WSJ]
The recent decisions by the European Central Bank, the Bank of England, and the Federal Reserve to hold interest rates steady reflect a repositioning towards a world where inflation is anticipated to be under control. With the Federal Reserve projecting three interest-rate cuts for 2024, it appears that central banks are actively addressing the challenge of inflation.

Buffett’s Berkshire buys more Occidental in endorsement of Permian Basin-related purchase [CNBC]
Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway’s increased stake in Occidental Petroleum signifies a robust endorsement of the Permian Basin-related investment. This move, resulting in Berkshire owning a 27% stake in Occidental worth $13.6 billion, reflects confidence in the potential of the energy sector.

Vivendi to Explore Split Into Three Businesses [WSJ]
Vivendi’s strategic decision to explore a split into three distinct businesses—centered around film and TV production, advertising and communication, and investment holdings—represents a significant initiative aimed at addressing the conglomerate discount it has faced. This move could potentially unlock hidden value and drive focused growth within each entity.

Property Crash Draws Short-Sellers. Better Late Than Never. [WSJ]
The entry of short sellers into the U.S. mortgage REIT market, despite significant value erosion since the Fed began raising rates, underscores their outlook for a challenging 2024. While the market has already priced in considerable negative news, the lingering concerns about the sector’s performance reflect a cautious sentiment among investors and hedge funds.

It’s starting to look like China regrets its private-enterprise crackdown [BI]
The release of China’s economic agenda signals a potential shift in priorities, acknowledging the need to prioritize economic development. This development suggests a reevaluation of the recent private-enterprise crackdown and hints at a more balanced approach to sustaining economic growth.

Six Millennium Portfolio Managers Leave Hedge Fund in London [Bloomberg]
The departure of six Millennium portfolio managers, including senior figures in the technology, media, telecommunications, consumer discretionary, industrials, and materials sectors, from its London office has drawn attention within the investment landscape. This move could potentially impact the trading strategies and focus areas of the hedge fund, and may lead to ripples in the broader market.