SWEF Completes Major Portfolio Wind-Down, Returns 91% of 2023 NAV
Starwood European Real Estate Finance Ltd (SWEF) has returned GBP376 million to shareholders, representing 91% of its 2023 net asset value, as it nears full portfolio liquidation.
Business
161-Year-Old Belfast Consultancy Secures Strategic Investment for Expansion
A 161-year-old Belfast construction consultancy has secured a strategic investment from a UK-based firm, signaling a new growth phase for the firm.
BIR reports P358B collections in January as economy improves
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) collected P358 billion in January, signaling confidence in its 2026 revenue targets as the economy shows signs of recovery.
Nigerians Abroad Can Boost Credit Scores with These Steps
Nigerians living abroad are advised to build their credit scores early to access loans, mortgages, and other financial services, according to experts.
Uganda, Egypt Agree to Visa-Free Travel for Diplomats and Officials
Uganda and Egypt have signed a bilateral agreement allowing visa-free travel for holders of diplomatic and service passports, effective January 17, 2026.
Applebee’s Offers $6 St. Patrick’s Day Cocktails to Celebrate 25 Years of Mucho Drinks
Applebee's is celebrating 25 years of its Mucho Cocktails with new St. Patrick's Day specials priced at $6, featuring tropical and fruity drinks served in the brand's signature glass.
Canada Sees Mixed Travel Trends in December 2025
Canadian travel to and from the U.S. dropped sharply in December 2025, while international arrivals rose slightly.
BRICS Payment Tools Gain Momentum in African Energy Markets
BRICS-linked payment systems are gaining traction in Africa as nations seek to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar for energy financing.
Amazon Opens Second-Largest Asia Office in Bengaluru, Plans $35 Billion India Investment
Amazon has opened its second-largest office in Asia in Bengaluru, a 12-story campus spanning 1.1 million square feet that will house over 7,000 employees.
U.S. Ambassador Pushes Portugal to Adopt F-35 Jets for NATO Interoperability
The U.S. ambassador to Portugal has called on Lisbon to replace its aging F-16 fighter jets with Lockheed Martin's F-35 stealth aircraft, emphasizing the need for NATO interoperability.
Malaysia’s AG: No Political Role in Public Prosecutor Appointments Under New Bill
Malaysia's Attorney General said the proposed constitutional amendments remove political involvement in the appointment of the Public Prosecutor, placing the role solely with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
China Expands Arctic Influence Amid Melting Ice
China is increasing its presence in the Arctic as melting ice opens new shipping routes and economic opportunities, according to recent maritime data and policy documents.
Johnson Matthey Cuts Catalyst Business Sale Price to Honeywell
Johnson Matthey has reduced the sale price of its catalyst technologies business to Honeywell by more than 25% amid delays and trade tensions.
OFWs in Middle East to Take PH Board Exams in May 2026
Overseas Filipino workers in the Middle East will be able to take Philippine board exams in May 2026 without returning home, the Professional Regulation Commission announced.
Educate.ie launches digital learning platform for Irish secondary schools
Educate.ie, an Irish-owned publisher, has launched EdPal, a digital learning platform for secondary schools, as it expands operations and creates 50 new jobs.