The Bank of Japan has introduced a negative interest rate in a surprise move. The benchmark rate of -0.1% means that the central bank will charge commercial banks 0.1% on some of their deposits. It's hoped the moves will encourage banks to lend, and counter the ongoing economic slump in the world's third-largest economy. Investors cheered the surprise stimulus as Japan's share prices rose 476.85 points to close at 17,518.30 points at the Tokyo Stock Exchange, after the plans were unveiled.
UAE to expand CEPAs in 2025, says Thani Al Zeyoudi
Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, reaffirmed on Tuesday the UAE will continue to increase its Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) in 2025, targeting additional countries to maximise benefits for the UAE and its global trade partners.
Chinese stocks post first annual gain since 2020, HK ends four-year rout
Chinese stocks dipped on Tuesday, the final trading day of 2024, but were on track for their first annual gain following an unprecedented three-year decline, while Hong Kong shares also ended the year higher.
UAE's GDP grows 3.6% in H1 2024
The UAE's GDP reached AED 879.6 billion in the first half of 2024, recording a 3.6 per cent increase, according to the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre.
DOH Abu Dhabi receives Startup Ecosystem Stars Award 2024
The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) has received the Startup Ecosystem Stars Award 2024, a global accolade run by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Mind the Bridge in collaboration with the OECD and the European Commission.
Starlink to roll out direct-to-cell services in Ukraine
Ukraine's leading mobile operator Kyivstar has signed an agreement with Elon Musk's Starlink to introduce direct-to-cell satellite connectivity, Kyivstar's parent company VEON said on Monday.
The UAE, as part of 'Operation Chivalrous Knight 3', has sent an emergency aid shipment for the Gaza Strip, which is witnessing a rise in infant mortality due to the extreme cold, malnutrition, and a shortage of basic supplies.
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum inspected the Joint Operations Room of the Events Security Committee comprising 55 government, semi-government, and private entities.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, underscored the vital role of strategic vision, teamwork, and innovation, in driving Dubai's sustainable development journey during a meeting with senior officials.
