New Zealand central bank says its cut nearly 20% of staff since March

The UK is facing a larger than anticipated reduction in its productivity forecast, according to sources. This news is significant as it highlights ongoing challenges in the economy, potentially affecting growth and job creation. A lower productivity forecast can lead to decreased investor confidence and may impact government policies aimed at economic recovery.

The Philippine peso has hit a new record low, dropping past the significant threshold of 59 per dollar. This decline raises concerns about the currency's stability and puts pressure on the central bank to take action to defend it. The situation is critical as it affects not only the economy but also the daily lives of Filipinos, making it a topic of great importance.

Pakistan's central bank has decided to maintain the interest rate at 11% for the fourth consecutive time, reflecting a cautious approach to economic stability. This decision is significant as it aims to balance inflation control with growth, indicating the bank's commitment to navigating the current economic challenges. Keeping the rate steady may provide some predictability for businesses and consumers, but it also highlights ongoing concerns about the country's financial health.

Australia's central bank governor has expressed concern over a 0.9% rise in core Consumer Price Index (CPI), labeling it a 'material miss.' This statement highlights the challenges the Australian economy faces with inflation, which could lead to adjustments in monetary policy and interest rates. Such developments are crucial as they impact consumer spending and overall economic stability.

Visa has reported impressive quarterly results, surpassing Wall Street estimates thanks to strong transaction volumes. This performance highlights the resilience of digital payments, even as cross-border growth shows signs of slowing. The company's ability to adapt and thrive in a competitive landscape is crucial, as it reflects broader trends in consumer behavior and the ongoing shift towards cashless transactions.

Honda has started implementing temporary production reductions and stoppages at its North American factories due to a semiconductor shortage. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges in the automotive industry, as manufacturers struggle to secure essential components for vehicle production. The impact of these stoppages could lead to delays in vehicle availability and affect the overall market, making it a significant concern for both the company and consumers.

SK Hynix, a key supplier for Nvidia, has reported a record quarterly profit that aligns with market forecasts. This achievement highlights the company's strong position in the semiconductor industry and reflects the growing demand for chips used in various technologies. As Nvidia continues to thrive, SK Hynix's success is a positive indicator for the tech sector, showcasing resilience and potential for future growth.

Paramount has signed a lease for 285,000 square feet at 1888 Studios in Bayonne, New Jersey, marking a significant expansion for the company. This move not only enhances Paramount's production capabilities but also signifies a growing investment in the New Jersey film industry, which could lead to more job opportunities and economic growth in the region.

Betsy Duke, speaking on Bloomberg's 'The Close', expressed her concerns about the Federal Reserve's potential decision to implement consecutive interest rate cuts. She believes that such actions could create entrenched market expectations that would be difficult to reverse. This discussion is significant as it highlights the delicate balance the Fed must maintain in responding to market pressures while ensuring economic stability.

Lucid Motors is set to launch a new mid-size electric vehicle (EV) equipped with advanced self-driving technology powered by Nvidia chips. This development is significant as it showcases Lucid's commitment to innovation in the automotive industry, potentially enhancing the driving experience and safety for consumers. With the growing demand for electric vehicles and autonomous driving features, this launch could position Lucid as a key player in the market.