分类: business

  • Financial markets grow fretful after reports of UK government abandoning income tax hike

    Financial markets grow fretful after reports of UK government abandoning income tax hike

    British financial markets experienced turbulence on Friday amid growing speculation that the Labour government has abandoned plans to raise income taxes in its upcoming budget. Treasury Chief Rachel Reeves had been considering increasing the basic rate of income tax, a move that would have marked the first such hike in 50 years. However, reports suggest she has decided against it, sparking investor unease over the government’s fiscal strategy. By late afternoon, the pound had fallen by 0.4% to $1.3137, while the yield on the UK’s benchmark 10-year bond rose by 0.13 percentage points to 4.57%. The bond yield increase reflects investor concerns about the UK’s public finances and the government’s ability to make bold fiscal decisions. Andrew Goodwin, Deutsche Bank’s chief UK economist, noted that the budget serves as a critical test of market confidence in the government’s fiscal approach. He added that political considerations, such as voter backlash against tax hikes, could reinforce perceptions that the government is unwilling to make tough decisions. The Labour government, elected in July 2024, faces significant challenges, including sluggish economic growth and stubbornly high inflation. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration has struggled to deliver on its promise of economic revitalization, with public services strained and the cost of living crisis persisting. Reeves had previously indicated that breaking the manifesto pledge on taxes would necessitate deep cuts to public investment. However, updated forecasts from the Office for Budget Responsibility suggest stronger wage growth may reduce the need for such measures. Health Secretary Wes Streeting welcomed reports of the tax hike’s abandonment, emphasizing the importance of maintaining public trust by honoring election promises.

  • The Caden by Prescott introduces Dh650 million lagoon-front homes designed for wellness and innovation

    The Caden by Prescott introduces Dh650 million lagoon-front homes designed for wellness and innovation

    Prescott, a renowned developer in Dubai, has launched its latest residential project, The Caden, a Dh650 million development designed to redefine luxury living. Situated in Meydan Horizon, one of Dubai’s last lagoon-front master-planned communities near Downtown, The Caden offers spacious, meticulously designed residences with no studios, emphasizing low-density, high-comfort living. The project is strategically positioned on a man-made crystal lagoon, providing residents with stunning waterside views and a serene environment.

    The Caden is more than just a residential development; it is a wellness and innovation hub. The project features resident-curated amenities, smart technology, and elevated design, reflecting Prescott’s commitment to quality and functionality. Shaheer Tabani, Prescott’s executive director, described the project as a passion endeavor, highlighting the team’s dedication to delivering an unparalleled living experience. ‘Every square foot of this project surpasses anything seen before,’ Tabani stated, emphasizing the attention to detail and customer-centric approach.

    The unveiling took place at Prescott’s newly upgraded experience centre in Dubai Hills, a multifunctional space that includes a fully furnished show apartment, podcast studio, theatre, refreshment lounge, and meeting rooms. This venue underscores Prescott’s ambition to set new standards in Dubai’s competitive real estate market. The Caden’s amenities and layouts were shaped by direct feedback from Prescott’s loyal clientele, ensuring the development aligns with the needs and desires of its future residents.

    For more information, visit www.prescott.ae.

  • Peru eyes more Chinese investment after Chancay Port boost

    Peru eyes more Chinese investment after Chancay Port boost

    Peru is actively pursuing increased Chinese investment to bolster its economic development and enhance public welfare, following the successful inauguration of the Chancay Port, a key project under China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Gonzalo Talavera, the charge d’affaires ad interim of the Peruvian Embassy in China, emphasized this goal during a recent event in Beijing, where he highlighted investment opportunities in sectors such as infrastructure, energy, and public well-being. The Chancay Port, which celebrated its first anniversary on Friday, has emerged as a pivotal trade hub in Latin America, significantly reducing maritime transport times and boosting trade between China, Peru, and the broader South American region. According to Peru’s Customs authority, the port has facilitated $603 million in exports and $984 million in imports in the first nine months of this year, generating $207 million in tax revenue and supporting regional economic growth. Talavera noted that the port has enhanced connectivity for landlocked neighboring countries and reduced logistics costs across South America. He also praised China’s leadership in railway construction and solar energy, inviting more Chinese enterprises to invest in Peru and share their expertise. ‘We consider China a reliable partner,’ Talavera stated, adding that increased Chinese investment would drive Peru’s socioeconomic development and benefit both nations.

