Saleh Ashaka is a journalist based in Abuja, Nigeria.

Why FG is Boosting Road Infrastructural Development

20 Jan 2025  |  Politics Digest  |  English  |  Economic Growth

The Federal Government of Nigeria is prioritizing road infrastructural development as part of President Bola Tinubu's eight-point agenda, with a focus on economic growth, security, and poverty alleviation. Minister of Works, David Umahi, emphasized the importance of good road networks and announced plans to rehabilitate major highways across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones. The government is committed to professionalism and global engineering standards, ensuring accountability in road projects. Stakeholders, including the Permanent Secretary and Minister of State for Works, praised Umahi's leadership and dedication to the initiatives.

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Government Policy Economic Growth Road Infrastructure

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Career spot and breaking news reporter (CBS, CNN), now freelance in a chronically undercovered region.  I started my career in radio, but now I've added a full array of tools for "backpack reporting."  Mostly in Tijuana and San Diego, California, but extremely mobile.

Soy "periodista mochilera" ...

Brookings Institution Offers Predictions for San Diego Under Second Trump Administration

30 Dec 2024  |  Times of San Diego  |  English  |  Economic Policy

The Brookings Institution, in collaboration with the San Diego Regional Policy and Innovation Center, has provided predictions for San Diego under a potential second Trump administration. Key areas of focus include potential tax reforms, cuts to programs like SNAP and Medicaid, and the impact of new tariffs and immigration laws. The analysis highlights the importance of preparing for unexpected developments and the influence of past legislation, such as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, on future policy directions.

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Economic Policy US Politics Local Governance

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Călin Căciuleanu is a freelance journalist whose long-form work has most recently appeared in Panorama.ro and PressOne. He has over three years experience in covering labour and the economy for Ziare.com and writing financial crime-oriented news articles and features for the UK-based Financial ...

Decisive months for the economy. Taxes and levies that could be modified in the first part of 2025

20 Jan 2025  |  Ziare.com  |  Romanian  |  Fiscal Policy

The Romanian government is considering significant tax reforms in early 2025, as part of a plan negotiated with the European Union to reduce the budget deficit. The World Bank has been tasked with evaluating key areas of fiscal legislation and will provide recommendations on various taxes, including income tax, VAT, and property taxes. The government aims to simplify and make the tax system more equitable while avoiding tax loopholes. Despite previous assurances from Prime Minister Ciolacu that VAT and flat tax rates would not increase, the World Bank will present multiple reform options. The government may use the World Bank's recommendations to justify unpopular measures. The Ministry of Finance has not yet clarified how it will balance budget cuts with revenue increases, raising questions about the future fiscal strategy.

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Economic Reform Fiscal Policy Taxation

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Anthee Carassava is a journalist based in Athens, Greece.

Greece Unveils Ambitious Tax Reform Bill to Boost Incomes and Drive Economic Growth

27 Nov 2024  |  iefimerida.gr  |  English  |  Economic Growth

The Greek government has introduced a comprehensive tax reform bill aimed at stimulating economic growth and boosting incomes. Key measures include the abolition of the ENFIA property tax for certain buildings, VAT suspension on new buildings, and various tax reductions for 2025. The bill also includes a supplementary budget for public investments and EU co-financed projects. Finance Minister Kostis Hatzidakis and Deputy Finance Minister Christos Dimas emphasize the bill's focus on innovation, economic inclusivity, and support for citizens amid rising living costs. The reforms aim to modernize Greece's tax system and enhance citizens' quality of life.

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Government Policy Economic Growth Tax Reform

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Mariah Doksil is an award winning journalist based in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.

She is passionate about contributing to children, girls and women's empowerment, writing about social inequality and injustice, exploring environmental issues and also documenting stories and facts involving the ...

Plans to increase business trading licenses criticised

28 Nov 2024  |  Borneo Post Online  |  English  |  Economic Policy

The Sabah United Chinese Chamber of Commerce, led by Datuk Michael Lui, criticizes local government plans to increase business trading licenses, particularly in Tawau, starting January 2025. The chamber argues that these plans, alongside other cost-increasing measures like the minimum wage hike and e-invoicing, will burden businesses, especially SMEs, during an economically challenging time. They urge government officials to reconsider these policies to prevent additional costs from being passed to consumers and to foster a more supportive business environment in Sabah.

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Economic Policy Business Regulations

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Paul Ejime is a Global Affairs Analyst. A widely traveled journalist, former War Correspondent and author, he is an independent Consultant on Communications and Media development and Governance Issues, such as peace and security and elections.

