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China’s gold investment demand rises as jewelry buying weakens

China’s gold consumption increased 1.23% year on year during the first half of 2026, according to the China Gold Association. Strong purchases of investment products offset a sharp drop in demand for jewelry. The figures point to a shift in the composition of China’s gold market, with investment demand supporting overall consumption growth.

Markets Energy & commoditiesChina goldgold investmentjewelry demand

CChina News ServiceOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-06 06:55

China’s gold investment demand rises as jewelry buying weakens

Putin: Trade turnover between Russia and Kyrgyzstan rose by more than a quarter in 2025

Russian President Vladimir Putin said trade turnover between Russia and Kyrgyzstan increased by more than a quarter in 2025. He also stated that over 2,000 companies with Russian capital are operating in Kyrgyzstan. The figures highlight the scale of bilateral commercial ties and Russian business activity in the country.

Markets Trade & sanctionsRussiaKyrgyzstantradeinvestment

TTASSOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-06 06:44

Putin: Trade turnover between Russia and Kyrgyzstan rose by more than a quarter in 2025

MOEX Index rises as morning trading opens

The MOEX Index moved higher at the opening of the morning trading session. As of 7:00 a.m. Moscow time, the index was up 0.27%.

MarketsMOEX Indexstock marketmorning trading

TTASSOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-06 06:24

MOEX Index rises as morning trading opens

Gold price surpasses $4,350 per troy ounce

Gold rose to $4,361.72 per troy ounce as of 4:01 a.m. Moscow time. The price was up 4.2%, moving above the $4,350 level.

Energy & commoditiesgold pricegoldmarkets

TTASSOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-06 06:22

Gold price surpasses $4,350 per troy ounce

Siemens lifts guidance after record industrial profit

Siemens reported its highest-ever quarterly industrial profit on Thursday. New orders also exceeded analyst expectations. The stronger-than-forecast results led the German industrial group to raise its full-year profit guidance. The announcement marks a record quarterly performance for the company’s industrial business.

Companies & industrySiemensindustrial profitearnings guidance

RReutersOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-06 06:05

Siemens lifts guidance after record industrial profit

China’s July export growth likely cooled but remained robust

China’s export growth is expected to have slowed in July from the sharp surge recorded in June, according to a Reuters poll. Even so, exports likely remained strong. Global demand for artificial-intelligence-related goods continued to support shipments. Factories also rushed goods out ahead of an expected increase in U.S. tariffs, adding momentum to the month’s export performance.

Trade & sanctions Tech & AIChina exportstrade growthAI goodsUS tariffs

RReutersOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-06 05:15

China’s July export growth likely cooled but remained robust

Morning Bid: AI stocks learn to fly — but ain't got wings

The morning market outlook turns to the day ahead for European and global markets. It focuses on the performance of AI stocks, using the image of learning to fly without having wings. The item presents a market watch rather than a specific corporate or policy development.

Markets Companies & industry Tech & AIEuropean marketsglobal marketsAI stocks

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-06 05:05

Morning Bid: AI stocks learn to fly — but ain't got wings

Samsung and SK Hynix shareholders seek bigger payouts from AI cash pile

Investors are increasingly pressing Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix to return more of their surplus cash. They are seeking larger dividends or expanded share buybacks after both companies reported record profits driven by artificial intelligence. Yet the companies gave shareholders little detail about their plans for returning capital. The limited disclosure has intensified calls for a greater distribution of the cash accumulated during the AI boom.

Companies & industry Tech & AISamsung ElectronicsSK Hynixartificial intelligenceshareholder returns

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-06 04:50

Samsung and SK Hynix shareholders seek bigger payouts from AI cash pile

EXCLUSIVE: Sinopec steps up Russian oil imports to offset Middle East supply cuts, traders and tracker say

China’s state-owned Sinopec is increasing its purchases of Russian oil from the Far East, according to several trade sources and shipping-tracking data. The buying is intended to make up for reduced supplies from the Middle East amid the Iran war. Sinopec is described as the world’s largest refiner. The report frames the increase as a response to disrupted regional supply.

Energy & commodities Trade & sanctionsSinopecRussian oilChina energyMiddle East supply

RReutersOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-06 04:40

EXCLUSIVE: Sinopec steps up Russian oil imports to offset Middle East supply cuts, traders and tracker say

Ukraine’s losses from port blockade exceed $1 billion

Ukraine’s losses caused by the port blockade have surpassed $1 billion. The country’s main commercial ports—Odessa, Chernomorsk and Yuzhny—remain idle. Their continued inactivity is presented as the central source of the reported economic damage.

Trade & sanctionsUkraineport blockadeeconomic losses

TTASSOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-06 04:16

Ukraine’s losses from port blockade exceed $1 billion

For Decades, This Indonesian Island Near Singapore Barely Registered With Global Investors

An Indonesian island located close to Singapore has attracted little notice from global investors for decades. Its proximity to the financial hub has not translated into meaningful international investor attention. The item focuses on the island’s long-standing absence from global investment interest.

