As has so often been the case in recent weeks, unrestrained hope of economic recovery that comes with a vaccine is short-lived. Traction in the breakouts for risk appetite is difficult to maintain as markets always have a “but” as a restraining caveat. COVID-19 vaccine hopes and talk of more stimulus from Japan are helping to hold a degree of positive market sentiment, but the prospect of US sanctions on China are looming like dark clouds on the horizon. The US is opposed to China extending the security legislation in Hong Kong. Sanctions are being considered which would threaten Hong Kong’s status as a financial hub ... (full story)