Latest Business News
India's Composite PMI Rises to 59.5 in January
India’s economy started 2026 strongly with the composite PMI up to 59.5 from 57.8 in December, driven by services at 59.3 and manufacturing at 56.8. Domestic orders fuel growth amid export tariffs, with GDP forecast at 7.5% this year slowing to 6.5% next.
UK Retail Sales and PMI Beat Expectations
UK December retail sales rose 0.4% m/m, with online sales up 4.2%, beating forecasts despite poor weather. January composite PMI hit 53.9, a 21-month high, led by tech and finance sectors.
Services PMI at 54.3 and manufacturing at 51.6 both improved.
US Composite PMI Edges Up to 52.8
US January composite PMI rose modestly to 52.8 from 52.7, with services steady at 52.5 but missing forecasts. Manufacturing improved slightly to 51.9 from 51.8.
India Buys 7 Million Barrels of Angolan Crude
Indian Oil Corp purchased 7 million barrels of crude from Angola for March delivery, shifting from Russian oil to appease EU and US. This deepens sourcing from Africa, Middle East, and Latin America.
Libya Secures $20bn Oil Deal with US and French Firms
Libya signed a $20 billion, 25-year agreement with US and French energy giants to revive its oil sector. As Africa's largest oil reserve holder, it aims to become the continent's top producer.
Trump Threatens 100% Tariffs on Canada Over China Deal
President Trump warned of 100% tariffs on Canadian goods if Canada proceeds with a trade deal with China. This underscores Bank of Canada's caution amid elevated uncertainty.
BOC expected to hold rates at 2.25% this week.
WEF: 53% of Economists See Global Economy Weakening in 2026
World Economic Forum's Chief Economists' Outlook shows 53% expect weaker global conditions, 28% no change, 19% stronger growth. High debt, asset prices, and geopolitics weigh heavily; AI offers opportunities but unevenly.
Trade shifts to regional agreements amid fragmentation.
Fed Rate Decision in Focus This Week
Federal Reserve meeting highlights the week, expected to stand pat amid politicization concerns dialed back. Trump backed off EU tariff threats, shifting focus to economics.
Rates likely to cut further than anticipated later.
Goldman Sachs Predicts Continued US Dollar Decline in 2026
Goldman Sachs expects the dollar to weaken further in 2026 at a slower pace, as US economy loses global lead. Investors may shift to procyclical currencies; euro upside limited despite Germany recovery.
V8 Engine Makes Roaring Comeback Led by Detroit
Car companies reverse plans to discontinue V8 engines, with Detroit leading the revival after earlier signals of phase-out.
Hedge Funds Tap Prediction Markets for Trading Edge
Hedge funds use prediction markets data via providers like Dysrupt Labs for investment advantages.
Robotaxis Enter Real Estate Land Grab for Charging
Robotaxi firms like Waymo partner Voltera seek more real estate for vehicle charging and maintenance.