CBN’s policy interventions have moderated inflationary growth, says Cardoso

30 Jan 2025  |  National Accord Newspaper  |  English  |  Monetary Policy

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has implemented several policy interventions to moderate inflation, which could have risen to 42.81% by December 2024 without these measures. CBN Governor Yemi Cardoso highlighted the increase in the Monetary Policy Rate and Cash Reserve Ratio, as well as reforms to strengthen the financial system and enhance FX market efficiency. The CBN's efforts have led to increased diaspora remittances and improved FX liquidity. The bank plans to continue employing orthodox monetary policies to tackle inflation in 2025, focusing on price stability and economic development.

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Economic Development Monetary Policy Inflation

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Onur Erdoğan is a journalist based in Mersin, Turkey. He started out as a foreign desk reporter at CNN Turk in 2002. He then worked at TRT Turk first as an editor then as the Baghdad Correspondent and Bureau Chief. Later he worked for Fox TV Turkey as the foreign desk chief. In 2011 he started to ...

Falling unemployment, but discouraged workers still number 2.5M: Where's the mistake?

31 Dec 2024  |  Türkiye Today  |  English  |  Economic Policy

Türkiye's unemployment rate fell to 8.6% in the last quarter of 2024, despite a 14% increase in discouraged workers, reaching 2.48 million. Labor and Social Security Minister Vedat Isikhan attributed positive employment data to government programs. However, 21 million women remain out of the labor force, primarily due to household responsibilities. Erman Kavlak from IKAMID highlighted challenges in finding skilled workers despite job growth, citing passive skill development and inefficient HR processes. Remote work initiatives aim to integrate discouraged workers and housewives into the workforce, while foreign investment is seen as crucial for sustaining employment growth.

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Economic Policy Unemployment Labor Market

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Antonio García is a journalist based in La Crucecita, Mexico.

Investments In Strategic Sectors

27 Nov 2024  |  www.mondaq.com  |  English  |  Economic Policy

Ministerial Order 306-A/2024/1 introduces the Regulation of the Incentive System 'Investments in Strategic Sectors' to support large investment projects in Portugal, focusing on sectors crucial for a carbon-neutral economy. The initiative aims to accelerate economic and climate transitions, offering non-repayable grants with aid intensity up to 35% for projects in assisted areas. Eligible projects include the production of equipment and components for zero net emissions and the recovery of critical raw materials. Applications will be evaluated based on innovation diffusion, economic optimization, competitiveness, and contribution to carbon neutrality.

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Economic Policy Climate Transition War in Ukraine

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Jonathan Gilbert is a journalist based in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Argentina Seeks Its First Wheat Shipments to China in Decades

29 Nov 2024  |  Yahoo Entertainment  |  English  |  Economic Policy

Argentina is aiming to secure its first significant wheat sales to China since the 1990s, following China's authorization of Argentine wheat shipments. This development coincides with Argentina's expected bumper wheat harvest and potential trade opportunities arising from US tariff threats under President-elect Donald Trump. The southern Buenos Aires province is projected to produce 3.9 million metric tons of wheat, contributing to a national crop forecast of 17.5 million tons. Argentine exporters are lobbying for reduced export tariffs to enhance competitiveness, though President Javier Milei's budget goals may hinder these efforts.

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Economic Policy Agricultural Trade International Relations

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Fabrizio Goria is a journalist based in Washington, United States of America. Editor-in-Chief of EastWest online and Financial journalist for Il Corriere della Sera. Co-founder of Alpinismi. Formerly at Linkiesta, Eurointelligence, Il Riformista and Panorama. Named among the top 100 Foreign Policy “...

Lagarde's Opening: 'Negotiate with Trump, Buy Gas and Defense Goods from the USA'

28 Nov 2024  |  www.lastampa.it  |  Italian  |  Economic Policy

Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank, advocates for negotiation over retaliation in potential trade conflicts with the US under Donald Trump. She suggests the EU should consider purchasing US products like natural gas and defense equipment to foster cooperation. Lagarde emphasizes the need for a unified capital market in Europe and highlights the importance of rapid action to address technological gaps with the US. She also discusses the potential benefits of cross-border mergers in the banking sector, while downplaying the focus on common debt, suggesting a mix of private and public investment for economic growth.

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Economic Policy Trade Negotiations EU-US Relations

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My last job assignment was for BOL Newspaper/Bol News, where I worked as Senior Correspondent. I mainly write on financial and economic issues but also cover political and social development as per the requirement of the publication/website. I can also produce video packages and documentaries.  

