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Economic Times
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- 1
China has signalled it is preparing fresh economic stimulus measures as growth continues to weaken, according to a Bloomberg report. Officials have yet to specify the size or timing of any package, but the signal points to mounting concern in Beijing over the slowing economy. Observers are watching for action on the struggling property sector and weak consumer demand, with markets reacting to the prospect of added government support.
- 2
Australia's central bank has raised its benchmark interest rate to its highest level in around 15 years, according to the Financial Times. The move means more expensive borrowing for Australian households and businesses, and is aimed at curbing inflation. Reactions so far focus on the pressure this adds to mortgages and the broader cost-of-living squeeze.
- 3Clients demand discounts as AI cuts law firms' costs●As A.I. makes law firms more efficient, clients ask: 'Where's my discount?'
Law firms are using artificial intelligence to handle research, drafting and review far faster than before, but the savings are not being passed on. Corporate clients are now questioning why bills remain the same when the work takes less time, putting pressure on the traditional billable-hour model that anchors the legal industry's economics. The debate is forcing firms and clients to renegotiate pricing as efficiency gains reshape the profession.
- 4Driving an EV in the UK now nine times cheaper than petrol●Analysis: EVs are now nine times cheaper than petrol or diesel to drive in UK
A new analysis from Carbon Brief finds that running an electric vehicle in the UK now costs roughly nine times less per mile than driving a petrol or diesel car, reflecting cheaper charging rates compared with high fuel prices. The finding is drawing attention as motorists weigh the cost savings of switching to electric against higher upfront purchase prices.
- 5Mortgage rates top 7% again, deepening housing slump▼The housing market is way out of whack - Mortgage rates rise again, hitting over 7% and depressing the housing market. h
Mortgage rates in the United States have climbed back above 7%, adding fresh pressure to an already struggling housing market. Commenters say the market is 'way out of whack', with high borrowing costs keeping buyers on the sidelines and worsening an ongoing housing affordability crisis.
- 6Burnham to push Brexit reset options at UK-EU summit●"Brexit has done more harm than good." Andy Burnham says he will 'lay out options' at the next reset summit to tighten t
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has said Brexit has done more harm than good, and that he will lay out options at the next UK-EU reset summit to tighten the relationship between Britain and the European Union. His comments add to pressure on the government to pursue closer ties with Brussels, with debate over Brexit's economic impact continuing across UK politics.
- 7Dollar Hits Two-Month High on Rate-Rise Expectations▼Dollar Rises to 2-Month High on Growing Prospect of October U.S. Rate-Rise
The US dollar has climbed to its highest level in two months, driven by growing expectations that the Federal Reserve could raise interest rates as soon as October. Traders are pricing in a greater likelihood of a rate rise, making the dollar more attractive. Market watchers are now focused on upcoming US economic data and Fed commentary for confirmation of the timing.
- 8Japan offers lessons in preventive health for aging societies●As the world's first super-aging society, Japan can show how prevention protects health, workers and prosperity. https:/
Commentary in The Japan Times argues that Japan, the world's first super-aging society, can serve as a model for how preventive health care protects people's health, keeps workers in the labor force longer, and sustains economic prosperity. The piece points to Japan's experience as demographic aging accelerates worldwide, suggesting other countries facing shrinking workforces could learn from its emphasis on prevention over treatment.
- 9Why now is the time to invest in Ukraine▼Special edition: Why it’s time to invest in Ukraine right now
Devex has published a special edition arguing that the moment has come to invest in Ukraine. The coverage makes the case for putting capital into the country's recovery and rebuilding despite the ongoing war, framing investment as both an economic opportunity and a way to support Ukraine's future. The piece is drawing attention among development and finance professionals weighing how and when to commit funds.
- 10Iranian rial hits all-time low amid economic crisis▼Iranian rial hits all-time low as economy continues free fall
Iran's currency, the rial, has fallen to an all-time low against the US dollar, underscoring the country's deepening economic crisis. The slide reflects ongoing pressure from inflation, sanctions and eroding confidence in the economy, with ordinary Iranians seeing their purchasing power shrink further as the currency continues to lose value.
- 11Bank of Canada Deputy Flags Dilemma Over Trade War and Energy Shock●Bank of Canada Deputy Sees ‘Dilemma’ on Trade War, Energy Shock
A Bank of Canada deputy governor said the central bank faces a dilemma as a trade war and an energy shock hit the economy at the same time. The two forces pull policy in opposite directions, making it harder to judge the right path for interest rates and adding to uncertainty over Canada's economic outlook.
- 12
Donald Trump is returning to the campaign trail with a message centered on the economy, aiming to reassure voters who remain worried about prices and their financial situation. The former president's economic pitch comes as polling continues to show affordability and cost of living among the top concerns for American voters, making the economy a central battleground issue.
- 13
Donald Trump has ruled out a joint venture between the United States and China to develop artificial intelligence, according to a BBC report. The statement signals a firm stance against technological cooperation with Beijing on AI, a field seen as central to both countries' economic and security interests. The decision is drawing attention given ongoing tensions over trade, technology exports, and competition for AI leadership between the two powers.
- 14Trump's Fuel Economy Rollback Stokes Worry About Long-Term Cost●Trump’s Fuel Economy Rollback Stokes Worry About Long-Term Cost
The Trump administration is moving to roll back US fuel economy standards, and the rollback is drawing concern over what it could cost Americans over time. Analysts and observers warn that weaker efficiency requirements may mean higher fuel spending for drivers, even if vehicles are cheaper upfront, and could have lasting economic and environmental consequences.
- 15Gov. Pillen unveils strategy to boost Nebraska economy●LIVE AT 11:30: Gov. Pillen announces strategy for strengthening Nebraska’s economic growth
Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen announced a new strategy aimed at strengthening the state's economic growth, presented during a live midday address. The announcement is drawing attention across Nebraska, with local outlets covering the event as residents await details on how the plan will affect jobs, businesses, and the state's economic outlook.