BNP Is Said to Shut U.S. Commodities Trading Desk

The video discusses BNP's decision to shut down its US commodities trading desk, while maintaining a sales team in New York to route orders to Singapore and London. It highlights the US Senate's debate over lifting sanctions on Russian companies linked to Oleg Deripaska, with Chuck Schumer opposing the decision. The video also covers potential US sanctions on Venezuela's military and oil industry to pressure President Nicolas Maduro for fair elections.

What is the primary reason BNP Paribas is closing its US commodities trading desk?

• To focus more on digital banking

• Due to a shift away from commodities trading post-2008 financial crisis

• To expand its operations in Europe

• Because of a merger with another bank

What action is Chuck Schumer taking regarding the sanctions on Russian companies?

• Proposing new sanctions on additional companies

• Supporting the Treasury's decision to lift sanctions

• Negotiating with Russian officials for a compromise

• Forcing a vote to block the lifting of sanctions

Why does Schumer believe the decision to lift sanctions on Deripaska's companies is flawed?

• Because Deripaska has increased his ownership stakes

• Because the companies have declared bankruptcy

• Due to a lack of evidence against Deripaska

• Due to ongoing interests held by Deripaska's associates

What is the US considering to pressure Venezuela's President Maduro?

• Lifting all existing sanctions

• Offering financial aid

• Imposing tougher sanctions on the military and oil industry

• Supporting Maduro's government

How did President Maduro respond to the US sanctions in his state of the Union speech?

• He announced his resignation

• He agreed to hold new elections

• He requested international mediation

• He dismissed the sanctions and outlined his plans