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Still a long way to go

12 Jan 2025  |  www.thenews.com.pk  |  English  |  Economic Recovery

Pakistan's economy shows signs of recovery, driven by IMF conditions rather than structural reforms. The current account deficit turned into a surplus due to lower oil prices, while remittances and exports increased. Despite economic stability claims by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, the burden of fiscal consolidation fell on the common man through higher taxes and tariffs. The government's tax reforms remain inadequate, with challenges in taxing agriculture and retail sectors. Privatization efforts, particularly for PIA, have been unsuccessful. The tax-to-GDP ratio remains low, and frequent mini-budgets disrupt economic stability. The regressive tax regime burdens salaried individuals and small businesses, while the circular debt continues to rise. Political and security issues further dampen economic sentiment.

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Fiscal Policy Economic Recovery Taxation

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Erin Hale is a journalist based in Taipei.

Why are Trump supporters claiming he wants to crash the US stock market?

17 Mar 2025  |  www.aljazeera.com  |  English  |  Economic Policy

The US stock market has experienced significant volatility since President Donald Trump's election, with theories circulating about his intentions to crash the market. Supporters suggest he aims to lower interest rates to manage national debt, while critics propose he seeks to benefit financially by buying stocks at a discount. Despite these claims, there is no concrete evidence of deliberate market manipulation. Economic experts attribute the market's decline to broader economic trends and potential overvaluation, rather than a conspiracy orchestrated by Trump.

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Economic Policy US Stock Market Donald Trump

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Amirmohammad (Omid) Karimi is an Iranian journalist based in Cologne, Germany.

I am an Iranian journalist who has worked for more than 20 years in various Persian language media (magazines, newspapers, websites, news agencies, social media and visual media) in the social field such as health, ...

Why was China able to control air pollution but Iran could not?

07 Jan 2025  |  parsi.euronews.com  |  Persian  |  Environmental Policy

The article compares the air pollution control efforts of China and Iran, highlighting China's success in reducing pollution through economic strength and effective policies, while Iran struggles due to economic constraints and ineffective governance. Tehran, along with other major Iranian cities, continues to face severe air pollution, exacerbated by inadequate public transport infrastructure and poor fuel quality. The Iranian government's inability to prioritize and fund environmental initiatives is contrasted with Beijing's significant investment in pollution reduction, resulting in improved air quality. The article underscores the economic and policy challenges Iran faces in addressing its air pollution crisis.

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Economic Challenges Environmental Policy Air Pollution

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Kit MacAvoy is a freelance photojournalist based in upstate New York.

Bryan To Sign GARVEE Bond Issuance for Infrastructure Projects

25 Nov 2024  |  St. Thomas Source  |  English  |  Government Policy

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. plans to sign a measure authorizing $156 million in GARVEE bonds to fund infrastructure projects in the U.S. Virgin Islands, including the revitalization of Veterans Drive and expanded ferry service between St. Croix and St. Thomas. The funds will be distributed equally across districts, with a significant portion allocated to repay previous bonds. Bryan emphasized the importance of federal partnerships and discussed efforts to secure disaster recovery funding and extend the rum cover-over rate. He also addressed concerns about federal funding and unemployment rates, highlighting the territory's economic challenges and opportunities.

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Economic Development Government Policy Infrastructure Development

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Kylie Madry is a journalist based in Mexico City, Mexico. Originally from Dallas, Texas, Madry now covers politics and culture for U.S. outlets. She speaks English and Spanish, though she primarily writes in English.

Mexico’s proposed higher mining royalties could block nearly $7bn in investments

21 Nov 2024  |  www.mining.com  |  English  |  Economic Policy

Mexico's government plans to increase mining royalties, potentially impacting nearly $7 billion in investments. The proposed hike follows previous legislative changes that shortened concessions and tightened water-extraction permits. The mining sector, contributing 2.5% to Mexico's GDP, faces challenges from these increased taxes, making the country less attractive compared to other major producers like Chile, Peru, and Canada. The Mexican Chamber of Mines, representing major miners such as Grupo Mexico and Newmont, warns that these measures could inhibit future investments.

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Economic Policy Mining Industry

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Mbongeni Mguni is a journalist with 16 years experience in business, economy and financial reporting, with 14 years of these spent at the level of senior reporter and above. I have worked and been published in Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Botswana with the last having been my home since 2004.
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Pension funds near PFR 2 target

03 Dec 2024  |  www.mmegi.bw  |  English  |  Economic Policy

Local pension funds in Botswana are required to increase their domestic asset holdings to 50% by December 2027 under updated NBFIRA rules. By December 2024, they should have 41% of assets onshore, equating to P61.3 billion. The domestic assets include listed equities, government bonds, and other investments. The changes aim to boost the local economy by redirecting assets to local infrastructure and capital market development.

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Economic Policy Pension Funds Local Investments

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Shafi Musaddique is a journalist based in London, United Kingdom. Currently freelance business reporter for the Independent. Bylines also in Prospect Magazine, Huffington Post in 2017. Previously a journalist at the BBC and the Economist, starting out as a reporter for local newspapers in London.

