Economy

Stocks have literally never been this expensive

Why stocks have never been this expensive before

Global stock exchanges are currently at levels of valuation that are unusually high. This scenario has investors, analysts, and regulatory authorities intensely scrutinizing if such pricing is maintainable. In various industries, shares in comparison to profits, net asset value, and other essential indicators have increased significantly, sparking discussions about a possible overvaluation and the dangers of a market adjustment.Analysts frequently refer to the price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio as a primary measure for evaluating stock prices. Recent figures indicate that the average P/E ratio in leading indices has climbed to levels unseen in many years. Although some believe that low interest rates…
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BYD shares slide as China's EV price war hits profits

China’s EV price war triggers BYD share decline and lower profits

The market for electric vehicles in China has evolved into one of the fiercest areas within the global automobile sector. Initially viewed as a consistent growth path, this segment is now encountering a challenging phase characterized by fierce pricing tactics. BYD, a significant entity within the EV field, recently saw a notable drop in its share price due to profit margins being squeezed by a continuous pricing conflict among producers.The rivalry in China's electric vehicle market has heightened with the entry of new companies and the ongoing struggle of current brands to hold onto their market segment. For buyers, this…
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Fed losing independence would pose a serious danger, says Lagarde

Lagarde issues warning on danger of Fed losing independence

The independence of central banks has long been considered a cornerstone of economic stability, providing a safeguard against political interference in monetary policy. Recently, European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde underscored this principle with a clear warning: any erosion of the Federal Reserve’s autonomy would create significant risks for financial markets, economic growth, and public trust in institutions. Her statement reflects a growing concern among economists that central bank independence, once taken for granted, is facing unprecedented pressures in a rapidly changing global landscape.Lagarde’s remarks come at a time when central banks worldwide are navigating a delicate balancing act. After…
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Half of UK job losses in hospitality, say bosses

UK bosses say hospitality accounts for half of job losses

The hospitality industry in the United Kingdom is experiencing an extraordinary staffing crisis, with leaders in the field indicating that almost 50% of recent job cuts nationwide have taken place in restaurants, hotels, pubs, and other service-focused establishments. These alarming statistics highlight wider economic challenges impacting employers and workers alike, including increasing expenses, inflation, changes in consumer habits, and a lack of available labor.Hospitality has traditionally been one of the largest employers in the UK, offering work to millions of people, from young staff entering the job market to seasoned professionals. However, in recent years, the sector has been hit…
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WH Smith shares tumble 42% after accounting blunder

WH Smith shares tumble 42% after accounting blunder

Actions at WH Smith plummeted after revealing a major accounting error that has shaken investors and brought attention to the firm's internal management systems. The retail company, widely recognized for its locations in airports, train stations, and city centers throughout the United Kingdom and abroad, experienced a significant decrease in its market capitalization after acknowledging a financial mistake that exaggerated stated profits.The announcement sent shockwaves through the investment community, with WH Smith’s stock price plummeting by more than 40% in early trading. Analysts described the situation as one of the most severe financial reporting issues the company has faced in…
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Trump backs down from 250% EU pharma tariff in deal

Trump eases 250% EU pharma tariff in trade deal

The likelihood of a trade conflict between the United States and the European Union has been avoided after former U.S. President Donald Trump decided not to implement a significant duty on pharmaceutical products from Europe. At first, the Trump administration had indicated plans to impose a 250% duty on medications from Europe, which concerned both industry executives and health organizations globally. Nevertheless, after several weeks of intense discussions, both parties have declared an agreement designed to preserve stability in the global pharmaceutical industry.The suggested tariff was introduced as a component of a larger plan aimed at safeguarding manufacturing in the…
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