MarketsIndonesiaSingaporeinvestmentisland

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★☆☆☆☆2026-08-06 04:15

For Decades, This Indonesian Island Near Singapore Barely Registered With Global Investors

Over 60 countries, regions and international organizations to join 2026 CIFTIS

More than 60 countries, regions and international organizations have confirmed their participation in the 2026 China International Fair for Trade in Services. They are expected to host exhibitions or related events at the fair. Zhao Qizhou, director of the Beijing International Trade in Services Affairs Center, announced the participation on Wednesday. Nearly 300 Fortune Global 500 companies and industry leaders are also expected to attend.

Trade & sanctionsCIFTISinternational tradeBeijing

CChina News ServiceOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-06 03:20

Over 60 countries, regions and international organizations to join 2026 CIFTIS

Singapore says $7.4 billion in exports hit by new US tariffs

Singapore Trade Minister Gan Kim Yong said new US tariffs will affect about one-third of the country’s exports to the United States. The affected goods are valued at S$9.5 billion, equivalent to $7.4 billion. The United States imposed the 12.5% tariff on July 24.

Trade & sanctionsSingaporeUS tariffsexportstrade

RReutersOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-06 03:01

Singapore says $7.4 billion in exports hit by new US tariffs

Why Bessent Wants a Bigger Fed Backstop to Support the Yen

The yen’s weakness has prompted one of the most dramatic currency-market interventions in decades. Japan and the United States began a joint effort in late July to bolster the currency. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent then surprised financial markets by calling for the Federal Reserve to enlarge an obscure lending program. He said the expanded support would aid Tokyo’s efforts to defend the yen.

Macro & central banks Marketsyencurrency interventionFederal ReserveJapan

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-06 03:00

Why Bessent Wants a Bigger Fed Backstop to Support the Yen

Asia shares ease on tech pullback as Iran talks keep markets focused

Asian shares retreated on Thursday after the AI-led rally of the previous day paused. Investors took a step back to assess the recent surge in technology stocks. Oil prices remained within a narrow range as markets weighed the prospects of a peace agreement involving Iran. The negotiations continued to shape attention across regional markets.

Markets Energy & commoditiesAsian sharestechnology stocksoil pricesIran talks

RReutersOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-06 01:50

Asia shares ease on tech pullback as Iran talks keep markets focused

eBay’s Second-Quarter Sales and Profit Beat Expectations

eBay reported a solid second quarter, with sales and profit exceeding expectations. The company also disclosed that its purchase price for second-hand clothing marketplace Depop was $200 million higher than initially announced. The higher cost could weigh on earnings in the current period.

Companies & industryeBayquarterly resultsDepopacquisition

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-06 01:30

eBay’s Second-Quarter Sales and Profit Beat Expectations

MercadoLibre profit beats forecasts, but third straight decline dents shares

MercadoLibre reported a third consecutive quarterly decline in profit on Wednesday. Higher spending on free shipping and the expansion of its credit-card business put pressure on margins. Record revenue was not enough to offset the weaker profit trend. The company’s shares fell in after-hours trading.

Markets Companies & industryMercadoLibreprofitsharese-commerce

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-06 01:20

MercadoLibre profit beats forecasts, but third straight decline dents shares

Qantas Pilots Approve Potential Strikes as Pay Talks Continue

International pilots at Qantas Airways voted to approve potential strike action. The vote comes as negotiations with the airline over pay and working conditions continue. The talks have stretched over several years, keeping the possibility of industrial action on the table while the sides seek an agreement.

OtherQantaspilotsstrike actionpay negotiations

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-06 01:07

Qantas Pilots Approve Potential Strikes as Pay Talks Continue

Situational Awareness Returns to Investing With $400 Million Bet

Leopold Aschenbrenner has returned to the investing world only days after his hedge fund came close to collapsing. People familiar with the matter say he committed $400 million to support a privately held company. The move marks his reentry into the market after the fund’s near-collapse. The company involved was not identified.

Markets Companies & industryinvestmenthedge fundprivate company

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 23:30

Situational Awareness Returns to Investing With $400 Million Bet

DoorDash projects strong growth as delivery demand holds firm

DoorDash expects its third-quarter gross order value and core profit to come in above Wall Street forecasts. The company also exceeded expectations in the previous three months. It attributed the outlook to steady demand for deliveries of food, groceries and convenience items.

Companies & industryDoorDashdelivery demandearnings outlook

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 23:01

DoorDash projects strong growth as delivery demand holds firm

DoorDash Issues Strong Outlook as Orders and Paid Membership Rise
DoorDash issued a profit forecast that exceeded analysts’ expectations. The company attributed the outlook to a surge in paying subscribers. These members typically place takeout and grocery orders more often than people without memberships. The increase in orders is helping support the delivery company’s stronger earnings expectations.
DoorDashprofit outlookorders
BBloomberg News★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 22:00Original

Brazil Central Bank Cuts Rate to 14% as Inflation Cools

Brazil’s central bank lowered its benchmark interest rate by a quarter point to 14%. The move marked a fourth consecutive meeting with a rate cut. Fresh data indicated that economic growth was moderating. Inflation also slowed more than economists had expected, supporting the latest reduction.

