Global Pulse

分类： business

  • Gold price likely to hit $6,000 this year, seen heading towards $10,000, analysts say

    Gold price likely to hit $6,000 this year, seen heading towards $10,000, analysts say

    Financial markets are witnessing an unprecedented rally in gold prices, with leading analysts projecting a potential ascent to the unprecedented $10,000 per ounce mark. After consolidating near $5,100 per ounce, the precious metal is poised for a significant surge as Asian trading hubs resume operations following the Chinese New Year hiatus, expected to inject renewed volatility and upward momentum.

    The current bullish trajectory is underpinned by a confluence of powerful fundamental drivers. Senior research strategist Michael Brown of Pepperstone identifies the recent market calm not as stagnation, but as a highly bullish indicator. He suggests the speculative frenzy has subsided, allowing core market fundamentals to reassert control. These fundamentals include sustained geopolitical risk premiums from ongoing Middle Eastern tensions, relentless demand from central banks diversifying their reserves, and increasing retail investor allocations into gold as a portfolio safeguard.

    Further bolstering the long-term outlook are deep-seated concerns over the unsustainable fiscal policies of developed nations. Brown emphasizes that any price dips should be viewed as strategic buying opportunities, with key support levels established at $4,850 and $4,700 per ounce. A decisive break above the recent high of $5,100 is anticipated to trigger a fresh wave of long positions.

    Zaheer Anwari, CEO of The Revacy Fund, echoes this cautiously optimistic sentiment. He confirms that gold’s status as the premier safe-haven asset is being reinforced by a broad shift away from U.S. assets and persistent central bank accumulation, which collectively act as a robust floor for prices. The prospect of U.S. monetary policy easing continues to serve as a significant tailwind.

    However, analysts caution that the rally is not without potential headwinds. A de-escalation of global conflicts, a more hawkish-than-expected Federal Reserve, or a slowdown in institutional buying could trigger short-term volatility and profit-taking. Anwari’s fund has adopted a more cautious stance, tightening risk parameters and realizing gains near the $5,000 threshold while awaiting clearer directional confirmation.

    This analysis aligns with projections from major global institutions. JPMorgan forecasts gold reaching $6,300 per ounce by the end of 2026, while AuAg Funds predicts the metal will surpass $6,000 within the year, building on its record-breaking performance earlier in 2026 that saw it cross the $5,500 milestone.

  • India ready to compete on same level as China, says Saudi businessman at Mumbai forum

    India ready to compete on same level as China, says Saudi businessman at Mumbai forum

    MUMBAI – A prominent Saudi Arabian investor has positioned India as a peer competitor to China, citing its vast resources and execution capabilities, while calling for critical financial reforms to bolster its small and medium enterprise (SME) sector. The remarks were delivered by Ali Abdulla Ahmed Al Amoudi, Principal and co-founder of Al Almoudi Holdings, during the Global Economic Cooperation 2026 forum organized by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs.

    Al Amoudi articulated a robustly optimistic outlook for the Indian economy, describing it as a nation of ‘monumental opportunity’ equipped with the essential trinity for success: financial capital, an extensive workforce, and strategic know-how. ‘India possesses the necessary know-how and its people truly understand how to execute large-scale ambitions,’ he stated, forecasting the country’s continued ascent to a global standing comparable to China’s.

    However, his analysis included a crucial caveat. The executive identified prohibitively high interest rates as a significant impediment to inclusive growth. Expressing surprise that Indian SMEs face borrowing rates between 15-18%, Al Amoudi argued that such margins stifle expansion and prevent smaller companies from contributing to national infrastructure projects. He issued a compelling call to action for financial institutions to offer low-interest financing, asserting that supporting SMEs is fundamental to ensuring a healthy and stable national economy.

    The dialogue also underscored the deepening symbiotic economic relationship between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations and India. Al Amoudi highlighted the reciprocal nature of this partnership, noting that while a vast Indian workforce supports the Gulf economy, Saudi and other GCC investors are increasingly channeling capital into Indian infrastructure. This dynamic, he suggested, is evolving from a history of joint ventures into long-term strategic partnerships.

