The main events by the morning: February 12

• US duties on metals from Canada may reach 50%. It is expected that the duties, if they come into force, may be combined with other tariffs on all Canadian goods in the amount of 25%. The United States may impose increased duties if Canada does not comply with agreements on border security. 

• US Secretary of Energy Chris Wright has called for a halt to the closure of coal-fired power plants. Coal provides about 15% of the country's electricity and remains an important resource amid rising demand. He noted that the abandonment of coal has made energy more expensive and the grid less stable. However, the revival of coal is unlikely, and over 120 stations are planned to be closed in the coming years.

• The National Chamber of Ferrous Metallurgy of Mexico, Canacero, condemned the US imposition of 25% duties on steel and aluminum. These measures were described as a threat to the Mexican industry. Regional integration has also been questioned. The Association demands a response if an exception for Mexico is not reached. The duties are estimated to endanger 75% of $2.1 billion worth of steel exports and key jobs.

• The head of the US Federal Reserve, Jerome Powell, said that there is no need to rush to change the rate now. The regulator has already relaxed its policy, reducing the rate by 1 percentage point over the year, keeping it at 4.25-4.5% in January. He noted that it is too early to assess the impact of Trump's tariffs, but they may increase inflation. Powell also stressed the high workload of the department's staff.

• Japan has asked the United States to exempt it from new duties on steel and aluminum. This was announced by Industry Minister Yoji Muto. Earlier, Trump raised tariffs on imports of these materials to 25%, explaining this with the support of the American industry. However, such measures have raised concerns about possible trade conflicts.