Economy

Economy Latest News

Niger isolated and suspicious despite end of sanctions
Niger isolated and suspicious despite end of sanctions
by  AFP

It's been two weeks since the lifting of tough sanctions on military-ruled Niger, but the pace of economic recovery is slow and the generals have shown no inclination to re-open the border with Benin and seek a diplomatic settlement with neighbouring nations. Economic pragmatism, however, suggests that borders should soon be opened.

Lufthansa doubles profit in 2023, but strikes cast shadow
Lufthansa doubles profit in 2023, but strikes cast shadow
by  AFP

German airline giant Lufthansa more than doubled its profits in 2023, extending a rebound from the coronavirus pandemic even as it faces fresh risks from a wave of industrial action. Like other airline groups, Lufthansa was hit hard when the coronavirus shut down global air travel and it had to be bailed out by the German government in 2020.

Lufthansa doubles profit in 2023 as demand booms
Lufthansa doubles profit in 2023 as demand booms
by  AFP

German airline giant Lufthansa said Thursday it had doubled profits in 2023 on booming demand, as the aviation sector extends a rebound from the coronavirus pandemic. Like other airline groups, Lufthansa was hit hard when the coronavirus shut down global air travel and it had to be bailed out by the German government in 2020.

China trade surges in first two months of 2024
China trade surges in first two months of 2024
by  AFP

China's exports sharply accelerated in the first two months of 2024, official figures showed Thursday, providing policymakers a bright spot as they battle to revive the world's second-largest economy. Exports have been increasing since November, after six straight months of contraction.

Protectionism, taxes, fuel: The high cost of air travel in Africa
Protectionism, taxes, fuel: The high cost of air travel in Africa
by  AFP

Travelling 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) by air between two capitals on the same continent does not seem like a challenge. For now, "regional travel across the continent is very challenging and makes business hard", said construction consultant Munga.

Asian markets swing ahead of key US jobs data
Asian markets swing ahead of key US jobs data
by  AFP

Equities fluctuated in Asian trade Thursday as investors try to assess the Federal Reserve's plans for interest rates after boss Jerome Powell indicated they would start to come down this year. Traders are also keeping an eye on a policy meeting of the European Central Bank later Thursday, which is not expected to see any movement but investors are hoping for some guidance.

Despite oil riches, Libyans hit by plummeting purchasing power
Despite oil riches, Libyans hit by plummeting purchasing power
by  AFP

Libya may sit on Africa's biggest oil reserves, but many families are struggling with rapidly rising consumer prices as the festive Muslim holy month of Ramadan nears. Economic analyst Abubakr al-Tur said "Libya is experiencing a critical situation with rising prices and a currency devaluation".