Macro & central banksBrazilcentral bankinterest ratesinflation

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-05 23:00

Brazil Central Bank Cuts Rate to 14% as Inflation Cools

Bezos Sells $350 Million of Amazon Stock in First Sale of the Year

Jeff Bezos sold nearly $350 million worth of Amazon.com Inc. shares as the company’s stock reached a record on Monday. The transaction marked his first sale of Amazon shares this year. The sale came as the stock hit that new high, involving a substantial reduction in his holdings.

Markets Companies & industry Tech & AIJeff BezosAmazonstock sale

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 22:30

Bezos Sells $350 Million of Amazon Stock in First Sale of the Year

Block raises 2026 profit forecast on Cash App growth and resilient spending

Payments company Block increased its full-year gross profit forecast. The company had reported results that exceeded market expectations. Resilient consumer spending supported the performance, while strong growth in its Cash App business provided another key driver. The updated outlook reflects the firm’s view that these trends are continuing through 2026.

Macro & central banks Companies & industryBlockCash Appprofit forecastconsumer spending

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 22:01

Block raises 2026 profit forecast on Cash App growth and resilient spending

Dorsey’s Block Raises Profit Outlook as Revamp Takes Shape
Block Inc. raised its full-year profit guidance on Wednesday. The company’s quarterly results exceeded expectations, supported by growth in both its Square and Cash App businesses. The stronger performance comes as Block’s revamp begins to take shape.
Blockprofit outlookSquareCash App
BBloomberg News★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 21:30Original

Trump administration refunds importers about $100 billion in collected tariffs

The Trump administration has refunded importers about $100 billion in tariffs that had already been collected. The amount returned equals roughly 60% of the approximately $166 billion the government gathered under the tariffs. The refunds represent a major reversal of previously collected trade duties and affect importers subject to the policy.

Trade & sanctionsUS tariffsTrump administrationimporterstrade policy

TTASSOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-05 21:22

Trump administration refunds importers about $100 billion in collected tariffs

Expedia raises full-year sales outlook as bookings stay strong

Expedia Group increased its forecast for sales across the full year. The company’s stronger outlook suggests that consumers continue to book travel despite higher hotel prices and airfares. The update points to resilient demand for the company’s services, with elevated travel costs so far failing to deter customers. Expedia’s performance is therefore being supported by sustained booking strength.

Companies & industryExpediasales outlooktravel bookings

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 20:30

Expedia raises full-year sales outlook as bookings stay strong

Energy Ministry explains gasoline requirement relaxations

The Energy Ministry has explained its decision to relax requirements for automotive gasoline. According to the ministry, the change will allow additional volumes of the fuel to be allocated to the domestic market. The measure is presented as a way to increase gasoline availability inside the country.

Energy & commoditiesRussiagasolineenergy policy

TTASSOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-05 20:28

Energy Ministry explains gasoline requirement relaxations

Fed’s Cook says she is ready to raise rates if inflation does not ease

Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook said she is open to raising the central bank’s short-term interest-rate target if inflation in the U.S. economy remains too high. She indicated that a failure for price pressures to begin easing could require additional monetary tightening. Cook’s comments leave a rate increase under consideration as the Fed responds to persistent inflation.

Macro & central banksUS economyFederal Reserveinflationinterest rates

RReutersOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-05 20:25

Fed’s Cook says she is ready to raise rates if inflation does not ease

SpaceX shares slide after first quarterly report

SpaceX shares fell by more than 13 percent after the company released its first quarterly report. Investors were unsettled by the scale of the company’s investments. The sharp decline reflects market concern over the financial impact of that spending. The report put SpaceX’s investment strategy at the center of investor attention.

Markets Companies & industrySpaceXstock marketquarterly report

AAl JazeeraOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 20:06

SpaceX shares slide after first quarterly report

Trump administration plans 15% polysilicon tariff, sources say

The Trump administration is planning to levy a 15% tariff on polysilicon derivative products, according to sources who spoke to Reuters on Tuesday. The proposed measure targets products derived from polysilicon. It would represent a new US trade action affecting the polysilicon sector. The plan was described by the sources as being under preparation by the administration.