    A significant shift in Gulf investment strategy was also outlined. Al Amoudi indicated that after a period of substantial internal investment, such as the hundreds of billions deployed in Dubai and the UAE, the region is now positioned to export its expertise and technical ‘know-how’ to partner nations. ‘We no longer view ourselves strictly as investors, but as partners,’ he explained, emphasizing that in an era of available capital, the true challenge lies in forming alliances based on mutual economic interest and expertise, rather than political benefit.

    Concluding with a macro-economic perspective, the businessman framed infrastructure investment as a non-optional imperative for global economic stability. He posited that nations are interconnected components of a global whole, and investing in each other’s critical infrastructure—from airports to hospitals—is essential for fostering future trade partners and ensuring collective prosperity.

  • Trump signs 10 percent global tariff on all countries

    Trump signs 10 percent global tariff on all countries

    In a landmark economic policy shift, former President Donald Trump has enacted a comprehensive 10% tariff on imports from all trading partners worldwide. The sweeping measure, signed on February 21, 2026, represents one of the most extensive trade policy interventions in modern economic history, effectively applying uniform import duties across all nations without exemptions.

    The policy departure marks a significant escalation from previous targeted tariff approaches, establishing a blanket import tax that economists predict will trigger substantial adjustments in global supply chains and international trade relations. The uniform nature of the tariff structure eliminates country-specific trade preferences that have characterized international commerce for decades.

    Trade analysts anticipate immediate repercussions across multiple sectors, with consumer goods, automotive imports, and electronics expected to experience price increases. Manufacturing industries reliant on imported components face potential cost pressures, while domestic producers may benefit from reduced foreign competition.

    The implementation coincides with ongoing diplomatic engagements, as evidenced by recent high-level discussions between Chinese Foreign Ministry officials and European counterparts emphasizing cooperation. These parallel developments highlight the complex interplay between trade policy and international diplomacy in the current global landscape.

    Market observers are monitoring potential retaliatory measures from major trading partners, which could initiate a new phase of trade adjustments affecting trillions of dollars in global commerce. The policy’s long-term implications for inflation, economic growth, and international relations remain subjects of intense speculation among policymakers and economists worldwide.

  • Murky outlook for businesses after tariff ruling prompts countermoves by Trump

    Murky outlook for businesses after tariff ruling prompts countermoves by Trump

    The U.S. business community faces extended trade policy instability following a landmark Supreme Court decision that struck down presidential tariffs imposed under emergency powers. Despite the court’s ruling that President Donald Trump overstepped his authority, the administration immediately pledged to utilize alternative legal mechanisms to maintain import taxes, creating fresh uncertainty for American enterprises.

    Corporate leaders across multiple sectors expressed concern about the practical implications of the legal victory. While the Supreme Court determined that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act did not authorize presidential tariff imposition, the ruling affects only specific duties, leaving steel, aluminum, furniture, and cabinet tariffs intact. Within hours of the decision, President Trump announced plans to implement a comprehensive 10% tariff on all imports for 150 days while exploring additional trade remedies.

    Economic analysts warn that any potential relief from lowered tariffs may be negated by prolonged uncertainty. Michael Pearce of Oxford Economics noted, “With the administration likely to rebuild tariffs through other, more durable means, the overall tariffs rate may yet end up settling close to current levels.”

    The complex process of reclaiming an estimated $133-$175 billion in previously collected tariffs now deemed illegal favors large corporations with substantial legal resources, leaving small businesses and consumers unlikely to receive compensation. Industries including retail, technology, and agriculture have borne significant costs, with companies implementing price increases, supply chain diversification, and cost-cutting measures to offset tariff impacts.

    International trading partners reacted with skepticism to the development. Italian winemakers, European manufacturers, and Canadian exporters expressed concerns that alternative tariff mechanisms could maintain or exacerbate trade tensions. Lamberto Frescobaldi of Italian winemakers association UIV warned of “renewed uncertainty in commercial relations between Europe and the United States,” while ING economist Carsten Brzeski noted that alternative legal authority could produce identical or worse economic impacts.

    Business leaders across sectors emphasized the need for trade policy stability. Jonathan McHale of the Computer & Communications Industry Association stated, “With this decision behind us, we look forward to bringing more stability to trade policy,” echoing sentiments from retail, agricultural, and manufacturing representatives who have faced increased costs and operational challenges throughout the trade disputes.