  • Switzerland to boost US investment as deal struck to lower US tariffs on Swiss goods to 15%

    Switzerland to boost US investment as deal struck to lower US tariffs on Swiss goods to 15%

    In a landmark development for international trade, Switzerland has unveiled a strategic plan to invest $200 billion in the United States by 2028. This announcement coincided with the finalization of a significant trade agreement that will substantially reduce U.S. tariffs on Swiss goods. Swiss Economy Minister Guy Parmelin revealed that the Trump administration has agreed to lower tariffs on most Swiss products from 39% to 15%, aligning them with the rates applied to the European Union. This agreement marks a pivotal moment in U.S.-Swiss trade relations, which had been strained since August when U.S. tariffs on Swiss goods were unexpectedly raised from 31% to 39%. The Swiss Federal Council, the country’s executive body, expressed gratitude to President Trump for his constructive engagement in resolving the dispute. The tariff reduction follows months of intense negotiations and lobbying efforts by Swiss government officials and business leaders, who had been advocating for more favorable trade terms. This deal is expected to bolster economic ties between the two nations and create new opportunities for Swiss exporters in the U.S. market.

  • Firehouse Subs marks first anniversary in the UAE with launch of 4th branch and food fest

    Firehouse Subs marks first anniversary in the UAE with launch of 4th branch and food fest

    Firehouse Subs, the internationally acclaimed sub sandwich chain, is commemorating its first year in the United Arab Emirates with the grand opening of its fourth branch at Silicon Central Mall in Dubai. This milestone underscores the brand’s rapid expansion and growing popularity in the region. To celebrate, Firehouse Subs is hosting a vibrant Food Fest at the new location, offering guests an immersive experience filled with bold flavors, freshly crafted subs, and a lively atmosphere. The event, scheduled for November 14, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, will feature exclusive promotions, including Buy One Get One (BOGO) vouchers for all customers and Dh100 vouchers for 50 lucky winners. With over 1,200 locations worldwide and ambitious plans to open 100 more stores in the next decade, Firehouse Subs continues to deliver premium, made-to-order subs in a warm and inviting setting. The Food Fest promises to be a celebration of community, great food, and shared moments, solidifying Firehouse Subs’ reputation as more than just a dining destination but a place to create lasting memories.

  • Salman Hyder: Simplifying the UAE visa experience for the world

    Salman Hyder: Simplifying the UAE visa experience for the world

    In the dynamic digital environment of the UAE, Salman Hyder, a Pakistani entrepreneur, has emerged as a trailblazer in transforming the nation’s visa and business services. As the founder of UAEVisa.com and Express Business Formation and Services (EBFS), Hyder has redefined the landscape of online visa applications and business setup processes. His platforms have become synonymous with innovation, transparency, and customer-centric solutions. Born in Karachi, Hyder’s expertise in information technology and marketing has enabled him to simplify complex systems for global users, making the UAE more accessible to travelers and entrepreneurs alike. His journey began with the creation of DubaiVisa.com, a pioneering online visa platform. Despite its success, financial challenges led him to part ways with the project, fueling his determination to build something even more impactful. This vision materialized as UAEVisa.com, which has set new standards in the visa facilitation industry. The platform offers a streamlined, hassle-free process, ensuring applicants receive their UAE visas quickly and confidently. Beyond tourism, Hyder’s EBFS provides comprehensive business setup services, including company registration, licensing, and visa processing, empowering entrepreneurs to navigate the UAE’s dynamic business environment. Hyder’s work is driven by a commitment to trust and transparency, ensuring compliance with UAE government guidelines. His story is a testament to resilience and innovation, blending South Asian ingenuity with Middle Eastern opportunities. Looking ahead, Hyder envisions UAEVisa.com as a holistic travel and business facilitation ecosystem, integrating services like travel insurance and digital ID verification. His journey exemplifies how vision and purpose can transform challenges into extraordinary achievements.

  • Walmart boss retiring after more than a decade

    Walmart boss retiring after more than a decade

    Doug McMillon, the long-serving CEO of Walmart, is set to retire in January, marking the end of a transformative era for the retail giant. McMillon, 59, has led the company for over a decade, during which Walmart significantly expanded its e-commerce operations and streamlined its international ventures. His successor, John Furner, a seasoned Walmart executive who rose through the ranks from store-level positions, will assume the role of CEO. Furner currently oversees Walmart’s U.S. operations and is poised to guide the company through its next phase of growth. The leadership transition comes at a time when Walmart has demonstrated resilience, achieving steady growth despite challenges such as new tariffs and fluctuating consumer spending. Greg Penner, Walmart’s chairman, praised McMillon for his strategic investments in digital capabilities, supply chain modernization, and employee development, which have strengthened the company’s financial performance. McMillon will remain on the board as an adviser until June 2026 to ensure a smooth transition. In a statement, McMillon expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead Walmart and lauded Furner’s readiness to drive the company’s AI-driven transformation. Despite the announcement, Walmart’s shares dipped by 2% in early trading, reflecting investor reactions to the leadership change.

