Omicron's Global Impact

Week inAdvance

Monday | Dec 27, 2021

The world continues to closely monitor the spread of the omicron variant of Covid-19, especially during the New Year celebrations. Although early studies indicate a lower risk of serious outcomes from omicron, the new strain’s highly contagious nature could offset that, researchers said.

Governments, private companies, sports and religious organizations are reassessing how to hold events over the next few weeks. Paris, Rio de Janeiro and Los Angeles are among cities that have suspended in-person New Year’s Eve celebrations. New York City Mayor-elect Eric Adams canceled his 3,000-person inauguration initially set for Jan. 1.

President Joe Biden has three positions left to fill on the seven-member Federal Reserve board, including the pivotal slot of vice chair for supervision previously held by Randal Quarles. An announcement could come any day. He’s under pressure from progressives, who were disappointed by his renomination of Jerome Powell as Fed chair.

All times are Eastern and subject to change.

save the date

Thursday, Jan 13

INVESTORS market practices industry update

10:30 - 11 am

Come when you can. Leave when you have to. Take your calls.

across the globe

Monday, Dec 27

Australian, Canadian and U.K. markets closed for national holidays.

Thursday, Dec 30

Eurozone ECB publishes economic bulletin.

Friday, Dec 31

U.S. bond markets will close early at 2 p.m.

Many New Year’s Eve gatherings around the world have been canceled, but the Times Square ball drop in New York City is going ahead, for now, with revelers required to show proof of vaccination.

Germany’s new Chancellor Olaf Scholz and France’s President Emanuel Macron, who faces re-election in 2022, are among the world leaders expected to make New Year’s remarks.