SUMMARY: Asian stocks fell on Monday following declines in U.S. markets, where a strong job market report heightened inflation concerns. Markets in Japan were closed for a holiday, while U.S. futures dropped and oil prices rose sharply after new sanctions against Russia’s energy sector due to the war in Ukraine. Despite China’s stronger-than-expected export growth, regional stocks like Hong Kong’s Hang Seng and Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 declined amid uncertainties regarding potential “America First” trade policies from the incoming Trump administration. The Federal Reserve is expected to exercise caution on interest rate cuts, influencing market performance and corporate profits.

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SUMMARY: The St. Johns County Ocean and Fishing Pier in St. Augustine Beach has reopened after being closed for months due to damage assessment following a shoreline restoration project. The pier was shut in August 2024 after drone footage revealed damage to its pillars. While the pier is now accessible, the final 100 feet remain closed for ongoing restoration work. The county is selling passes for fishing and sightseeing, and previously sold annual passes will be extended by seven months. Mayor Dylan Rumrell expressed excitement over the return of visitors, emphasizing the pier’s importance for local tourism.

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SUMMARY: A winter storm in the South caused school closures, power outages, and flight disruptions. By Sunday, warmer weather helped melt snow and ice, with power restored in parts of North and South Carolina. In Atlanta, 1,000 flights were delayed or canceled, but by Sunday morning, roads, parking lots, and runways were cleared. Power was restored to 97% of Georgia Power customers. The storm, which brought heavy snow and freezing rain, impacted Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and other areas. Some places, including schools and churches, remained closed as icy conditions persisted, while the weather slowly improved.

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