News from October 2024
World Bank raises $5 billion through sustainable development bond
By Globe Banner | Oct 8, 2024
The World Bank has announced the pricing of a five-year benchmark bond, raising USD 5 billion to support sustainable development activities in developing countries. The bond, which matures in October 2029, attracted over USD 11 billion in orders from 175 high-quality investors. These investors included bank treasuries, official institutions, and asset managers.
Off-grid solar aims to electrify nearly 400 million people globally by 2030
By Globe Banner | Oct 8, 2024
Off-grid solar power is positioned as a key solution for providing electricity to almost 400 million people globally by 2030, according to the latest Off-Grid Solar Market Trends Report (MTR) 2024. The report, published by the World Bank’s Energy Sector Management Assistance Program (ESMAP) and GOGLA, highlights the potential of off-grid solar as the most cost-effective method to supply energy access to those currently without it.
World Bank highlights need for fiscal tools in Equatorial Guinea's forestry sector
By Globe Banner | Oct 8, 2024
The World Bank released the 2024 Equatorial Guinea Economic Update on October 8, which examines the nation's recent economic trends and future outlook. The report emphasizes the significance of creating effective fiscal instruments to promote sustainable forestry and diversify the economy.
WTO begins search for new Director-General ahead of schedule
By Globe Banner | Oct 8, 2024
The World Trade Organization (WTO) has begun the process of selecting its next Director-General. This initiative is being overseen by Ambassador Petter Ølberg of Norway, who serves as the Chair of the General Council. The selection will follow the WTO's established "Procedures for the Appointment of Directors-General" (WT/L/509).
Pacific cities embrace sustainable mobility with World Bank's new car-lite initiative
By Globe Banner | Oct 8, 2024
In March 2024, Saint John Bosco Primary School in Tarawa, Kiribati, underwent a significant transformation. Students and community members collaborated to enhance the area by adding a crosswalk, narrowing the road at the crossing, clearing debris, painting murals on the road, planting coconut trees, and installing no-parking signs. These changes resulted in traffic speed reduction from 34.7 to 19.7 km/h and increased car stops for pedestrians from 9 percent to 81 percent. The initiative improved safety for students walking to school daily and beautified the neighborhood.
World Bank unveils strategy for inclusive growth in Zimbabwe
By Globe Banner | Oct 8, 2024
The World Bank Group has announced the approval of a new Country Engagement Note (CEN) for Zimbabwe, covering the period from 2025 to 2026. This strategy is designed to support Zimbabwe's immediate development priorities and aligns with the nation's Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 2021-2025. The CEN aims to contribute to the World Bank Group's overarching goals of ending extreme poverty and promoting shared prosperity.
WTO expands academic network with five new universities for 2025
By Globe Banner | Oct 8, 2024
The World Trade Organization (WTO) Chairs Programme is set to expand its academic network by including five new universities. This expansion will bring the total number of Chairs to 40, enhancing regional and global initiatives and fostering collaboration among academics, policymakers, and trade experts.
WTO discusses legal issues in e-commerce work programme
By Globe Banner | Oct 8, 2024
Members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) have convened to discuss legal and regulatory matters as part of the ongoing work programme on e-commerce. During this meeting, representatives shared insights from their national experiences in shaping a regulatory environment conducive to digital trade. They emphasized the importance of continuing these discussions through dedicated sessions and workshops.
World Bank approves $150 million fund to boost Nepal's disaster response
By Globe Banner | Oct 8, 2024
The World Bank has approved $150 million in contingent financing for Nepal to address natural or climate-induced hazards and health emergencies. The financial support, known as the Nepal Disaster Resilience Development Policy Credit with Catastrophe Deferred Drawdown Option (Cat DDO), aims to bolster policy and regulatory reforms that enhance disaster resilience and improve institutional mechanisms for effective disaster response.
