Category: Economic Conditions and Trends

Collapse of France’s Government Further Burdens Its Weak Economy

Already struggling with flat growth and a large debt and deficit, the country faces a new period of instability without a functioning government or a budget.
How Bangladesh’s Economy Was Siphoned Dry

Bangladesh’s currency was battered by what the new head of the central bank says was the looting of the banks under the deposed prime minister.
Investors Punish France Over Budget Turmoil

The country’s borrowing costs have soared over worries that a political showdown in Parliament over spending cuts and tax increases could topple a fragile government coalition.
China Has a New Playbook to Counter Trump: ‘Supply Chain Warfare’

A series of swipes at American companies show how China could take the initiative in a new trade war, using its economic dominance to exact pain.
After Trump’s Tariff Threat, Is a China Currency War Next?

While China could offset American tariffs by letting its currency fall, that might endanger Beijing’s recent efforts to stabilize the economy.
China’s Police Are Preying on Small Firms in Search of Cash

With localities facing budget holes, the police are crossing provincial borders to collect fines and draining company treasuries. Businesses call it a shakedown.
Steel Maker ThyssenKrupp to Slash 11,000 Jobs in Germany

The venerable steel producer, which has been struggling against high energy prices at home and growing competition from abroad, is the latest company in Europe to cut its work force.
Europe’s Leaders Seek Greater Unity to Counter Trump’s ‘America First’ Agenda

At a conference in Paris, corporate chiefs, finance ministers and top politicians called for a “Europe First” policy to counter Donald Trump’s protectionist agenda.
Why Germany’s Economy, Once a Leader in Europe, Is Now in Crisis

The country is facing a second year of zero growth, with industry leaders gloomy and worried about potential tariffs from President-elect Donald Trump.
Logging Is the Deadliest Job, but Still an Oregon Way of Life

Logging has long been a way of life for rural communities in the Pacific Northwest and South. It also comes with grave risk.
World Fears a Wider Trade War. Malaysia Sees an Opportunity.

In a new era for global trade in which Donald J. Trump has promised tariffs, Malaysia and Singapore are finalizing a deal for greater economic integration.
Hong Kong’s Trophy Homes Are Selling at Fire Sale Prices

China’s economic downturn has not been kind to the ultrarich who made their wealth on its rise. In their haste to cough up cash, Hong Kong’s luxury property market has had some fire sales.