News published on Globe Banner in April 2025

News from April 2025


U.S. ambassador meets with families of hostages taken by Hamas

Ambassador Dorothy Shea, who currently acts as the United States' Representative to the United Nations, met today with families whose members have been held hostage by Hamas since October 7.


Procter & Gamble announces 5% dividend increase for shareholders

The Procter & Gamble Company announced an increase in its quarterly dividend, raising it by five percent to $1.0568 per share.


SMEs face tougher credit access while demand for loans declines

Access to credit has become increasingly challenging for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Germany, according to data from the first quarter of 2025.


Moldova accepts WTO fisheries agreement, bringing it closer to global enforcement

Moldova has officially accepted the World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, becoming the 96th member to do so.


Croatia tackles labor challenges amid demographic and technological shifts

Croatia is confronting notable challenges in its labor market arising from a declining and aging population, alongside rapid technological progress.


Travel advisory updated for El Salvador due to changes in crime levels

The U.S. Department of State has issued a travel advisory for El Salvador, updating the advisory level due to changes in crime rates.


Barclays study identifies top UK cities for high-growth companies outside of London

New research released by Barclays Eagle Labs highlights Edinburgh, Manchester, and Bristol as leading clusters for high-growth companies outside of London.


China starts WTO dispute with US over tariffs

China has initiated a dispute with the United States at the World Trade Organization (WTO) concerning "reciprocal tariffs."


U.S. and Peru discuss strengthening ties and addressing regional issues

Yesterday, Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau held a meeting with Peruvian Foreign Minister Elmer Schialer.


U.S. embassy seeks cook services for Marine Security Guards in Conakry

The United States Embassy in Conakry, Guinea, is seeking contractor cook services for its Marine Security Guards.


UOB increases charter capital and invests in new headquarters in Vietnam

UOB is set to increase the charter capital of its Vietnam subsidiary to VND10 trillion, equivalent to S$520 million, pending approval by the State Bank of Vietnam.


IMF's review highlights Azerbaijan's economic growth and future opportunities

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has completed its discussions in Azerbaijan as part of the 2025 Article IV consultation.


Sinopec and Aramco to expand petrochemical complex in Yanbu

China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (Sinopec), Aramco, and Yanbu Aramco Sinopec Refining Company (YASREF) signed a Venture Framework Agreement on April 8, 2025.


WTO remains key to global trade security, says DDG Ellard

Addressing a group of trade and investment professionals, Deputy Director-General Ellard emphasized the crucial role of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in maintaining security and predictability for businesses globally.


US calls for peace in Ukraine after missile strike tragedy

The United Nations Security Council was briefed on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where the United States expressed its position and urgent call for peace.


Swansea University prepares for 2025 Welsh Varsity with sponsor support

Swansea University is preparing for the 2025 Welsh Varsity, a major student sports event involving Swansea and Cardiff Universities.


IMF team concludes economic review of Papua New Guinea

An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team recently visited Port Moresby to assess progress on Papua New Guinea's economic reforms.


ANZ partners with OSOS Hub to support victims of family violence

ANZ has joined the One Stop One Story (OSOS) Hub to support customers dealing with family and domestic violence.


Samsung Electronics issues earnings guidance for Q1 2025

Samsung Electronics has released its earnings guidance for the first quarter of 2025.


ING progresses with €2.0 billion share buyback programme

ING has provided an update on its ongoing share buyback programme, initially announced on October 31, 2024, with a total budget of €2.0 billion.