UK hiring stays frozen as employer confidence lingers near pandemic lows
British employers remain reluctant to hire, with confidence near its weakest outside COVID, a CIPD survey shows.
Economy
Jamaat-e-Islami Leads Protests in Pakistan Against Fuel Taxes and Inflation
Jamaat-e-Islami protests in Pakistan demand lower fuel taxes and inflation relief as hundreds rally in Lahore.
Colombia's President Asks Trump to Suspend Tariffs Amid Earthquake Recovery
Colombia's president requests temporary tariff suspension from Trump to aid earthquake recovery; U.S. has pledged $26.5 million in aid.
Trump Vows Harsher Iran Sanctions: What Tools Remain?
US President Trump pledges new economic pressure on Iran. Experts outline possible sanctions, tariffs, and blockade strategies.
Avocado Workers Return to Fields as US Export Ban Lifts, but Fear Lingers
Mexican avocado pickers in Michoacán are back at work after the US lifted a security alert, but concerns over cartel violence and extortion persist.
Oil Rally and Regional Tensions Set Stage for Middle East Markets
Oil prices rally on tanker attacks and drone strikes, while UAE urges reopening of Hormuz after ADNOC vessel incident.
Peru's June GDP Growth Slows as El Niño Disrupts Key Sectors
Peru's economy grew 1.75% in June, down from May, as El Niño hit agriculture and fishing hard.
US Inflation Eases in July, But Consumer Spending Takes a Hit
US inflation cooled in July, but retail sales fell and home sales slowed, signaling consumer strain.
Trump's Blame Game: A Study in Deflecting Responsibility
An analysis of President Trump's tendency to deflect blame for policy failures, from inflation to the Iran conflict, and its political implications.
UAE Blames Iran for Attack on ADNOC Tanker in Strait of Hormuz
The UAE says Iran attacked an ADNOC vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, urging Tehran to halt unprovoked attacks and reopen the waterway.
Trump's grocery promise falls short as prices pinch voters before midterms
Despite Trump's pledge, grocery prices have risen 3.4% in his second term, fueling voter frustration and dampening Republican enthusiasm ahead of the midterms.
UAE Confirms Attack on ADNOC Vessel in Strait of Hormuz, Vows to Defend Navigation
An ADNOC vessel was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, with no injuries reported. The UAE vows to defend its navigation rights.
UK announces £65 million package for drought-hit farmers
UK PM Burnham authorises £65 million in extra funding for farmers amid record drought and a poor cereal harvest.
Rhine at Record Low as Heatwave Forces Cargo Onto Land Routes
Rhine water levels at Kaub fell to 6 cm, a record low, forcing most transport onto land amid Europe's heatwave.
US consumer mood sours in August as retail sales unexpectedly slip
US consumer sentiment fell in August amid Middle East worries, while retail sales dropped 0.6% in July, the first decline in nine months.
Israeli Airstrike Kills Seven in Lebanon; Tankers Targeted Near Hormuz
An Israeli strike killed seven in Lebanon, while two vessels came under attack near the Strait of Hormuz, raising regional alarm.
Taiwan's Parliament Approves Delayed Budget, Keeps Drone Spending Intact
Taiwan's opposition-led parliament passed the 2025 budget after a record delay, cutting spending but preserving drone programme funds.
Iran Vows to Keep Strait Closed as Trump Defends Fuel Costs
Iran says it will keep the Strait of Hormuz blocked until the US accepts defeat, as tanker traffic remains halted and Washington defends higher gasoline prices.
Canada and US Still Far Apart on Trade Deal Ahead of Tariff Deadline
Canadian minister Dominic LeBlanc says talks with the US are far from a draft agreement, with new 50% tariffs on Canadian goods looming.
Fitch Affirms UK's AA- Rating, Cites Policy Credibility and Market Depth
Fitch has affirmed the UK's 'AA-' sovereign rating with a stable outlook, citing a diversified economy, credible policy framework, and stronger political footing.