Energy & commodities Trade & sanctionsTrump administrationpolysilicontariffs

RReutersOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-05 20:01

Trump administration plans 15% polysilicon tariff, sources say

Trump Readies Tariffs and Price Floors to Bolster US Polysilicon
President Donald Trump is preparing tariffs on imported polysilicon and minimum prices for the material. The planned measures aim to encourage more polysilicon production in the US. They are also intended to support American semiconductors and solar panels that use the material. The move frames trade intervention as a way to strengthen domestic manufacturing.
Donald Trumppolysilicontariffssolar panels
BBloomberg News★★★☆☆2026-08-05 19:45Original

Gas stations to provide information on the eco-class of fuel they sell

Gas stations will be required to provide information about the eco-class of the fuel they sell. The information must be made available in a clear form, allowing customers to see the fuel’s environmental classification. The measure concerns how fuel information is presented at stations.

Energy & commoditiesgas stationsfueleco-class

TTASSOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 19:26

Gas stations to provide information on the eco-class of fuel they sell

Russian government allows Euro 2, Euro 3 and Euro 4 gasoline sales until July 2027

The Russian government has authorized the sale of Euro 2, Euro 3 and Euro 4 gasoline through July 2027. The resolution also voids an earlier decision that had permitted K5-class gasoline with higher sulfur content to remain in circulation until the end of 2026. The measure changes the applicable sales timelines for these fuel grades.

Markets Energy & commodities Companies & industryRussiagasolinefuel standards

TTASSOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-05 19:24

Russian government allows Euro 2, Euro 3 and Euro 4 gasoline sales until July 2027

Dallas and New York Fed banks to launch pilot survey of private credit market

The Federal Reserve banks of Dallas and New York plan to begin a pilot survey of the private credit market after the third quarter ends. The New York Fed announced the plan in a statement on Wednesday. The market is estimated to be worth $1.3 trillion. The initiative will examine a large and expanding area of finance through the two regional banks.

Macro & central banks Markets Banking & financeFederal Reserveprivate creditfinancial markets

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 16:50

Dallas and New York Fed banks to launch pilot survey of private credit market

US stock market could extend gains on earnings strength after S&P 500 record

U.S. equities have climbed to fresh records this week. Investors believe the rally could continue, supported by a powerful corporate profit engine, a reset in high-flying artificial-intelligence shares and valuations that remain reasonable. Those factors are seen as giving the market additional room to advance after the S&P 500’s latest record. The outlook centers on earnings as a key source of momentum.

Markets Companies & industry Tech & AIUS stocksS&P 500corporate earningsAI shares

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 16:45

US stock market could extend gains on earnings strength after S&P 500 record

Italy to handle Monte Paschi stake without interfering with M&A moves

Italy will manage its remaining 4.9% holding in Monte dei Paschi di Siena without disrupting merger and acquisition activity involving the bailed-out lender, Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti said on Wednesday. The government’s approach is intended to keep its stake disposal separate from corporate moves affecting the bank. Giorgetti gave the assurance while speaking to reporters. He did not specify how the residual holding would be handled.

Banking & finance Companies & industryItalyMonte dei Paschi di Sienabanking M&A

RReutersOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-05 16:30

Italy to handle Monte Paschi stake without interfering with M&A moves

Chanel’s first-half sales outperform rivals, Bloomberg reports

Chanel’s comparable revenue rose by about 16% during the first half of 2026, according to a Bloomberg News report. The French luxury group outperformed its rivals during the period. A person familiar with the company’s performance attributed the increase to new collections from creative director Matthieu Blazy.

Companies & industryChanelluxury goodssalesMatthieu Blazy

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 15:05

Chanel’s first-half sales outperform rivals, Bloomberg reports

Nearly 1,500 homes bought through Australia’s 5% deposit scheme turned into investments

New data shows that Australia’s federal 5% deposit scheme for first-home buyers has supported the purchase of nearly 1,500 properties that were later converted into investments. The program is also benefiting hundreds of Australians earning more than $300,000 a year. High-income borrowers were no longer excluded after Labor changed the rules. One couple using the scheme reported annual earnings of $674,000.

Markets Real EstateAustraliahousing policyfirst-home buyersproperty investment

TThe GuardianOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-05 15:00

Nearly 1,500 homes bought through Australia’s 5% deposit scheme turned into investments

‘Just an easy cash grab’: why Jetstar is charging for carry-on luggage

Experts say add-on charges, including Jetstar’s new overhead-locker baggage fee, make airfares harder to compare. The Qantas-owned low-cost airline announced that from next year its tickets will cover only one bag stored under the seat. That can be a backpack, handbag or laptop bag. The change has prompted criticism that cheap fares may conceal a growing list of fees as airlines monetise services passengers once considered basic.

Companies & industryJetstarcarry-on baggage feesairfaresairline add-ons

TThe GuardianOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 15:00

‘Just an easy cash grab’: why Jetstar is charging for carry-on luggage

Prudential shares tumble on report China will tax offshore insurance returns

Prudential shares dropped as much as 13% on Wednesday following a Caixin report that Chinese mainland tax authorities have begun imposing personal income tax on returns from offshore insurance policies. The report points to growing scrutiny of offshore investments in China. Investors reacted sharply to the prospect of increased tax pressure on such returns. The move adds to concerns surrounding the treatment of offshore insurance products.

