Leucadia National Corp

Several macroeconomic indicators are suggesting that the Russian (RSX) economy is improving.

The Russian stock market is upbeat, which adds to the ruble’s strength.

The Three White Soldiers candlestick pattern is also a reversal pattern. It forms at the bottom of a downtrend. The pattern has three candles. All three of the candles are long and bullish.

Icahn Enterprises’ investment strategy involves identifying and purchasing undervalued businesses and assets at distressed prices.

Core inflation could impact the market positively as well as negatively. Higher core inflation data will depreciate the US dollar (UUP).

The European Union (FEZ) depends mostly on imports to meet its gas needs. Europe accounts for a significant portion of Russia’s gas exports.

The price war made life difficult for Russian energy companies and Russia’s economy at large. Asia and Europe are two important markets for Russia.

Venezuela accounted for 17.5% of the world’s total proven crude oil reserve in 2014. According to a study by BP, Venezuela’s break-even cost is ~$23.5.

Like Brazil (EWZ), Russia (RUSL) (ERUS) is also struggling with high inflationary pressure. For the September quarter, Russian GDP (gross domestic product) fell 0.57%.

According to data compiled by Rystad Energy, the cost of production per barrel of crude oil is $17.20 in Russia—compared to $9.90 in Saudi Arabia.

Geographically, Iran is between the Europe and Asia’s gas markets. Iran could be a potential supplier to China (FXI) through Pakistan and India (INDY).

The EU (European Union) mainly depends on imports to meet its need for gas. Europe imports a significant amount of gas from Russia.

Geographically, Iran is between the European and Asian gas markets. Iran could be a potential supplier to China through Pakistan and India (INDY).

Europe is a lucrative market for Russian gas manufacturer Gazprom Pao, as it derives more than 50% of its revenue from overseas.

Indonesia is looking for a long-term strategic alliance to support the demand of crude oil for its economy. Since 2003, Indonesia has been a net importer of oil.

Soros sold its 1.20% position in Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) last quarter. Johnson & Johnson’s reported 37% increase in adjusted net earnings in 4Q was mainly driven by its pharmaceutical segment.