Italy expects to sell Monte dei Paschi after restructuring

Rome expects to return Monte dei Paschi di Siena (BMPS.MI) into private hands only after the bailed-out lender completes restructuring steps it is currently discussing with European Union authorities, Italy’s economy minister said on Monday.
Analysis: Sony launches Game Pass counterattack with subscription service upgrade

Sony Group Corp’s (6758.T) revamp of its PlayStation subscription service is a major step toward levelling the playing field with Microsoft’s rival Game Pass, although holding back new releases may dampen enthusiasm, analysts say.
Dubai’s new crypto regulator brings UAE firm BitOasis under its wing

BitOasis, a Middle East-focused crypto exchange based in the United Arab Emirates, has received provisional approval from Dubai’s new crypto regulator, as the UAE pushes to become a centre for the virtual asset sector.
In Zimbabwe, coal power project seeks other backing after China’s U-turn

A Zimbabwean company that had been banking on Chinese financing to build a major coal-fired power plant says it is now looking for alternative backers as China pulls back on funding such projects overseas.
Analysis: U.S. stock rally defies economic unease

As a stunning rebound in U.S. stocks charges on, investors are questioning how long the surge can continue in the face of a hawkish Federal Reserve, warnings of recession from the bond market and geopolitical uncertainty.
China’s largest banks signal tough times ahead

Five of China’s largest banks have said the country’s lenders face multiple headwinds this year that include the pandemic, global politics and domestic turmoil in the real estate industry.
Bank of Japan ramps up battle to defend yield cap even as weakening yen raises economic risk

The Bank of Japan kept up its relentless quest to defend a key yield cap by offering to buy unlimited amounts of 10-year government bonds on Tuesday, underscoring its resolve to keep policy ultra-loose and putting downward pressure on the yen.
Russia launches Eurobond rouble buyback offer on looming $2 bln bond payment

Russia has offered to buy back dollar bonds maturing next week in roubles in a move seen by analysts as helping local holders of the $2 billion sovereign issue receive payment, while also easing the country’s hard-currency repayment burden.
Russia should work on rouble payments for oil, grain and metals, Kremlin says

The Kremlin said on Wednesday that demanding rouble payment for exports of oil, grain, fertilisers, coal, metals and other key commodities in addition to natural gas was a good idea and should be worked on.
Factbox: What happens if Russia turns off gas flows to Germany?

Russia’s demand that some buyers pay for its gas in roubles has raised concerns in Germany, which relies on Russian fuel, that the payment dispute could escalate and disrupt supplies.