Russian Ruble’s Plunge Sparks Economic Concerns Amid Geopolitical Unrest

The Russian ruble’s recent nosedive to its lowest level in almost 17 months has raised significant alarm bells within the nation’s economy. As tensions escalate due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the weight of Western sanctions, the ruble’s value has plummeted by more than 25% this year alone. Such a decline prompted the central bank to schedule an emergency meeting to evaluate its key interest rate, hinting at potential efforts to stabilize the currency. As the nation grapples with a complex mix of military expenditures, export challenges, and inflation risks, the future of the ruble and its implications on both the domestic and international fronts remain a pressing concern.
Exclusive: First Quantum warns employees that Panama mine may close if dispute is not settled

First Quantum Minerals Ltd has warned employees it may have to shutter operations in Panama if the government does not allow its copper exports to resume by next week, according to a memo sent to staff and seen by Reuters.
Analysis: Scalded by Russia, investment funds tread carefully in China

China, the only big economy promising a growth rebound this year, is again luring foreign investors. Yet the fear that Beijing may someday end up as ostracised from global markets as Russia is keeping a lid on demand.
New Zealand to resume Australia “travel bubble” as Sydney COVID threat eases

New Zealand will lift its partial suspension of a “travel bubble” with Australia from midnight on Sunday as fears of a COVID-19 outbreak in Sydney eased. New Zealand had blocked travel to and from New South Wales, Australia’s most populous state, on Thursday after a couple in Sydney with no links to high risk professions […]
Facebook oversight board to rule on Trump’s return to Facebook

Facebook Inc’s (FB.O) oversight board on Wednesday will decide whether to uphold the company’s indefinite suspension of former U.S. President Donald Trump, in a much-awaited verdict that may signal how the company will treat rule-breaking world leaders in the future. Facebook indefinitely blocked Trump’s access to his Facebook and Instagram accounts over concerns of further violent unrest […]