Europe and Central Asia: Economic growth slows to 2.4% in 2025

A recent report by energy think tank Ember reveals that global solar generation surged by an impressive 31% in the first half of 2025, while wind generation also saw a notable increase of 7.7%. This growth is significant as it marks a turning point where renewable energies are set to outpace all electricity demand, highlighting a shift towards more sustainable energy sources. This transition is crucial for combating climate change and reducing reliance on coal, making it a pivotal moment for the future of energy.

The World Trade Organization (W.T.O.) has announced that global trade growth is expected to slow sharply next year, raising concerns about the overall health of the economy. This slowdown could impact various sectors and lead to reduced economic activity worldwide, making it a significant issue for businesses and policymakers alike.

Wall Street opened higher today as investors eagerly await cues from the Federal Reserve regarding interest rates and economic policy. This positive momentum reflects growing optimism among traders, who are looking for signs that the Fed will maintain a supportive stance to foster economic growth. The market's reaction indicates a belief that the Fed's decisions will help stabilize the economy and potentially lead to further gains in the stock market.

Gold futures have just surpassed $4,000 per ounce for the first time, marking a significant milestone in the market. This surge is largely attributed to the economic uncertainty caused by President Trump's aggressive tariff policies, which have impacted global trade. As investors seek safe-haven assets during turbulent times, gold's rise reflects a growing confidence in its value amidst instability. This development is crucial as it signals shifts in economic trends and investor behavior.

'The Conjuring: Last Rites' is now available for streaming, just in time for the Halloween season. As the highest-grossing horror movie of 2025, this film marks the thrilling conclusion of the beloved franchise. Fans can easily watch it from the comfort of their homes, making it a perfect choice for those looking to enjoy some spine-chilling entertainment this spooky season.

Canada's trade deficit for August has widened more than expected, primarily due to a significant drop in exports. This decline raises concerns about the country's economic health and its ability to compete in the global market. As exports decrease, it could signal challenges for Canadian businesses and impact overall economic growth, making it a critical issue for policymakers and stakeholders.

The World Trade Organization (WTO) has revised its global trade growth forecast for the upcoming year down to just 0.5%. This significant downgrade reflects ongoing economic uncertainties and challenges faced by countries worldwide, highlighting the fragility of the global economy. Such a low growth rate could impact jobs, investments, and overall economic stability, making it crucial for policymakers to address these issues to foster a more resilient trade environment.

In 2025, AI is set to revolutionize HR and payroll processes, making them more efficient and accurate. This transformation is crucial as it allows businesses to streamline operations, reduce errors, and enhance employee satisfaction. By automating routine tasks, HR professionals can focus on strategic initiatives that drive growth and innovation. The integration of AI not only improves productivity but also helps in making data-driven decisions that can significantly impact a company's success.

Despite the common belief that public markets are failing, recent discussions highlight their resilience and potential for growth. This matters because understanding the true state of public markets can help investors make informed decisions and encourage companies to consider going public, ultimately benefiting the economy.

In 2025, hackers stole a staggering $3 billion in cryptocurrency, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced security measures in the digital asset space. As the race for real-time recovery intensifies, companies are focusing on developing resilience strategies that can outpace attackers. This shift is crucial not only for protecting investments but also for restoring trust in the cryptocurrency market, which has faced significant challenges due to these breaches.

Ireland is facing a concerning forecast as its budget surplus is projected to drop by half in 2026. This decline poses significant challenges for the government, especially as it navigates potential global trade shocks that could heavily impact its economy, which is largely influenced by US multinationals. The situation highlights the need for strategic planning to mitigate risks and maintain economic stability.

Gold prices are hovering near all-time highs, reflecting a growing trend among investors seeking safe-haven assets amid global political uncertainty. This surge in gold prices is significant as it indicates a shift in market sentiment, with many turning to gold as a reliable store of value during turbulent times. As geopolitical tensions rise, the demand for gold could continue to increase, impacting both the economy and investment strategies.

Gold prices have surged past $4,000 for the first time, marking a significant milestone in the precious metal's value. This increase of about 50% over the past year reflects growing concerns about the stability of the dollar, making gold an attractive investment option for many. As investors seek safe havens amid economic uncertainty, this rise in gold prices highlights its enduring appeal and importance in financial markets.

The French government is facing significant turmoil as President Macron has lost yet another prime minister, marking the resignation of four leaders in just over a year. This ongoing instability highlights the challenges France is grappling with, as it navigates through multiple crises. The frequent changes in leadership raise concerns about the government's ability to effectively address pressing issues, making this a critical moment for the nation.

This article serves as a comprehensive guide for foreign businesses navigating corporate tax compliance in Vietnam. It highlights the importance of understanding local tax regulations to avoid penalties and ensure smooth operations. With Vietnam's growing economy, foreign investment is on the rise, making it crucial for businesses to stay informed about tax obligations and compliance requirements.

Constellation Brands has reported its Q2 2026 earnings, surpassing expectations for earnings per share (EPS). This positive performance highlights the company's strong market position and effective strategies, which are crucial for investors and stakeholders looking for growth in the beverage industry.

A beloved Halloween store has shut its doors for good due to tariffs, leaving many customers disappointed and without their costume orders. This closure highlights the impact of trade policies on small businesses and the joy of Halloween that will be missed by the community.

US stocks, particularly the S&P 500, are on the rise, reaching record levels after a strong winning streak. Despite concerns over a government shutdown, investors remain optimistic, especially with ongoing advancements in artificial intelligence boosting technology shares. This trend is significant as it reflects resilience in the market and highlights the growing influence of tech innovations on investment strategies.