Shipping Costs Rise as Ships Reroute to Avoid Yemen Conflict, Risking Higher Prices
• Shipping costs rising as hundreds of container ships reroute to avoid attacks by Iran-backed Houthi militants near Red Sea and Suez Canal • Rerouted voyages are more costly and may lead to higher prices for consumers on wide range of goods • In Africa in 2024, a third of countries will elect new governments; credible elections and governance key for economic growth • Vietnam's economy fared better than expected in 2023 and is poised for further improvement in 2024 • Initial US jobless claims rose slightly in week before Christmas but remain consistent with resilient labor market