id
stringlengths 64
64
| published
stringlengths 19
25
| title
stringlengths 7
262
| description
stringlengths 6
54.4k
| link
stringlengths 31
227
| category
stringclasses 6
values | image
stringlengths 3
247
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1faa346fdf3ca1db9320b9c4917404d43ba1315b612d57ea62551ca4bde48646
|
2026-01-23T12:55:44+00:00
|
TikTok was thriving in the U.S., even before a joint venture saved it from a potential ban
|
TikTok and other China-linked apps dominated U.S. app downloads in 2025, defying mounting political pressure, trade restrictions and national security scrutiny.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/23/tiktok-other-china-linked-apps-thrived-in-the-us-in-2025-.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
372d7777d90b60d14dbcfe10b7bba0974e0ae8a621bc4b8b9bf2255c1ccbfc75
|
2026-01-23T00:48:31+00:00
|
Capital One's mixed quarter doesn't change our view on its budding transformation
|
There was a slightly larger-than-expected increase in provisions for credit losses, but we're not seeing any red flags.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/capital-ones-mixed-quarter-doesnt-change-our-view-on-its-budding-transformation.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
08bcd9e9a661fcbd8cf8d51f1fa2401ec3625d054c1c4614adc2812a87af9b8a
|
2026-01-23T11:31:18+00:00
|
Trump signed his Gaza 'Board of Peace' into being. Here's who's on it — and who isn't
|
European nations did not attend Trump's "Board of Peace," signing at the World Economic Forum in Davis, Switzerland.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/who-is-on-trumps-gaza-board-of-peace.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
45c3f24066283444cab11f2cff0ac53153a4b9c70425c7844aa2a079cb5834a1
|
2026-01-23T13:21:05+00:00
|
Advisors to the ultra rich say AI isn't a gamechanger for landing new clients
|
Referrals are still the name of the game when it comes to earning the trust of the ultra-rich.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/23/wealth-client-prospecting-ria-ai.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
000d3a4d26d47b4482301c9c1a8493de07e4385d7e204be2c9c94255c2b3e171
|
2026-01-23T00:53:37+00:00
|
Elon Musk says Tesla taking safety supervisors out of some Robotaxi vehicles in Austin
|
Tesla CEO Elon Musk said on X that his EV company has removed human safety monitors from some of its Robotaxi vehicles in Austin.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/musk-says-tesla-takes-safety-supervisors-out-of-some-austin-robotaxis.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
d7919a2031d8baa0f3b0342715dd994f8c8a42ef5d896f35f7bc50ed1b010c94
|
2026-01-22T23:23:35+00:00
|
Jim Cramer says he's not abandoning the Mag 7 stocks despite recent struggles. Here's why
|
"I think that the money will ultimately flow back to most" of the Magnificent Seven stocks, CNBC's Jim Cramer said.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/jim-cramer-says-hes-not-bailing-on-the-mag-7-amid-storage-stock-rally.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
49a095fc32aae80f1f534c72de627fc770ea31d05cd17a2c8b81b040024def3b
|
2026-01-22T23:18:21+00:00
|
Intel stock plunges 13% on soft guidance, concerns about chip production
|
Intel reported fourth-quarter earnings Thursday that beat Wall Street expectations but offered soft guidance for the current quarter.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/intel-intc-earnings-report-q4-2025-.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
b062f0ecf4cacb8cd96cf2f5b9e178417091c910311dc0917fff758d0e89fc2a
|
2026-01-22T22:47:34+00:00
|
Trump sues Jamie Dimon, JPMorgan Chase over debanking the suit calls 'political'
|
Chase Bank closed Trump's accounts on the heels of the Jan. 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol riot and the president exiting the White House later that same month.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/trump-sues-jamie-dimon-jpmorgan-chase.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
02da9fdafbbfc001922046017e229313b2159d5fb347aecc7b4898a484c41bfe
|
2026-01-22T18:57:42+00:00
|
Procter & Gamble is selling diapers made with silk fibers in China as it leans into luxury
|
China's record-low birth rate means that P&G has to get creative to increase diaper sales, even if fewer babies are born.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/procter-gamble-diapers-silk-china.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
4f88af31e2bf05384288429c966a781d9f617faa354a8a60749bfd7a0ed43b13
|
2026-01-22T16:53:37+00:00
|
Spotify's new playlist generator lets you add your vibes, feelings or memories
|
Spotify rolled out 'prompted playlist' to premium subscribers in the U.S. and Canada, which uses AI prompts and listening habits to make playlists.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/spotify-prompted-playlist-ai-vibes-feelings-memories.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
283baa5ca6501081f103b86946201ed17d13619c4b5bb16e4da4783559b3ace1
|
2026-01-22T20:53:48+00:00
|
Greenland PM: Don't know details of Trump-NATO deal framework, but sovereignty is a 'red line'
|
Nielsen criticized Trump's aggression toward Greenland, saying the rhetoric is "unacceptable."
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/greenland-trump-nato-deal-nielsen.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
cee430d88e2592076c23d3cc6da40ddf5d9fc75d8e65d8c865871930110d1fb4
|
2026-01-23T08:08:14+00:00
|
Bank of Japan raises economic growth forecasts ahead of snap election, holds rates at 0.75%
|
The BOJ also upgraded its GDP forecast for the 2025 fiscal year to 0.9%, and also raised its GDP projection for the 2026 fiscal year to 1% from 0.7%.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/23/boj-rate-decision-snap-election-takaichi-gdp.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
aa287e13e9bf91ace70fe10d7ff7ab9019ddab9b2b91fbf907d5d6ad15475564
|
2026-01-23T04:41:18+00:00
|
Japan inflation cools to 2.1%, lowest since March 2022, but rice prices loom large ahead of election
|
Core inflation touched its lowest level since October 2024, and was in line with expectations
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/23/japan-december-inflation-rice-prices-snap-election-sanae-takaichi-boj.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
07e1ce1e6d8108bcbe500694c5821d7a0cdd27bd0260decbf372a2c8a9b04a13
|
2026-01-22T20:40:15+00:00
|
Musk says Tesla's robotaxis will be widespread in the U.S. by the end of this year
|
Tesla robotaxis finally hit the road in Austin, Texas, in June after years of unfulfilled promises from Musk to deliver driverless cars.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/musk-tesla-robotaxis-us-expansion.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
32c996095cc2eea83a7c948af295cdb2093b8829e182d0cb419df6894b2bf9e4
|
2026-01-23T07:40:41+00:00
|
Xiaomi announces HK$2.5 billion buyback as competition and cost pressures weigh on stock
|
Chinese tech giant Xiaomi saw its shares pop in trading on Friday after it announced a stock buyback program worth up to HK$2.5 billion ($321 million).
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/23/xiaomi-321-million-shares-rise-stock-buyback-ev-chip-pressure.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
1f28e0f2434ab7690caf71f1ade9fb943c662cd18856ff038a0c77c414b81fe4
|
2026-01-23T08:39:06+00:00
|
India's largest airlines sees shares drop after earnings plunge 78% on forex and other provisions
|
Weak currency, labour reforms and passenger compensation costs dragged Indigo's earnings.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/23/indias-largest-airlines-sees-shares-drop-after-earnings-plunge-78percent-.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
11f2805d0475bf07297a583c5f4b3d29207b4d553c485354cce45c3b5a11d021
|
2026-01-22T13:05:55+00:00
|
Top business leaders issue an expletive-laced message on the green backlash
|
Top business leaders at the World Economic Forum delivered an expletive-laden message on the green backlash.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/davos-wef-green-energy-climate-change-trump.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
25fce83a48296fbbae6f79c6ddb4fa21b33eaa4c79027b6eed18f6d86cc631c5
|
2026-01-23T08:45:53+00:00
|
Skin Republic: Where great skin became simple
|
Grace had always been that friend — the one whose vanity cabinet looked like a miniature skincare lab. Toners from Japan, serums from Korea, creams from the US — each promising radiant, youthful skin. But one day, standing in front of her mirror, she realized that despite all her knowledge and devotion, something had gone missing — clarity. Between countless “miracle” facials that promised similar results and the steep price tags attached to good skin, things stopped making sense. Treatments were too painful, too time-consuming, and too expensive to feel sustainable. Grace wasn’t alone. Her friends, fellow skincare lovers juggling work, family, and everything in between, were feeling it too. So, she started asking one simple question — what if good skin didn’t have to be complicated? The Birth of a Republic With that question, Skin Republic was born — not as a place, but as a belief. Great Skin made simple — accessible to everyone through bright, firm, hydrated skin. A place where great skin could be simple, smart, and accessible. Grace and her team envisioned a world where everyone could have skin that’s bright, firm, and hydrated — the three building blocks of truly great skin. After endless testing, curating, and perfecting, they built three signature treatments that embodied these qualities: Each treatment used the most effective technology and techniques — gentle yet powerful, precise yet indulgent — because skincare shouldn’t hurt or break the bank to work. In November 2024, Skin Republic opened its first home at Three Central Mall in Makati. Within months, a second came to life in Ortigas Center. The dream was growing — proof that simplicity, when done right, resonates deeply. Great Skin for All From the start, Skin Republic’s mission was clear: Great Skin for All. That meant rethinking everything that made skincare feel exclusive. Great Skin for All because Great Skin made simple means treatments had to be: Because self-care shouldn’t feel like a chore. It should fit effortlessly into real life. The Next Evolution in Care As clients discovered and loved their results, one new sentiment began to surface. They wanted more — not just in results, but in rituals. People craved something soothing, sustainable, and natural — treatments they could enjoy regularly, not only to enhance their skin, but also to unwind, reset, and rebalance from the stress of daily life. That inspiration led to the creation of the Advance Naturals Series — a new chapter in Skin Republic’s story, blending nature’s best actives with modern skincare technology. From tea tree for defense, lavender for calm, charcoal for detox, and rose for radiance, to caviar for renewal — each treatment offers a moment to pause, refresh, and reconnect. True to its roots, Skin Republic also honors its Korean heritage through the Luxe Korean Series, featuring the Sulwhasoo Holistic Facial rooted in ancient ginseng rituals and the Rejuran Regenerative Facial powered by PDRN for deep renewal. And because the vision of great skin goes beyond the face, the Slim & Tight Body Treatment was developed — a comfortable, time-efficient way to melt fat, tighten skin, and smooth the body, extending the same Skin Republic promise from head to toe. Skin Republic Today Today, Skin Republic stands for more than skincare. It stands for confidence, accessibility, and genuine well-being — a belief that good skin should be simple, affordable, and restorative. Because great skin isn’t just about appearance. It’s about feeling good, inside and out. And when that happens — beauty becomes effortless. Spotlight is BusinessWorld’s sponsored section that allows advertisers to amplify their brand and connect with BusinessWorld’s audience by publishing their stories on the BusinessWorld Web site. For more information, send an email to online@bworldonline.com. Join us on Viber at https://bit.ly/3hv6bLA to get more updates and subscribe to BusinessWorld’s titles and get exclusive content through www.bworld-x.com.
