scott bessent

A political clash has ignited online between US Treasury Secretary scott bessent and Senator Bernie Sanders regarding the inclusion of Chinese scientists in a crucial AI safety forum. Sanders advocates for international cooperation to address AI's existential threat, while Bessent criticizes the move, asserting American AI leadership and warning against foreign influence on US regulation.

US Treasury Secretary scott bessent announced the US will not renew a waiver allowing the purchase of Russian oil currently at sea. He also stated that another waiver for Iranian oil is "totally off the table." This decision comes after a recent extension of the waiver for Russian oil, which was intended to stabilize global energy markets.

US President Donald Trump shared a modified map renaming the Strait of Hormuz as the "Strait of Trump," following claims that a naval blockade against Iran could last for months. This development occurs as Iran rejects US claims about economic damage and criticizes the blockade strategy, with its parliament speaker calling the advice "junk."

The US Treasury has seized $344 million in cryptocurrency assets linked to Iran, aiming to disrupt Tehran's funding capabilities. This action, targeting digital assets alongside traditional evasion methods, comes amid heightened tensions and energy supply concerns in the Middle East.

The White House is reportedly considering easing restrictions on AI firm Anthropic, a shift from its previous 'supply chain risk' label. This comes after President Trump's positive remarks and a meeting with Anthropic's CEO.

AI firm Anthropic received a significant boost from the Trump administration, with Treasury Secretary scott bessent hailing its new Mythos model as crucial for America's AI lead over China. This praise follows a Pentagon dispute and a court win for Anthropic.

President Trump has signaled a potential shift in the US government's stance towards Anthropic, suggesting its AI models could still be utilized despite earlier national security concerns. Following discussions at the White House and a meeting with senior officials, the company's new Mythos model is reportedly easing tensions, potentially paving the way for renewed government engagement.

The US has tightened its grip on Iran's oil revenue by sanctioning a major Chinese refinery and numerous shipping entities involved in transporting Iranian crude. This move targets a "shadow network" and escalates pressure amid regional tensions. China has criticized the sanctions, urging an end to their political use and warning of harm to legitimate trade.

Gold price prediction today: Gold prices are expected to continue seeing volatility in the near-term, says Praveen Singh, Head Currencies and Commodities, Mirae Asset ShareKhan.

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated that Nvidia's H200 AI chips have not yet been sold to China, attributing the delay to Beijing's efforts to boost its domestic industry. Despite earlier Trump administration approval, China's central government is reportedly blocking purchases to encourage investment in homegrown alternatives, such as those from Huawei.

Trump is attempting to rebuild his tariff regime using alternative legal avenues after the court ruled that his earlier reliance on emergency powers to impose duties was unconstitutional.

The US Treasury Department has issued a new license extending a waiver for global buyers to purchase Russian oil shipments already at sea until May 16. This decision reverses earlier statements and aims to manage energy market volatility, despite criticism from lawmakers who argue it supports economies engaged in conflicts.

The Iran conflict has entered a Cold War-like phase with financial sanctions and naval interdictions, leading to a tense stalemate. Higher energy prices are expected to persist, while the risk of escalation remains. President Trump is reportedly weighing new strikes against intensifying sanctions, aiming to force Iran into nuclear program negotiations.

Despite a positive meeting, China is strategically expanding economic leverage against the US. New regulations target companies shifting supply chains and restrict foreign tech in state data centers. Beijing is building pressure tools, moving beyond trade, as both nations navigate a complex geopolitical landscape and competition for critical resources.

Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei met with White House officials to discuss AI safety and cybersecurity, signaling a thaw in recent tensions. The meeting focused on potential collaboration and responsible AI development, despite past government concerns labeling the company a national security risk. This engagement suggests a move towards renewed ties between Anthropic and the US government.