  • Top-tier international schools drive 35% surge in Dubai villa prices

    Top-tier international schools drive 35% surge in Dubai villa prices

    Dubai’s residential real estate sector is experiencing a fundamental transformation as premium international schools emerge as the dominant factor driving capital appreciation in the villa market. According to comprehensive data from property advisory firm BlackBrick, established communities with superior educational access are significantly outperforming broader market trends.

    The Property Monitor Dynamic Price Index reveals that mature villa neighborhoods near top-tier international institutions are witnessing unprecedented price growth. Areas including Victory Heights, The Meadows, Jumeirah Islands, The Lakes, and The Greens have demonstrated the strongest appreciation metrics over the past twelve months, with some properties achieving remarkable 35% valuation increases.

    This trend reflects a structural shift in buyer behavior, with long-term resident families now dominating the villa segment and placing educational accessibility at the core of their property decisions. Industry analysts note that families are prioritizing convenience and lifestyle planning over short-term investment considerations, creating a more stable market foundation.

    Matthew Bate, Founder and CEO of BlackBrick, emphasized: ‘Dubai’s villa market is being driven by families planning five to ten years ahead, with education becoming a primary decision-making filter rather than a secondary consideration. School proximity is now materially influencing price performance as parents make property choices centered around the school run.’

    Victory Heights has emerged as a standout performer in this education-driven cycle, with non-renovated villas posting 25-35% annual appreciation. Even renovated properties have achieved 15-20% growth, while townhouses have seen more modest gains due to mortgage restrictions above the Dh5 million threshold.

    Arabian Ranches demonstrates similar resilience, supported by proximity to the prestigious Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS). Despite slightly lower growth rates due to larger housing inventory, non-renovated villas have delivered solid 20-25% annual returns.

    The phenomenon mirrors established patterns in global markets like London and Singapore, where properties near elite educational institutions consistently command premium valuations. Knight Frank reports Dubai’s prime villa market maintained double-digit growth throughout 2025, driven primarily by end-user demand from expatriate families seeking long-term residency.

    Faisal Durrani, Partner and Head of Middle East Research at Knight Frank, observed: ‘The shift toward end-user driven buying is making the market more stable and sustainable. Communities offering lifestyle infrastructure including schools, parks, and retail are experiencing the strongest and most resilient price growth.’

    CBRE data corroborates this narrative, indicating Dubai’s average villa prices surged over 20% in 2025, substantially outpacing apartment growth. Taimur Khan, Head of Research for Middle East and Africa at CBRE, noted: ‘Villa communities with strong schooling options and established infrastructure continue to outperform, supported by limited supply and a growing base of long-term residents.’

    The education-driven dynamic is reinforcing market stability, with buyers committing to extended ownership horizons of five to ten years. This transition from speculative investment to genuine occupier demand reduces volatility and supports sustained capital appreciation, positioning Dubai’s established villa communities for continued price momentum through 2026 and beyond.

  • UAE non-oil GDP grows 6.1% in first nine months of 2025

    UAE non-oil GDP grows 6.1% in first nine months of 2025

    The United Arab Emirates has demonstrated remarkable economic resilience with its non-oil sector expanding by 6.1% during the first nine months of 2025, according to official data released by the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC). This robust performance contributed significantly to the nation’s overall GDP growth of 5.1% year-on-year, bringing total economic output to approximately Dh1.4 trillion.

    Minister of Economy and Tourism Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri announced on Friday that the non-oil sector’s value exceeded Dh1 trillion, highlighting the success of the country’s strategic diversification efforts. The minister credited this economic achievement to the UAE’s ongoing transition toward a knowledge-based economy supported by competitive legislative frameworks and business-friendly policies aligned with the ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision.

    Sectoral analysis reveals financial and insurance activities led the expansion with 9% growth, followed closely by construction at 8.7%, real estate at 7.9%, and manufacturing at 6.9%. In terms of overall contribution to non-oil GDP, wholesale and retail trade maintained the largest share at 16.1%, with manufacturing accounting for 13.9%, financial services 13.5%, and construction 11.9%.

    Hanan Ahli, Managing Director of the FCSC, emphasized that these results demonstrate the resilience of the UAE’s economic model amid global economic shifts. She noted that the integration of advanced technologies and artificial intelligence into national statistical systems has significantly enhanced policy efficiency and development planning capabilities. The sustained growth positions the UAE favorably to achieve its ambitious goal of doubling the national GDP to Dh3 trillion within the next decade.

