14 Apr 2026

Etihad Airways has announced plans to expand its China network by adding five new routes, increasing connectivity between the UAE and key Chinese cities. The airline will operate services to Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Hangzhou and Shenzhen, adding 28 weekly flights using Boeing 787-9 aircraft. The expansion aims to strengthen its partnership with China Eastern Airlines and support cargo operations across major trade hubs. Despite ongoing regional disruptions affecting air travel, the move reflects Etihad's focus on long-term growth and international connectivity in key global markets.Read more

14 Apr 2026

Sales at major European luxury brands have declined sharply in Dubai and Abu Dhabi as the Iran conflict disrupts a key growth market. Retail sales dropped significantly across leading malls, with Dubai witnessing steep declines in both footfall and transactions, while Abu Dhabi saw a more moderate impact. The Middle East, a fast-growing luxury hub, has been affected by weaker consumer sentiment, travel disruptions and regional instability. The slowdown comes as global luxury firms prepare to report earnings, raising concerns over profitability. The situation highlights the sector's sensitivity to geopolitical risks despite the region's importance to global luxury demand.Read more

14 Apr 2026

At least 30 people were killed in a stampede at Haiti's Laferrire Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, during annual celebrations. The incident occurred near the entrance as large crowds, including many students, gathered at the historic fortress. Heavy rainfall is believed to have worsened the situation, contributing to panic and congestion. Authorities have warned that the death toll may rise as rescue efforts continue. Officials have not yet released details of the victims. The tragedy highlights ongoing safety and infrastructure challenges in Haiti, which has faced multiple crises in recent years, including natural disasters and security concerns.Read more

14 Apr 2026

UK homebuilder Vistry has appointed Adam Daniels as its new CEO with immediate effect, replacing Greg Fitzgerald, who stepped down after nine years. The leadership change comes as the company faces margin pressure and weak housing demand. Shares fell following the announcement, reflecting investor concerns. Vistry has warned that rising costs, planning delays and subdued demand will impact profitability through 2026. Daniels, a long-time executive, brings extensive industry experience. The company will continue to focus on cash generation, increasing open market sales and reducing inventory, as the broader UK housing sector remains under pressure.Read more

14 Apr 2026

Business confidence among the UK's largest companies has fallen to its lowest level since the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a Deloitte survey. CFO sentiment dropped sharply as concerns over rising energy prices, inflation and interest rates increased amid the Middle East conflict. Companies are responding by cutting costs, reducing hiring plans and scaling back investments. Inflation expectations have also risen, adding to business uncertainty. The hiring outlook remains weak, with a significant number of firms expecting lower recruitment. The findings reflect growing pressure on UK businesses as they navigate higher costs and an uncertain economic environment.Read more

13 Apr 2026

Cathay Pacific has announced temporary flight cuts due to rising jet fuel costs linked to Middle East tensions. The airline will cancel about 2 per cent of passenger flights between May 16 and June 30, while its low-cost arm HK Express will reduce operations by around 6 per cent from May 11. Services to Dubai and Riyadh will remain suspended during this period. The move comes as fuel prices stay elevated amid global supply concerns. Despite the short-term adjustments, Cathay Pacific plans to resume full operations after June and continue its expansion, supported by strong demand for international travel.Read more

13 Apr 2026

U.S. mortgage rates fell slightly to 6.51% for the 30-year fixed-rate loan, the first decrease since the Iran conflict began, but the shift has not significantly improved conditions for buyers dealing with high costs and expensive homes. Refinancing declined, and purchase applications remain below last year's levels. Rising Treasury yields and increased fuel costs have added to financial pressure. Housing affordability remains a political focus, with the Trump Administration preparing a major policy announcement, building on earlier proposals to limit institutional home purchases and boost mortgage-backed securities purchases to lower borrowing rates.Read more

13 Apr 2026

Blackstone Digital Infrastructure Trust has filed for an initial public offering in the United States, aiming to tap into growing investor interest in data centre real estate driven by artificial intelligence-led demand. The REIT plans to acquire stabilised data centres leased to major global technology firms, including leading hyperscalers. Blackstone, which has deployed around USD 200 billion in digital infrastructure investments since 2018, is positioning the vehicle to target assets valued between USD 250 million and USD 1.5 billion. The listing, proposed on the NYSE under the symbol BXDC, comes as the US data centre market expands rapidly, with total asset value expected to reach USD 1 trillion by 2030.Read more

13 Apr 2026

IOI Properties Group has announced plans to establish and list a Malaysian real estate investment trust backed by a diversified portfolio of retail, office and hospitality assets valued at approximately 7.58 billion ringgit (USD 1.9 billion). The proposed REIT, expected to launch by the fourth quarter of 2026, will comprise prominent assets including IOI City Mall and multiple hotel properties. The offering could raise nearly 1.97 billion ringgit through an initial public offering of units, with total proceeds estimated at 4.62 billion ringgit. The company intends to utilise funds primarily for debt repayment and ongoing investments, aligning with earlier plans to explore dual REIT listings in Malaysia and Singapore.Read more

13 Apr 2026

Construction of the 1,200 MW Punatsangchhu-I hydropower project in Bhutan has resumed after a nearly seven-year halt caused by geological issues affecting dam stability. The restart was marked by a concrete pouring ceremony attended by India's Power Minister Manohar Lal. The India-funded project, located in Wangdue Phodrang, is expected to be completed within five years and will significantly enhance Bhutan's hydropower capacity by around 30 per cent. With over 93 per cent financial and nearly 88 per cent physical progress achieved prior to suspension, the project underscores continued India-Bhutan cooperation in energy infrastructure and cross-border electricity trade.Read more