The US Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged for the fourth time this year, maintaining the range at 3.5% to 3.75%. New Chair Kevin Warsh presides over the decision amid elevated inflation and Middle East conflict uncertainty. Projections show a shift, with nine members now anticipating a rate hike this year, contrasting with earlier expectations of cuts.
Australian pharmaceutical group Sigma Healthcare has dropped its $10bn pursuit of UK retail chain Boots, stating the deal would not meet its strategic and capital investment objectives. The withdrawal extends uncertainty for the 177-year-old chain, which was put up for sale in 2022. Sigma shares rose 6% on the news.
The article argues that confusing One Nation supporters with the party itself is a political error. It suggests major parties should address voter concerns on cost of living, immigration, and AI, learn from Queensland's past success in engaging One Nation voters, and implement clear, visionary policies to counter the party's current appeal.
India is projected to receive $800 billion in additional capital spending over the next five years, driven by Middle East geopolitical tensions reshaping global supply chains. Morgan Stanley India Economics & Strategy forecasts the investment rate will reach 37.5% of GDP by FY2030, with 60% flowing into energy transition, data centres and defence. The report emphasizes India's shift from self-sufficiency to resilience, targeting domestic manufacturing in defence, fertilisers, data centres and energy security.