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/spotlight/2026/01/23/726103/skin-republic-where-great-skin-became-simple/
|
Business & Finance
| |
632e1e5eae3ab0ee320413d5d08c081e290ba3f3b70ea098ebfa540c5cee56b3
|
2026-01-23T08:38:43+00:00
|
PHL women’s healthcare five years behind other SEA countries – expert
|
An expert said on Thursday that women’s healthcare in the Philippines lags five years behind other Southeast Asian countries, raising concerns about accessibility and awareness. “The healthcare industry here, particularly women’s health, has so much potential to be filled and to be so much opportunity for growth and also for development,” Carol Joanna Violago-Olivarez, founder and chief executive officer of Eluvo Health, told BusinessWorld in an interview. “We’re already five years behind our Southeast Asian neighbors and global institutions. It’s just a matter of bringing in what’s there already and putting it here,” she added. Data from the Hologic Global Women’s Health Index Year 4 Global Report revealed that the Philippines ranked 109th out of 141 countries, scoring 45 points. This is a 3-point decline on the year-over-year score index. In the East and Southeast Asian region, Taiwan ranked the highest globally with 68 points, followed by Singapore with 64 points. Japan and Vietnam trailed behind with 62 points. The global index aims to measure women’s health through five categories, including preventive care, emotional health, opinions of health and safety, basic needs, and individual health. The Philippines scored 16 points in preventive care, 57 points in emotional health, 75 points in opinions of health and safety, 30 points in basic needs, and 71 points in individual health. “I would say that our experience in training, when it comes to our exposure in public hospitals and private hospitals… I feel that the level of our expertise is very much at par with international,” Ms. Olivarez said. “There’s so much potential for us because we have the best compassionate healthcare providers in the world,” she added. The awareness and accessibility in women’s health are linked to the country’s culture as a conservative nation, with over 80% of the population identifying as Catholic. “It goes back to the idea that women came from that perception that you only need to get checked when you’re pregnant. In fact, it shouldn’t be even reactive,” she said. “We should be getting ourselves checked because that’s how we empower ourselves.” “I have to say, this is even something that we don’t fully touch up on during our training. The community awareness, training, and also culture,” she added. Eluvo Health Eluvo Health clinic, launched on Thursday, aims to address the gaps in women’s health and how Filipinas receive their wellness needs. “Eluvo is for the modern women who want to be the best that they can be and who takes control of their health,” Ms. Olivarez said. “Even from the design…we want it to be something that women are proud to go to. Like, you’re not embarrassed to go,” she added. “It’s like, I’m going here because I’m this level of wealth, this is me taking control of my health.” The clinic offers services including fertility, maternal health, family planning, sexual health, and hormone health, among others, ranging from P3,000 to P90,000. In Q2 of 2026, Eluvo will open its second branch in Quezon City and a third branch in Makati by Q3 to Q4.— Almira Louise S. Martinez
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/health/2026/01/23/726115/phl-womens-healthcare-five-years-behind-other-sea-countries-expert/
|
Business & Finance
| |
43bc605b691208953ac3fd91dfccc818a3c1581d16b6f644ae6f53552274b361
|
2026-01-23T07:03:54+00:00
|
Review: REDMI Note 15 Pro 5G
|
XIAOMI Corp. last week launched in the Philippines its latest mid-range smartphones, the REDMI Note 15 Series, consisting of five devices with Pro and base models and both 4G and 5G versions, offering a variety of choices to fit different budgets and needs. The brand lent BusinessWorld a unit of one of the three Pro models of the series, the REDMI Note 15 Pro 5G (8GB+256GB), for this review. The device’s suggested retail price starts at P19,999. Discounts and freebies for customers are available until Feb. 8. Besides the phone and the usual documentation, included in the box are a 45-watt (W) two-round-pin charging adapter, a USB-A to USB-C cable, and a protective case for the device. Using the provided charger and cable, it took a little over an hour to get the REDMI Note 15 Pro 5G’s 6,580mAh silicon-carbon battery 100% from 20%. The battery is one of the standout features of this phone for me. For a three-day media trip with Xiaomi to Cebu for the launch of the REDMI Note 15 Series, I only needed to recharge the phone once — and that was with heavy use of its cameras during a city tour and also for typical social media browsing. With typical use, I’d say you can get one to two days out of a full charge. A bonus: the REDMI Note 15 Pro 5G also supports up to 22.5W wired reverse charging via USB-C. Xiaomi also says this battery is designed with technology that can make its life last up to six years. Another feature that shines is the screen. The REDMI Note 15 Pro 5G has a 6.83-inch 1.5K CrystalRes AMOLED display that has a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, which supports a peak brightness of up to 3,200 nits. This made the phone very easy to use during the daytime, especially under direct sunlight — no need to shield the screen just to see what’s on it. Visuals are also clear and crisp, and color reproduction is vivid. The screen is also very responsive, and its flat design is a plus for me. When watching videos or listening to music, the REDMI Note 15 Pro 5G’s dual speakers, which have Dolby Atmos support, have great audio quality, making for an immersive experience. Even when using 400% volume boost, there is only minimal distortion. The phone’s overall design and form factor also makes for a good user experience. The flat side edges with rounded corners make it easy to grip for prolonged periods of time, even for a relatively large phone, as the device is thin and light. It also looks and feels premium. Powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7400-Ultra chipset, the phone delivers a smooth performance for typical use cases like social media browsing, watching videos, and even light gaming, making it a great mid-range daily driver. Software-wise, the phone runs on HyperOS 2.0 and has a simple and clean interface, and it also offers several AI features, including image editing tools. It does come with some preloaded apps and bloatware, but all of these are easy to uninstall if you find them unnecessary. The REDMI Note 15 Pro 5G features a dual-camera setup at the rear with a new 200-megapixel (MP) ultimate-clarity main sensor with optical image stabilization and an 8MP ultra-wide lens. Even without a telephoto lens, the phone captures sharp images with great details and colors. It performs very well when used outdoors in the daytime. During the night or indoor conditions with challenging lighting, as well as when using Ultra HD mode, image processing can get a tad slower than usual. There are also several shooting modes that can cater to both casual and more advanced users. I especially liked tinkering with Pro Mode (which allows you to use or save parameter presets), especially for night shots. Now for another of the REDMI Note 15 Series’ main selling points — its Titan Durability — the phone has IP66/IP68/IP69/IP69K dust and water resistance ratings, as well as drop resistance certification. Its display is also made with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2. I subjected the REDMI Note 15 Pro 5G to simple drop and water tests, and unsurprisingly, the review unit survived these. One drop test on floors made of hard tiles did result in small dents in the phone’s rear camera panel but did not affect its performance. Of course, only time will tell just how much (intentional and accidental) beating this phone can take, but its “Titan Tough” build can give users peace of mind — especially at a time when smartphones are set to become more expensive due to the surge in memory chip costs fueled by growing AI demand. Customers also get a four-year battery replacement warranty, two-year liquid damage coverage and front and back cover replacement, and a comprehensive two-year overall warranty. With its durability and long battery life, the REDMI Note 15 Pro 5G is a very capable daily driver for those who want a smartphone that can deliver great performance at a competitive price. — Bettina V. Roc
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/technology/2026/01/23/726084/review-redmi-note-15-pro-5g/
|
Business & Finance
| |
4688e1073fc268c636144394e3d8dc0641039a65f9cc0490455591671c1b8d09
|
2026-01-23T07:00:25+00:00
|
Pit Señor! Toyota Motor Philippines celebrates Sinulog with Coco Martin
|
Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) brought extra excitement to this year’s Sinulog celebration by welcoming Coco Martin to Cebu City during the festival weekend. Through this, TMP highlighted its support for local traditions and its commitment to engaging communities across the Philippines. Festival-goers were treated to a memorable experience, seeing Coco Martin up close as he joined the festivities, bringing energy and star power to the vibrant celebration. For Coco Martin, the Sinulog is not only a fiesta but also an occasion for people to unite in prayer and set aside differences. “Ramdam mo dito yung tibay ng loob at pananampalataya ng mga Cebuano (You feel the Cebuanos’ inner strength and faith),” he said during his visit to Cebu City on Sinulog weekend. TMP’s initiative not only amplified the spirit of Sinulog but also created meaningful connections with the people of Cebu. TMP and Coco Martin timed his Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw Roadshow with the Sinulog celebration, held every third weekend of January in Cebu, to be one with the Cebuano devotees. He proudly carries his badge as the Tamaraw Next Generation ambassador, enthusiastically going from one city to another to engage with the Tamaraw customers and his fans. Cebu City was his fourth stop after Cagayan de Oro City, Tacloban City, and Marilao, Batangas. He has more cities to visit in the months ahead. He likens the strong and persevering faith of the people of Cebu to the durability and reliability of the Tamaraw Next Generation. A devout Catholic, the actor/filmmaker who is behind the TV hit series FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano and FPJ’s Batang Quiapo, has a strong devotion to the Black Nazarene. Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) brought Coco Martin closer to Cebuano fans during the Sinulog weekend, starting with a meet-and-greet at the Toyota Mabolo showroom with Toyota Tamaraw customers. He then entertained mallgoers with lively performances, trivia games, and photo opportunities, even trying the steps of the traditional Sinulog dance. The weekend culminated with Coco joining the Grand Parade aboard a “Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw” float organized by Toyota Team Cebu, braving intermittent weather to experience the Sinulog beat and delight the street crowd. The Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw utility van, launched in 2024, has quickly become a popular choice among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), start-ups, and those familiar with the early Tamaraw FX. With its design customizability, fuel efficiency, and affordability, the Tamaraw is now increasingly seen on roads nationwide, supporting nation-building by enabling better mobility and empowering MSMEs to grow their businesses. Cebu businessman Eric Ong has just bought his second Tamaraw, the 2.4 GL Utility Van DSL AT. He already has the Dropside DSL A/T variant that he uses for his construction business, Worldwide Builders. He said he had waited for the 2.4 GL Utility Van DSL AT automatic transmission because it is more efficient to drive than a vehicle with manual transmission. Also, when he needs to load purchases of auto parts needed for his EGO Taxi fleet, the FX provides security for his cargo. And, he added, human passengers can safely ride in the Tamaraw FX. Marc and Christine Lin just bought a Tamaraw FX DSL A/T, intending it for their restaurant business especially for delivery. They said they find the Tamaraw “sturdy and reliable.” The Ongs and the Lins received the ceremonial keys to their Tamaraw FX from Coco Martin at the Toyota Mabolo showroom on Jan. 17. The FX is the first and only utility van with automatic transmission across all brands in the Philippine market today, according to Toyota Mabolo. Lester Alferez, who is in the coffee industry, found the Tamaraw “a reliable vehicle that can handle daily work in the shop.” “It’s strong, practical, and perfect for our coffee business needs,” he said. Toyota has rolled out new colors for the Tamaraw utility van: greyish blue metallic and super red for the Tamaraw FX DSL MT and super red for the Tamaraw Dropside DSL AT. To learn more about Next Generation Tamaraw, visit https://www.toyota.com.ph/tamaraw or inquire at your nearest Toyota dealership. Follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook, Instagram and X, and join the ToyotaPH community on Viber to get the latest updates on products, services, and promos. Spotlight is BusinessWorld’s sponsored section that allows advertisers to amplify their brand and connect with BusinessWorld’s audience by publishing their stories on the BusinessWorld Web site. For more information, send an email to online@bworldonline.com. Join us on Viber at https://bit.ly/3hv6bLA to get more updates and subscribe to BusinessWorld’s titles and get exclusive content through www.bworld-x.com.
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/spotlight/2026/01/23/726093/pit-senor-toyota-motor-philippines-celebrates-sinulog-with-coco-martin/
|
Business & Finance
| |
7d1554490686a9bc0ae4a3f09a3d44de654f3eec3fc3ac0342db0e9324d1243e
|
2026-01-23T05:03:55+00:00
|
Poor student literacy rates seen weighing on PHL economic growth
|
By Almira Louise S. Martinez, Reporter The Philippines may experience an economic slowdown fueled by the low proficiency levels of students, as literacy rates in both local and international assessments decline. “A decline in literacy weakens human capital, lowers workers’ ability to adapt to technology, and limits movement into higher-value jobs,” John Paolo R. Rivera, senior research fellow at the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), told BusinessWorld in a Viber message. “If this trend is not reversed, the Philippines risks slower long-term growth, weaker competitiveness, and deeper inequality, as more Filipinos remain trapped in low-skill, low-pay work while other countries move up the value chain,” he added. The foundational learning crisis has been a long-term problem for the country for at least 30 years, according to the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2). “If you see our curriculum for the past three decades, it’s very ambitious, it’s very aspirational. You go from so many types of literary texts, you study poems, short stories, extended essays,” EDCOM 2 Executive Director Karol Mark R. Yee told BusinessWorld in an interview. “But (it) turns out our challenge was illiteracy and the lack of ability to comprehend complex texts,” he added. “We need a curriculum that adapts to the learner, and we need to strategize and prioritize because we can’t expect them to learn everything.” Functionally illiterate Filipinos on the rise Data from the agency showed that about 24.8 million Filipinos were functionally illiterate in 2025, nearly doubling from the 14.5 million in 1993. The same concern was evident in the 2024 Functional Literacy, Education, and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS) report by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), which showed 18.9 million Filipinos aged 10 to 64 were considered functionally illiterate. Functional illiteracy, as defined by the local statistics agency, is the ability to read, write, and compute, but lacks comprehension skills. One of the most alarming markers flagged by Mr. Yee is the poor performance of elementary students, specifically in grades 1 to 3, where 85% are struggling to read, and only 15% can read according to their grade level. “We need to focus on the foundation,” he said. “We really need literacy until grade 3 because without that, you cannot keep moving them up to further grade levels to learn the other complex tasks.” The SEA-PLM 2024 report In the 2024 Southeast Asia Primary Learning Metrics (SEA-PLM), Filipino grade 5 students were lagging in reading and mathematics within the region. The study revealed that only 13% of learners were considered to have reached the minimum reading proficiency, while 14% have reached the minimum proficiency in mathematics. “If you look at the global data, it is really declining, which is why we’re not the only ones saying there’s a crisis – almost all are facing their own crisis,” Mr. Yee said. “Except that for us, because this is perhaps the first time that we are confronting this… It is clear to us that we are not alone. There’s a lot of us, and many have already succeeded,” he added. Economic effects of the learning crisis The decades-long learning crisis will have lasting implications for the country’s future workforce, Federation of Free Workers President Jose Sonny G. Matula said. “If literacy rates keep falling, the long-term risk is that the economy becomes locked into low value-added work.” “That means slower productivity growth, weaker ability to absorb technology, reduced competitiveness in higher-skill manufacturing and services, and greater inequality because fewer workers can move up the skills ladder,” he added in a Viber message. Mr. Matula noted that the industries that could be affected by workers lacking foundational literacy skills include manufacturing and production lines, construction, and OSH-sensitive work, logistics and inventory systems, customer handling and documentation services, and gig work where workers must navigate apps, terms, ratings, and digital pay systems. “At the macro level, declining literacy undermines human capital – so GDP growth becomes harder to sustain, more fragile, and less inclusive because productivity improvements stall,” he said. “A major gap is the tendency to treat literacy as a ‘school issue only’ when it is also a labor, economic, and social protection issue,” he added. Leonardo A. Lanzona, an economics professor at Ateneo De Manila University, said that roughly one year of schooling can lead to a 7% increase in wages. “We can perhaps infer that illiteracy is close to losing 7% of wages per year.” Analysts underscored that persistent low learning outcomes could lead to significant economic losses. “Global studies suggest learning losses can cost countries several percentage points of GDP (Gross Domestic Product) over the long run through lower lifetime earnings, weaker productivity, and reduced tax revenues,” Mr. Rivera said. “For the Philippines, persistent poor literacy could mean billions of pesos in foregone income annually, especially as the economy becomes more digital and skills intensive.” Citing the data from the World Literacy Foundation in 2023, Ateneo Center for Economic Research and Development Director Ser Percival K. Peña-Reyes echoed similar worries, stating that lost earnings, reduced productivity, and limited employability caused by illiteracy could cost $4.72 billion or P277 billion annually. He added that the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) also warned of a potential $17 trillion in lost lifetime earnings for the current generation globally without intervention. “These numbers highlight the severe learning crisis in the Philippines, especially post-pandemic,” he told BusinessWorld in a Viber message. By 2028, Mr. Yee said EDCOM 2 is seeking around 30% improvement in the reading proficiency of grade 3 students, raising the grade-level readers from 43% to 75% within three years. Reforms underway “Our proposal is that by 2028, we hope that 75% of all of our grade 3 students are reading at their grade level,” he said. “That will be a very good start because it means that we have seriously undertaken the reforms needed.” The Department of Education (DepEd) aims to address learning gaps through different education reforms and initiatives, such as the ARAL (Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning) program. The ARAL program, launched on Sept. 13, is mandated under Republic Act No. 12028 and aims to provide tutorial support for kindergarten to grade 10 learners in reading, mathematics, and science. In the 2026 budget for education, P8.93 billion will be allocated to the ARAL program to ensure learning gaps are addressed by “adequately trained and fairly compensated” tutors.
