Latest Finance-Economy News
ECB Signals June Rate Hike Possibility Amid Energy Crisis
The European Central Bank is leaning toward lifting interest rates as soon as June unless energy prices stabilize and the Iran war ends. President Christine Lagarde previously signaled the ECB will consider an increase in borrowing costs in June after debating and rejecting one this week
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Euro-Area Economy Unexpectedly Slows to 0.1% Growth
The euro-area economy slowed dramatically at the start of 2026, with first-quarter gross domestic product rising only 0.1% from the previous three months. Soaring energy costs triggered by the Iran war are threatening stagflation in the months ahead
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UK Central Bank Holds Rates Steady Despite Oil Price Surge
The Bank of England kept interest rates on hold, though several policymakers indicated they might consider future hikes. Oil prices have soared within reach of the Bank of England's most pessimistic scenario for the economy
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Euro-Area Companies Expect Significant Price Increases
Euro-area companies anticipate a 3.5% increase in selling prices over the next 12 months according to the ECB's survey on access to finance of enterprises, up from 2.9% in the previous round. This increase signals growing inflation concerns at the ECB
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US Unemployment Applications Hit Decades Low
Applications for US unemployment benefits plunged to the lowest level in decades, indicating that layoffs remain limited across the economy. This suggests continued strength in the US labor market despite global economic uncertainties
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US Business Investment Surges on AI Demand
Business outlays on equipment and structures advanced 10.4%, the fastest pace in almost three years. This rapid investment is supported by artificial intelligence infrastructure development
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Federal Reserve Maintains Rates Amid Policy Division
Federal Reserve officials left rates unchanged in a decision that revealed a deepening division over the outlook for policy. Increased uncertainty caused by the conflict in the Middle East contributed to the divided stance on future rate moves
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Taiwan's Economy Posts Strongest Growth Since 1987
Taiwan's economy grew the most since 1987, overcoming disruptions caused by the war in Iran. The island continues to ride strong demand for its tech products supporting artificial intelligence computing infrastructure
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Multiple Central Banks Hold Borrowing Costs Steady
Central bankers in Canada, Chile, Hungary, Thailand, Namibia, Guatemala, Ukraine, Malawi, Dominican Republic, Colombia, and Uzbekistan held interest rates unchanged. This global pause reflects uncertainty from geopolitical tensions affecting energy markets
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Iran War Energy Costs Drive Global Economic Concerns
Soaring energy costs triggered by the Iran war are creating stagflation risks and inflation concerns across major economies. Euro-area firms and central banks are particularly concerned about sustained price pressures from the conflict
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