Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman promises govt support to power GCC growth

UK inflation has climbed to its highest level in nearly 18 months, driven by faster-rising food prices and only a modest drop in fuel costs. This uptick suggests households are still feeling the pinch as everyday essentials get more expensive.

Editor’s Note: Inflation isn’t just a number—it’s a real-life squeeze on budgets. With food prices leading the charge, this story matters because it signals that relief for consumers isn’t coming as quickly as hoped. Higher inflation could also influence everything from interest rates to wage negotiations, making it a key issue for both policymakers and regular folks just trying to afford groceries.

Aker ASA, the Norwegian investment firm, just dropped its Q2 2025 earnings report, and the numbers look solid—especially when it comes to asset growth. While we don’t have all the juicy details yet, the transcript hints at a strong quarter, likely driven by smart investments or market tailwinds. Investors will probably be pleased, but the real question is whether this momentum can hold.

Editor’s Note: Aker ASA’s performance is a bellwether for broader market trends, especially in sectors like energy and industrials where they’re heavily invested. If they’re growing, it could signal confidence in those areas—or just really good management. Either way, it’s worth keeping an eye on.

Capital Metals just hit a promising jackpot in Sri Lanka—their latest drilling results show high-grade mineral sands, which could mean big things for the company and the local mining sector. Think titanium and zircon, key ingredients for everything from paint to electronics. If the numbers hold up, this could turn into a major resource play.

Editor’s Note: Mineral sands might not sound thrilling, but they’re quietly essential for modern tech and industry. A high-grade find like this could boost Sri Lanka’s economy, attract investor interest, and even shake up global supply chains. For Capital Metals, it’s a potential game-changer—if they can navigate the usual hurdles like permits and market prices.

Inflation in the UK just ticked up unexpectedly, hitting its highest level since January—thanks to pricier groceries (especially cakes and cheese) and transport costs. The pound got a slight boost, and bond yields rose, but analysts still think the Bank of England might cut rates in August despite the bump, given broader economic sluggishness.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t great news for wallets—rising food and transport prices mean everyday life just got a bit more expensive. For policymakers, it’s a headache: higher inflation complicates the timing of rate cuts, even if the economy’s overall slowdown suggests relief might still be coming. For consumers, it’s another reminder that the cost-of-living crunch isn’t over yet.

Indonesia's central bank just made borrowing a bit cheaper by trimming its lending facility rate by 0.25 percentage points, bringing it down to 6%. It’s a small but notable move aimed at giving the economy a gentle nudge.

Editor’s Note: Think of this as the bank turning a tiny dial to keep money flowing smoothly. Lower rates mean businesses and consumers might find loans slightly more affordable, which could spur spending or investment. It’s not a game-changer, but it signals the bank is keeping a close eye on growth without rocking the boat too hard. For everyday folks, it’s a reminder that the big financial levers are still being tweaked behind the scenes.