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/education/2026/01/23/726079/poor-student-literacy-rates-seen-weighing-on-phl-economic-growth/
|
Business & Finance
| |
42656bcd00ae1a1ad2da5aeb4750e89bf4d9638d56334c1031eaf72987bb3ccd
|
2026-01-23T02:01:23+00:00
|
New Google Gemini update enables beginners to create software
|
Multinational technology firm Google announced on Thursday a major update to its artificial intelligence (AI) model, Gemini, where users even beginners, can begin developing software through the new Google AI Studio. In a statement, the tech company said that through Google AI Studio, powered by Gemini 3, software development is now heading into an era of “vibe coding.” This means that the user can just provide a prompt or idea, while the AI, such as Google AI Studio, does the work by handling the code, visuals, and logic. Google said that, basically, even beginners with no programming background can create software with the new update. ”We’re moving from a world where you have to write every line manually, to a world where you orchestrate,” said Logan Kilpatrick, group product manager at Google DeepMind, the company’s AI research lab. ”The fundamental skills of critical thinking and creativity are becoming more valuable, not less,” he added. Google AI Studio can be accessed through the website aistudio.google.com. Upon visiting the website, there is a chatbox that allows the user to write a prompt for the desired software or application. Based on an initial attempt, the indicated prompt generated a working result in minutes, which is aligned with what Google claimed in its statement. Multimedia formats such as video, image, and audio inputs can also be uploaded to the platform and integrated into the generated application. Then it can deployed to Google Cloud with a single click, Google said. The tech giant said that by removing traditional coding barriers, Google is empowering users such as students, educators, and entrepreneurs to focus on innovation, creativity, and real-world problem solving. The Gemini app is being used by over 650 million users per month, according to Google’s report in November.— Edg Adrian A. Eva
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/technology/2026/01/23/726069/new-google-gemini-update-enables-beginners-to-create-software/
|
Business & Finance
| |
d2c5fe4408b0b7e2296b97c5425d8d9afd315f16306a29f1bcc2851dafc55720
|
2026-01-22T16:34:38+00:00
|
BIR to resume issuance of LoAs within Q1
|
THE BUREAU of Internal Revenue (BIR) may resume the issuance of letters of authority (LoA) within the first quarter, as the agency seeks to boost revenue collection. Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go said tax audits should be resumed as the BIR seeks to meet its revised P3.431-trillion revenue target this year. “We need to resume that. We need that for revenue collection,” he told reporters on Wednesday evening. An informed source said the BIR will likely resume LoA issuance within the first quarter. The LoA is a document from the BIR that allows an examiner to inspect taxpayer accounts. It is required before any tax audit can proceed. Last November, the BIR banned all field audits, including the issuance of LoAs, mission orders and examinations, following misuse allegations by business groups and lawmakers. “I must tell you that the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) cannot also survive with these letters of authority suspended forever,” Mr. Go said during his speech at the Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines event on Jan. 21. The BIR collected only P3.11 trillion in 2025, missing its full-year target of P3.22 trillion. Data provided to journalists showed that the BIR has lowered its revenue collection target this year to P3.431 trillion, 4.14% lower than the previous goal of P3.579.9 trillion. However, it is 10.5% higher than the actual collection in 2025. “When we resume this (LoA) activity, we will reduce the number of departments within the BIR authorized to issue letters of authority, and reduce the number of letters of authority a taxpayer can receive in any given year,” Mr. Go said. Mr. Go said the BIR will also digitalize and institutionalize a data-driven audit selection process for LoA. “By leveraging automated risk-based modeling, we are creating a system that minimizes discretion and strengthens accountability. The keyword here is quality assessments, and we will not allow arbitrary or abusive audits,” he said. The BIR earlier announced preparations ahead of the suspension’s lifting to address concerns of businesses. Business groups have long complained that inconsistent audit practices create uncertainty and expose firms to potential abuse. BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin R. Mendoza has said the agency earlier established a Technical Working Group Review Committee on Assessment Integrity and Audit Reform following the suspension of tax audits. The committee is now in the final stages of completing the policy issuances that will guide audit procedures once the freeze is lifted, he said. Mr. Mendoza had said that once audits resume, taxpayers will have access to an LoA verifier through the BIR’s Chatbot REVIE, and a new policy will limit audits to one LoA per taxpayer. He added that the agency will also implement a “revalida,” or audit‑the‑auditors system, to tighten accountability among revenue officers. These reforms are part of the BIR’s five-point priority reform agenda, called BIR DARES, with audit reforms as its top priority. DARES stands for Digital and Data Transformation, Audit Reform and Accountability, Revenue Collection and Base Protection, Employee Empowerment and Welfare Promotion, and Service Excellence and Stakeholder Engagement. Meanwhile, the Bureau of Customs’ (BoC) 2026 collection target has also been lowered to P1.003 trillion, 1.07% below the original goal of P1.0138 trillion but 7.34% higher than the P934.4-billion actual collection last year. Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno earlier said the agency missed its P958.71-billion target in 2025 due to slower import activity amid the rice import ban and the corruption scandal. In addition, the government raised its nontax revenue collection target by 40.47% to P349.9 billion from its previous target of P249.1 billion. For 2026, the collection target for other offices is pegged at P38.7 billion. — ARAI
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/top-stories/2026/01/23/725961/bir-to-resume-issuance-of-loas-within-q1/
|
Business & Finance
| |
9ceebfdc12022757ecb3ac3b3de6727489e6e1d9d4e542ead83181535908c387
|
2026-01-22T16:33:38+00:00
|
Philippines falling short of its RE targets, says S&P Global
|
By Sheldeen Joy Talavera, Reporter THE PHILIPPINES may not be able to hit its renewable energy (RE) targets on time due to grid constraints and challenges in securing permits, according to S&P Global. Vince Heo, director of Asia-Pacific Power and Renewables Research at S&P Global, said that RE’s share in the national power mix may only reach 27% in the next four years and 50% by 2050. “We are making a forecast. It’s our own view. It’s not based on our base case,” Mr. Heo told reporters on the sidelines of an event in Makati City on Wednesday. S&P Global’s latest forecast falls short of the Philippines’ target to raise the share of renewables in the power generation mix to 35% by 2030 and 65% by 2050. RE accounts for 25% of the country’s energy mix. Coal still dominates the energy mix but the Philippines is trying to move away from fossil fuel and tapping renewables to have a cleaner and more sustainable source of power. The Department of Energy (DoE) has been launching a series of green energy auctions (GEAs) to entice more developers to harness renewable energy sources, which has so far promised around 20 gigawatts (GW) of potential capacity. Despite this, Mr. Heo said that there is still “a big gap” between the government targets and the green energy auction. “They always disclose a very big number but when let’s say the GEA-4 was announced, we discounted the actual capacity to be installed knowing that there will be challenges in meeting all these targets,” he said. “Let’s say all these solar projects, seven gigawatts are all operational, there’s an issue with dealing with this intermittency from solar and there’s not enough storage in the power grid,” he added. Mr. Heo said this would likely push the country to rely more on “firm capacity” from coal and gas, which can provide round-the-clock power. Earlier this year, the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines — the country’s sole grid operator — has called for “a more incisive and progressive policies” on the entry of variable renewable energy to ensure grid stability. At the same time, Mr. Heo pointed out that the cost of financing a project in the Philippines is higher than in other countries. “I think [the Philippines has] a WACC (weighted average cost of capital) estimation of about 10-11% for solar project which is about 3-4% higher than the other markets and that’s a big portion of your project,” he said. Mr. Heo said the Philippines has higher country risk, making it difficult for international banks to finance projects in the Philippines. “A lot of things on the government regulation, uncertainties in the transmission, etc. It’s much more clear and visible in other advanced markets than the Philippines,” he said. Mr. Heo said the DoE’s termination of RE contracts is “good news,” as it shows the government is committed to transparency. “I think it’s good that the government came out and announced this news so that everyone knows what’s happened and the consequences of not meeting the timeline,” he said. The DoE earlier said it has terminated and relinquished 163 RE contracts, which is equivalent to nearly 18 GW of potential capacity, due to the failure of developers to implement these projects. Also, Mr. Heo said the Philippines is attracting more foreign interest after it opened its RE market to 100% foreign ownership. “Philippines is an interesting market, but definitely the government lifting the foreign ownership restrictions was a good trigger. We see a lot of foreign developers and investors now interested in the Philippines market,” he said. Meanwhile, Avril de Torres, deputy executive director at think tank Center for Energy, Ecology, and Development, said that failing to meet the RE targets “is certainly a possible scenario for the Philippines.” She said that this is due to the government’s policy directions that allow coal, gas, and other “detrimental energy sources” to crowd out renewable energy, rather than be displaced by it. “The government must ramp up support for distributed and community-based RE initiatives to help take advantage of this untapped potential, such as through incentives and concessional financing,” Ms. De Torres told BusinessWorld.
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/top-stories/2026/01/23/725960/philippines-falling-short-of-its-re-targets-says-sp-global/
|
Business & Finance
| |
5feb03ff451ec399f25b3d58d4497991713ab7aab8de6faafd228e78552fd47c
|
2026-01-22T16:32:38+00:00
|
Rice millers committed to higher farmgate prices for palay — DA
|
By Vonn Andrei E. Villamiel RICE MILLERS have committed to raising their buying prices for both wet and dry palay (unmilled rice), while importers agreed to an initial shipment of 300,000 metric tons (MT) to arrive by the end of February, ahead of the peak harvest season, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said. At a briefing on Thursday, Agriculture Assistant Secretary Arnel V. De Mesa said the commitment followed consultations by the DA with rice millers and importers, amid the early start of the dry-season harvest. Mr. De Mesa said millers agreed to buy unmilled grain at a minimum of P17 per kilo for wet palay and P21 per kilo for dry palay, particularly in major rice-producing provinces in Northern and Central Luzon. “The millers committed that they will buy at that price. Hopefully, it will be maintained until the end of the harvest season in April,” he said in mixed English and Filipino. The higher farmgate price is expected to provide much-needed support to farmers, as palay prices have dropped over the past year. Preliminary data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that the national average farmgate price of dry palay in 2025 was P17.70 per kilo, down 24.62% from P23.48 a year earlier. Following consultations with importers, the DA also identified an initial import volume of about 300,000 MT through the end of February, subject to further review based on market conditions. “The volume needs to arrive on or before the end of February, so that it will not coincide with peak harvest in March and April,” Mr. De Mesa said. According to guidelines issued by the Bureau of Plant Industry, rice shipments arriving beyond the Feb. 28 deadline will be returned to the source country at the expense of the importer. Data from the bureau showed that 178,397 MT of imported rice arrived in the country from Jan. 1 to 15, more than double the 71,772 MT initially projected for the period. Mr. De Mesa said the DA will study whether to reimpose an import ban or further limit import volumes once the peak harvest season begins in March. He added that the tariff rate on imported rice remains at 15%, pending an official announcement from the agency. In a separate statement, the DA said rice tariffs will not be raised until February and that the final details will be “carefully managed to avoid unnecessary market speculation.” Under the implementing guidelines of Executive Order No. 105, the rice tariff rate for January was scheduled to be announced by Jan. 15, based on December prices of Vietnam 5% broken rice, and will remain in effect until May 15.
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/top-stories/2026/01/23/725959/rice-millers-committed-to-higher-farmgate-prices-for-palay-da/
|
Business & Finance
| |
8139ba9fddffb3add9235cbc6c0c641c84483dceb342a74db93824b5af7c68cc
|
2026-01-22T16:31:37+00:00
|
InstaPay, PESONet transfers reach P24.7 trillion in 2025
|
By Katherine K. Chan, Reporter DIGITAL PAYMENTS in the Philippines continued to grow in 2025 as transfers made through InstaPay and PESONet amounted to P24.745 trillion last year. Data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed that the combined value of transactions done via the payment gateways stood at P24.745 trillion at end-2025, surging by 42.02% from P17.423 trillion at end-2024. Meanwhile, the volume of payments more than tripled to 4.773 billion last year from 1.508 billion in 2024. As of December 2025, the value of transactions done on InstaPay soared by 57.27% to P11.554 trillion by the end of last year from P7.347 trillion at end-2024. Meanwhile, the volume of transactions coursed through the payment gateway jumped by 231% year on year to 4.656 billion at end-December from 1.407 billion previously. Local households and businesses’ increasing use of digital payments led to the strong growth of InstaPay and PESONet transactions in 2025, Union Bank of the Philippines Chief Economist Ruben Carlo O. Asuncion said. “Wider adoption of mobile banking and e‑wallets, improved interoperability across banks and fintech (financial technology) platforms, and the growing use of digital payments for salaries, bill payments, and business-to-business transactions all contributed to the rise in transaction values in 2025,” he added in a Viber message. Mr. Asuncion noted that consumers and businesses have been using such automated clearing houses for large value transactions. Meanwhile, Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort said the convenience and security of digital payments likely boosted traffic in both payment gateways. “The strong, double-digit growth rates reflect the continued adoption of these digital payment solutions by Filipinos, who are shifting from over-the-counter payment transactions to digital banking due to greater convenience, lower costs, faster, safer and more reliable transactions,” he said via Viber. BSP data also showed that P13.191 trillion worth of transactions went through PESONet last year, jumping by 30.91% from the P10.077 trillion recorded in 2024. In terms of volume, PESONet processed 117.246 million transactions in 2025, up by 16.25% from 100.853 million in the previous year. InstaPay and PESONet are automated clearing houses under the central bank’s National Retail Payment System framework. InstaPay is a real-time, low-value electronic fund transfer facility for transactions of up to P50,000 and is mostly used for remittances and e-commerce. Meanwhile, PESONet is mainly used for high-value transactions and may be considered an electronic alternative to paper-based checks. Analysts said further digitalization push in the financial system would help prop up transactions in both InstaPay and PESONet this year. “We expect InstaPay and PESONet transactions to continue expanding this year, supported by sustained digitalization efforts, further onboarding of users into the formal financial system, and the growing role of digital payments in commerce and government transactions,” Mr. Asuncion said. “Continued investments in payment infrastructure, enhanced consumer trust in electronic channels, and policy initiatives promoting cash‑lite transactions should help underpin growth moving forward,” he added. John Paolo R. Rivera, a senior research fellow at the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, also said that InstaPay and PESONet may see more transactions this year amid growing partnerships between digital wallets and banks as well as government and merchant payment systems. “These transactions are likely to continue rising in 2026,” Mr. Rivera said in a Viber message. “Key drivers include financial inclusion efforts, expanding digital wallets and bank partnerships, deeper integration with government and merchant payment systems, and rising comfort with cashless everyday transactions.” “Ongoing fintech innovation, improved trust and security, and broader education on digital tools will also support sustained growth for InstaPay and PESONet,” he added. The BSP wants digital payments to account for 60%-70% of the total volume of retail payments by 2028, in line with the Philippine Development Plan. In 2024, the share of online payments in monthly retail transactions stood at 57.4% in terms of volume and 59% in value terms, the BSP’s 2024 Status of Digital Payments in the Philippines report showed.
