Day: July 30, 2024

China

China’s 10-year government bond yield dropped to a record low of 2.17%, reflecting growing pessimism about the economy and anticipation of further rate cuts. This

China

Laos, burdened with debt exceeding its economic output, primarily due to infrastructure spending under China’s BRI, is considering debt-for-equity swaps with China to avert default.

Pakistan

Pakistan is negotiating with China, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE to extend debt maturities and secure the three-year financial backing needed for a USD 7

Thailand

Thailand has revised its GDP growth forecast for this year to 2.7%, driven by a rebound in exports and nearly record-high tourist numbers, anticipated to

Russia

Russia’s central bank (CBR) raised interest rates by 2% to 18% due to accelerating inflation over the past six months, deviating from earlier plans to

Tajikistan

The World Bank’s recent report on Tajikistan gives it a passing grade for its current economic performance but cautions that excessive state role could jeopardize

Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan will conduct parliamentary and local council elections on October 27, 2024, under a new mixed electoral system, with the campaign starting on July 26.

Israel

Twelve children were killed and over 20 injured in a rocket attack in the Golan Heights, escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. The IDF responded

Egypt

Egypt’s oil ministry has announced new investments of about USD 340 mln with Shell, Petronas, and Cheiron Energy to enhance oil and gas outputs in

Ethiopia

Ethiopia plans to float its currency, the birr, transitioning from a managed floating exchange rate that has caused USD shortages impacting imports and profit repatriation

Ghana

Ghana’s central bank held the benchmark interest rate at 29%, citing inflation concerns and currency pressures. The decision reflects uncertainties around the inflation trajectory due

Kenya

Kenya’s shilling saw its most significant gain in eight weeks as the central bank began selling two infrastructure bonds, boosting dollar inflows. The shilling strengthened

Israel

Despite tensions over South Africa’s stance on Israel, the country will likely maintain its preferential trade access to the US market. This optimism comes amid

Uganda

Standard Chartered Bank expressed interest in funding up to USD 4 bln in Ugandan projects, including a standard-gauge railway and the acquisition of power distributor

Zambia

Zambia aims to restructure most of its remaining commercial external debt by year-end. Approximately 75% of its targeted debts have been restructured, with the final

India

Moody’s raised Paraguay’s credit rating to investment grade (Baa3 from Ba1), recognizing its economic resilience and growth. Paraguay, praised for its stable policies and low

Peru

Peru’s President Boluarte expressed optimism about exceeding economic growth forecasts and announced plans to advance the 2026 elections to next April. She anticipates growth above