The main events by the morning: January 29

• The European Union plans to abandon Russian aluminum within a year. The EU intends to introduce a phased ban on imports of Russian aluminum as part of the 16th package of sanctions. Also, in accordance with the future package of measures, 15 more Russian banks may be disconnected from SWIFT and sanctions may be imposed affecting 70 Russian vessels. 

• The Czech Republic may become the first European country with cryptocurrency in reserves. The head of the Czech National Bank, Ales Michl, plans to invest part of the country's reserves in bitcoins, which could make the bank the first central bank in the West with crypto assets. He intends to propose to the board of directors to invest up to 5% of the reserves, estimated at $140 billion, in cryptocurrency. 

• Trump is still aiming to impose trade duties on Canada and Mexico from the beginning of February. This was announced by White House press Secretary Carolyn Levitt. According to her, the president confirmed that the date of February 1 is still considered as the deadline for the introduction of these restrictive measures. In addition, Levitt clarified that similar steps could be taken against China.

• Scott Bessent, an American financier, became the 79th Secretary of the Treasury of the United States. He will have to fulfill key tasks: to maintain the stability of the national economy, promote its growth and create new jobs for citizens. Previously, he headed the British division of Soros Fund Management, founded the funds Bessent Capital and Key Square Group. Bessent's fortune is estimated at 700 million. 

• Protests organized by the Alliance for Preventive Economic Day will be held in Germany. Actions in large cities are designed to draw attention to the crisis and demand reforms: lower taxes, bureaucracy, and energy prices. Protests will start in Berlin at the Brandenburg Gate. The Alliance warns that the German economy is experiencing stagnation, accompanied by an outflow of domestic companies and a reduction in interest from international investors.