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/top-stories/2026/01/23/725958/instapay-pesonet-transfers-reach-p24-7-trillion-in-2025/
|
Business & Finance
| |
5740a46c7403d8c9908e771cef5e8f58ed928b2142b6c89935a58d3e08717d1f
|
2026-01-22T16:13:24+00:00
|
Gaming sector seen to post modest growth in 2026 — analysts
|
By Alexandria Grace C. Magno ANALYSTS expect the Philippine-listed gaming and casino sector to see modest growth this year, fueled by online gaming expansion and steady mass-market play at physical casinos, though performance is likely to vary across operators due to regulatory challenges, rising costs, and uneven market conditions. “Listed gaming firms are shaping up to be a tale of two segments for 2026. Online gaming remains the main growth driver, while physical casinos are expected to deliver more stable but moderate returns, anchored on mass-market play and non-gaming revenues rather than a full recovery in VIP volumes,” said F. Yap Securities analyst Marky Carunungan. He noted that companies with diversified revenue streams, strong balance sheets, and exposure to stable tourism markets are better positioned for steady growth, while those reliant on a single customer type or regulatory framework could face greater risks. “Online gaming continues to be a key catalyst, benefiting operators with established digital platforms such as DigiPlus Interactive Corp., although earnings visibility remains clouded by regulatory uncertainties,” Mr. Carunungan added. Integrated resort operators, including Bloomberry Resorts Corp. and Belle Corp., are expected to benefit from gradual tourism recovery and resilient domestic mass-market play, he said. Toby Allan C. Arce, head of sales trading at Globalinks Securities, described the sector outlook as cautiously optimistic, noting that growth will likely continue but at a more measured pace than during the post-pandemic rebound. “Demand for gaming and resort experiences is likely to remain supported by recovering tourism, rising disposable incomes in key markets, and the appeal of entertainment-focused destinations,” Mr. Arce said. “However, performance is expected to be uneven, reflecting differences in geographic exposure, regulatory environments, and operators’ ability to diversify revenues beyond traditional gaming.” Analysts flagged regulatory and policy risks, heightened competition, and higher operating costs — including labor, utilities, compliance, and promotions — as key hurdles that could cap earnings growth despite improving revenues. “Any slowdown in regional or global economic growth could weigh on discretionary spending, particularly for high-end gaming and entertainment offerings,” Mr. Arce said. “For land-based operators, VIP and premium gaming recovery remains uncertain, while operating expenses and promotional intensity continue to pressure margins,” Mr. Carunungan added. Last year, listed gaming and casino companies showed mixed financial results. DigiPlus Interactive posted signs of recovery in the fourth quarter after regulatory changes affected e-wallet access earlier in the year. Pacific Online Systems reported higher net income for the January-to-September period, supported by stable lottery operations through its joint venture, PinoyLotto Technologies Corp. Bloomberry Resorts recorded a third-quarter net loss due to higher costs on its MegaFUNalo! online platform and weaker international casino performance. Belle Corp. also saw net income decline for the same period, while PhilWeb Corp. reported a net loss. Looking ahead, analysts said sustained travel and tourism, especially in regional hubs with strong cross-border visitation, could help integrated resorts, which combine casinos with hotels, retail, dining, conventions, and entertainment, tap diverse revenue sources. “Mass-market and premium mass segments are expected to outperform high-roller play in many markets, as operators focus on volume, stability, and lower credit risk,” Mr. Arce said. “Digitalization, loyalty programs, and data analytics will continue to enhance customer engagement and support repeat visitation, while non-gaming revenue streams will play a growing role in stabilizing earnings.” Mr. Carunungan said the shift toward mass-market gaming, non-gaming amenities, and technology-driven customer acquisition will shape the sector’s medium-term outlook. “Sustainability, responsible gaming initiatives, and stronger regulatory compliance frameworks are expected to become central to long-term strategy and investor perception,” he added.
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/corporate/2026/01/23/725975/gaming-sector-seen-to-post-modest-growth-in-2026-analysts/
|
Business & Finance
| |
afc6b6dcec696a5d6a60d346e19b7b2a564f27a049f8bf09f3e837b4a947e281
|
2026-01-22T16:12:24+00:00
|
Ayala Corp. plans up to P30-billion bond program
|
LISTED CONGLOMERATE Ayala Corp. has moved to secure regulatory flexibility for future fund-raising after its board approved a plan to register up to P30 billion in peso-denominated bonds with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). In a disclosure on Thursday, the company said its board, acting on the recommendation of its finance committee, approved the filing of a five-year shelf registration. The registration will allow Ayala Corp. to issue bonds in tranches over time, instead of seeking separate regulatory approval for each offering. The company said the required documents and disclosures will be submitted to regulators in the coming months. AP Securities, Inc. Equity Research Analyst Shawn Ray R. Atienza said the move is typical for large, diversified groups with ongoing capital requirements across multiple businesses. “The shelf registration improves Ayala Corp.’s capital-raising flexibility and streamlines future bond issuances by eliminating the need for repeated SEC approvals,” he said in a Viber message. Ayala Corp. is the holding company of the Ayala Group, with businesses spanning real estate, banking and financial services, telecommunications, power generation, healthcare, logistics, infrastructure, industrial manufacturing, education, and technology services. At the stock exchange on Thursday, shares in Ayala Corp. rose 2.1% to close at P534 apiece. — Alexandria Grace C. Magno
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/corporate/2026/01/23/725974/ayala-corp-plans-up-to-p30-billion-bond-program/
|
Business & Finance
| |
acb74caa1f41772efec4d1dd0c89eb12c71ac24c6e4e43a27ad29db7d64da5ff
|
2026-01-22T16:11:24+00:00
|
Megawide inks lease for P1.19-B Baguio City transport terminal
|
MEGAWIDE Construction Corp. has signed a lease agreement with the Baguio City Government to implement the P1.19-billion Baguio City Integrated Terminal (BCIT) project. In a stock exchange disclosure on Thursday, the listed engineering and infrastructure company said the agreement follows its receipt of the notice of award for the project last year. The lease covers the development, construction, and operation of an integrated transport terminal, including mixed commercial spaces within the premises, Megawide said. The lease term will not extend beyond the 40th anniversary of the construction start date or the expiration of the applicable usufruct arrangement. Megawide noted that the project was awarded after no competing bids were received to challenge the company’s unsolicited proposal. The BCIT is designed to handle up to 25,000 passengers daily and will initially serve seven southbound routes, including La Union, Pangasinan, Tarlac, Pampanga, Bulacan, Metro Manila, and Cavite via the planned South Luzon Integrated Terminal Exchange. The terminal will be built on a five-hectare property in Barangay Dontogan, about five kilometers from Baguio City proper. The project aims to ease traffic congestion in the city by relocating provincial buses and UV Express vans outside the central district. On Thursday, Megawide shares rose 17 centavos, or 5.41%, to close at P3.31 apiece. — Ashley Erika O. Jose
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/corporate/2026/01/23/725973/megawide-inks-lease-for-p1-19-b-baguio-city-transport-terminal/
|
Business & Finance
| |
2aca7556de986a7e88db03b9f861f52a663d2b1cf4893ca6efeb7e9823aa0077
|
2026-01-22T16:10:23+00:00
|
Cebu Pacific to complete turboprop transfer to Clark by March
|
BUDGET CARRIER Cebu Pacific Air, Inc. said it will complete the transfer of its turboprop operations from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to Clark International Airport by March. Starting March 29, Cebgo, the airline’s regional brand, will operate from Clark, covering its Coron (Busuanga) and Naga routes, the company said in a statement on Thursday. The move follows a 2025 resolution issued by the Department of Transportation’s (DoTr) Manila Slot Coordination Committee directing the relocation of turboprop operations outside Metro Manila. Boutique airline AirSWIFT, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cebu Pacific, will also transfer its operations to Clark from NAIA Terminal 2. The shift will affect its Manila-El Nido-Manila flights, the company said. Cebu Pacific said affected passengers will be automatically rebooked on new flights departing from Clark. It added that passengers may opt for free rebooking, refunds, or travel fund conversion should they prefer alternative arrangements. The government had earlier deferred the implementation of the turboprop relocation to March this year from October last year to give airlines additional time to complete the transition. The transfer aims to help decongest NAIA and improve air traffic flow, the airline said. Cebu Pacific also said it will increase flight frequencies for selected domestic and international routes from Manila. Weekly flights will rise to 63 for Bacolod, 46 for Butuan, 69 for Cagayan de Oro, 108 for Cebu, 90 for Davao, 42 for Dumaguete, 14 for Ozamiz, 49 for Tacloban, and 45 for Zamboanga. Internationally, the airline will increase Manila-Hong Kong flights to 35 per week from 28, and Manila-Kaohsiung flights to five per week from three. Cebu Pacific currently serves 37 domestic and 26 international destinations with a fleet of 100 aircraft. — Ashley Erika O. Jose
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/corporate/2026/01/23/725972/cebu-pacific-to-complete-turboprop-transfer-to-clark-by-march/
|
Business & Finance
| |
ad25f9a76d7cbf6e4035f99789dffa3f9a8591dcf42cfb47dc2490f074a93f17
|
2026-01-22T16:09:23+00:00
|
SPNEC seeks SEC nod for rebranding to MGEN Renewable Energy
|
SP NEW ENERGY CORP. (SPNEC) said it has applied for regulatory approval to change its corporate name to MGEN Renewable Energy Holdings, Inc., as part of a broader rebranding initiative within its parent group. In a statement on Thursday, SPNEC said it filed an application with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to amend its corporate name and change its stock symbol to MGENR. The company said the move forms part of the “ongoing rebranding initiative” of its parent, Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGEN), which began in August last year. “It aims to strengthen alignment and consistency across the One MGEN group as it presents a unified identity for its diversified power generation portfolio, including renewable energy,” SPNEC said. SPNEC added that the initiative is intended to “enhance clarity and ease of identification for stakeholders and does not involve any changes to SPNEC’s ownership structure, operations, or existing renewable energy projects.” SPNEC is a subsidiary of MGEN, the power generation arm of Manila Electric Co. (Meralco). Analysts said the rebranding may help clarify the company’s position within the Meralco group following recent developments in the renewable energy sector. “SPNEC’s corporate name change positions the company away from the Solar Philippines branding and allows it to be perceived as a renewable energy arm within Meralco’s ecosystem, which has an impeccable track record in project execution,” Shawn Ray R. Atienza, an equity research analyst at AP Securities, Inc., told BusinessWorld. Juan Paolo E. Colet, managing director at China Bank Capital Corp., said the move could support Meralco PowerGen’s longer-term plans for its renewable energy business. “I think this confirms that Meralco PowerGen will push through with the backdoor infusion of its renewable energy business into the listed company,” he said. MGEN said last year that it is evaluating a potential initial public offering of its renewable energy unit, MGEN Renewable Energy, Inc., which may involve the injection of assets into SPNEC in exchange for shares. SPNEC is developing the MTerra Solar Project through its subsidiary, Terra Solar Philippines, Inc. The project consists of a 2,500-megawatt solar facility with a 4,600-megawatt-hour battery energy storage system located in Nueva Ecija and Bulacan. The first phase of the project is expected to be completed early this year, while the second phase is scheduled for completion in 2027. MTerra Solar is expected to contribute to MGEN’s goal of reaching 1,500 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2027. Meralco’s controlling shareholder, Beacon Electric Asset Holdings, Inc., is partly owned by PLDT Inc. Hastings Holdings, Inc., a unit of PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund subsidiary MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., has an interest in BusinessWorld through the Philippine Star Group, which it controls. — Sheldeen Joy Talavera
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/corporate/2026/01/23/725971/spnec-seeks-sec-nod-for-rebranding-to-mgen-renewable-energy/
|
Business & Finance
| |
2a37be5ff58044b0ee7aef934593c71ad9cd8b99a5e6c5433bdcbe3f618fd88d
|
2026-01-22T16:08:22+00:00
|
SEC says new rules on board directors expected this quarter
|
THE SECURITIES and Exchange Commission (SEC) plans to introduce new rules within the first quarter setting fixed terms for independent directors, as part of efforts to strengthen corporate governance and accountability in listed companies. Under the proposed rules, independent directors — board members who represent shareholders and help oversee company management — would serve three-year terms, with a maximum cumulative service of nine years. The SEC also plans to stagger terms so that not all seats are renewed at the same time. “This ensures that boards remain balanced and independent while giving companies time to plan leadership transitions,” SEC Chairperson Francisco Ed. Lim said on Wednesday. Currently, independent directors can serve up to nine years, with some companies allowed to extend their terms under special exemptions. Mr. Lim said the SEC intends to enforce the nine-year cap more strictly going forward. The changes aim to strengthen the role of independent directors in holding management accountable, protecting shareholder interests, and promoting transparency in company operations. — Alexandria Grace C. Magno
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/corporate/2026/01/23/725970/sec-says-new-rules-on-board-directors-expected-this-quarter/
|
Business & Finance
| |
743cbb2378fa36a5ed5ce23e9a60d4d918f9a0cfbf42b2fc17a72c88ce98e540
|
2026-01-22T16:07:47+00:00
|
’80s nostalgia seen with fresh eyes
|
Bagets the Musical gets ready for its audience By Brontë H. Lacsamana, Reporter STAGING a beloved Filipino coming-of-age tale four decades after the original film came out could be considered a no-brainer in 2026, given how nostalgia is the big thing in different forms of storytelling today. Using the versatility of Philippine theater as a platform, the challenge now is presenting 1980s nostalgia with a refreshed perspective. As Bagets the Musical opens this year, it’s important to note the interesting blend of creative groups that brought the show to life. It’s adapted by PETA Plus (the creative agency of the Philippine Educational Theater Association), produced by Viva Communications, Inc. (which produced the Bagets film in 1984), and helmed by Philstar Next (the Philstar Media Group’s entertainment arm*). Put all of that together, and you have a musical that aims to recapture the spirit of Filipino youth — with the help of songs from the movie as well as other iconic 1980s hits — while giving audiences some nuggets of reflection to carry home from the show. “We hope you’ll enjoy this because the kids worked hard during rehearsals. It’s a fun show and I hope you all enjoy it!” said director Maribel Legarda at the start of the open rehearsals on Jan. 21. (As with all technical dress rehearsals, the show BusinessWorld saw was not yet fully polished, so there were a few mishaps with lighting. Otherwise, it was already mostly how it should be on opening night.) “It’s not perfectly clean yet, but generally it’s complete and you’ll get a sense of what Bagets has become from its transition from the 1984 movie to the musical you’re going to see,” Ms. Legarda said. A cute touch while the audience waits for the curtains to rise is the voiceover announcing the minutes left before the show starts — each one is recorded by a cast member announcing the time in character. The musical opens by traveling back in time, as a large box television set projected on the screen in front takes us from 2026 newsbites to all the way back to the vibrant colors and sounds of 1984. After that, the energy kicks off, as five young men — Topee, Tonton, Gilbert, Arnel, and Adie — cap off their third year in high school causing trouble as usual. Hilarious antics follow as they get kicked out of their school and launch into a series of adventures and misadventures both at home and in their new school, revealing complex family issues at the same time. Tall, rolling set pieces were utilized cleverly, allowing us to glimpse each boy’s house in multiple scenes, while the mini car they used onstage was fun to see as it glided around. While the timing of the lights with the music and dialogue was, indeed, a work-in-progress, the use of set pieces, props, and LED screens is exciting. It’s fun to watch a dynamic PETA Plus production on a stage as vast as the Newport Performing Arts Theater. The five leads were played by Sam Shoaf, Milo Cruz, Noel Comia, Jr., Ethan David, and Andres Muhlach during the open rehearsals, and it was good to see that a shared chemistry was there. Admittedly, there were some glaring pain points in terms of singing and dancing skills. Some of the performers take to the songs and choreography better than others, but the chemistry of the five as friends is undeniable. Each brings something different to the table. Sam Shoaf has a magnetic presence as martial arts ace and athletic heartthrob Topee. Milo Cruz is a solid performer who can sing and bust out moves as he takes on daredevil Tonton. Noel Comia, Jr., stands out as an actor, able to bring out both the comic relief and endearing geek within Gilbert. Ethan David lends his beautiful voice to the role of well-mannered rich kid Arnel. Andres Muhlach probably has the most pressure on him out of the bunch, having the least performing experience in the group and being in the shadow of his father who originated the role of the baby-faced romantic Adie in the movie. Still, he perseveres through the songs and choreography, offering a singular charm to the role. Altogether, the five make it work, amid understandable first-show jitters and timing issues. The other batch of leads — Jeff Moses, Migo Valid, Tomas Rodriguez, KD Estrada, and Mico Hendrix Chua — would be interesting to see, for a different take on the main barkada. Finally, it would be remiss to talk about Bagets the Musical without giving kudos to the actors playing the moms. Thanks to director Ms. Legarda and writer J-mee Katanyag, a noticeable focus of the show is how mothers take care of their sons, expanding the glimpses we see in the original film. The ermats are played splendidly by Neomi Gonzales, Natasha Cabrera, Mayen Cadd, Ring Antonio, and Carla Guevara Laforteza, each delivering the quirks and flaws that flesh out dimensions of the boys’ lives. They have their own journey growing up alongside their sons, in the context of working women becoming a norm in the 1980s. Another cool element is seeing the machismo and youth culture that only make sense in that time period. While deemed inappropriate and politically incorrect in today’s milieu, it’s intriguing to witness these outdated aspects in a Bagets updated in 2026. Most of all, Bagets the Musical leans heavily into the nostalgia, offering a fun time in the theater with hits like “Telefone (Long Distance Love Affair)” and “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” alongside iconic Bagets tunes “Growing Up” and “Just Got Lucky.” The entire ensemble really fills out the stage and brings their A-game each time. The experience is a good one that both young and old can appreciate. There are even interactive portions that allow the audience to revel in the music and the youthful energy. While there are still things to fine-tune here and there, it’s a show worth checking out. Bagets the Musical opens on Jan. 23 and runs until March at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Pasay City. Tickets, ranging in price from P1,000 to P4,000, are now available at the Newport World Resorts Box Office and via TicketWorld. *The Philstar Media Group is part of MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., as is BusinessWorld.
