Economy

• Trump says he 'heard' Biden Fed appointments were signed by autopen, tells aide to investigate - Trump's autopen comments came during a speech in Pennsylvania about the economy, aimed at countering Democrats' messaging about the U.S. affordability crisis.
• Hassett likely next Fed chair, but most think Trump should nominate someone else, CNBC Fed survey shows - The December survey shows 84% believe President Trump will tap Hassett, director of the National Economic Council, to head the central bank.
• The Fed decision is expected to feature a rate cut and a lot more. Here's what to expect - The central bank is poised to deliver its third straight interest rate cut Wednesday, while firing a warning shot about what's ahead.
• Corporate America is upbeat on economy, but less so on President Trump's handling of it: CNBC CFO survey - A majority of CFOs are optimistic on the economy and see no recession in 2026, but their view of Trump's handling of the job of president is lukewarm at best.
• Bessent says U.S. will finish the year with 3% GDP growth, sees 'very strong' holiday season - Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the economy will end the year on strong footing and said the president was disappointed in economic coverage in the media.
• Trump trade war shift away from Chinese manufacturing has reached tipping point - A long-term supply chain shift pulls the rest of Asia even with manufacturing giant China, but for importers, a short-term cash crunch from tariffs is looming.
• Asia-Pacific markets slide after subdued Wall Street session - Asia-Pacific markets slid on Friday following a subdued Wall Street session.
• Layoff announcements this year top 1.1 million, the most since 2020 when pandemic hit, Challenger says - The firm said layoff plans totaled 76,835 in November, a step down from October but still enough to bring the 2025 total up to 1.17 million.
• Ukraine, trade, pandas: What China's Xi and France's Macron discussed in Beijing - China said it is open to importing more high-quality goods from France while urging a "fair, conducive environment" for Chinese businesses in the European nation.
• Bessent says Trump admin will be able to replicate tariffs even if it loses Supreme Court decision - The Treasury secretary cited several sections of 1962 Trade Act that give the president sweeping powers over import duties.