Markets tumble as China hits back at U.S. tariffs
Global markets plunged after China retaliated against U.S. tariffs, deepening fears of a drawn-out trade war and economic fallout.
The European Commission is challenging Italy's use of "golden powers" in the banking sector, raising concerns over potential breaches of EU law and prompting a broader debate on investment screening rules across the bloc.
The European Commission has formally challenged Italy's application of "golden powers" legislation to banking sector deals, raising concerns over potential breaches of EU law. These powers allow the Italian government to block or impose conditions on corporate takeovers in strategic sectors, including banking, energy, and telecommunications.
Originally intended to shield critical assets from foreign takeovers, particularly outside the EU, golden powers were expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, their use in the banking sector—where the European Central Bank already holds supervisory authority—has prompted scrutiny from Brussels.
The Commission has initiated an EU Pilot dialogue, seeking clarification on how Italy applies these powers, particularly as Rome prepares to conditionally approve UniCredit’s proposed acquisition of rival Banco BPM. If Italy fails to provide a satisfactory explanation, formal infringement procedures may follow.
Critics argue that the increased use of golden powers has added unnecessary bureaucracy for companies, raising legal costs and creating uncertainty. Meanwhile, the EU is reviewing its foreign direct investment screening framework to ensure consistent application across member states.
Rome, for its part, is awaiting clarity on any future EU reforms before considering amendments to its national legislation. The outcome could significantly shape how strategic investments are governed within the EU.
Aid groups in Myanmar’s worst-hit areas urgently need shelter, food, and water after a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake killed over 2,700 people. Rescue efforts face challenges due to ongoing civil war, damaged infrastructure, and restricted aid access, with the toll expected to rise.
The inaugural Samarkand International Climate Forum will kick off on 4th April at the Silk Road Samarkand Congress Center in Uzbekistan. The high-profile forum will be held under the theme "Central Asia Facing Global Climate Challenges: Consolidation for Shared Prosperity."
French far-right leader Marine Le Pen was banned from running for public office for five years after being convicted of embezzlement, ruling her out of the 2027 presidential race. She received a four-year prison sentence, with two years suspended, and a €100,000 fine. Le Pen plans to appeal.
The Armenian armed forces attempted three reconnaissance drone flights over Azerbaijan Army positions near Gerenzur, but all were successfully intercepted. Meanwhile, Armenian units repeatedly fired on Azerbaijani positions from multiple regions, escalating tensions in the area.
Global markets plunged after China retaliated against U.S. tariffs, deepening fears of a drawn-out trade war and economic fallout.
China has escalated its control over vital mineral exports in retaliation to U.S. tariffs, intensifying global supply chain fears as it tightens curbs on rare earths, battery metals, and strategic technologies critical for defence and green energy.
Today, the High-Level Economic Dialogue between Türkiye and the European Union has been resumed in Brussels after six years.
BP Chair Helge Lund intends to step down "likely during 2026" and the process to pick his successor has started, the energy group said on Friday amid a campaign by activist hedge fund Elliott for more change at the company.
Wall Street’s major indexes tumbled sharply after U.S. President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs on key trade partners triggered fears of a trade war and global recession. Investors reacted with panic, sending markets into a steep decline.
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