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/arts-and-leisure/2026/01/23/725924/80s-nostalgia-seen-with-fresh-eyes/
|
Business & Finance
| |
20dbe1bff9d5b2b653ccc9dd57fd748ebe10b3a5d452d42446d94c6e4ccd698f
|
2026-01-22T16:07:22+00:00
|
Globe, Nokia widen tie-up to offer new digital tools to businesses
|
GLOBE TELECOM, INC. said it has expanded its collaboration with Nokia Corp. to make network application programming interfaces (APIs) available to more users and businesses. The Ayala-led telecommunications company said broader access to network data through APIs could create opportunities for enterprises to use advanced network capabilities across sectors such as banking, healthcare, automotive, and entertainment. Under the agreement, Globe will gain access to Nokia’s full portfolio of APIs through the Network Exposure Program (NEP), a cloud-native and programmable platform designed to streamline API services and enable interoperability within network environments. “With cyberattacks on digital services accelerating, it is crucial that we make available the latest network-powered technologies to our enterprise customers and help safeguard against fraud. We are now at the stage of testing how Nokia’s NEP can support our customers in the banking and enterprise sectors,” Globe Vice-President and Head of Globe Business Stella Christine D. Dizon said in a media release on Thursday. Globe previously partnered with Nokia last year to test the NEP for the development of security-focused applications aimed at addressing mobile banking fraud. “Nokia’s open API solutions will empower Globe to rapidly develop and deploy new services, fostering innovation and creating new revenue streams by securely exposing network capabilities to developers and partners,” Nokia Head of Network Monetization Platform Shkumbin Hamiti said. Shares in Globe rose P28, or 1.75%, to close at P1,630 apiece on Thursday. — Ashley Erika O. Jose
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/corporate/2026/01/23/725969/globe-nokia-widen-tie-up-to-offer-new-digital-tools-to-businesses/
|
Business & Finance
| |
2bd4574476eba157d14b41b199a86ce41824d377a65cd107d378966080b852c6
|
2026-01-22T16:06:22+00:00
|
Ayala Land unit signs five-year office lease with LANDBANK
|
THE OFFICE leasing unit of Ayala Land, Inc. (ALI) has signed a five-year lease agreement with Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK) for 3,866.75 square meters of office and parking space at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay Corporate Center. In a statement on Thursday, Ayala Land Offices, Inc. (ALO) said the space will be used by selected LANDBANK head office units, departments, and a subsidiary. The lease is scheduled to begin on June 1. Under the agreement, LANDBANK is the lessee, Bay City Commercial Ventures Corp. is the lessor, and ALO will serve as the leasing manager. ALO said the lease reflects its continuing efforts to meet evolving office requirements as organizations adjust their space needs. Ayala Land reported combined revenues from office and commercial and industrial lot sales of P12.8 billion in the first nine months of 2025, up from P10.4 billion in the same period a year earlier. The company attributed the increase to lot sales in the first half and sustained bookings in key locations, including the Makati central business district, Vertis North, and Arca South. Shares in ALI were unchanged at P22.50 apiece on Thursday. — Alexandria Grace C. Magno
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/corporate/2026/01/23/725968/ayala-land-unit-signs-five-year-office-lease-with-landbank/
|
Business & Finance
| |
371ab8c50e3fed67b4e6a894f897e1016e118ea46214500cbbd99a2de0364ed4
|
2026-01-22T16:05:43+00:00
|
Stuff to Do (01/23/26)
|
1 of 6 Go to Asia’s biggest dog show THE Philippine Circuit Dog Show 2026 is ongoing at the Smart Araneta Coliseum until Jan. 26. Now in its 12th year, it is headlined by the 2026 Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) World Grooming Competition, which highlights the skills and artistry in dog grooming. Dogs and their handlers from around the world showcase creative styling, breed-specific cuts, and technical expertise. Alongside this contest, there will be 12 All-Breed Championship Dog Shows, mediated by renowned international judges to ensure fair and healthy competition. There are 7,440 entries representing 91 breeds. Listen to some jazz THE year 2026 marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines. To formally launch this landmark year, The Japan Foundation, Manila will present Harmony of Friendship: A Jazz Prelude to 70 Years of Japan-Philippine Ties. The concert series is headlined by the Tokyo-Manila Jazz & Arts Festival Group led by Filipino jazz vocalist Charito. They will be joined by the Philippines’ AMP Big Band, an organization of professional session musicians. On Jan. 22 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati City, the concert tour continues, free and open to the public, while a jazz workshop at De La Salle University-Dasmariñas will be organized by Lasallian Pop Band, with registration required through the organization. A third by-invitation-only concert will be held in Cebu. Watch CAST’s staged readings CAST PH’s (The Company of Actors in Streamlined Theatre) is once again presenting its annual staged readings. The theme of this year’s season (its 6th) is “RE-ORIENT — Narratives from Asian Voices.” As has been done every year during the CAST PH Staged Reading Series, the titles of the plays are not revealed beforehand. The season takes place over the course of four weeks (every Sunday), and Play #3 on Jan. 25, will be directed by Guelan Varela-Luarca. It will star Jenny Jamora, Zoë De Ocampo, Jam Binay, Frances Makil-Ignacio, Dolly de Leon, and Roselyn Perez, with stage directions to be read by Monty Uy. The season ends on Feb. 1 with Play #4 which will be directed by Caisa Borromeo. It will feature Jillian Ita-as, Kakki Teodoro, George Schulze, Yanah Laurel, Alfredo Reyes, and Miren Alvarez-Fabregas. There are only 100 seats per performance, priced at P500 each. For tickets, visit https://tinyurl.com/vrdfrfwm. All performances will be held at The Mirror Theatre Studios, 5th floor, SJG Center, Kalayaan Ave., Makati City. Performances are at 3 and 8 p.m. Try out new fitness experiences at GH Mall GH MALL at San Juan’s Greenhills Shopping Center, balances the overindulgence of the Christmas season by going healthy in January and offering a lineup of sports and wellness activities. There is the Table Tennis Academy, running until Jan. 31 at the 4F Tech Hub. Mallgoers can also play pickleball at the 5th floor until Jan. 31. The “Motion in Glow” Zumba sessions at the 6F roof deck run every Monday from 5 to 7 p.m. “Step & Groove” dance sessions occur in the same location and at the same time on Wednesdays, while yoga is available on Fridays. Do not sing along with Les Miz THAT is the plea of GMG Productions which has brought Les Misérables: World Tour Spectacular, a reimagined staged concert production of the iconic musical, to the Philippines. “Let the cast tell the story,” it exhorts. That cast includes Filipinos: Lea Salonga and Red Concepcion as the Thenardiers, Rachelle Ann Go as Fantine, and Emily Bautista as Eponine. The expanded concert-like format features a new design and production enhanced with new set and lighting designs, bringing Cameron Mackintosh’s critically acclaimed production to life on a scale never seen before in Manila, with a company and crew of over 110, including an international all-star cast and a large ensemble of musicians. Les Misérables runs at the Theater at Solaire, Solaire Resort & Casino, Entertainment City, Aseana Ave., Parañaque from Jan. 20 to March 1, with no extensions possible. As of now, all 48 shows are sold out. But keep checking as you never know. Enjoy a bit of timely satire THE Corner Studio presents People v. Dela Cruz, a one-act satirical play that looks at online behavior by using the Philippines’ first-ever jury case as its frame. According to Theater Fans Manila, People v. Dela Cruz takes a country testing its new jury system and turns legal deliberation into a circus of ego, politics, prayer, hunger, and possibly Wi-Fi withdrawal. Written and directed by Eldrin Veloso, it stars Mark Aranal, Emlyn Olfindo-Santos, JP Basco, Althea Aruta, Pauline Arejola, Rain de Jesus, and Aaron Dioquino. The show has performances on Jan. 23, 7 p.m., and Jan. 24 at 3 and 7 p.m., The Corner Studio, J&T Building, 3894 Magsaysay Blvd., Santa Mesa, Manila. Tickets are priced at P800 and are available for purchase via Helixpay. Get nostalgic with Bagets the Musical BAGETS THE MUSICAL, a stage adaptation of the 1984 coming-of-age film Bagets, follows a group of high school friends navigating adolescence, family, friendship, and young love. This production by Newport World Resorts, The Philippine Star, and VIVA Communications, is directed by Maribel Legarda, with a book by J-mee Katanyag and music by Vince Lim. The five leads are played by Sam Shoaf, Milo Cruz, Noel Comia, Jr., Ethan David, and Andres Muhlach. They alternate with Jeff Moses, Migo Valid, Tomas Rodriguez, KD Estrada, and Mico Hendrix Chua. Also in the cast are Neomi Gonzales, Natasha Cabrera, Mayen Cadd, Ring Antonio, and Carla Guevara Laforteza. Bagets the Musical opens on Jan. 23 and runs until March at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Pasay City. Tickets, ranging in price from P1,000 to P4,000, are now available at the Newport World Resorts Box Office and via TicketWorld. Glimpse artifacts of Philippine devotion at NCCA THE National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) has opened the Balaang Bata exhibit, which explores the enduring Filipino devotion to the Santo Niño. On view at the NCCA Gallery in Intramuros, Manila, it features a diverse selection of Santo Niño images and sculptures from across the country, bringing together treasured works from private collections that reflect centuries of personal faith, artistry, and cultural tradition surrounding the Holy Child. Many of the pieces on display are more than a century old, carved from various types of wood and shaped by everyday devotion passed down through generations. The exhibit is open to the public. Watch chimpanzee thriller Primate in cinemas PRACTICAL EFFECTS in the new movie Primate, helmed by filmmaker Johannes Roberts, bring the character of Ben the chimpanzee to life. Billed as a shocking, bone-chilling tale, it follows a group of teens who are terrorized when their pet chimp suddenly turns on them. It combines visceral terror with old-school, in-camera special effects. Primate is now showing in cinemas nationwide. Listen to Charlie Puth’s new single AWARD-WINNING artist, producer, musician and songwriter Charlie Puth has released his latest single, “Beat Yourself Up,” from his forthcoming studio album Whatever’s Clever!, which will be out in March. Co-produced by Mr. Puth and BLOODPOP, the track is personal and explorative, accompanied by an official music video directed by Hunter Moreno. It is out now on all digital music streaming platforms. Watch Abbott Elementary, 9-1-1: Nashville on Disney+ THIS JANUARY, several acclaimed and long-running titles are streaming new episodes on Disney+. One of these is crime-dramedy series High Potential, starring Kaitlin Olson as extraordinary and eccentric Morgan Gillory, a cleaning lady for the Los Angeles Police Department recruited as an investigative consultant. Another is the returning 9-1-1 and its newest spinoff, 9-1-1: Nashville, updating the drama franchise that follows different first responders in their day jobs. There’s also the critically acclaimed mockumentary Abbott Elementary, created by and starring Quinta Brunson, centered on a group of dedicated, underfunded teachers in a fictional public school in Philadelphia. Listen to Cavetown’s new album CAVETOWN, the moniker of UK-born artist Robin Skinner, has released his new album, Running With Scissors, via Futures Music Group. The record is emotionally expansive and aims to capture the disorienting threshold between youth and adulthood, braided together sonically through hyper-pop, heavy guitars, and dream-pop sounds. Alongside the album is the lead single and music video for “Cryptid,” which explores Skinner’s experience as a transgender person. The album is out now on digital music streaming platforms.
