The G7 is least bad group for a troubled world 4 Sep 2023 The G20 and United Nations, which hold summits this month, are broken. The expanded BRICS is a motley crew. The Group of Seven rich nations has shortcomings and could struggle if the US turns inwards. But it has the potential to keep peace and protect the planet, says Hugo Dixon.
Twinkies maker will give food brands a sugar high 1 Sep 2023 Sweet-treat purveyor Hostess is mulling a sale to a conglomerate seven years after private equity firm Apollo took it public for $2.3 bln. At its current valuation, and as the pandemic sugar rush fades, there’s not much cream left for the next buyer to squeeze.
Missing metals hit green economy pressure point 1 Sep 2023 Shares in copper producer Aurubis fell 15% after it said inventory wasn’t where it was supposed to be due to “criminal activity”. The commodity is vital for electric cables and batteries. With demand set to outstrip supply, key-metal fraud is a risk for the low-carbon transition.
Builders have shelter against UK house-price storm 1 Sep 2023 Property values are falling as demand dwindles, but the likes of Persimmon trade on decent multiples. A squeezed rental market and peaking rates mean the pain may not last long. For now, homebuilders have strong balance sheets and can generate cash by depleting their land banks.