  • Wadan Developments introduces Tresora, marking another successful launch

    Wadan Developments introduces Tresora, marking another successful launch

    Dubai’s real estate landscape welcomes another innovative development as Wadan Developments launches Tresora, its fourth major project, signaling continued expansion in the UAE property market. This 23-story integrated tower in Jumeirah Village Circle represents a sophisticated approach to urban living by combining residential, commercial, and office spaces within a single connected ecosystem.

    The strategically positioned development capitalizes on JVC’s status as one of Dubai’s most dynamic and centrally located communities. With upcoming metro infrastructure enhancing accessibility, Tresora promises unprecedented connectivity to key urban centers while maintaining the appeal of a established residential neighborhood. This transit-oriented development strategy positions Tresora for long-term valuation growth and sustained market relevance.

    Architecturally, Tresora employs a vertically layered design philosophy with retail and commercial establishments at the foundation levels, contemporary office spaces in the middle tiers, and residential apartments occupying the upper floors. This intentional spatial organization creates a self-contained microenvironment where professional, commercial, and domestic activities seamlessly intersect.

    Residential units feature intelligent space optimization with premium finishes and minimalist aesthetics, emphasizing functional elegance over mere ornamentation. The development incorporates advanced smart-home technology through the proprietary Wadan App, enabling residents to control environmental systems and access building services via mobile devices.

    Amenities include comprehensive wellness facilities with a fully-equipped fitness center, swimming pool, and dedicated relaxation areas. Community spaces have been carefully curated to foster social interaction, featuring children’s play zones and collaborative work environments. Additional premium services include secured parking, elegantly appointed lobbies, and professionally managed common areas.

    The project launch event at Wadan’s sales gallery demonstrated strong investor confidence and industry support, highlighting Tresora’s strategic positioning and investment potential. This successful unveiling marks Wadan’s fourth consecutive project launch, underscoring the developer’s operational capacity and market understanding.

    Tresora embodies Wadan’s brand philosophy of ‘A Vision Beyond Luxury,’ focusing on practical sophistication, locational advantage, and genuine quality of life enhancements rather than superficial extravagance. The development represents the evolving paradigm in urban property development where integrated living solutions take precedence over isolated residential concepts.

  • Abu Dhabi’s Aldar issues $1 billion hybrid notes to Apollo

    Abu Dhabi’s Aldar issues $1 billion hybrid notes to Apollo

    In a landmark financial maneuver, Abu Dhabi’s premier real estate developer, Aldar Properties, has successfully executed a $1 billion private placement of subordinated hybrid notes with global asset management titan Apollo Global Management. This strategic transaction, finalized on February 20, 2026, now stands as the single largest corporate hybrid private placement ever recorded within the region.

    The sophisticated capital restructuring initiative involves the issuance of notes at the parent company level. The net proceeds are subsequently being channeled as an equity infusion into Aldar Investment Properties (AIP), the entity responsible for managing Aldar’s portfolio of income-generating real estate assets. A significant component of this arrangement includes the full repayment of $500 million in perpetual subordinated notes previously held by Apollo in AIP, which originated from the asset manager’s initial $1.4 billion investment into Aldar back in 2022.

    This latest financial injection elevates the total capital commitment from Apollo-managed affiliates, funds, and clients to approximately $2.9 billion over a four-year period, significantly deepening the strategic partnership between the two firms. The transaction is meticulously designed to fortify the capital structures of both Aldar and AIP, providing enhanced balance sheet resilience and bolstering the company’s capacity to pursue its ambitious growth agenda. Consequently, Aldar’s ownership stake in its lucrative AIP subsidiary has increased to a commanding 90%, with Apollo retaining a 10% share.

    Faisal Falaknaz, Group Chief Financial and Sustainability Officer at Aldar, emphasized the strategic value of the deal, stating it provides ‘long-term, flexible capital’ that empowers the company to capitalize on compelling market opportunities. He further highlighted that the move amplifies Aldar’s share of stable, recurring income derived from AIP’s high-quality and diversified portfolio, which is poised for further expansion through acquisitions and a substantial develop-to-hold pipeline valued at nearly $5 billion.

