Browsing: Business

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s absence at G20 fuels fears of an American retreat from the IMF and World Bank, raising concerns over global financial stability.

The EU posted a €27.2 billion trade surplus in Q4 2024, its sixth in a row, led by strong exports in chemicals and machinery despite persistent energy deficits.

Oil prices extended gains, settling above $72 a barrel as supply concerns, OPEC+ policy uncertainty, and a weaker U.S. dollar supported crude amid market volatility.

Gold soars past $2,950, reaching record highs as investors seek safety amid trade tensions, falling yields, and central bank demand, pushing markets toward defensive strategies.

UK inflation surged to 3% in January, surpassing forecasts, with rising transport and food costs fueling the increase, according to the Office for National Statistics.

UK employers face a decade-high redundancy surge as tax hikes and rising costs erode confidence, with firms slashing jobs to counter financial pressures in an uncertain economic climate.

HSBC will announce $1.5 billion in cost savings and 40 job cuts in Hong Kong as it restructures, with further layoffs expected as part of a shift towards Asian markets.

European markets surged as defense and banking stocks drove the STOXX 600 to a record high, fueled by military spending growth and easing trade tensions.

The European Commission opposes Trump’s reciprocal trade policy, warning it could disrupt markets, fuel inflation, and harm businesses, vowing to protect EU industries from unfair tariffs.

Modi and Trump advance trade talks aiming for a $500B partnership by 2030, focusing on tariffs, energy, defense, and AI, with Musk exploring Tesla and Starlink expansion in India.