  • UAE: Emirates to suspend flights to Damascus starting November 15

    UAE: Emirates to suspend flights to Damascus starting November 15

    Emirates, the Dubai-based airline, has announced the suspension of its flights to Damascus, Syria, effective November 15, 2025. The decision, confirmed by an Emirates spokesperson, stems from a routine operational review aimed at optimizing fleet utilization in alignment with the airline’s business objectives. Passengers with bookings on Emirates flights after November 14 will be rebooked on flydubai, ensuring continued air connectivity between Dubai and Damascus. The airline expressed regret for any inconvenience caused and emphasized its commitment to resuming operations at the earliest opportunity. This suspension marks a temporary halt in Emirates’ services to Damascus, which were reintroduced in July 2025 after a 13-year pause due to the Syrian civil war. Initially operating three weekly flights, Emirates expanded its services to daily flights in October 2025, utilizing a Boeing 777-200LR aircraft. The reintroduction of flights earlier this year followed a thorough evaluation in collaboration with the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority. Other UAE carriers, including Etihad and flydubai, continue to operate flights to Damascus. Emirates’ decision underscores the dynamic nature of airline operations and the challenges of maintaining routes in regions with complex geopolitical landscapes.

  • Amber Homes Real Estate awarded Top Platinum Sales Agency by Meraas, Nakheel and Dubai Holding for the fourth year in a row

    Amber Homes Real Estate awarded Top Platinum Sales Agency by Meraas, Nakheel and Dubai Holding for the fourth year in a row

    Amber Homes Real Estate has once again solidified its position as a leader in Dubai’s luxury real estate market by securing the prestigious ‘Top Platinum Agency’ title for the fourth year in a row. The accolade was awarded at the Black Onyx Awards 2025, hosted by Dubai Holding, Meraas, and Nakheel, in a grand ceremony held at the iconic Burj Al Arab. This recognition highlights Amber Homes’ exceptional performance across Dubai’s most exclusive destinations, including Palm Jumeirah, Bluewaters Island, La Mer, City Walk, Jumeirah Bay Island, and the newly relaunched Palm Jebel Ali. Saad Waqas, Managing Partner at Amber Homes, expressed his pride in the achievement, stating, ‘This award is a testament to our clients’ trust and the unwavering dedication of our team. It reaffirms our leadership in Dubai’s luxury property market.’ Ambreen Qureshi, Managing Director, emphasized the company’s commitment to excellence, integrity, and performance, which has consistently driven record-breaking results. Amber Homes’ portfolio boasts landmark transactions in Jumeirah Residences – Emirates Towers, Nad Al Sheba Gardens, and Palm Jebel Ali, attracting a diverse clientele from the UAE, UK, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan. The firm’s continued success reinforces Dubai’s status as a global hub for high-end real estate investment.

  • Takaful Emarat reports record growth in Q3 2025, marking a new era of transformation

    Takaful Emarat reports record growth in Q3 2025, marking a new era of transformation

    Takaful Emarat – Insurance (P.S.C.), a prominent Shariah-compliant life and health insurance provider in the UAE, has unveiled its financial results for the third quarter of 2025, showcasing a remarkable transformation and a fortified market presence. The company reported a 22% year-on-year increase in Gross Written Contributions (GWC), amounting to Dh563 million, compared to the same period in the previous year. Takaful revenues soared by 51% to Dh444 million, while net profit for the quarter hit Dh13 million, the highest quarterly profit in recent years. The total profit for the year rose to Dh23 million by Q3 2025, highlighting the company’s robust financial health and sustainable growth trajectory. The financial success also led to significant balance sheet enhancements, with shareholders’ equity increasing by 22% to Dh200 million and total assets growing by 8% to Dh1.036 billion. Dr. Noor Aldeen Atatreh, Chairman of the Board, attributed this success to the company’s strategic focus on financial stability, customer experience, and operational efficiency. He emphasized investments in digital innovation, customer-centric products, and automation to deliver seamless, Shariah-compliant insurance solutions. Adnan Sab’a El Aish, CEO of Takaful Emarat, highlighted the exceptional performance as a testament to the team’s dedication, customer trust, and board guidance, marking the start of a new chapter of sustainable growth and industry leadership. Moving forward, Takaful Emarat remains committed to delivering value to stakeholders while adhering to Shariah compliance, integrity, and innovation.