    Echoing the sentiment, Jamshid Ehsani, a Partner at Apollo, commended the transaction as a testament to Apollo’s expertise in structuring adaptable capital solutions that align with the objectives of corporate clients and investors alike. He praised Aldar’s ‘robust performance and portfolio expansion’ under experienced management and reaffirmed Apollo’s sustained commitment to the Abu Dhabi market and the broader Middle East region. The hybrid notes feature a long-term structure with an extended non-call period of 10.25 years, mirroring the terms of a recent public issuance by Aldar.

  • Canada looks to trade talks after US Supreme Court tosses Trump’s tariffs

    Canada looks to trade talks after US Supreme Court tosses Trump’s tariffs

    Canada’s restrained celebration following the US Supreme Court’s invalidation of Donald Trump’s global tariffs underscores the complex trade challenges that persist between the two nations. While the court’s ruling nullified the controversial “fentanyl” tariffs imposed on Canada, China, and Mexico, Canadian Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc acknowledged that significant hurdles remain in bilateral trade relations.

    The Supreme Court’s decision, striking down tariffs implemented under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), provided limited practical relief for Canadian exporters. Approximately 85% of trade previously subject to these tariffs already enjoyed exemption status under the USMCA framework. The White House has confirmed that these exemptions will continue under Trump’s new 10% global tariff structure set to take effect imminently.

    Attention now shifts to the forthcoming USMCA review, a critical juncture for North American trade encompassing a market of over 500 million people. All three signatory nations must decide by July 1st whether to extend the agreement originally negotiated during Trump’s first presidential term. The Trump administration has demonstrated lukewarm enthusiasm for trilateral renewal, with officials suggesting preference for separate bilateral agreements with Canada and Mexico.

    Trade tensions continue to simmer as US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer characterized negotiations with Canada as “more challenging” than with Mexico, citing persistent trade barriers including restrictions on American wine and spirits sales. Additional friction points include Canadian dairy import regulations and the Online Streaming Act, which mandates American media companies to financially support Canadian content.

    Amid this uncertainty, Canadian business leaders emphasize the necessity of predictable, rules-based trade. Dennis Darby of Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters stressed the importance of a successful USMCA renewal that would eliminate recurring trade disruptions. Concurrently, Canada continues its strategic diversification efforts, seeking to expand non-US export markets with an ambitious goal of doubling such exports by 2035.

  • US Supreme court rules against Trump tariffs; what does it mean for businesses?

    US Supreme court rules against Trump tariffs; what does it mean for businesses?

    In a landmark decision with profound implications for global commerce, the U.S. Supreme Court has invalidated the Trump administration’s use of emergency powers to impose sweeping import tariffs. The ruling determined that the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act did not provide legal authority for the broad tariff regime implemented by the former president.

    This judicial reversal triggers a complex refund mechanism that could return more than $175 billion to thousands of American businesses that paid tariffs under the contested program. According to economists from the Penn-Wharton Budget Model, companies across consumer goods, automotive, manufacturing, and apparel sectors—particularly those reliant on global supply chains—now face strategic decisions regarding pursuit of reimbursement claims.

    The immediate market response saw stock markets in both the United States and Europe rally, with luxury brands and import-dependent companies experiencing significant gains. Shares of LVMH, Hermès, and Moncler all climbed following the announcement.

    Legal experts caution that the refund process will be administratively complex and time-consuming. More than 1,800 tariff-related lawsuits have already been filed with the U.S. Court of International Trade since April—a dramatic increase from fewer than two dozen cases throughout 2024. Prominent plaintiffs include subsidiaries of Toyota, Costco, Goodyear Tire & Rubber, Alcoa, Kawasaki Motors, and EssilorLuxottica.

    Despite this victory for free trade advocates, uncertainty persists within the business community. Trump administration officials have indicated they will pursue alternative legal authorities to implement tariffs, including statutes addressing unfair trade practices and national security concerns. Fitch Ratings’ head of U.S. economics, Olu Sonola, noted that “the odds that tariffs reappear in a revised form remain meaningful,” creating ongoing operational and legal challenges.

    The ruling highlights how approximately 90% of tariff costs were ultimately borne by American consumers and companies, according to Federal Reserve Bank of New York research, contradicting administration claims that foreign entities absorbed the financial impact.

    Many businesses, anticipating a protracted refund process, have already begun selling their rights to future refunds to external investors at discounted rates. Meanwhile, companies like German logistics firm DHL are developing technological solutions to streamline potential reimbursement procedures for their clients.