分类： business

India’s largest private lender, HDFC Bank, has placed two senior executives on gardening leave following an internal investigation into the mis-selling of Credit Suisse Additional Tier-1 (AT1) bonds. This development comes weeks after Dubai’s financial regulator, the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), restricted the bank’s DIFC branch from onboarding new clients due to concerns over the promotion of high-risk financial products to UAE-based customers. The executives in question were reportedly involved in trades linked to Credit Suisse’s AT1 bonds, which were written off to zero during the bank’s rescue merger with UBS in 2023, resulting in significant losses for investors globally, including in the UAE. While an HDFC spokesperson stated that the bank has not identified any instances of mis-selling, the decision to place the executives on leave underscores the gravity of the situation. The DFSA’s earlier findings highlighted systemic weaknesses in documentation and client classification at the bank’s DIFC branch, mirroring complaints from UAE investors who alleged their KYC profiles were manipulated to facilitate the sale of these high-risk bonds. The internal investigation is nearing its conclusion, with regulatory scrutiny also underway in India.

The recent US-China trade negotiations held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, have been described by experts as a pivotal moment for stabilizing economic relations between the world’s two largest economies. The talks, which took place over two days, involved high-level officials from both nations, including China’s Vice-Premier He Lifeng and US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, alongside US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. Anthony Moretti, an associate professor at Robert Morris University, emphasized the importance of these discussions in fostering bilateral growth, though he acknowledged the challenges posed by shifting US policies. Gary Hufbauer, a senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, highlighted the critical nature of the talks, warning that their outcome could either lead to a tariff truce in 2026 or a resurgence of trade tensions. Both experts stressed the need for consistent and durable agreements to bolster business confidence and global economic growth. The negotiations addressed key issues such as export controls, tariff suspensions, and expanded cooperation, with both sides describing the sessions as constructive. Markets responded positively to the progress, with the S&P 500 reaching a record high and gold futures declining as risk appetite increased. Wendy Cutler, former acting US Trade Representative, praised the focus on cooperation rather than rigid commitments, signaling a potential shift towards more collaborative trade relations.

Global oil prices experienced a 2% decline on Tuesday, marking a third consecutive day of losses as market participants assessed the implications of U.S. sanctions on Russia’s major oil firms and potential output adjustments by OPEC+. Brent crude futures fell by $1.36 (2.1%) to $64.26 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude dropped $1.29 (2%) to $60.02. The downturn follows last week’s significant gains, driven by U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to impose Ukraine-related sanctions on Russia’s Lukoil and Rosneft, two of the country’s largest oil producers. However, Germany’s economy minister revealed that Rosneft’s German operations would be exempt from sanctions, easing immediate supply concerns. Phil Flynn, senior analyst at Price Futures Group, noted that the waiver introduced uncertainty, reducing fears of a dramatic supply squeeze. Meanwhile, Lukoil announced plans to sell its international assets, marking a significant response to Western sanctions. Indian refiners have paused new orders for Russian oil, awaiting clarity from the government and suppliers. OPEC+ is reportedly considering a modest output increase in December, raising questions about the group’s spare capacity. Saudi Aramco’s CEO highlighted robust crude demand, particularly from China, while analysts suggested that rising OPEC+ output could offset potential Russian supply disruptions. Investors are also monitoring potential U.S.-China trade developments, with Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping set to meet in South Korea later this week.

The Tata Group, one of India’s most iconic conglomerates, is grappling with a series of internal and external challenges that threaten its stability and growth. A year after the passing of Ratan Tata, the visionary leader who transformed the group into a global powerhouse, the company is embroiled in a boardroom power struggle and facing significant business headwinds. The group, which owns renowned brands like Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) and Tetley Tea, is also navigating crises in its newer ventures, including semiconductors, electric vehicles, and the revival of Air India. Recent reports suggest that Mehli Mistry, a close confidant of Ratan Tata and a trustee on the board of Tata Trusts, has been ousted, though this remains unverified. The internal discord stems from disagreements among trustees over board nominations, funding approvals, and the potential public listing of Tata Sons, the group’s holding company. The SP Group, Tata Sons’ largest minority shareholder, is pushing for a public listing, while most trustees oppose the move, fearing it would dilute decision-making authority and expose the company to market pressures. The conflict has raised governance concerns and tarnished the group’s reputation, compounded by recent setbacks such as the Air India crash and a cyber-attack on JLR. Amid these challenges, the tenure of Tata Sons’ chairman, N Chandrasekaran, has reportedly been extended. Experts warn that the group’s current instability could have short-term destructive effects but may eventually lead to a more transparent and accountable structure.