Macro & central banks Markets Banking & financePrudentialChina taxoffshore insuranceinvestment scrutiny

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 14:50

Prudential shares tumble on report China will tax offshore insurance returns

S&P 500, Dow hit record highs as Middle East hopes offset SpaceX and AMD slide

The S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average reached record levels on Wednesday. Investor hopes for a breakthrough toward peace in the Middle East helped counter declines in SpaceX and AMD shares. The two companies had issued upbeat forecasts, but those projections failed to impress investors. The market advance therefore came despite pressure from both technology-related stocks.

MarketsUS stocksS&P 500Dow JonesMiddle East

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 14:40

S&P 500, Dow hit record highs as Middle East hopes offset SpaceX and AMD slide

Lululemon Is at War With Itself

The troubled $14 billion athleisure giant has appointed a new chief executive, creating the appearance of a fresh start. Yet the company’s next internal battle is only beginning.

Companies & industryLululemonCEOcorporate struggle

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 14:30

Lululemon Is at War With Itself

Bank of Russia sees signs of fuel market stabilization, summary shows

The Bank of Russia sees indications that the fuel market is stabilizing. A summary says higher fuel prices also create indirect effects. Increased transportation and production costs can be passed through into prices for a broader range of goods and services. This transmission widens the pricing impact beyond fuel itself.

Macro & central banks Energy & commoditiesBank of Russiafuel marketprice pass-through

TTASSOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 14:25

Bank of Russia sees signs of fuel market stabilization, summary shows

Wildberries denies reports of moving logistics hubs outside Russia

Wildberries has rejected reports that it is relocating its logistics hubs beyond Russia. Company representatives say the retailer is systematically expanding its logistics infrastructure across the countries where it operates. The statement presents the activity as broader infrastructure growth rather than a transfer out of Russia. No relocation outside the country was acknowledged by the company.

Macro & central banksWildberrieslogistics infrastructureRussia

TTASSOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 14:18

Wildberries denies reports of moving logistics hubs outside Russia

India’s Berger Paints reports 28.5% quarterly profit increase on strong demand

Berger Paints India said its first-quarter profit climbed 28.5% on Wednesday. The company attributed the increase to strong demand in its automotive and decorative segments. Both business areas contributed to the quarterly performance, according to the report. The result highlights continued demand for Berger Paints’ products in those segments.

Companies & industryBerger PaintsIndiaquarterly profitautomotive paintsdecorative paints

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 14:15

India’s Berger Paints reports 28.5% quarterly profit increase on strong demand

Bank of Russia says rising global energy prices supported ruble appreciation in March-May

The Bank of Russia says higher global energy prices supported the ruble’s appreciation from March through May. The central bank added that the currency has since corrected following its June meeting. According to the statement, the ruble’s level has returned to where it stood in late April 2026. The comments link the currency’s earlier strength to developments in global energy prices.

Macro & central banks Markets Energy & commoditiesRussiarubleenergy pricescentral bank

TTASSOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-05 14:13

Bank of Russia says rising global energy prices supported ruble appreciation in March-May

Port blockade threatens half of Ukraine’s iron ore exports, report says

A report says a port blockade could put roughly half of Ukraine’s iron ore exports at risk. The disruption could cost the country between $60 million and $70 million in foreign-exchange earnings every month. Iron ore production could also fall by as much as 40%, according to the report.

Energy & commodities Trade & sanctionsUkraineport blockadeiron ore exports

TTASSOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-05 14:10

Port blockade threatens half of Ukraine’s iron ore exports, report says

EXCLUSIVE: ‘No discussions’ over AstraZeneca-Bristol Myers deal, senior source says

A senior source close to the matter told Reuters that AstraZeneca and Bristol Myers Squibb are not engaged in discussions about a possible deal. The statement effectively shuts down speculation about a potential mega merger between the two drugmakers. The source’s comments reject the prospect of ongoing negotiations between the companies.

Companies & industryAstraZenecaBristol Myers Squibbpharmaceuticalsmergers

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 13:50

EXCLUSIVE: ‘No discussions’ over AstraZeneca-Bristol Myers deal, senior source says

US private payrolls rise moderately in July, ADP reports

U.S. private-sector payrolls increased in July, according to ADP’s national employment report released Wednesday. The report said the pace of growth slowed during the month. It characterized the increase as moderate, pointing to a weaker expansion in private employment than previously. The figures provide a monthly reading on hiring by U.S. private employers.

Macro & central banksUS economyprivate employmentADP

RReutersOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-05 13:45

US private payrolls rise moderately in July, ADP reports

FAO warns world faces fresh surge in food prices

The world is nearing another wave of food inflation, according to the chief economist of the Food and Agriculture Organization. Wars in Iran and Ukraine, combined with El Nino, are described as creating a perfect storm for higher costs. Crop yields could also fall, adding supply pressure to rising expenses. The combination threatens to push food prices higher again across the globe.

