How Africa Can Get Rich

S&P Global Ratings has recognized Morocco as Africa's only investment-grade Eurobond issuer, marking a significant milestone for the country. This rating is crucial as Morocco prepares for increased spending ahead of the 2030 soccer World Cup, showcasing its financial stability and attractiveness to investors. This development not only enhances Morocco's economic prospects but also positions it as a leader in the region's financial landscape.

France is facing another setback as Scope Ratings has issued a negative outlook on its credit assessment, marking the third warning in just two weeks. This situation arises amid a political impasse regarding how to address the country's rising debt. This matters because it highlights the ongoing challenges France faces in managing its finances, which could impact investor confidence and economic stability.

The new French Prime Minister has announced plans to eliminate the wealth tax and aims to reduce the budget deficit to 4.7% by 2026. This decision is significant as it reflects the government's approach to economic reform and fiscal responsibility, which could impact public services and social programs in France.

French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu has proposed slight modifications to the country's budget targets while firmly rejecting austerity measures. This move is crucial as he seeks to garner support and prevent opposition lawmakers from potentially ousting him from office. The adjustments reflect a balancing act between fiscal responsibility and political survival, highlighting the ongoing challenges in managing France's budget amidst differing political views.

Prosus's OLX Group is set to acquire the French auto platform La Centrale, marking a significant expansion in the online automotive marketplace. This acquisition is important as it not only strengthens OLX's presence in Europe but also enhances its offerings in the competitive auto sector, allowing for better services and options for consumers.

France's national debt has surged to over €3.4 trillion, reaching 115.6% of its GDP, according to recent data. This alarming rise poses significant challenges for the new Prime Minister, Sebastien Lecornu, who is seeking bipartisan support to draft the 2026 budget due by October 7. The situation is critical as it reflects the country's economic struggles, and the pressure is on to stabilize finances. Additionally, the national rail operator, SNCF, is launching a new ultra-premium class to compete internationally, highlighting the need for innovation amidst financial difficulties.

The Horizons Middle East & Africa event scheduled for September 27, 2025, is set to showcase significant developments and innovations in the region. This event matters as it brings together key stakeholders to discuss pressing issues and opportunities, fostering collaboration and growth in the Middle East and Africa.

Prosus-owned OLX is set to acquire La Centrale, a prominent French online marketplace, for €1.1 billion. This acquisition is significant as it strengthens OLX's position in the European market, allowing it to tap into the growing demand for online classifieds in France. By integrating La Centrale's established platform, OLX aims to enhance its service offerings and expand its user base, which could lead to increased revenue and market share.

Barclays has issued a warning regarding the recovery trade in Germany, highlighting a decline in fiscal optimism in both the UK and France. This shift in sentiment is significant as it suggests potential challenges ahead for economic growth in these regions, which could impact investments and market stability. Investors should be cautious as the outlook appears less favorable than previously anticipated.

A 41-year-old sporting goods retailer is shutting down, with the owner citing the overwhelming competition from online shopping as the main reason. This closure highlights the ongoing struggles traditional retailers face in adapting to the digital marketplace, raising concerns about the future of brick-and-mortar stores and the impact on local economies.

Rwanda is set to make history by hosting the 2025 UCI Road World Championships, a significant event that not only highlights the country's stunning terrain but also boosts its economy and positions Kigali as a global sporting hub. This milestone is important as it showcases Africa's potential in the world of sports and encourages tourism and investment in the region.

Kenn Ricci, the chairman of Flexjet, shares his remarkable journey from being a pilot to becoming a billionaire in the inaugural episode of WSJ Asks a Millionaire. He discusses his strategic bets on the ultrarich and reveals his unique philosophy on money, including an impressive $800,000 budget for vacations. This story matters as it highlights the mindset and decisions that can lead to extraordinary financial success, inspiring others to think differently about wealth.

Disney has disclosed that the production cost of 'The Marvels' increased by $13.3 million in the year following its release, although this rise was still considered consistent with the original budget. This information is significant as it highlights the financial dynamics of blockbuster films and how production costs can fluctuate post-release, impacting overall profitability.

Morgan Stanley has made a significant update to its stock forecast for Microsoft, indicating a positive outlook for the tech giant. This revision is important as it reflects confidence in Microsoft's future performance, which could influence investor sentiment and market trends. With the tech sector continuously evolving, such endorsements from major financial institutions can lead to increased investment and growth opportunities for Microsoft.

The film 'One Battle After Another' has made a remarkable $22.4 million at its opening, marking a new best for director Paul Thomas Anderson. This strong start is promising, but the film will need to keep audiences engaged to recoup its hefty production cost of around $130 million. Its performance is crucial not just for Anderson's career but also for the industry, as it reflects audience interest in ambitious projects.