Business

The US and China signed a "phase one" trade deal, with China committing to buy $200 billion in American goods and improve intellectual property protections. US President Trump hailed the agreement as "fair and reciprocal," marking a potential breakthrough after two years of negotiations.

The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration has implemented a total ban on sending workers to Iraq, following escalating regional conflicts. Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III signed a resolution stopping all worker processing and deployment, with the Foreign Affairs Department mandating repatriation of over 4,000 Filipinos currently in the country.

Largest asset manager suggests environmental sustainability will become critical in future investment decisions, comparing climate crisis impact to 1970s inflation transformation

Malaysia's palm oil refiners face significant challenges as India restricts refined palm oil imports, reportedly in response to political remarks. The new policy requires import licenses, potentially driving Indian buyers towards Indonesian crude palm oil with more competitive pricing.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, an India-born American, commented on the Citizenship Amendment Act, calling it "sad and bad" during a New York event. His remarks drew mixed reactions, with pro-government supporters challenging his perspective on the controversial legislation.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has launched an investigation into Amazon and Flipkart, alleging illegal discount practices and preferential treatment of certain sellers. A New Delhi trade group claims the companies give advantages to their in-house brands and have strategic arrangements with smartphone manufacturers and e-commerce platforms.

Saudi Arabia's Energy Minister assures market stability, planning to pump over 9 million barrels per day in early 2020. Despite regional tensions following Qassem Soleimani's killing, the Kingdom remains committed to sustainable oil supply and demand.

Flybe continues to operate normally despite speculation about its financial status. The airline is in discussions with government departments about potential resources while maintaining focus on customer service. A spokeswoman emphasized the company's commitment to ensuring smooth travel operations for passengers.

Despite month-long demonstrations, Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam affirms the city's financial system remains strong. Drawing lessons from the Asian financial crisis, Lam emphasized that the protests have not undermined the city's status as a global financial hub.

Beales, a 140-year-old department store founded in Bournemouth in 1881, is facing potential closure. The company is negotiating with potential buyers and landlords to reduce rent and save its 22 stores. Currently, two potential buyers are in talks, including a rival retailer and a capital investor, in an effort to prevent the loss of 1,000 jobs.