Economy

UK economic growth slows but beats forecasts

UK economic growth slows but remains above forecasts

The United Kingdom's economy experienced a notable slowdown in the second quarter of the year, although its performance exceeded the expectations of many financial experts. According to official data, the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew at a more moderate pace compared to the beginning of the year. This deceleration was anticipated, but the actual figures were more robust than the widely pessimistic forecasts, providing a welcome surprise for both the government and market analysts.The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that the UK economy grew by 0.3% in the second quarter of 2025, a significant drop from the 0.7%…
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UK firms chase £38bn India contracts but challenges loom

Securing £38bn India contracts: UK firms confront challenges

British companies are actively seeking a substantial collection of contracts in India, valued at approximately £38 billion, as they aim to benefit from the country's rapidly growing economy and infrastructure initiatives. This effort is a component of a larger plan to enhance trade relations between the two countries after the United Kingdom's exit from the European Union. Nevertheless, despite the considerable monetary prospects, British businesses encounter numerous intricate challenges, ranging from bureaucratic obstacles and fierce competition to cultural distinctions and complex regulations, which might hinder their success in the Indian market.The £38 billion amount constitutes an array of possible contracts…
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'I cleared my £13,000 debt with TikTok earnings'

From £13,000 debt to debt-free with TikTok

A woman has shared her remarkable story of financial turnaround, revealing how she used her earnings from the social media platform TikTok to pay off £13,000 ($16,500 USD) in debt. This personal anecdote highlights a growing trend of individuals leveraging their online presence and creativity to achieve financial freedom. The case serves as a powerful example of how the creator economy can be a viable path to not only generating income but also tackling significant financial burdens. Her journey from debt-ridden to debt-free underscores the potential of digital platforms to change lives and reshape traditional career paths.The woman’s success was…
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US inflation holds but underlying prices creep up

US inflation unchanged but underlying costs increase

America's consumer price index (CPI) has remained steady, yet a closer look reveals a gradual increase in underlying prices. This development indicates a nuanced economic situation where headline inflation figures might not fully capture the evolving pressures on household budgets. While the overall inflation rate appears to be holding its ground, the subtle rise in core prices suggests that the cost of goods and services, excluding volatile categories like food and energy, is steadily creeping upward. This trend is a key focus for economists and policymakers, as it often provides a more accurate picture of persistent inflationary trends within the…
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China's unemployed young adults who are pretending to have jobs

Exploring China’s unemployed youth who act as if they have jobs

In recent years, a growing number of young adults in China who face unemployment have resorted to pretending they hold jobs, creating a complex social phenomenon driven by economic challenges, cultural expectations, and the pressures of modern life. This behavior, often referred to as “fake employment” or “pretend work,” reflects deeper issues within the country’s job market and the personal struggles of a generation caught between ambition and reality.The fast-paced economic development in China over recent decades has reshaped its society by opening up new possibilities, yet it has also increased competition for good jobs. Even though there has been…
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Nvidia and AMD to pay 15% of China chip sales to US

Nvidia, AMD chip sales in China hit with 15% US payment

Nvidia and AMD, two prominent companies in the semiconductor sector, are preparing to direct 15% of their income from chip transactions in China to the U.S. government. This financial setup is a component of a wider strategic and regulatory plan highlighting the growing technological and economic rivalry between the globe's biggest economies. The impact of this change is substantial, influencing global semiconductor markets, international trade dynamics, and the future scene of technology production and distribution.At its core, this policy represents a form of revenue sharing or levy imposed by the US on specific sales of semiconductor products within China. Nvidia…
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Crocs US sales tumble as shoppers choose trainers

Crocs US sales down as shoppers select trainers over clogs

The U.S. shoe market has experienced a considerable shift in consumer tastes, with new sales statistics indicating a substantial decline in the buying of Crocs' iconic foam clogs. This decrease arises as more consumers lean towards classic sneakers and athletic footwear aimed at performance, highlighting a change from the surge during the pandemic that catapulted the comfortable, breathable shoes into high demand.Market analysts point to several factors behind this sales slump. The return to office work and social activities has many consumers choosing more conventional footwear options. Additionally, the current fashion cycle has moved toward sleek, minimalist sneaker designs rather…
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Trump opens door for crypto in retirement accounts

Trump advocates for crypto in retirement accounts

Recent adjustments in regulations have enabled U.S. employees to incorporate digital assets in their strategies for long-term retirement planning. The revised rules allow specific cryptocurrencies to be added to 401(k) plans and other approved retirement accounts, representing a major change in how retirement funds can be distributed.Financial experts note this development reflects growing institutional acceptance of digital currencies as legitimate investment vehicles. Under the new framework, retirement plan administrators may now offer cryptocurrency options alongside traditional stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. However, the regulations include specific safeguards to protect investors from the volatility inherent in digital asset markets.The decision follows…
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India has 20 days to avoid 50% Trump tariffs - what are its options?

India given 20 days to avert 50% Trump tariffs – what moves are possible?

With just three weeks remaining before potential 50% tariffs take effect on key Indian exports to the United States, policymakers in New Delhi are weighing their strategic options to avoid damaging economic consequences. The looming deadline presents India with complex diplomatic and economic challenges that require careful navigation of international trade relations.The proposed tariff hike would primarily affect Indian steel and aluminum exports, sectors that employ millions of workers and contribute significantly to the country's manufacturing output. Industry analysts estimate the increased duties could reduce India's export volumes to the U.S. by approximately $3.5 billion annually, with ripple effects throughout…
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Trump's sweeping new tariffs take effect against dozens of countries

Trump’s latest tariffs imposed on dozens of countries

The United States has implemented a significant expansion of import tariffs affecting goods from numerous countries, marking a major shift in international trade policy. These measures, which went into effect this week, cover a wide range of products and represent one of the most substantial trade policy moves in recent years. The decision continues an ongoing trend of using tariffs as a primary tool for economic and foreign policy objectives.This latest round of trade restrictions builds upon previous tariff policies introduced in recent years, though with expanded scope and coverage. Analysts note the measures appear designed to protect domestic industries…
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