Russia’s Central Bank Maintains Interest Rates Amid Inflation Concerns, Rouble Fluctuates

In a move closely watched by global markets, Russia’s central bank has decided to keep its interest rates steady, standing firm at 16%. This decision comes amidst the backdrop of rising oil prices and the conclusion of month-end tax payments, factors that have traditionally supported the rouble. Despite expectations, the currency saw fluctuations, declining against the […]

Turkey’s central bank raises interest rate to 50% despite previous hints of end to hike cycle

Turkey’s central bank on Thursday raised its key interest rate, the one-week repurchase rate, from 45% to 50%, citing the continuing need to counter climbing inflation in the country. “In February, led by services inflation, the underlying trend of monthly inflation was higher than expected,” the bank’s Monetary Policy Committee said in a statement after the […]

HMRC Scraps Plan to Close Key Tax Helplines Yearly Amid Public and Government Backlash

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has abruptly reversed its decision to close its crucial self-assessment, VAT, and PAYE helplines for six months each year, in a significant turn of events that highlights the power of stakeholder feedback and governmental intervention. This change comes after HMRC’s initial announcement met with widespread criticism from tax experts, Members of Parliament, […]

Nationwide Acquires Virgin Money in £3 Billion Deal, Promises Enhanced Member Services

In a significant move that reshapes the UK’s financial landscape, Nationwide Building Society has announced its acquisition of Virgin Money UK Plc for a whopping £3 billion. This strategic merger, revealed on March 21, 2024, not only signifies a considerable expansion for Nationwide but also promises a broadened spectrum of services for its members, aiming at a […]

Intel clinches nearly $20 billion in awards from Biden to boost US chip output

WASHINGTON, March 20 (Reuters) – The Biden administration said it is awarding Intel (INTC.O), opens new tab nearly $20 billion in grants and loans on Wednesday, supercharging the company’s domestic semiconductor chip output and marking the government’s largest outlay to subsidize leading-edge chip production. Biden will announce the preliminary agreement for $8.5 billion in grants and up […]

UAE’s industrial sector added $53.6bn to economy in 2023

The UAE industrial sector’s contribution to gross domestic product reached about Dh197 billion ($53.64 billion) last year, with the country achieving 30 per cent of Operation 300bn’s target since its 2021 launch, officials said on Wednesday. The Emirates’ industrial exports increased by 17 per cent, recording 7 per cent growth in productivity since the launch of the programme and […]

Income Tax Raids at Bengaluru’s Meghana Foods: Suspected Tax Evasion Unravels

Early on March 19, a significant development unfolded in Bengaluru as the Income Tax Department initiated raids at various outlets of the popular biryani chain, Meghana Foods. Owned by Padma Atluri and Rambabu Mandava, this Hyderabad-headquartered restaurant chain, first established in Bengaluru in 2006, has grown to be a beloved spot for biryani enthusiasts. The operation, […]