![Asian markets begin week on front foot, bitcoin rally stutters [Video]](https://smallbizsage.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/mp_336411_0_67411eb8c2bc0imagejpg.jpg)
Asian markets rose Monday following a record close on Wall Street as traders welcomed Donald Trump’s pick for Treasury secretary, while bitcoin’s push to $100,000 ran out of steam after coming within a whisker of the mark at the end of last week.
The gains came ahead of the release of key US data that could provide a fresh idea about the Federal Reserve’s plans for interest rates amid expectations the next president’s tax and tariffs plans will reignite inflation, tempering rate cut bets.
Investors are also keeping tabs on the Ukraine and Middle East conflicts, which have helped push oil prices higher in recent weeks.
Investors gave the thumbs-up to news that Trump had fingered billionaire investor Scott Bessent to lead the Treasury, with optimism he will take a considered approach to the economy.
Bessent, CEO of hedge fund manager Key Square Group, has called for an extension of …
![Minneapolis holiday market showcases local businesses [Video]](https://smallbizsage.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/mp_336408_0_e9c8f0596c214fda9feff697b809d5b11140x641jpg.jpg)
![Best Black Friday Fashion Sales Happening in Australia for 2024 [Video]](https://smallbizsage.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/mp_335286_0_BreeTemplates1png.png)
![Likelihood of Trump abuse draws opponents to bill that would facilitate shutting down non-profits [Video]](https://smallbizsage.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/mp_334567_0_1731997024393nmaddownonprofits2411181920x1080dss9nkjpg.jpg)