Kuwait’s PIC invests $638 mn for 25% stake in Wanhua Chemical

Wanhua Chemical and PIC signed a joint venture agreement, with PIC investing $638 million for a 25 per cent stake in Wanhua Chemical (Yantai) Petrochemical.
Leaders from both sides attended the ceremony.
The partnership marks a new phase of collaboration, aiming to drive innovation, expand cooperation, and set a benchmark in the global petrochemical industry.Read More

01.05.2025Comments Off
Germany’s Covestro launches Desmopan FLY with SCF injection technology

Covestro has launched Desmopan FLY, a new TPU series optimised for supercritical fluid (SCF) foaming, offering lightweight, durable, and recyclable solutions for footwear, sports gear, and electronics.
With in-house SCF capabilities in Taiwan, Covestro supports efficient, sustainable production, helping brands meet performance and environmental goals.Read More

01.05.2025Comments Off
Global port sector resilient amid trade tensions & slowdown: Fitch

Global port activity is under strain from rising trade tensions and slowing economic growth, though credit impact remains limited due to stable revenues and contractual protections, as per Fitch Ratings.
While a prolonged trade war may pressure volumes and revenues, highly rated ports remain resilient.
Asian and Latin American ports could benefit from shifting trade routes and diversified partners.Read More

01.05.2025Comments Off
Italy’s indices for consumer, biz, manufacturing confidence dip in Apr

Italy’s consumer confidence index dropped from 95 to 92.7 in April, while the index for business confidence further fell from 93.2 to 91.5, according to Istat.
The index for manufacturing confidence fell from 86 to 85.7.
In manufacturing, assessments on order books marginally improved, while expectations on future production fell.
The retail trade confidence climate edged down from 103.8 to 101.8.Read More

01.05.2025Comments Off
49% of shoppers in UK & US exploit flexible return policies: Survey

A recent survey of over 4,000 US, UK adults found 68 per cent believe retailers make it too easy to abuse return policies, with 49 per cent admitting to doing so.
Many exploit policies to avoid full prices or wardrobe expensive items.
Younger consumers and those facing financial pressure are key drivers.
Retailers face a tough balance between preventing abuse and maintaining loyalty.Read More

01.05.2025Comments Off