Here's a roundup of the latest financial news, covering everything from chocolate prices to investment trends and government programs.
Ghana's Gold Rush Drives Up Chocolate Costs
The price of your favorite chocolate bar might be going up, and illegal gold mining in Ghana could be to blame. A surge in illegal mining is causing cocoa farmers to abandon their fields in search of gold, leading to a significant drop in cocoa production. This decline is pushing global chocolate prices to historic highs. It's a complex issue with far-reaching consequences.
“The situation is dire,” says one expert on the cocoa market. “We are seeing a perfect storm of factors impacting cocoa production, and the illegal gold mining is a major contributor.” The shift from agriculture to mining highlights the economic pressures faced by farmers in Ghana and the allure of quick profits from gold.
Women Investors Reach Record Numbers
Good news on the investment front! The number of women participating in the stock market reached a record high by the end of 2024. A total of 1.38 million women are now registered, representing a 7% increase compared to 2023. This is a significant step towards greater financial inclusion and empowerment.
The growth in Treasury Direct investments was even more impressive, jumping by 15.04% to reach 1.05 million, spurred by high interest rates. This suggests that women are increasingly looking for safe and reliable investment options. 
This trend indicates a growing interest among women in taking control of their financial futures. The stock market is opening up to a wider range of participants. More women are actively managing their money and making informed investment decisions.
FGTS App Issues in Brazil
Meanwhile, in Brazil, the FGTS (Guarantee Fund for Length of Service) application is experiencing some hiccups. On the first day of the release of the birthday withdrawal option for dismissed workers, users reported various issues, including missing balance information and long waiting queues.
Some users have found their balances have disappeared from the query, with the system reporting that the balance is non-existent. Others are stuck in a virtual waiting room, only to receive a message that the request cannot be processed. 
Caixa is beginning to pay out the full amount of withheld FGTS funds to those with balances up to 3,000 reais this Thursday. The anniversary withdrawal option is available, and the release schedule varies depending on whether the individual has an account registered with FGTS.
These technical difficulties highlight the challenges of implementing large-scale financial programs and the importance of ensuring a smooth user experience.