Fubon Life honored as best insurance company in Taiwan by World Finance
By Globe Banner | Oct 7, 2024
Fubon Life has been named the "Best Insurance Company in Taiwan" by World Finance for the thirteenth time, marking a significant achievement in the life insurance industry.
WTO emphasizes role of trade policies in clean energy transition
By Globe Banner | Oct 7, 2024
DDG Ellard has highlighted the critical role of trade policies in facilitating a transition to clean energy. She pointed out that these policies can reduce costs, decarbonize supply chains, harmonize standards, and redirect subsidies towards sustainability. This approach aims to create economic opportunities in emerging low-carbon markets.
Biden reflects on October 7th attack anniversary
By Globe Banner | Oct 7, 2024
President Joe Biden issued a statement marking the one-year anniversary of the October 7th attack in southern Israel.
World Cotton Day highlights economic successes under President Talon's leadership
By Globe Banner | Oct 7, 2024
This year's World Cotton Day, held for the first time on African soil, highlighted Benin's economic achievements under President Guillaume Athanase Talon's leadership. Director-General Okonjo-Iweala commended Benin for its robust economic performance and effective management.
Binance announces inclusion in Argentina's virtual asset registry
By Globe Banner | Oct 5, 2024
Binance has announced its incorporation into Argentina's Virtual Asset Service Providers Registry by the National Securities Commission (CNV), marking its 20th regulatory milestone worldwide. This development allows Binance to expand its full range of services to users in Argentina.
Congressman on constituent imprisoned in Nigeria: 'I don't know if they don't have the ability to treat him or they just don't wish to'
By Globe Banner | Oct 4, 2024
Congressman Rich McCormick, who is also a licensed physician, expressed concern about the physical and mental health of his constituent Tigran Gambaryan, detained in Nigeria since February. McCormick shared his statement during an October 1 podcast.
World Bank approves $800 million support for Uzbekistan's reform initiatives
By Globe Banner | Oct 4, 2024
The World Bank's Board of Executive Directors has approved an $800 million financial package in concessional loans to support Uzbekistan's reform agenda. The aim is to facilitate the country's transition to a more inclusive and resilient market economy.
Nigeria addresses high maternal mortality with new initiatives
By Globe Banner | Oct 4, 2024
Hajiya A'ishatu, a resident of Tudun-Wada city in Nigeria's Gombe State, shares her gratitude for the care she received at the Tudun Wada Primary Health Care Facility. "I had all my children in this facility," she says. "My family is grateful for everything the doctors and nurses did for us here." Her experience reflects Nigeria's ongoing efforts to improve maternal and child health services, particularly in underserved areas.
World Bank approves EUR 80 million loan for Montenegro's fiscal stability
By Globe Banner | Oct 4, 2024
The World Bank Group's Board of Executive Directors has approved a EUR 80 million loan to Montenegro. The funding aims to bolster fiscal sustainability and promote sustainable development in the country. This initiative, known as the Montenegro First Resilient Fiscal and Sustainable Development Policy Financing (DPF), seeks to enhance revenue generation, improve spending oversight, reduce fiscal risks, and address environmental degradation and climate change challenges.
IMF, World Bank Group, WHO collaborate on global pandemic preparedness
By Globe Banner | Oct 4, 2024
The International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank Group (WBG), and the World Health Organization (WHO) have announced a collaborative effort to enhance pandemic preparedness. This initiative aims to provide countries with increased support in preventing, detecting, and responding to public health threats through various means including the IMF’s Resilience and Sustainability Trust (RST), WBG’s financial and technical assistance, and WHO’s expertise.
Fmr. Moldova Economic Minister: ‘Sovereignty bus tour highlights the struggle between holding onto identity and embracing change’
By Globe Banner Reports | Oct 3, 2024
The former minister of economy for Moldova said that a “sovereignty” bus tour that launched this week is a “reminder” that the country needs “more time to decide whether the EU is right” for Moldova.