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/arts-and-leisure/2026/01/23/725827/stuff-to-do-01-23-26/
|
Business & Finance
| |
3911f96ff6808da5dfadb441fb6d2d1a322e2b14a6fbffda30c2b7b3f7709eee
|
2026-01-22T16:05:21+00:00
|
PLDT, Smart deploy technology to improve connectivity in remote areas
|
PLDT INC. and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. have deployed new technologies to enhance internet connectivity in remote and geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs). “By working hand-in-hand with our partners in government, we believe we can roll out a stronger, more resilient network faster and more efficiently,” PLDT Chief Operating Officer Menardo G. Jimenez, Jr. said in a media release on Thursday. The Pangilinan-led telecommunications company said connecting underserved communities requires multiple solutions to ensure faster and more reliable internet services. To reach GIDAs, PLDT said it will continue investing in network infrastructure and innovative technologies, while also strengthening partnerships with government agencies and industry stakeholders. “PLDT’s investments in innovating to enhance its network are aligned with the Group’s broader thrust to deliver improved services to customers nationwide. It also supports PLDT and Smart’s commitment to national development through strategic partnerships that expand digital access and enhance the delivery of essential services,” the company added. On Thursday, PLDT shares rose P26, or 1.95%, to close at P1,360 apiece. Hastings Holdings, Inc., a unit of PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund subsidiary MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., has a majority stake in BusinessWorld through the Philippine Star Group, which it controls. — Ashley Erika O. Jose
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/corporate/2026/01/23/725967/pldt-smart-deploy-technology-to-improve-connectivity-in-remote-areas/
|
Business & Finance
| |
93f591e0b8e8309d24e24fad10dae2d3e9a3fd21ad711abbc86af7c7ef48e9a0
|
2026-01-22T16:05:06+00:00
|
An ongoing journey towards modernized transport
|
Transportation may very well be the very engine that keeps any economy running. The sector, after all, is responsible for connecting producers to resources and consumers, creating jobs in the making of roads and in the driving of vehicles, boosting productivity by lowering costs, and fostering overall growth by moving goods, services, and people efficiently. Dealing with the difficult task of making lives easier for millions of Filipino motorists and commuters, the Department of Transportation (DoTr) is the government entity in charge of promoting, developing, and regulating a dependable and coordinated network of transportation systems, as well as providing fast, safe, efficient, and reliable transportation services. Established under the Malolos Constitution on Jan. 21, 1899, the agency, then called the Communicaciones y Obras Publicas, was given the role of accelerating the country’s economic development through the creation of effective and efficient transportation infrastructure systems. After 80 years of regulating transportation activities in the country, the Ministry of Transportation and Communication (MoTC) was created pursuant to Executive Order No. 546 with the task of regulating a dependable and coordinated network of transportation and communication systems in the country. Eight years later, the MoTC converted to the Department of Transportation and Communications (DoTC) through Executive Order No. 125. With the signing of Republic Act No. 10844 in 2016, the communications portfolio from the DoTC was removed following the creation of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). Hence, the department’s current name. Expanded capacity This year, the agency is marking its 127th year in service of Filipinos, remaining committed to providing comfortable, accessible, safe, sustainable, and affordable transportation for Filipinos. As the department reflects on more than a century of service and modernizing Philippine transport, it is equally important to highlight the agency’s recent achievements that show its lasting impact on the lives of Filipinos. For rail transport, the DoTr has consistently maintained its standard in what may be the country’s busiest transport systems: the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3), the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1), and Light Rail Transit Line 2 (LRT-2). Last year, both the MRT-3 and LRT-2 lines observed an increase in ridership, with the former recording a total of 141,626,536 passengers in 2025, higher than the 135,885,336 commuters served in 2024, and the latter tallying a total of 58,754,981 passengers served in last year compared to around 50.7 million total passengers the year before. Over the past few years, the country’s rail system has seen improvements led by the DoTr. The most important of which is the completion of Phase 1 of the LRT-1 Cavite extension project, which opened up five new stations spanning from Pasay City to Sucat, Parañaque City. Additionally, the agency partnered up with the finance superapp GCash last year to enable commuters to pay for their fares in the MRT-3 railway line through cashless methods. The department has also carried out road decongestion works to remedy the capital region’s notorious traffic problem. One of the most visible successes in this area is the EDSA Busway, which has drastically reduced travel times along the capital’s busiest road by dedicating a lane exclusively for buses. This system has not only made commuting more predictable for thousands but has also served as a model for “people-centric” infrastructure that prioritizes high-capacity public transport over private vehicles. Simultaneously, the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP) continues its phased implementation across the country. The project aims to replace aging, high-emission jeepneys and buses with safer, Euro-4-compliant modern public utility vehicles. In recent budget hearings, the increase in subsidy for cooperatives by the said program has been discussed to rise from P260,000 in 2025 to P400,000 in 2026. In aviation, the agency has worked tirelessly to shed what is globally perceived as a legacy of congestion and inefficiency. The most significant move in this direction is the landmark privatization and rehabilitation of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) via a public-private partnership. Since the turnover to the San Miguel-led New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), the gateway has seen improvement in terminal efficiency, upgraded baggage handling systems, and improved facilities, all aimed at restoring the airport’s reputation and elevating the passenger experience. Similar to the rehabilitation efforts at NAIA, modernization efforts of the Tuguegarao, Bacon, Loakan, Daet, Cauayan, Vigan, and Candon airports are taking place, according to the DoTr. Catbalogan, Dumaguete, Kabankalan, Calbayog, Zamboanga, Mati, M’lang, Jolo, Siargao, and Tandag airports in Visayas and Mindanao will also undergo improvements. Maritime travel improvements have also been made in various ports in the country. An example of this is the Amandayehan Port in Basey, Samar. Improvements made on the port include increasing its service capacity, with six landing craft tank (LCT) vessels, as well as addressing the alleged “palakasan” (patronage) system and illegal collection of fees raised by port users. Last year, the Philippine Ports Authority, under the DoTr, said that it allocated as much as P1.42 billion for the expansion and improvement of three ports in the country, including the third phase of the Malalag Port expansion project in Davao del Sur; Lipata Port improvement project in Surigao del Norte; and Buenavista Port expansion project in Guimaras. Sustainable transport Aside from these achievements in different areas of transportation, the DoTr has also begun on projects that seek to make Philippine transport more convenient, inclusive, and sustainable. Part of this is the transportation department’s recently launched Active Transport Project, aimed at promoting healthier and more sustainable modes of transport. Under the program, pedestrians and non-motorized vehicles are prioritized in the hierarchy of road users, with the DoTr mandated to focus on the development of active transport infrastructure. The project is pegged to establish 2,400 kilometers of protected and dedicated lanes for cyclists by 2028. Topping off the agency’s lengthy list of accomplishments, the Transportation department, together with the DICT, launched the DICT Free WiFi for All program along EDSA Busway Stations, which will provide internet connection to over 183,000 passengers daily. Based on data from the department, the EDSA busway ridership jumped by 6% from 63.02 million in 2024 to 66.67 million last year. Projects in the pipeline for the agency include the highly anticipated Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP), often referred to as the “Project of the Century.” Complementing this is the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) system, a massive 147-kilometer rail network that will link Clark in Pampanga to Calamba in Laguna. The agency is also making significant strides in regional rail development through the PNR South Long Haul project, popularly known as the “Bicol Express.” The department is also looking into the development of more Intermodal Terminal Exchanges (ITX) to provide commuters with seamless transfers between different modes of transport, similar to the operations of the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX). As the DoTr enters its 127th year, these ambitious projects signify its vision of a Philippines that is fully connected and economically vibrant. By blending the preservation of its historical mandate with the adoption of world-class technology and sustainable practices, the DoTr continues to drive the nation forward and ensure that the “engine” of the Philippine economy remains fueled for the generations of commuters yet to come. — Jomarc Angelo M. Corpuz
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/special-features/2026/01/23/725838/an-ongoing-journey-towards-modernized-transport/
|
Business & Finance
| |
297bd0911d7149a6676ba1a6d638f0e37a0bf6fd9cc75990b67c00c1112e8e99
|
2026-01-22T16:04:46+00:00
|
Sun Life Philippines looking to boost digitalization initiatives
|
SUN LIFE of Canada (Philippines), Inc. (Sun Life Philippines) will ramp up its technology investments to further expand its reach via online distribution platforms and create specialized products to cater to Filipinos’ varying insurance needs. “Tech is going to be one of my focus areas… I would like to leverage the digital savviness of Filipinos. The use of technology to make higher value transactions, it’s still not yet there, especially as insurance would be a higher value transaction. But I want to already be in that space where they think of Sun Life once they are ready to make a high-value transaction,” Sun Life Philippines President and incoming Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Country Manager Jonathan Juan “JJ” D. Moreno told BusinessWorld on the sidelines of an event this month. “I want to be able to catch that wave because it’s going to be very difficult if that’s the only time I will build a platform once the market is ready for those kinds of things.” He said younger Filipinos who are digital natives are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of financial protection. “We’re seeing a trend. We’re seeing that more and more, there are younger cohorts, young professionals actually buying insurance, realizing that it’s an essential expense,” Mr. Moreno said. While these individuals usually do their research on insurance via digital platforms, they still prefer to consult with human financial advisors and transact in person when they want to avail of policies, he said. “Some do not want to be approached by an agent immediately. They’ll do their own research, they’ll do everything, they’ll use AI (artificial intelligence) to compare the products, and then when they’re ready, they call an agent.” They’ve seen the same trend among high-net-worth individuals, he said. Recognizing this consumer behavior, Mr. Moreno said insurers can boost their digital distribution by first offering simple, straightforward, and lower value products that are tailored for specific needs that clients would be confident to buy via online channels. For their part, Sun Life Philippines plans to launch products targeting employees and professionals, the high-net-worth segment, and business owners this year. “So, it would be correct to say that we will launch low-value products… The products we will be launching will be specifically tailored to address a particular segment.” He said there has been strong demand for traditional life insurance and variable unit-linked products among Filipinos. “After the previous year, there was a shift towards more traditional products in terms of product creation. That’s due to global headwinds, but it’s still just going down,” Mr. Moreno added. At end-September, Sun Life Philippines topped the life insurance sector with a premium income of P44.73 billion. — A.M.C. Sy
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/banking-finance/2026/01/23/725909/sun-life-philippines-looking-to-boost-digitalization-initiatives/
|
Business & Finance
| |
62e4decd2457f326cab3ab14c1f1b61ae30338523ecc570283079aa946653c83
|
2026-01-22T16:04:21+00:00
|
DENZA to launch first EV model in Philippines next month
|
PREMIUM ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV) brand DENZA, under the BYD Group, is set to launch its first model, the multi-purpose vehicle D9, in the Philippines on Feb. 27. “Many people have been asking me why we (BYD) have grown so fast here in the Philippines. Indeed, it is very fast,” BYD Asia Pacific Auto Sales Division General Manager Xueliang Liu said in Chinese at an event on Thursday. Asked about the brand’s local market presence, he said: “[If] you are asking about the Philippine figures, it would be over 26,000.” BYD Singapore, Philippines, and Brunei Managing Director James Ng said the company’s earlier success in introducing BYD vehicles locally helped motivate the DENZA launch. “In collaboration with ACMobility, we have successfully introduced BYD into the Philippine market and got reception from the public,” Mr. Ng said. “So, with that, this gives us a very strong motivation to introduce DENZA … it gives us very good strength to further push our DENZA brand.” Mr. Liu added that the company plans to introduce the other two models, the sports utility vehicles B8 and B5, later in 2026. On Thursday, DENZA also awarded its initial dealer partners, which will form the foundation of its retail network in the country. The brand partnered with ACMobility Premium Dealership, Inc. for DENZA Alabang and DENZA Cebu; with Harmony New Energy Auto Service (Philippines) Ltd. Corp. for DENZA Makati; and with E-Vantage Motors, Inc. for DENZA Greenhills. At the event, DENZA showcased all three models, though only the D9 will be available for launch next month. — Justine Irish D. Tabile
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/corporate/2026/01/23/725966/denza-to-launch-first-ev-model-in-philippines-next-month/
|
Business & Finance
| |
34f03e7e2efdcf56b2712aed93de02e713ab9f9fd7cdee8e74ee03faa69b25e9
|
2026-01-22T16:03:56+00:00
|
Missing the point — and falling further behind
|
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/opinion/2026/01/23/725896/missing-the-point-and-falling-further-behind/
|
Business & Finance
| |
7a42d15979ad5c108c17b9bf5183e32c7a9ddd6de82206c1b1a60f5dbbe42fb3
|
2026-01-22T16:03:36+00:00
|
Infrastructure meets inclusion: Redefining commuter experiences in 2025
|
The Philippines has consistently ranked among the countries with the world’s most congested urban corridors. In 2023, Metro Manila recorded some of the highest travel times globally: motorists averaged 25 minutes to cover just 10 kilometers, with over 117 hours lost annually stuck in slow-moving traffic. Recognizing the scale of the problem, the Department of Transportation (DoTr) has been repositioning mobility as a strategic economic enabler rather than a purely operational concern. In 2025, the DoTr undertook a series of interconnected initiatives to improve commuter experiences and strengthen active transport infrastructure nationwide. These efforts reflect evolving policies: sustainable urban mobility, inclusive infrastructure, digital transformation, and integrated land use that incorporates green spaces into transport corridors. The department’s recent initiatives signal a shift away from fragmented interventions toward an integrated transport strategy that addresses infrastructure gaps, operational inefficiencies, and commuter experience simultaneously. Institutionalizing accessibility and inclusion One of the most notable shifts in the DoTr’s strategy has been its move toward participatory planning. At the Philippine Mobility Summit 2025, the department unveiled plans to institutionalize an Accessibility and Inclusion Reference Group (AIRG) — a consultative body comprising of commuters from underrepresented communities, including persons with disabilities (PWDs), senior citizens, women, caregivers, and others with lived experience of mobility challenges. The AIRG is intended to assist technical teams and policy makers in co-designing transport frameworks, feasibility studies, and infrastructure designs that better reflect everyday commuter requirements. This marks a departure from traditional top-down infrastructure planning toward a model that incorporates user insight at every stage, a step toward both accessibility and inclusion in public transport system development. Cycling and pedestrian infrastructure Active transport, consisting of cycling and walking, continued to be a central theme of the DoTr’s strategy. Under the national Active Transport and Safe Pathways Program, more kilometers of bike lanes are being added, linking residential areas with employment centers, transport terminals, schools, and green spaces. The agency plans to build at least 260 kilometers of new bike lanes, advancing toward a long-term target of 2,400 kilometers by 2028. Pedestrian infrastructure remains a priority in parallel with cycling enhancements. Walkways are being constructed and upgraded nationwide to ensure safer and more accessible pedestrian routes, in alignment with the National Transport Policy (NTP) and the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, which place non-motorized transport at the top of road-user hierarchy. Institutional strengthening To ensure that large-scale transportation projects deliver tangible improvements for commuters, the DoTr established a Flagship Project Management Office (FPMO). Designed to accelerate implementation of high-impact infrastructure programs, the FPMO centralizes oversight of major initiatives such as the Metro Manila Subway Project, North-South Commuter Railway, the EDSA Busway, the EDSA Greenways Project, as well as modernized address programs such as the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit and the Davao Public Transport Modernization Project. These flagship projects aim to ease congestion, cut travel times, and expand intermodal connectivity across the Greater