Adnoc Drilling has announced a significant 17% increase in net profit for the first nine months of 2025, reaching $1.06 billion. This growth is attributed to heightened activity across onshore, offshore, and integrated drilling services. Revenue for the period soared by 27% to $3.63 billion, driven by improved rig utilization, expanded unconventional drilling programs, and a sharp rise in integrated drilling services. Free cash flow surged by 174% to $1.2 billion, enabling the company to enhance shareholder returns while investing in fleet expansion and technological advancements. Return on equity stood at 36%, and return on capital employed at 25%, reflecting the company’s operational efficiency and robust margins. CEO Abdulla Ateya Al Messabi highlighted the disciplined execution and resilience of Adnoc Drilling’s contract model, emphasizing plans for transformational growth. The company aims to expand unconventional capacity to over 300 wells annually and grow its integrated drilling services fleet to approximately 70 rigs by 2026. These initiatives are expected to generate billions in new revenue streams, supported by in-house technical capabilities and a transition to becoming an AI-native company. Onshore revenue increased by 13% to $1.52 billion, while offshore jack-up and island drilling revenue reached $1.04 billion. Oilfield services revenue skyrocketed by 114% to $1.07 billion. Shareholders will benefit from a third-quarter dividend of $250 million, with the company targeting a minimum of $6.8 billion in distributions between 2025 and 2030. Adnoc Drilling is also advancing strategic initiatives, including joint ventures in Kuwait and Oman, and accelerating AI and automation adoption across fleet operations. Looking ahead, the company anticipates revenue of around $5 billion in 2026 and aims to expand its fleet to over 151 rigs by 2028.

Ben Cohen, co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s, disclosed on Tuesday that the ice cream brand’s parent company, Unilever/Magnum, prevented the creation of a watermelon-flavored ice cream intended to advocate for peace in Palestine. Cohen, 74, shared this revelation in an Instagram post, expressing frustration over the decision. He explained that the proposed flavor aimed to promote justice and dignity for Palestinians, but Unilever/Magnum intervened, much like when the company blocked Ben & Jerry’s earlier decision to cease sales in Israeli-occupied territories.

Abu Dhabi Airports has marked a significant milestone with its 18th consecutive quarter of double-digit passenger traffic growth, solidifying its role as a key driver of the emirate’s economy and global connectivity. Between July and September 2025, the operator of Abu Dhabi’s five commercial airports welcomed 8.49 million passengers, a 10.1% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This growth was complemented by a 6% rise in flight movements, totaling 67,035 flights, and a 15.5% surge in cargo traffic, which reached 200,000 tonnes during the quarter. Zayed International Airport (AUH), the emirate’s flagship airport, played a central role in this achievement, handling 8.35 million passengers, a 10.4% year-on-year increase. The airport also recorded 49,073 aircraft movements, up 5.9% from Q3 2024. Abu Dhabi Airports’ strategic expansion has been bolstered by new airline partnerships and route additions, including Jazeera Airways’ restored services to Kuwait, China Eastern Airlines’ daily flights to Shanghai, and Ethiopian Airlines’ daily service to Addis Ababa. The company has also expanded its network with 12 new destinations, such as IndiGo’s routes to Madurai, Bhubaneswar, and Vishakhapatnam. Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, highlighted the organization’s resilience and operational excellence, emphasizing its role in attracting visitors and investors. The third quarter also saw AUH receiving prestigious accolades, including Best Airport for Retail at the 2025 Frontier Awards and Level 2 Accessibility and Level 3 Customer Experience accreditations from ACI. These achievements underscore Abu Dhabi Airports’ commitment to delivering world-class experiences and advancing sustainable innovation. With over 29 million passengers served in 2024 and 545,511 tonnes of cargo handled year-to-date, Abu Dhabi Airports continues to strengthen its position as a global aviation leader, driving economic diversification and fostering international trade.

NMDC Energy has announced a remarkable 33% year-on-year increase in revenue for the first nine months of the year, reaching Dh13 billion. This growth is attributed to the company’s robust backlog execution and its expanding footprint in both regional and international energy markets. Net profit also saw a 5% rise, amounting to Dh951 million, reflecting the company’s operational efficiency and consistent project delivery. The company’s backlog at the end of September stood at Dh45.6 billion, bolstered by significant contract wins and project mobilizations across onshore and offshore sectors. NMDC Energy’s project pipeline expanded to Dh61.4 billion, showcasing its diversified growth strategy and market reach. Chairman Mohamed Hamad Almehairi emphasized the company’s focus on scaling capacity in key global energy markets, which has enhanced its long-term growth prospects. CEO Eng. Ahmed Salem Al Dhaheri highlighted the company’s operational agility and efficient backlog delivery, solidifying its position as a leading EPC contractor in the Middle East. A notable achievement during this period was the launch of fabrication work at NMDC Energy’s new 400,000 square meter yard in Ras Al Khair, Saudi Arabia. This state-of-the-art facility, equipped with advanced automation and digital systems, boasts an annual production capacity of 40,000 tonnes and will support complex offshore and onshore energy projects. The company secured major contracts, including a Dh9.7 billion offshore EPC contract in the UAE and a Dh4.2 billion project in Taiwan, with international operations contributing 31% to its revenue. NMDC Energy also strengthened its sustainability profile, earning an MSCI ESG Rating of “A” for its adherence to global environmental, social, and governance standards. Additionally, the company signed strategic memoranda of understanding with UAE-based Al Gharbia and China’s Hilong Shine New Materials to explore domestic pipe production and advanced coating technologies, respectively.