Circular Economy

Business

Eastman Chemical Navigates Market Headwinds, Pins Hopes on Operational Shifts and Circular Economy

While outlining stabilization efforts in challenged segments like Fibers, Eastman Chemical's leadership emphasized that a sustained recovery hinges on broader end-market demand. The company is betting on strategic projects and chemical recycling to drive future growth amid persistent pricing pressures and global trade dynamics.

Jan 30, 2026

Business

LyondellBasell Navigates Market Headwinds, Pivots to Circular Economy with Major Recycling Investments

While Q3 earnings reflect challenging market conditions, the chemical giant reports strong North American performance and accelerates its strategic shift, breaking ground on a flagship advanced recycling plant in Germany and planning a larger facility in Houston.

Jan 30, 2026

World

Eurozone Economy Defies Trade Headwinds, Posts Stronger-Than-Expected 2025 Growth

The Eurozone economy expanded by 1.5% in 2025, outpacing forecasts despite ongoing trade tensions with the US, as a recovery in Germany and robust growth in Spain helped offset a slowdown in France.

Jan 30, 2026

Business

Eurozone Economy Posts Steady Growth, But a Weakening Dollar Poses New Export Threat

The Eurozone economy grew 0.3% in Q4 2025, matching the previous quarter's pace and easing earlier recession fears. However, analysts warn that the euro's sharp 14.4% gain against the dollar over the past year threatens to undermine the competitiveness of European exports.

Jan 30, 2026

Business

Taiwan's Economy Soars to 15-Year High, Fueled by AI Exports and U.S. Trade Pact

Taiwan's economy surged 8.6% in 2025, its fastest growth since 2010, driven by a global AI boom and a landmark trade agreement with the United States. While analysts project a moderation in 2026, the island's pivotal role in the tech supply chain has delivered record profits for its leading firms.

Jan 30, 2026

Business

LyondellBasell Navigates 'Most Challenging' Petrochemical Downturn, Leans on Cost Cuts and Cash Discipline

Facing what its CEO calls one of the industry's toughest cycles, LyondellBasell reported weathering 2025 through aggressive cost control and working capital management. The chemical giant outlined a path to generate an additional $1.3 billion in cash by end-2026, even as it prepares to divest European assets and scales back circular economy spending.

Jan 31, 2026

Business

The Great American Restaurant Split: How a K-Shaped Economy Is Reshaping Where We Eat

The traditional rulebook for dining during economic stress is obsolete. As a K-shaped recovery widens the gap between income groups, fast-food giants are struggling with deep discounts while casual dining chains unexpectedly thrive by redefining value.

Feb 2, 2026

Business

China's Export-Focused Factories Show Surprise Resilience as Broader Economy Cools

A private gauge of China's manufacturing activity edged higher in January, defying expectations of a slowdown, as export-oriented firms outperformed. The reading contrasts with weaker official data, highlighting a two-speed industrial sector amid persistent domestic headwinds.

Feb 2, 2026

Business

Fed's Musalem: Rate Cuts Off the Table With Policy at 'Neutral,' Economy on Solid Footing

St. Louis Fed President Alberto Musalem argues the current interest rate stance is appropriate, signaling a pause in the central bank's easing cycle unless the labor market weakens or inflation drops unexpectedly.

Jan 30, 2026

World

Berlin and Warsaw Forge Pact to Revitalize European Economy

Finance ministers from Germany and Poland have called for a joint leadership role in boosting Europe's competitiveness, citing a shifting global landscape and internal bureaucratic hurdles.

Feb 2, 2026

Business

LyondellBasell Navigates Prolonged Downturn with Strategic Cash Preservation and Portfolio Reshaping

Facing one of the longest downturns in industry history, LyondellBasell reported Q2 2025 earnings of $0.62 per share, outlining a disciplined strategy focused on cash conservation, portfolio optimization in Europe, and a pivot towards circular and low-carbon solutions to emerge stronger from the cycle.

Jan 30, 2026

Business

The $2 Million Question: Can a 50-Year-Old Renter Afford to Retire in Today's Economy?

Amid corporate restructuring fears, a professional with a substantial nest egg but no home equity grapples with the daunting math of early retirement, soaring healthcare costs, and an uncertain housing market.

Jan 30, 2026

Business

Seeking Stability in Uncertain Times: Top European Dividend Picks for February 2026

Amid a cautiously recovering Eurozone economy, dividend-paying stocks are gaining attention from investors seeking reliable income and a buffer against market volatility. We analyze three standout European companies offering compelling yield and value.

Feb 2, 2026

Business

Industrial Sector Outperforms: Two Stocks Poised for Growth, One Faces Headwinds

While often operating behind the scenes, industrial companies are the engine of the U.S. economy. Bolstered by a favorable interest rate environment, the sector has surged 18.8% in the last six months, significantly outpacing the S&P 500. We analyze two firms with durable competitive edges and one that may be losing momentum.

Feb 2, 2026

World

Singapore Charts New Frontier: National Space Agency to Launch Amid Global Investment Boom

Singapore will establish its National Space Agency on April 1st, aiming to leverage its technological prowess to secure a strategic position in the rapidly expanding global space economy, as global investments continue to soar.

Feb 2, 2026

World

Europe's $955 Billion Recovery Fund Faces Uphill Battle to Deliver Lasting Economic Transformation

As the EU's landmark 'Next Generation' fund nears its final payout deadlines, its ambitious goal of modernizing the bloc's economy is being hampered by bureaucracy, skills gaps, and questions over long-term sustainability, despite pockets of innovation.

Feb 2, 2026

Business

Hong Kong Tightens Regulatory Grip on Major Payment Networks

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority has detailed its enhanced oversight framework for key retail payment systems, designating networks like Visa, Mastercard, and UnionPay for direct supervision to ensure security and stability in the city's rapidly digitizing economy.

Feb 2, 2026

Business

First Hawaiian Bank Navigates Shifting Tides: Q4 2025 Shows Strength, 2026 Outlook Cautious Amid Rate Uncertainty

First Hawaiian Bank reported a solid fourth quarter, driven by net interest margin expansion and loan growth, while outlining a cautious 2026 outlook. Executives highlighted Hawaii's resilient economy and strong credit quality, alongside a new, flexible $250 million share buyback program.

Jan 30, 2026

Business

Navigating the Financial Sector: Two Stocks to Watch, One to Avoid Amid Policy Uncertainty

While the financial sector remains the economy's cornerstone, policy headwinds have capped its recent performance. We analyze one credit rater and a fintech disruptor that show resilience, alongside a legacy asset manager facing challenges.

Jan 30, 2026

World

Venezuela Overhauls Oil Laws, Throws Open Doors to Foreign Investment

In a landmark shift, Venezuela's parliament has passed sweeping reforms to its hydrocarbons law, aiming to lure private capital into its crippled oil industry. The move, backed by a new U.S. license, signals a potential turning point for the nation's economy.

Jan 30, 2026