Manila area and key regional hubs. By having senior officials directly monitoring milestones, budget execution, and right-of-way acquisition, the FPMO aims to reduce bureaucratic delays and thus improve service delivery for daily commuters. Green spaces and integrated mobility corridors Operationalizing the synergy between transport and urban green spaces is emerging as a complementary priority. The DoTr’s transport vision also recognizes the role of green infrastructure in shaping healthier cities. By integrating green spaces into active transport corridors, the agency aims to enhance street-level environments for pedestrians and cyclists while supporting environmental goals such as heat mitigation and urban biodiversity. Former Transport Secretary Vivencio “Vince” B. Dizon emphasized that mobility projects should not only move people efficiently but also improve the quality of urban environments by incorporating landscaped corridors, shading vegetation, and pedestrian-oriented green areas. These integrative approaches align with broader goals to make transport corridors more resilient and environmentally friendly, anchoring mobility improvements within healthier, more livable city frameworks where active commuters can enjoy greener surroundings as they travel. During the National Bike Day last year, officials of the department reiterated commitments to expanding bicycle and pedestrian lanes while underscoring that cyclists and walkers should not be marginalized on roads. This safety emphasis complements the broader active transport agenda by ensuring non-motorized users are recognized as legitimate road participants deserving dedicated space and protective infrastructure. As the DoTr’s recent initiatives unfold, the integration of inclusive planning, active transport expansion, flagship project management, and green space integration represents a multi-pronged approach to modernizing mobility in the Philippines. Digitalizing fare payments Beyond physical infrastructure, the DoTr is also focusing on digital innovation and service quality improvements designed to make public transport more convenient and user-friendly. One initiative is the digital transformation of fare payment systems across rail and bus networks. In mid-2025, the DoTr partnered with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), Department of Information and Communications (DICT), and GCash to pilot an open-loop, digital payment system on MRT-3. This allows commuters to pay using mobile wallets, QR codes, or contactless bank cards, eliminating queues at ticket booths. The pilot is intended to be expanded to other rail and bus systems. Busway upgrades and commuter amenities The DoTr continues to improve EDSA Busway with targeted station upgrades and rehabilitation projects. In 2025, the department pursued renovations of key busway stations such as Monumento, Bagong Barrio, North Avenue, and Guadalupe. The DoTr is also developing plans to turn over the busway’s operations and management to the private sector through a public-private partnership (PPP), intended to harness private expertise and capital to sustain and modernize the service while preserving dedicated lanes for high-capacity buses. In response to ongoing infrastructure works, the DoTr has also deployed additional buses to bolster capacity and reduce congestion for commuters during rehabilitation periods. Commuter-centric governance To ensure that decision-makers remain grounded in commuter realities, the DoTr issued a directive requiring agency officials to commute weekly using public transport. This policy, championed by Acting Secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez, aims to expose senior staff to firsthand commuter experiences so that policies and projects are informed by actual system conditions and pain points. Officials are expected to document their journeys and identify operational issues, creating a feedback loop between experience and institutional planning. These developments signal a shift toward transport systems that are more accessible, safer, environmentally sound, and attuned to the needs of everyday commuters. The challenge ahead will be scaling these initiatives across urban and regional contexts, monitoring impact on commuter behavior, and ensuring that infrastructure investments tangibly improve daily travel experiences. With coordinated execution and sustained public engagement, these initiatives offer a promising blueprint for a more mobile, connected, and inclusive Philippines. — Krystal Anjela H. Gamboa
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/special-features/2026/01/23/725847/infrastructure-meets-inclusion-redefining-commuter-experiences-in-2025/
|
Business & Finance
| |
bd59b96137d12d9b2c13177fa9d6e7604f1aad8252536c90a2816eef6906fb34
|
2026-01-22T16:03:26+00:00
|
Zepz buys remittance provider Pomelo to strengthen presence in the Philippines
|
GLOBAL PAYMENTS group Zepz, which owns WorldRemit and Sendwave, has acquired a US-based financial technology (fintech) company providing credit-based remittance services as it looks to strengthen its presence in the Philippines. Zepz said in a statement on Jan. 20 that it has acquired Pomelo International, Inc., whose product mainly caters to migrants in the US sending money to the Philippines and Mexico. The latter’s team will join Zepz to continue developing their product. Pomelo’s operations have been paused temporarily as Zepz integrates the product into its roadmap. “Pomelo is a San Francisco-based fintech company focused on cards, lending and credit-building, with a strong presence in the Philippines,” it said. “The acquisition represents a key step in Zepz’s evolution beyond remittances, enabling the company to support more of the financial lives of cross-border communities and underserved customers across the Global South.” “The acquisition further strengthens Zepz’s position in the Philippines, one of its core markets, where it has deep local knowledge and a long-standing customer base. Combining Pomelo’s product and expertise with Zepz’s global platform creates meaningful synergies for customers and supports Zepz’s long-term growth strategy by deepening engagement, improving retention and broadening its revenue mix beyond money movement.” The company said the move will complement their existing products and businesses and allow them to expand into cards, lending, and credit, as Pomelo’s platform integrates consumer credit and remittances with a credit card designed for money transfers. Using the Pomelo Mastercard or any debit card via its app, customers in the US can transfer money real-time to Philippine-based bank accounts or e-wallets as low costs while earning rewards points. “Acquiring Pomelo is a natural next step in our evolution beyond remittances,” said Zepz Chief Executive Officer Mark Lenhard. “It will allow us to offer customers access to cards and credit services, and supports our broader ambition of financial empowerment for cross-border communities.” “This is an exciting next chapter for Pomelo, and our mission to help people build their financial future doing what matters most — helping families. Zepz shares our focus on serving cross-border communities and has tremendous potential to accelerate access to credit and everyday financial tools for people who have historically been underserved,” Pomelo CEO Eric Velasquez Frenkiel said. More Filipinos abroad have been using digital channels to remit money to save on transaction costs. Cash remittances coursed through banks rose by 3.6% to $2.91 billion in November from $2.808 billion in the same month in 2024, the latest Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas data showed. For the first 11 months of 2025, money sent home by migrant Filipinos reached $32.111 billion, climbing by 3.2% from $31.113 billion during the same period in 2024. The US was the top source of remittances in the period, accounting for 40% of inflows. — BVR
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/banking-finance/2026/01/23/725833/zepz-buys-remittance-provider-pomelo-to-strengthen-presence-in-the-philippines/
|
Business & Finance
| |
a2110071a477f6098af2898ed0629178b7d0c8e9e31b0a943dcc6ec54c9e8486
|
2026-01-22T16:03:20+00:00
|
SEC launches online registry to simplify corporate ownership reporting
|
THE SECURITIES and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Thursday launched the Hierarchical and Applicable Relations and Beneficial Ownership Registry (HARBOR), a web-based platform aimed at making disclosures of corporate ownership faster and more transparent. “Beneficial ownership disclosures are a key transparency reform that supports good governance and helps prevent the misuse of corporate structures for illicit activities,” SEC Chairperson Francisco Ed. Lim said. “Through HARBOR, the SEC streamlines the filing process while strengthening BO data management, enabling the Commission to provide timely and meaningful support to partner agencies in lawful enforcement actions,” he added. Starting Jan. 30, corporations required to submit beneficial ownership information must use HARBOR, accessible at https://harbor.sec.gov.ph or via the Electronic Filing and Submission Tool (eFAST). The system allows secure submission and updates of beneficial ownership data, reducing manual processing and helping the SEC verify information more efficiently. With HARBOR’s launch, the SEC also released the 2026 General Information Sheet (GIS) without the beneficial ownership page. Companies will now submit or update ownership information directly through HARBOR and revalidate it only if changes occur, such as new owners being added. Beneficial owners are individuals who ultimately own or control a corporation, either directly or indirectly. Filers need an active Electronic SEC Universal Registration Environment (eSECURE) account to access the system. Only authorized eFAST filers may submit declarations. HARBOR was created under Memorandum Circular No. 15, Series of 2025, which updates Beneficial Ownership Disclosure Rules. The registry also supports the Philippines’ commitments under the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to maintain transparency and prevent money laundering. “These reforms build on earlier beneficial ownership and transparency measures that supported the Philippines’ exit from the FATF grey list in February 2025 and demonstrate the Commission’s continuing commitment to sustain AML/CFT improvements and keep the country off the grey list,” the SEC said. — Alexandria Grace C. Magno
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/corporate/2026/01/23/725965/sec-launches-online-registry-to-simplify-corporate-ownership-reporting/
|
Business & Finance
| |
4216f58e9dd27ccfeb612681eeeab5c2f7fd0b9fae33f01acbbe41fedac071ad
|
2026-01-22T16:02:55+00:00
|
The economics of nuclear power
|
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/opinion/2026/01/23/725895/the-economics-of-nuclear-power/
|
Business & Finance
| |
dc0f1350fffda8d998c00b0a074780895d1f6c6651dff33bf822857ca2aa8318
|
2026-01-22T16:02:43+00:00
|
Peso strengthens to two-week high as Trump retracts tariff threats
|
THE PESO rose to a two-week high against the dollar on Thursday on improving market sentiment after US President Donald J. Trump backed down on his earlier threats to impose tariffs on some European countries to get control of Greenland. The local unit ended at P59.16 versus the greenback, rising by 10.1 centavos from its P59.261 finish on Wednesday, data from the Bankers Association of the Philippines showed. This was its best close in over two weeks or since Jan. 5’s P59.13. The peso opened Thursday’s trading session stronger at P59.18 against the dollar. Its intraday best was at P59.095, while it dropped to a low of P59.23 against the greenback. Dollars traded rose to $1.367 billion from $1.557 billion on Wednesday. The peso strengthened against the dollar on Tuesday amid improved global risk appetite after US President Donald J. Trump retracted his threats of higher tariffs on European countries as he sought to buy Greenland, Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort said in a Viber message. The US dollar held on to overnight gains against major peers on Thursday after Mr. Trump withdrew a threat to impose tariffs on a number of European North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) nations, trumpeting the framework of a deal with NATO over control of Greenland, Reuters reported. Mr. Trump’s threat to levy tariffs on allied nations opposed to his ambition to control Greenland spooked markets and triggered a broad sell-off of US assets, but his comment in Davos on Wednesday that he had ruled out military action offered relief. The US president said he had reached a framework for a deal with NATO over Greenland, but he did not offer any details in a post to his Truth Social platform about what that would entail. As a result, though, he said he would not impose tariffs. President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s statement on not wanting the peso to reach the P60 level also provided support to the currency, a trader said in a phone interview. Palace Press Officer Clarissa A. Castro said at a news briefing on Thursday that Mr. Marcos hopes that the peso-dollar exchange rate will not reach P60, but reiterated that the central bank sees no need for market intervention. For Friday, the trader sees the peso moving between P59 and P59.30 per dollar, while Mr. Ricafort expects it to range from P59.05 to P59.25. — A.M.C. Sy with Reuters
|
https://www.bworldonline.com/banking-finance/2026/01/23/725906/peso-strengthens-to-two-week-high-as-trump-retracts-tariff-threats/
|
Business & Finance
| |
37e80c0d1c9796a4e36248a4ae78b75aa9a8cd9c7803518070c36942da28b622
|
2026-01-23T13:05:30+00:00
|
What Trump’s renewed attack on Iran could mean for oil prices
|
U.S. President Donald Trump's renewed threats against Iran have stoked fears of possible supply disruption in the oil-rich Middle East.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/23/oil-prices-trump-iran-armada-energy.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
69d20895e8bd53aac630bd48877e280617146b78592b4fc1f997570affa50aa4
|
2026-01-23T11:57:26+00:00
|
European markets edge lower; Ericsson pops 9% after fourth-quarter profit beat
|
European stocks finished higher on Thursday after U.S. President Donald Trump said a "framework" agreement had been reached over Greenland.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/23/european-markets-set-for-a-lackluster-open-geopolitics-in-focus-.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
6ba01be70320c31639e317d1c821a8c626cd792cc8d762cfcbda4c4090eb1b79
|
2026-01-23T06:25:14+00:00
|
Ubisoft shares plummet after Assassin’s Creed maker unveils reorganization, cancels six games
|
The games designer saw stock plunge on Thursday, following years of share price decline.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/ubisoft-shares-plummet-after-assassins-creed-maker-cancels-six-games.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
301cd7f27495b61fc4316a9c984abf9a7f5b76ca3067aea81a9952c6cb2eb2a5
|
2026-01-23T03:28:14+00:00
|
TikTok forms U.S. joint venture, names Adam Presser CEO
|
TikTok said Thursday that it officially formed a joint venture that will keep the video-sharing app operating in the U.S.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/tiktok-forms-us-joint-venture-names-a-ceo.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
79d67348fae95b9d31eec27511eeeb43324db41aabe69d80cc9897680c90a67a
|
2026-01-22T17:39:49+00:00
|
Zelenskyy lays into 'lost' Europe for trying to 'change' Trump and not dealing with global threats
|
Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has attacked Europe as weak in the face of the U.S. and President Donald Trump.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/zelenskyy-davos-speech-trump-europe-ukraine-russia.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
b568dfe599fb37072864062be4e09e61236c61b9ea07a79200f8e92e2680f4d2
|
2026-01-23T00:21:09+00:00
|
Trump and Nvidia have ruffled the feathers of Washington’s China hawks
|
U.S. President Donald Trump's plan to approve Nvidia to ship some of its more powerful AI chips to China is ruffling the feathers of Washington's China hawks.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/trump-nvidia-ai-chip-exports-china-congress-bill.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
3a288868421a0682ea55a232a206e376c048d01fda2ed9ec17aa8d7c30a1c760
|
2026-01-23T03:03:14+00:00
|
Microsoft working to fix Outlook email issues
|
People reported issues with Outlook on social media, months after the app went down for over 21 hours.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/microsoft-outlook-outage-email-issues.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
b425af2618f4a04ccacc1a2803be6a401d0422765070aec7abae551aa2f2dae8
|
2026-01-22T15:15:18+00:00
|
'Nobody’s going to believe him': Trump’s Greenland 'deal' sparks relief — and confusion
|
Trump said he had the "concept of a deal" on Greenland, but didn't share details of the agreement — or who agreed to it.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/trumps-greenland-deal-framework-and-tariff-backdown-confuse.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
f6a34c1179f645d42493d86d7873a9c88d649e896b068baa1761e38eb1c5de9b
|
2026-01-23T03:42:17+00:00
|
India’s youth are turning concerts into an economy. The money is following
|
India saw a 17% rise in the live events space in 2025, marking a boom in demand for experiences. This was led by Gen-Z and millennial crowds.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/23/india-live-entertainment-concert-event-ticketing-boom-young-audiences-2026.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
80f6c1e233147086378ddb6bfd6d5adccb9b29dfba52b9ef789e5b0a78325441
|
2026-01-23T08:06:40+00:00
|
Asia markets mostly advance as Bank of Japan leaves interest rates on hold
|
Asia-Pacific markets mostly rose as investors looked ahead to the Bank of Japan's decision.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/23/asia-pacific-markets-nikkei-225-kospi-hang-seng-index.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
294e20c8709a9efe219be2e67133717dac7b63f71cb8b3c8b51a89443a55e698
|
2026-01-22T18:59:35+00:00
|
Fed's main gauge shows inflation at 2.8% in November, edging further away from target
|
Inflation drifted slightly further from the Federal Reserve's target in November though in line with expectations.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/pce-inflation-november-2026.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
5ec4b0b5c4873cecc669223254de3d0542b0ea1dfc967ffb015b3ec4f89580a6
|
2026-01-22T08:43:50+00:00
|
I was in the room when Trump addressed leaders in Davos. Here are my top takeaways
|
Donald Trump told a packed room at Davos he demanded "immediate" negotiations over Greenland. CNBC was there, where the tension was palpable.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/21/donald-trump-davos-speech-greenland-tariffs-europe.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
72e5b35db3ba055784c61ba0b0a51bf845448ac622316bb6cdbda353cff1a849
|
2026-01-22T22:22:23+00:00
|
Software sell-off sparked by AI sets stage for potential big year of M&A, investors say
|
While much of the tech sector has rallied due to the AI boom, software vendors have been laggards on concern that they'll eventually be displaced.
