Business

ECB rate hikes might knock 3.8 pct off euro area economy: analysis

Published

9 months ago

08/08/2023

Given that governments in eurozone have or will opt out of the supportive measures which were put into place in the face of the surging energy prices over a year ago, the regional economy can contract up to 5 percent in 2024, a Bloomberg analysis noted.

FRANKFURT, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) — Aggressive rate hikes by the European Central Bank (ECB) can inflict an adverse impact on the economy of the euro area, and will trim 3.8 percent off from its economic output in 2024, a Bloomberg analysis published on Monday said.

The analysis said that the combination of high interest rates and limited government capacity to stimulate development poses a potential constraint on the economic growth of the euro area.

Given that governments in the euro area have or will opt out of the supportive measures which were put into place in the face of the surging energy prices over a year ago, the euro area economy can contract up to 5 percent in 2024, the analysis noted.

The ECB has lifted key interest rates by a total of 425 basis points since last July in a bid to bring down inflation, which is hovering well above its target of 2 percent.

The central bank has refrained from pre-announcing another hike for its next rate-setting meeting, insisting that interest rates will remain its primary tool in the fight against inflation.

The ECB considered the euro area economy to be weak in the short run but said it would pick up momentum in the long run. The central bank will publish its latest edition of projections for inflation as well as economic growth in the euro area in September.

Source(s): Xinhua

Business

CWEIC office to establish in Maldives, Janah as Chair

Published

2 days ago

16/05/2024

Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC) has announced decision to establish its office in the Maldives, and appoint President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s Principal Advisor Mohamed Ali Janah as its Country Chair.

CWEIC in a statement on Thursday, said the office will be established to connect the Maldives government with international investors and businesses.

The Maldives hub office of CWEIC will play a vital role in seeking prospective investment opportunities from all 56-member nations of the Commonwealth. The office will also enhance strategic alliances and partnerships between these countries and the Maldivian government.

Veteran entrepreneur, Janah boasts of over 30 years of business relations with the Middle East.

Source(s): sun.mv

Business

Dubai company awarded the development of SEZ

Published

6 days ago

12/05/2024

An agreement has been signed by the Maldivian administration with UAE’s International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) to develop Special Economic Zones (SEZ) in the Maldives.

The agreement, officially co-signed by Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed and IFZA Chairman Martin Gregers Pedersen during a special ceremony, marks a significant milestone in economic development.

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Saeed emphasized the timeline for finalizing the agreement, committing to reach a consensus within the next four months. As part of the agreement, Fonadhoo in Kaafu Atoll will be transformed into a financial hub, featuring a new financial center and a bridge connecting Male’ and Hulhule. IFZA will bear the expenses for these developments.

The Ministry of Economic Development and Trade further highlighted plans for the Economic Gateway project in Ihavandhippolhu, aiming to attract investors with IFZA’s expertise. Addressing the attendees, Chairman Pedersen expressed confidence in the success of the project, underscoring collaborations with investors to further enhance opportunities in the Maldives.

The development of SEZs remarkably aligns with the President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s vision to diversify the economy and stimulate financial growth. The Maldivian administration is optimistic about attracting future investments and positioning the country as a desirable destination for business opportunities.

Source(s): PsmNews

Business

Over USD 713M generated attributing to revenue increasing by 3.7%

Published

7 days ago

11/05/2024

Ministry of Finance has revealed a remarkable surge in the government’s revenue generated as of April 25, which exceeds USD713 million. The latest weekly fiscal report publicised by the ministry indicates that this contributes to a 3.7% increase in revenue in comparison to the revenue of USD693 million, generated within the same period, in 2023.

The fiscal report shows that the revenue comprises USD 596 million in tax revenue, USD116 million in non-tax revenue, and USD3 million in aid received. Tax earnings include import duty, business and property tax (BPT), goods and services tax (GST), as well as earnings from GST. The breakdown of revenue generation includes USD45 million from import duties, USD168 million from BPT, USD330 million from GST, USD24 million from green tax, USD22.6 million from airport service charges, and departure tax.

Expenditures until April 25 totalled USD817 million, with USD629 million allocated to recurrent expenses and USD181 million to capital expenditures. This represents a significant reduction in expenditures compared to the USD244 million spent by the government in 2023, during the corresponding timeframe. Recurrent expenses cover USD207 million for salaries and allowances and USD408 million for administrative work. Meanwhile, capital expenditure primarily encompasses expenses related to structural development.

Source(s): PsmNews