PwC Predicts a Turning Point for the UK
In a nuanced economic landscape, PwC’s 2024 forecast offers a beacon of hope for the UK, anticipating an upturn from the challenges of the post-pandemic era. Despite a dip in M&A activity in 2023, the projection outlines a positive shift with improvements in household finances, real incomes, and regional growth. The corporate sector, however, faces a potential rise in insolvencies, particularly affecting smaller businesses. Global defense orders surge amidst geopolitical tensions, adding a layer of complexity to economic predictions. Market dynamics, including a strengthened pound and energy price fluctuations, further contribute to the intricate economic tapestry awaiting the UK in the upcoming year.
APAC cities continue to be some of the world’s most connected and prominent as emerging hubs in South Asia gain ground
Asia Pacific (APAC) cities, spearheaded by Tokyo, Beijing, Singapore, Melbourne, and Hong Kong, continue to assert their influence as some of the world’s most connected and prominent urban centers, according to Kearney’s 2023 Global Cities Report. The report reveals that APAC maintains a strong foothold in the top 10 of its Global Cities Index (GCI), claiming five coveted spots.
Exclusive: Grab to cut more costs amid economic chill
Grab Holdings Southeast Asia’s biggest ride-hailing and food delivery firm, is cutting more costs to cope with an uncertain economic backdrop, the Singapore-based company’s CEO told staff in a memo.
Bank data shows U.S. consumer financial health holds up amid rising inflation
Americans’ financial health held up well in the second quarter even as inflation sent gas and grocery bills higher and ate into savings for the first time since the pandemic, U.S. bank executives said.
Analysis: Macro gamblers grapple with immovable Bank of Japan
Investors betting that Japan will have to quit its ultra-loose monetary policy are running into riskier and pricier territory as the showdown shifts to the Bank of Japan’s home turf in the bond market.
Analysis: Spot crude surges while futures slip; rate hikes spook speculators
Prices for spot crude in much of the world are rising on strong demand and a supply crunch, but in the oil futures market, worries of a recession have kept a lid on values.