China's pain threshold for tariffs is a 'lot lower' than U.S., says former Trump advisor

14 Feb 2025  |  www.cnbc.com  |  English  |  Global Economic Policy

Stephen Moore, a former economic advisor to Donald Trump, argues that China's economic resilience to tariffs is weaker than that of the U.S., framing the tariffs as a strategic tool in a broader battle for global economic dominance. Moore criticizes Europe's stance on China, urging alignment with the U.S. amidst ongoing trade tensions. The article also touches on Trump's tariff strategies involving Mexico and Canada, aimed at curbing drug imports, and highlights China's retaliatory tariffs.

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Global Economic Policy Trade War U.S.-China Relations

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Right

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Irene Mwangi is a multimedia journalist with a background in reporting matters politics, governance, and human interest stories. She has great experience in penning down stories that call for change and transformation in the issues of governance here in Kenya and East Africa.

National Assembly Approves Gerald Nyaoma as CBK Second Deputy Governor

28 Nov 2024  |  Capital News  |  English  |  Economic Policy

Gerald Nyaoma Arita has been approved by the National Assembly as the Second Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Kenya, pending Senate approval. Arita, with 36 years of experience at the CBK, is recognized for his deep understanding of monetary policies and readiness to tackle economic challenges such as inflation and financial security. The appointment process highlighted his qualifications, including a Master of Philosophy in Economics from the University of Cambridge. The Senate will deliberate on his nomination in January 2025.

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Economic Policy Central Bank of Kenya Government Appointments

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Ibrahim NTOUTOUM’OBIANG-ENDAMA is a journalist based in Libreville, Gabon.
I am an Image Reporter Journalist and freelancer. I make several trips to other provinces of the country, in order to produce video, paper and audio reports.

BEAC: Soon a new range of coins in circulation

27 Dec 2024  |  AGP Gabon  |  French  |  Economic Integration

The Banque des États de l’Afrique centrale (BEAC) is set to introduce a new range of coins, termed 'type 2024', to enhance economic integration and modernize public finance management within the CEMAC region. This initiative, aligned with the adoption of a new Market Code, aims to optimize financial resources and improve transaction quality across member countries, including Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Central African Republic, and Chad. The new coins are designed to meet international standards, ensuring security and durability, and are expected to boost commercial exchanges in the region.

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Monetary Policy Economic Integration

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Ana Oliveira is a journalist based in São Luís, Brazil.

Brussels warns that OE2025 does not comply with all recommendations by maintaining support for fuels

26 Nov 2024  |  eco.sapo.pt  |  Portuguese  |  Portugal's Energy Policy

The European Commission has criticized Portugal's 2025 budget proposal for not fully aligning with EU recommendations, particularly due to the continued support for fuel subsidies. The Commission argues that these measures are not targeted at protecting the most vulnerable and do not incentivize energy savings. Despite the EU's insistence on ending these subsidies, the Portuguese government, led by Finance Minister Joaquim Miranda Sarmento, has rejected an immediate cessation, citing the importance of keeping fuel prices low. The Commission also calls for improvements in Portugal's fiscal system and pension sustainability. The budget proposal is part of the EU's broader assessment of member states' fiscal plans, with similar concerns raised for Luxembourg and Malta.

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Economic Policy Portugal's Energy Policy European Union Budget Recommendations

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Gabriela Pérez is a journalist based in México.

Bono Juan Azurduy has a budget of 187 million bolivianos for 2025

28 Nov 2024  |  Radio Fides  |  Spanish  |  Social Policy

The Bono Juana Azurduy program, coordinated by José Corini, has disbursed over 140 million bolivianos by October 2024, benefiting 3.5 million individuals since its inception in 2009. With a guaranteed annual budget of 187 million bolivianos for the program and 128 million for prenatal subsidies, the initiative is set to continue until 2025. The program supports pregnant women and children, contributing to increased comprehensive health checks, although specific data on maternal and infant mortality reduction is unavailable. The 2025 budget allocates 187 million bolivianos to the program, aiming to benefit over 241,000 people.

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Economic Incentives Social Policy Public Health

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Kirsten Ripper is a journalist based in Lyon, France.
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"Whatever it takes" for Defense: CDU/CSU and SPD want a special fund of 500 billion

04 Mar 2025  |  de.euronews.com  |  German  |  Economic Policy

CDU/CSU and SPD have agreed on a 500 billion Euro special fund for infrastructure and defense spending, citing recent global events as justification. The proposal requires a constitutional amendment to bypass the debt brake, needing support from other parties. The plan has drawn criticism from the AfD and commentary from various political figures and journalists, highlighting the political maneuvering and potential implications for Germany's fiscal policy.

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Economic Policy Defense Spending German Politics

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