English

Indrabati Lahiri

Economy

Where in the world do people spend the most as online shoppers?

Online shopping has soared in the past few years, with Amazon, Shein and Temu leading the intensely competitive website pack.

Business

Apple changes leaves UK microchip plant facing bleak future

The UK government offers support measures for the semiconductor industry but it may still not be enough to measure up to US and European grants.

Economy

Shoppers hit by rising prices as costs soar over past five years

Items such as olive oil, baked beans and sugar have risen particularly steeply with adverse weather, geopolitical concerns and global inflation contributing to the rise.

Economy

German economy expands slightly in first quarter of 2024

Increases in foreign trade has also gone a long way in supporting this higher GDP figure. However, despite falling inflation, German consumers remain cautious when it comes to spending.

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Economy

April showers dampen UK retail sales as shoppers stay indoors

The removal of non-food sales, such as furniture, clothing and footwear, was one reason for the disappointing figure.

Business

Germany backs ending EU tax breaks that benefit Temu and Shein

These tax breaks are crucial for Shein and Temu, allowing them to sell clothes, accessories and gadgets at steep discounts compared to their EU competitors.

Business

Rolls Royce wins new contract for nuclear proof 'doomsday' plane

These aircraft are equipped with mobile command centres, operations areas, conference rooms and more and can also resist electromagnetic pulses. They would carry the US President and top military leaders in the event of a national emergency.

Business

FIFA opens its digital collectibles platform to clubs and federations

The move will allow clubs and federations to make and market their own collectibles and merchandise to fans, thus further boosting engagement.

Economy

What's hot and what's not for travel and tourism this year?

Travel and tourism levels across the world are expected to jump back to pre-pandemic levels in 2024, according to a report on tourism and travel from the World Economic Forum.

Business

Italian insurer Generali sees strong life insurance revenue in Q1 2024

The insurance company saw robust performance across the board, but especially in the property-casualty insurance sector.

Business

BMW and Jaguar slammed for importing banned Chinese parts and cars

The parts are mostly LAN transformers, imported from Sichuan Jingweida Technology Group (JWD) which allegedly uses forced Uyghur labour.

Business

AstraZeneca announces a billion-dollar cancer plant in Singapore

The new factory highlights a rising trend by pharmaceutical companies to develop production facilities in local markets, to ensure a smoother supply chain and further cement their regional influence.

Markets

Markets watch oil prices after death of Iranian president

President Raisi was expected to succeed Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khameini. He was once sanctioned by the US for the mass execution of political prisoners in the 1980s.

Business

British supermarket Sainsbury’s plans to cut costs by harnessing AI

A five year tie-up with Microsoft could potentially help the supermarket chain to make use of AI to cut costs and improve staff efficiency.

Business

Chevron calls a halt to North Sea drilling as energy tax burden climbs

Chevron becomes the latest energy company to pull out of North Sea operations because of the continuing controversy over the "windfall" tax on energy giants.

Economy

French unemployment holds steady: Are Macron’s labour reforms working?

Macron’s labour reforms have drawn criticism from all quarters, with claims that they are punitive to workers, while rewarding or cushioning companies.

Business

Travel chaos warning as Boeing safety crisis leads to plane shortage

Boeing’s aircraft delivery delays and safety issues could mean that several airlines might have to cancel flights or push back their summer schedules as many are struggling to secure enough aircraft for the peak season.

Business

British tech company Raspberry Pi eyes London float in boost for City

Raspberry Pi’s listing could bring a much needed boost for the UK stock market, which has seen an exodus of companies in the last few months.

Business

Commerzbank notes highest numbers in more than a decade

Although the current higher interest rate environment is favourable for Commerzbank, things could change if the European Central Bank decides to cut rates this summer.

Economy

German and French economies show first quarter signs of revival

Despite Germany's relatively good performance last quarter, the International Monetary Fund believes that structural issues such as aging and lack of investment remain.

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