Qatar introduces the Qatar Diamond Exchange (QDE), a regulated marketplace in Ras Bufontas Free Zone, aiming to diversify its economy by connecting Doha with global diamond trading networks, leveraging its Kimberley Process certification.
A Chinese private firm, among others, invested in Indonesia in 2009 to secure nickel, crucial for stainless steel and advanced battery production, fostering deeper economic ties between China and Indonesia.
A surge in UK consumer confidence, dubbed the 'Burnham bounce', driven by optimism in economic prospects, coincides with England's strong World Cup run and policy interventions like VAT cuts. However, deep inequalities and gloomy outlooks among older Britons and the poorest households threaten sustainability.
Former US Deputy National Security Adviser Jon Finer discusses the challenges of deterring Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping, Iran's influence, and the Biden administration's decision-making process. He also touches on the US-Saudi nuclear deal and prospects for a ceasefire in the Middle East.
A study in Ethiopia's Kembata Tembaro district shows assisted natural regeneration and tree planting significantly cut topsoil loss and boosted forest cover (2015-2024). High-resolution satellite imagery tracked the REDD+ Investment Program's success in semi-arid areas, offering crucial data for national environmental strategies.
A study in Ethiopia's Kembata Tembaro district found that assisted natural regeneration and afforestation significantly reduced severe topsoil loss between 2015 and 2024. The research, published in Scientific Reports, evaluated the REDD+ Investment Program using high-resolution satellite imagery, providing crucial data for national environmental strategies.
West Virginia's Ascend program offers remote workers $12,000 and outdoor recreation access to relocate, successfully attracting over 700 participants and contributing an estimated $750 million to the state's economy, despite challenges like population decline and the rise of hybrid work schedules.
The Philippine economy faces fragility due to internal political turmoil, a corruption scandal, energy shocks, and extreme weather, despite inflation easing to 6.4% in June. ING's report highlights ongoing economic pressures, suggesting the central bank may not yet declare victory over inflation.
Critics warn that South Korea's revised "Yellow Envelope Act," expanding labour dispute scope to include business management decisions, could escalate disputes, create business uncertainty, and threaten economic recovery. The controversy is exemplified by SK Hynix's profit-linked bonus agreement.
A report by the Ripple-backed National Cryptocurrency Association estimates the crypto industry will contribute $55 billion to the US economy this year, supporting 232,000 jobs. It highlights key states for crypto employment and notes recent project shutdowns.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has rejected the possibility of a new Scottish independence referendum, stating it would divert from efforts to boost the economy and tackle the cost of living. He conveyed this stance to Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney in Glasgow, emphasizing a focus on practical measures and devolution.
Crude oil prices surpassed $100 a barrel, driven by new threats to Red Sea shipping from Yemen's Houthis, escalating the Middle East conflict. This surge is expected to lead to higher gas and diesel prices, impacting airline stocks and mortgage rates.
The European Union has imposed sanctions on Russian energy holding Inter RAO, citing its significant role in Russia's economy and its large consumer base of approximately 19 million consumers.
Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism launched the 'Dubai Invite' scheme, offering residents benefits worth over 3,000 AED to attract friends and family, aiming to revive tourism numbers that plummeted after the city was drawn into the US-Israel war on Iran, leading to hotel vacancies and revenue declines.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul visited Lagos, Nigeria, engaging with youth influencers and a business delegation. The visit aimed to strengthen economic ties, promote German exports, secure energy supplies, and explore investment opportunities in infrastructure and renewable energy, despite market challenges.
A UN report reveals Southeast Asia's scam industry has evolved into an interconnected criminal economy, with losses estimated at $88.3 billion to $114.1 billion in 2025. It details transnational networks, forced labor from 80 countries, crypto laundering, and the use of advanced tech like AI and satellite internet, urging international cooperation.
New data from the Metropolitan Police shows a significant drop in neighbourhood crime and homicides in London, with the Mayor attributing success to record police funding and the Violence Reduction Unit. The report aims to counter online disinformation portraying London as a "lawless" city.
US tariffs and sanctions on Brazil, including measures against criminal gangs and trade practices, are impacting Brazilian voter sentiment ahead of the October presidential election. Incumbent Lula da Silva is campaigning against Flavio Bolsonaro, son of jailed former President Jair Bolsonaro, with US actions becoming a key political issue.
South Korea's economy expanded 0.6% in Q2 from the previous quarter, driven by strong exports, particularly semiconductors. The Bank of Korea noted solid growth despite Middle East tensions, projecting 3% annual growth for 2026, a significant increase from earlier forecasts.
South Korea's economy expanded 0.6% in the second quarter, exceeding forecasts, driven by robust exports, particularly semiconductors. This growth puts the country on track for 3% annual GDP growth in 2026, a first since 2021, despite some geopolitical and trade risks.
The U.S. economy faces increased vulnerability to energy market disruptions from the Iran war, with thinning buffers against price spikes. Gas and diesel prices are rising, impacting Americans' standard of living and consumer spending, with no short-term solutions evident.
A Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) survey indicates that while Australians understand personal economic issues, most incorrectly believe higher interest rates lead to higher inflation. The RBA emphasizes the importance of explaining complex economic concepts to the public to foster trust and manage inflation expectations.
Ukraine attacked four Wildberries warehouses in Russia, escalating its drone campaign against the country's top online retailer. The strikes, targeting a key economic driver, threaten disruption for businesses and millions of Russian consumers.
The RBI reported that India's domestic economy successfully navigated a tumultuous global phase, showing robust credit growth and a steady external sector. Despite delayed kharif sowing and rising retail inflation driven by food and fuel, healthy demand and resilient industrial and services sectors underpin a buoyant outlook.