Macro & central banks Energy & commoditiesfood pricesinflationFAOIran warUkraine war

RReutersOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-05 13:44

FAO warns world faces fresh surge in food prices

Circle quarterly revenue rises as stablecoin circulation accelerates

Circle reported stronger second-quarter revenue on Wednesday, with broader use of its USDC stablecoin supporting the increase. Businesses and institutions are adopting USDC for purposes beyond cryptocurrency trading. The company’s shares rose 7.7% in premarket trading following the report. The results point to accelerating circulation and expanding institutional use of the stablecoin.

Crypto Companies & industryCircleUSDC stablecoinquarterly revenuecrypto finance

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 13:40

Circle quarterly revenue rises as stablecoin circulation accelerates

Kenya’s stock exchange plans East Africa’s first AI-focused ETF

Kenya’s Nairobi Securities Exchange is developing East Africa’s first exchange-traded fund focused on artificial intelligence stocks. The exchange’s chief executive said the product is expected to be offered to investors before the end of the year. The planned fund would give investors a dedicated vehicle for exposure to AI-related shares.

Markets Tech & AIKenyaNairobi Securities Exchangeartificial intelligenceETF

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 13:05

Kenya’s stock exchange plans East Africa’s first AI-focused ETF

New York City’s Aging Power Barges Show the Blackout Risk Is Real

New York City’s aging power barges were intended to serve as a backup for the electricity system. Instead, rising demand has kept the plants in constant use. The strained grid has no relief in sight. Their continued reliance highlights that the risk of blackouts is real.

Energy & commoditiesNew York Citypower bargeselectric gridblackout risk

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 13:00

New York City’s Aging Power Barges Show the Blackout Risk Is Real

Samsung, SK Hynix pledge stronger shareholder returns

Samsung Electronics says it is examining ways to improve shareholder returns in what it describes as a sustainable manner. The South Korean company made the statement to Reuters on Wednesday. SK Hynix has also pledged to strengthen returns for shareholders. The commitments put greater emphasis on how the two companies reward investors.

Tech & AISamsung ElectronicsSK Hynixshareholder returnsSouth Korea

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 12:50

Samsung, SK Hynix pledge stronger shareholder returns

Gold futures top $4,250 per ounce for first time since June 18

Gold futures have moved above $4,250 per ounce for the first time since June 18. At 3:16 p.m. Moscow time, gold prices were up 1.88%, reaching $4,264.5 per ounce. The move marks a notable rise in the precious-metal market. The quoted price is for gold per ounce.

Energy & commoditiesgoldfuturesprecious metals

TTASSOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 12:46

Gold futures top $4,250 per ounce for first time since June 18

KNDS chairman denies talks on full nationalisation of tank maker

KNDS Chairman Tom Enders rejected a media report on Wednesday that discussions had taken place about fully nationalising the Franco-German tank manufacturer. He said the company’s stock market listing plans, which are currently paused, would nevertheless continue to be pursued.

Markets Companies & industryKNDSnationalisationstock listing

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 12:15

KNDS chairman denies talks on full nationalisation of tank maker

US dollar to retain strength, yen intervention no game changer: Reuters poll

Foreign-exchange strategists surveyed by Reuters expect the U.S. dollar to remain firm over the coming months. They see the currency weakening later in the year. The poll also produced some of the weakest consensus forecasts for the Japanese yen since polling began in the early 1990s. The strategists do not expect intervention in the yen to fundamentally change the outlook.

MarketsUS dollarJapanese yenforeign exchangemarket forecasts

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 12:05

US dollar to retain strength, yen intervention no game changer: Reuters poll

The Company That Wanted to Make Exactly 10,011 Pairs of Jeans

Hiut Denim set a production limit of exactly 10,011 pairs of jeans. The cap was intended to inspire a degrowth movement in business. Before the company could promote that idea, however, it first had to grow itself. Its unusual model therefore placed expansion ahead of the principles it hoped to champion.

Companies & industryjeansHiut Denimdegrowthbusiness

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★☆☆☆☆2026-08-05 12:00

The Company That Wanted to Make Exactly 10,011 Pairs of Jeans

Bessent nudge strengthens case for a BOJ rate hike in September

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has publicly weighed in on Japan’s monetary policy. His views have nearly locked the Bank of Japan into raising interest rates at its September meeting. The intervention has also prompted questions about how much influence Washington may exert over Japan’s domestic policy. The focus is now on the central bank’s next decision.

Macro & central banksBank of Japaninterest ratesScott Bessentmonetary policy

RReutersOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-05 11:50

Bessent nudge strengthens case for a BOJ rate hike in September

Howard Schultz-Backed Pet Food Maker Open Farm Eyes Toronto IPO

Pet food maker Open Farm Inc., backed by Howard Schultz, is looking toward a potential initial public offering in Toronto. The company was founded by life partners Isaac Langleben and Jacqueline Prehogan. A public listing could help them turn their venture into a $1 billion company. Starting a business together is one challenge; building it into a billion-dollar enterprise is another.

