Tag Archives: economy

Rabobank and EIB Extend Support for Sustainable SMEs with €300 Million Impact Loan

(IN BRIEF) Rabobank and the European Investment Bank (EIB) have announced the availability of €300 million through a new impact loan aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) focused on sustainable development. This new funding increases Rabobank’s ongoing commitment … Read the full press release

SEB’s China Financial Index Shows Decline in Business Outlook for Northern European Companies Amid Geopolitical Tensions

(IN BRIEF) SEB’s China Financial Index for 2024 revealed a drop to 52.0, indicating a challenging business environment for northern European companies operating in China. This decline, the lowest since May 2020, reflects concerns over customer demand, local competition, and … Read the full press release

Credit Conditions Improve in CESEE as Banks Show Optimism Amid Economic Uncertainties

(IN BRIEF) The CESEE Bank Lending Survey by the European Investment Bank (EIB) reveals a recovery in credit demand and supply across Central Eastern and South-Eastern Europe, driven by increased consumer confidence and improved lending conditions, particularly for SMEs. Retail … Read the full press release

Saxo Bank Releases Outrageous Predictions for 2025, Highlighting Bold Scenarios That Could Disrupt Markets

(IN BRIEF) Saxo Bank has released its annual Outrageous Predictions for 2025, presenting a series of speculative scenarios that, while unlikely, could have dramatic effects on global markets if realized. Highlights include a hypothetical second Trump administration disrupting the US … Read the full press release

University of Twente Joins National Protest Against Higher Education Budget Cuts in Utrecht

(IN BRIEF) The University of Twente will join a national protest in Utrecht on November 14 against proposed budget cuts in higher education. Many UT students and staff are set to participate, with free transportation arranged and strong support from … Read the full press release

SUSS Reports Record Q3 Results, Expands Production to Meet Growing Semiconductor Demand

(IN BRIEF) SUSS has reported strong Q3 results, with sales of €102.5 million and a 16.9% EBIT margin, continuing a robust growth trend in 2024. The company is expanding production, including a new Taiwan facility, to meet high demand. SUSS … Read the full press release

Würth Group Successfully Issues EUR 500 Million Bond to Strengthen Financial Liquidity and Strategy

(IN BRIEF) The Würth Group has successfully issued a EUR 500 million bond with a nearly 7-year term and a 3% fixed interest rate. The bond issuance follows a well-received European roadshow, where Würth presented its strategic plans and financial … Read the full press release

GfK Report: Germany’s Consumer Confidence Sees Modest Rebound, But Economic Fears Persist

(IN BRIEF) Germany’s consumer sentiment showed a slight improvement in September 2024, according to the latest GfK report. After a significant drop the previous month, income expectations and willingness to buy have increased, resulting in a modest rise in the … Read the full press release

EBRD and IFC Invest in Bank of Palestine to Strengthen Palestinian Economy Amid Crisis

(IN BRIEF) The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) have acquired equity stakes in Bank of Palestine to support its capital base amid the challenging economic conditions in the region. The investment will … Read the full press release

Metso Begins Talks on Temporary Layoffs Amid Low Demand in Aggregates Business

(IN BRIEF) Metso has initiated union negotiations regarding potential temporary layoffs of up to 90 days in its Aggregates business area in Finland. This decision comes in response to low demand, high inventory levels, and a decrease in orders at … Read the full press release

Vestas Updates Financial Outlook for 2024 Amid Adjustments in Service Costs

(IN BRIEF) Vestas Wind Systems A/S has revised its financial outlook for 2024, now projecting revenue between EUR 16.5 billion and EUR 17.5 billion, down from EUR 16 billion to EUR 18 billion. The expected EBIT margin before special items … Read the full press release

MOL Group Demonstrates Resilience with Strong Financial Performance in H1 2024 Amid Industry Challenges

(IN BRIEF) MOL Group reported strong financial results for the first half of 2024, with a 19% year-on-year increase in profit before tax, driven by robust demand in Downstream, strong Upstream production, and retail expansion. Despite industry challenges, the company … Read the full press release

TAKKT Reports Resilience Amidst Challenging Economic Conditions

(IN BRIEF) TAKKT has strengthened its resilience in the first half of 2024 by increasing its gross profit margin to 40.5% and streamlining cost structures, resulting in a slight increase in free cash flow to €25.6 million. Despite a 17.7% … Read the full press release

EIB and Banca Etica Partner to Drive €165 Million Investments in Italy’s Social Economy

(IN BRIEF) The European Investment Bank (EIB) and Banca Etica have signed a €60 million agreement to stimulate €165 million in investments across Italy. The initiative aims to support women-led SMEs, improve services for refugees, and boost economic development in … Read the full press release

EIB’s Record €1.6 Billion Investment Energizes Ireland’s Economy and Innovation Landscape

(IN BRIEF) European Investment Bank (EIB) President Nadia Calviño, alongside Irish Finance Minister Michael McGrath, announced a landmark €1.6 billion investment in Ireland, the largest in 51 years. The investment, aimed at fostering innovation, sustainability, and economic growth, will impact … Read the full press release

CEOs and Investors Navigate Shifting Economic Terrain: Outlook Revealed in EY CEO Pulse Survey

(IN BRIEF) The latest EY CEO Outlook Pulse survey reveals a nuanced perspective among CEOs, with two-thirds expressing optimism for revenue and profit growth despite economic challenges. Prioritizing investments in technology, data management, and cybersecurity reflects a strategic pivot towards … Read the full press release

Multilateral Development Banks Unveil Circular Economy Vision at WCEF 2024

(IN BRIEF) During the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) 2024 in Brussels, leading multilateral development banks (MDBs), including the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), presented their shared vision on the role of MDBs in supporting the circular economy. … Read the full press release

Bosch Maintains Growth Trajectory Amidst Challenging Economic Landscape

(IN BRIEF) Despite facing a challenging economic climate, the Bosch Group showcased growth and profitability in the 2023 business year. With sales reaching 91.6 billion euros and an EBIT margin from operations up by 5.3 percent year-on-year, the company is … Read the full press release

European Investment Bank Boosts Polish Economy with €600 Million Loan

(IN BRIEF) The European Investment Bank (EIB) has agreed to extend a €600 million loan to the Republic of Poland, aiming to bolster the country’s economy through investments in digital and social development. EIB Vice-President Teresa Czerwińska highlighted the strategic … Read the full press release

GfK Consumer Climate Report: German Sentiment Improves Slowly

(IN BRIEF) The latest GfK Consumer Climate Report reveals a gradual improvement in consumer sentiment in Germany, with slight increases in economic expectations and income optimism. However, the willingness to buy remains low despite rising income, reflecting persistent consumer uncertainty … Read the full press release