Equity markets shrug off a disappointing November jobs report and renewed Covid concerns, while early research out of South Africa shows Omicron hospitalisations have not increased. As European nations broaden restrictions to fight the pandemic, protests erupt in Brussels, the Netherlands and in Catalonia. In France, Les Républicains party selects Valérie Pécresse to contest the presidency next year. Oil prices kick off the week in the green after Saudi Arabia hikes selling prices to Asian countries and the U.S., following six consecutive weeks of declines. And, beleaguered Chinese property giant Evergrande sees shares tumble as it faces another default deadline today, and warns funds are running low.

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