MarketsIPOpet foodOpen FarmToronto

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 11:44

Howard Schultz-Backed Pet Food Maker Open Farm Eyes Toronto IPO

Citadel’s flagship fund surged 5.9% in July after buying discounted AI stock portfolio

Citadel’s flagship fund gained 5.9% in July. The rise followed the firm’s purchase of a discounted portfolio of artificial intelligence stocks from troubled hedge fund Situational Awareness. The transaction linked the fund’s monthly performance to a deal involving a distressed investment firm and AI-related holdings.

Markets Tech & AICitadelhedge fundsAI stocks

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 11:29

Citadel’s flagship fund surged 5.9% in July after buying discounted AI stock portfolio

Pakistan to sign free trade agreement with EAEU, ambassador to Russia says

Pakistan is set to sign a free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union, according to Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi. He said Pakistan, as part of the Eurasian region, needs to expand people-to-people contacts with every EAEU member. Tirmizi also emphasized the need for more business-to-business engagement across the bloc. The remarks frame the proposed agreement as part of broader social and commercial ties.

Trade & sanctionsPakistanEurasian Economic Unionfree trade agreement

TTASSOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-05 11:17

Pakistan to sign free trade agreement with EAEU, ambassador to Russia says

Serbia to open refinery to other firms to secure fuel supplies

Serbia plans to make part of its only NIS oil refinery available to other domestic oil companies in August. Energy Minister Dubravka Djedovic Handanovic said the measure is intended to secure fuel supplies amid high demand. Record-low water levels on the Danube River are also affecting supply conditions. The move would allow other local firms to use part of the refinery’s capacity.

Energy & commodities Companies & industrySerbiafuel suppliesoil refineryDanube River

RReutersOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-05 11:15

Serbia to open refinery to other firms to secure fuel supplies

Explainer: Why has India’s new stock closing-price system spooked traders?

India introduced a new method for calculating stock closing prices for companies with derivatives contracts. Following the launch, the benchmark Nifty 50 swung sharply. The change has unsettled traders and raised attention around how closing prices are determined. The market is now reacting to the effects of the revised system.

MarketsIndia stocksNifty 50closing pricesderivatives

RReutersOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-05 11:10

Explainer: Why has India’s new stock closing-price system spooked traders?

SpaceX slides as AI spending worries overshadow early returns

SpaceX highlighted returns from its artificial intelligence spending that arrived sooner than expected during its first earnings call as a public company. Those early gains were overshadowed by investor concerns about the scale and implications of continued AI spending, sending the company’s shares lower.

Markets Tech & AISpaceXAI spendingstock market

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 11:05

SpaceX slides as AI spending worries overshadow early returns

New Zealand Jobless Rate Rises as Energy Shock Drags on Hiring

New Zealand’s unemployment rate climbed to its highest level in 11 years during the second quarter. A global energy shock squeezed company profits and weighed on hiring. At the same time, more people entered the job market seeking work. The combination pushed the jobless rate higher as employers faced tighter financial conditions.

Macro & central banks Energy & commoditiesNew Zealandunemploymentenergy shockhiring

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-05 11:00

New Zealand Jobless Rate Rises as Energy Shock Drags on Hiring

EXCLUSIVE: India may charge gas users to fund planned $42 billion fuel reserves, sources say

India could levy a charge on users of cooking gas and natural gas, according to two sources directly familiar with the matter. The proposed revenue would help finance a planned strategic fuel reserve valued at $42 billion. Supply disruptions during the Iran war highlighted vulnerabilities in India’s supply chains. The possible fee is being considered after those disruptions exposed the risks.

Energy & commodities Trade & sanctionsIndianatural gasstrategic reservessupply chains

RReutersOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-05 10:45

EXCLUSIVE: India may charge gas users to fund planned $42 billion fuel reserves, sources say

Russia’s services PMI rises to 49 points in July

Russia’s services purchasing managers’ index rose to 49 points in July, according to an S&P Global study. The reading came as new orders declined for a fourth consecutive month at the beginning of the third quarter. The continued fall in orders points to persistent weakness in demand. Services activity therefore remained below the level associated with expansion.

Macro & central banksRussia economyservices sectorPMI

TTASSOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-05 10:45

Russia’s services PMI rises to 49 points in July

Major Gulf bourses mixed as investors await clarity on US-Iran talks

Major Gulf stock markets opened Wednesday with mixed performance. Investors were looking for indications that talks between the United States and Iran could make progress. The discussions are being watched for signs that they might help bring the Iran war to an end. Uncertainty over the negotiations kept shaping market sentiment.

MarketsGulf marketsUS-Iran talksIran war

RReutersOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-05 10:40

Major Gulf bourses mixed as investors await clarity on US-Iran talks

US Copper Nears Record High on Tariff Risks and Hormuz Reopening Speculation

New York copper futures traded just below their all-time peak as investors awaited a decision on US tariffs. Traders were also watching efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Those developments helped lift demand for riskier assets and supported copper prices. Attention remained focused on the potential tariff decision and the outlook for shipping through the strategic waterway.

Energy & commodities Trade & sanctionsUS coppertariff risksStrait of Hormuz

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-05 10:30

US Copper Nears Record High on Tariff Risks and Hormuz Reopening Speculation

Russian chocolate confectionery exports rise 18% to $400 million in H1 2026

Russia’s chocolate confectionery exports increased by 18% in the first half of 2026, reaching $400 million. Kazakhstan, Belarus, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Azerbaijan were the five largest importers of Russian chocolate during the period.

Trade & sanctionsRussiachocolate exportstrade

TTASSOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 09:53

Russian chocolate confectionery exports rise 18% to $400 million in H1 2026

UK services sector returns to growth as optimism improves, PMI shows

Britain’s dominant services sector returned to growth last month, according to an S&P Global survey. New orders increased, helping lift activity in the industry. Expectations for activity over the coming 12 months also strengthened. The outlook reached its highest level since before the Iran war began in February.

Macro & central banksUK economyservices sectorPMI

RReutersOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-05 09:50

UK services sector returns to growth as optimism improves, PMI shows

Euro zone services revival lifts July activity, but Iran war clouds outlook

Euro zone business activity rose to its highest level in eight months in July, according to a survey. The improvement was supported by a revival in services and continued strengthening in manufacturing. However, the uncertain course of the conflict in the Middle East remains a concern. The Iran war is still weighing on the region’s economic outlook.

Markets Companies & industryeuro zoneservicesbusiness activityIran war

RReutersOriginal★★★★☆2026-08-05 09:45

Euro zone services revival lifts July activity, but Iran war clouds outlook

German services downturn eases in July as demand picks up, PMI shows

Germany’s services sector contracted only slightly in July, according to a business survey released on Wednesday. Demand improved modestly during the month. New business also increased for the first time in five months. The results point to a less severe downturn in the sector.

Macro & central banksGermany economyservices sectorPMI

RReutersOriginal★★★☆☆2026-08-05 09:40

German services downturn eases in July as demand picks up, PMI shows

Tullow Oil raises annual cash flow outlook on strong Ghana output and higher oil prices

West Africa-focused Tullow Oil lifted its annual free cash flow forecast on Wednesday. The company expects production for the year to come in at the upper end of its projected range. Strong results from its Ghanaian fields supported the more positive view. Better-than-expected realised oil prices also encouraged the upgrade.

Energy & commoditiesTullow OilGhanaoil pricescash flow

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 09:05

Tullow Oil raises annual cash flow outlook on strong Ghana output and higher oil prices

South African rand edges higher as risk appetite improves ahead of PMI

The South African rand moved slightly higher in early Wednesday trading. A weaker U.S. dollar and declining oil prices supported the risk-sensitive currency. Domestic investors were meanwhile waiting for the release of a business conditions purchasing managers’ index. The data is expected to provide a fresh indication of local business activity.

Macro & central banks Markets Energy & commodities Companies & industrySouth African randbusiness activity PMIU.S. dollaroil prices

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 09:00

South African rand edges higher as risk appetite improves ahead of PMI

Solar’s European Boom Reaches Regions Once Considered Too Dark

For decades, Europe’s renewable-energy landscape appeared easy to define. Solar power was concentrated mainly in the sunnier south, while northern countries depended more heavily on wind. Falling equipment prices and rising electricity costs have now changed the calculation. Solar developments are becoming commercially viable in areas once judged too dark, cold or remote to justify the investment. The expansion is broadening the role of solar across Europe.

Energy & commoditiesEuropesolar powerrenewable energy

BBloomberg NewsOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 09:00

Solar’s European Boom Reaches Regions Once Considered Too Dark

AMD falls as investors seek bigger AI payoff

Advanced Micro Devices shares slipped in premarket trading on Wednesday. The chipmaker issued a revenue forecast that was stronger than expected, but investors viewed it as insufficient against already lofty expectations. They are looking for clearer evidence that the multibillion-dollar surge in artificial-intelligence spending will produce faster growth for the company.

Markets Companies & industry Tech & AIAMDAI spendingchip industry

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 08:45

AMD falls as investors seek bigger AI payoff

Honda raises full-year forecasts as profit rises for first time in six quarters

Honda Motor lifted its full-year forecasts on Wednesday. The automaker also reported its first quarterly profit increase in six quarters. A weaker yen helped support the result. Earnings were also no longer burdened by U.S. tariff-related costs that had weighed on them a year earlier.

Markets Companies & industryHondaearnings forecastquarterly profityen

RReutersOriginal★★☆☆☆2026-08-05 08:40

Honda raises full-year forecasts as profit rises for first time in six quarters