|
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/selloff-in-software-from-ai-sets-stage-for-potential-big-year-of-ma.html
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
0ebec85aab835eecd7b247db6be50786e4c8e38f4dfef93a8c8ce60f0e492d7f
|
2026-01-23T10:00:36+00:00
|
This FTSE stock just rocketed over 10% on strong results. Time to consider buying?
|
We’re now in reporting season, so some FTSE shares may experience volatile moves. Even though it’s a time to be careful, financial updates provide the potential for investors to assess where a business is currently at, along with the latest outlook. So when I spotted one stock that roared higher yesterday (22 January), it caught my eye for the right reasons. I’m talking about Senior (LSE:SNR). The engineered components and systems supplier saw the share price jump yesterday, meaning the stock is up 50% in the past year. It tied in with the release of a trading update for the 2025 calendar year, in which it said it expects full-year “performance to be comfortably above previous expectations”.The annual results are due out in March. The upbeat message was primarily driven by strong performance in its aerospace division, which benefits from higher commercial aircraft production. Interestingly, another factor was robust defence demand. Management also highlighted positive trading momentum into this month, giving investors confidence that things can keep going. Alongside the uplift in outlook, the company has reduced its cost base and received some early proceeds from the sale of its aerostructures business. This means it expects the annual report to show net debt below £80m (versus £153m from this time last year). For those who weren’t already invested, the issue is now whether or not the ship has sailed. The immediate answer is that we’ll have to wait until March for the full story to come through. If results turn out even better than current sentiment indicates, there could be further room for the stock to run. If we set aside the expectation of results, the fundamentals driving the company suggest this could be sustainable. With firms like Boeing and Airbus still ramping up production after pandemic supply-chain disruptions, Senior’s aerospace revenue has legs to keep growing. Getting rid of the lower-margin Aerostructures division lets the company focus on steadier and more profitable areas. Over time, this should make the company more efficient and hopefully more profitable. Despite all this good news, there are still risks involved. For example, aerospace and defence is becoming an increasingly competitive area, given the heightened geopolitical tensions. Large players like Rolls-Royce are looking for more business, potentially causing a loss of market share or shrinking profit margins for Senior. Overall, I think the trading update acts to put Senior on the investment radar of a lot more people. Even though I like the company, I’d prefer to wait until March to get the full details before making a decision. This is mainly due to a lot of optimism now factored in to the stock price. As a result, the bar to impress (and lift the stock) has suddenly got higher! The post This FTSE stock just rocketed over 10% on strong results. Time to consider buying? appeared first on The Motley Fool UK. When investing expert Mark Rogers has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for nearly a decade has provided thousands of paying members with top stock recommendations from the UK and US markets. And right now, Mark thinks there are 6 standout stocks that investors should consider buying. Want to see if Senior plc made the list? More reading Jon Smith has no position in any of the shares mentioned. The Motley Fool UK has recommended Rolls-Royce Plc and Senior Plc. Views expressed on the companies mentioned in this article are those of the writer and therefore may differ from the official recommendations we make in our subscription services such as Share Advisor, Hidden Winners and Pro. Here at The Motley Fool we believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors.
|
https://www.fool.co.uk/2026/01/23/this-ftse-stock-just-rocketed-over-10-on-strong-results-time-to-consider-buying/
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
f6ce2e13904a997740252929d51c482e4b68d763baae7a11266a6fd6600bb9e4
|
2026-01-23T08:32:00+00:00
|
How an investor could make a 7% annual yield on a £20k ISA
|
The base interest rate in the UK is 3.75%. The FTSE 100 average dividend yield is 2.94%. So when deciding how to allocate money, some might decide to steer clear of using a Stocks and Shares ISA and stick to a high-yield savings account. However, there are plenty of stocks that could yield much more annually. Let’s dig in. An ISA has an annual subscription limit of £20k. However, this is still plenty to feel a noticeable difference in yield pickup from either holding cash or using an index tracker. One immediate benefit is that dividends received from an ISA aren’t subject to tax. As a result, the investor can receive the total gross dividend amount without losing any, effectively boosting the net portfolio yield. Please note that tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in future. The content in this article is provided for information purposes only. It is not intended to be, neither does it constitute, any form of tax advice. Readers are responsible for carrying out their own due diligence and for obtaining professional advice before making any investment decisions. The next factor is based on active stock picking. After all, there are currently 28 stocks yielding 7% or more in the FTSE 100 or FTSE 250. This means that I’d be confident in picking a diversified selection of companies from this mix, enabling the overall yield of the ISA to be 7% or higher. It’s true that some of the shares in this mix have double-digit yields that do look quite risky. However, there’s enough for an investor to avoid clear outliers that don’t look sustainable. Further, by including a dozen or so in the ISA, even if one company does cut the dividend in the future, the overall impact is limited. If someone can invest £1,666 each month to fully take advantage of the £20k limit, it can quickly compound. In year five, the income alone could work out to be £621 a month. Of course, some might not be able to afford to invest that much. That’s fine. The main point is that using an ISA for any amount can be more tax-efficient, along with an active stock selection strategy. One stock that could be considered is HICL Infrastructure (LSE:HICL). The stock is up 7% in the last year, with a current divdiend yield of 7.06%. HICL generates cash primarily from its infrastructure assets. These are mostly structured via long-term contracts with public sector counterparties. As a result, it provides the business with fairly predictable, growing income streams over time, which is good for dividends. Importantly, the company doesn’t try to stretch the income payments too thin. For example, the dividend cover ratio is 1.1, which means the current earnings per share can fully cover the dividend. Another reason to like the stock is that, despite the current geopolitical uncertainty, core infrastructure is a defensive area. Essential services like healthcare facilities and transport are less cyclical (and exposed) than broader equities. In my view, this should give income-oriented investors comfort. In terms of risks, the stock has traded well above the net asset value (NAV) of the portfolio for several years. From the last report, it was almost a 25% discount. This could indicate that investors don’t have a lot of optimism around the company. Overall, I think it’s a good stock for investors to consider to try and help hit the 7% annual target. The post How an investor could make a 7% annual yield on a £20k ISA appeared first on The Motley Fool UK. When investing expert Mark Rogers has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for nearly a decade has provided thousands of paying members with top stock recommendations from the UK and US markets. And right now, Mark thinks there are 6 standout stocks that investors should consider buying. Want to see if HICL Infrastructure PLC made the list? More reading Jon Smith has no position in any of the shares mentioned. The Motley Fool UK has no position in any of the shares mentioned. Views expressed on the companies mentioned in this article are those of the writer and therefore may differ from the official recommendations we make in our subscription services such as Share Advisor, Hidden Winners and Pro. Here at The Motley Fool we believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors.
|
https://www.fool.co.uk/2026/01/23/how-an-investor-could-make-a-7-annual-yield-on-a-20k-isa/
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
c79b29984e56e097fae63e42ba0e7b37238d1e6f0f180ffb30354ff9ffd39a43
|
2026-01-23T08:25:12+00:00
|
2 of my favourite UK stocks are down 10% in a week! Should I buy more?
|
JD Wetherspoon (LSE:JDW) and Judges Scientific (LSE:JDG) are two of my favourite UK stocks. Apparently, I like companies with names that begin with ‘J’. As I write this, however, each one is down (at least) 10% since the start of the week. So is this a chance for me to add to my investments, or has something gone badly wrong? JD Wetherspoon issued its trading update for the 25 weeks up to 18 January and despite the fact the share price has been falling in response, I think the business is actually doing well. The firm opened six new pubs and eight franchised ones. But even aside from this, sales were up 4.7% overall with stronger growth in the second half of the period. During the Christmas period, JD Wetherspoon achieved like-for-like sales growth of 8.8%. That’s impressive in comparison to the 5.1% (which still isn’t terrible) achieved by the wider pub industry. The stock fell though, because the risk that investors have been mindful of over the last year or so is starting to materialise. Higher costs for staff and utilities are cutting into profit margins. That’s not good and it’s something investors need to keep an eye on. But I think the company has an extremely strong competitive position and it’s in a better position to deal with these than its rivals. The reason is that it has a lower cost base that comes from operating at scale and avoiding lease liabilities by owning its pubs outright. That hasn’t changed and I think it’s a key long-term strength. By contrast, there wasn’t much that was positive about Judges Scientific’s full-year update. Revenues were up, but earnings per share were down and the firm’s outlook for 2026 is very weak. The numbers for 2025 don’t look great and even they were boosted by a contract that won’t be repeated in the year ahead. But the company’s big problem has been research funding in the US. This highlights the risk of a heavy concentration in an industry that depends on government policy. The latest news on this front, however, has been extremely positive for Judges Scientific. Congressional appropriators have categorically rejected the administration’s requests for cuts to major research funders. And in some cases, they’ve gone the other way. Instead of a 40% cut, the National Institutes of Health is set for an increase. The National Science Foundation is set for a drop, but this is focused on the budget for education, rather than equipment. Judges Scientific isn’t seeing the positive effects of this yet and that’s why its profit forecast is around 50% below expectations. I think, though, that this is a big sign the firm might be through the worst. So which stock am I looking to buy? Without wanting to be boring, the answer is a simple one – both. The reason I own shares in JD Wetherspoon and Judges Scientific is because I think both have strong competitive positions. And nothing much has changed on this front. This is what I think matters most with a long-term investment. So I’m seeing both stocks as buying opportunities for my portfolio. The post 2 of my favourite UK stocks are down 10% in a week! Should I buy more? appeared first on The Motley Fool UK. When investing expert Mark Rogers has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for nearly a decade has provided thousands of paying members with top stock recommendations from the UK and US markets. And right now, Mark thinks there are 6 standout stocks that investors should consider buying. Want to see if Judges Scientific plc made the list? More reading Stephen Wright has positions in J D Wetherspoon Plc and Judges Scientific Plc. The Motley Fool UK has recommended Judges Scientific Plc. Views expressed on the companies mentioned in this article are those of the writer and therefore may differ from the official recommendations we make in our subscription services such as Share Advisor, Hidden Winners and Pro. Here at The Motley Fool we believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors.
|
https://www.fool.co.uk/2026/01/23/2-of-my-favourite-uk-stocks-are-down-10-in-a-week-should-i-buy-more/
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
ad87b0d23ab5c3e4c40991c485526025fd894a25975e6096aa6094c29a53827b
|
2026-01-23T08:15:00+00:00
|
Up 170% and 470% in a year, will these 2 red-hot FTSE shares soar again in 2026?
|
Since January 2025, two of the FTSE 100’s star performers have been Fresnillo (LSE:FRES) and Endeavour Mining (LSE:EDV), with their share prices rising exponentially. Soaring gold and silver prices are behind this incredible run. But could it last throughout 2026 or is the bubble about to burst? Let’s take a closer look. The first thing to note is that both companies have different exposures to these two metals. Endeavour Mining produces only gold from its five mines in Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, and Senegal. During the nine months ended 30 September 2025, it mined 911koz (thousand ounces). Fresnillo claims to be “the world’s leading silver producer†and one of Mexico’s largest gold miners. Over the same period, it produced roughly half as much gold and 35,429koz of silver from its eight facilities. But over the past 12 months or so, this distinction hasn’t been that important. Since the start of 2025, both gold and silver prices have rocketed – by 75% and 210%, respectively — increasing earnings for these miners without them having to do anything different. Indeed, Fresnillo produced 11.7% less silver in the first six months of 2025 than it did a year earlier, yet its EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation) more than doubled. To further illustrate the impact of these favourable market conditions, Fresnillo says higher metals prices accounted for 69% of the $630m of extra gross profit in the first half of 2025, compared to the same period in 2024. It also means everything under the ground is worth a lot more than previously. But going forward things might be different. Historically, although silver and gold prices tend to move in tandem, the former is often more volatile. And the price forecasts for the two suggest there’s more optimism surrounding gold. Looking at the predictions from analysts employed by the major banks, none are forecasting a significant price drop from its current level. Most market specialists are expecting a price of around $5,000/oz (at 22 January, it was approximately $4,830) by the end of 2026. And I can see why the gold price is predicted to go higher. It retains its status as a ‘safe haven’, which means current geopolitical uncertainty is pushing its price higher. By contrast, predictions for silver prices don’t appear to be as optimistic. In fact, some analysts are forecasting a drop. Of course, nobody really knows for sure, which makes the mining sector more risky than many others. To add to the uncertainty, both Africa and South America have reputations for political instability, as well as volatile currencies. But as long as an investor is aware of the potential risks should metals prices fall or production be disrupted as a result of one of the many operational challenges, I think both are worth considering. However, I’m leaning more towards Endeavour Mining. In theory, Fresnillo offers some diversification through its exposure to two precious metals but I think the gold price is likely to remain higher for longer. Demand from the world’s central banks is a key driver with the dollar appearing to fall out of favour. Endeavour Mining also claims to have the third-lowest costs in the sector, which means it should do better relative to most of its closest rivals. The post Up 170% and 470% in a year, will these 2 red-hot FTSE shares soar again in 2026? appeared first on The Motley Fool UK. When investing expert Mark Rogers has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for nearly a decade has provided thousands of paying members with top stock recommendations from the UK and US markets. And right now, Mark thinks there are 6 standout stocks that investors should consider buying. Want to see if Endeavour Mining Corporation made the list? More reading James Beard has no position in any of the shares mentioned. The Motley Fool UK has recommended Fresnillo Plc. Views expressed on the companies mentioned in this article are those of the writer and therefore may differ from the official recommendations we make in our subscription services such as Share Advisor, Hidden Winners and Pro. Here at The Motley Fool we believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors.
|
https://www.fool.co.uk/2026/01/23/up-170-and-470-in-a-year-will-these-2-red-hot-ftse-shares-soar-again-in-2026/
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
f7a62f3fc21eb64efe19479d32bbc174edffde2ec016dac871dba06aa1599b5e
|
2026-01-23T08:00:00+00:00
|
Some UK shares offer tremendous value right now. Here’s what I’m doing…
|
Identifying value shares is fundamental to successful investing. But finding companies whose stock prices underestimate their true worth can be time consuming. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to find those hidden bargains. Here are just a few of them along with some potentially undervalued FTSE 100 stocks. Most analysts use discounted cash flow (DCF) techniques when determining company valuations. Indeed, this is the approach favoured by Warren Buffett, when he talks about identifying the intrinsic value of a business. In simple terms, this involves estimating the future cash flows of a company and then applying a discount factor – to reflect the time value of money and risk — to come up with the present value of these flows. A comparison’s then made to its market cap. Although these calculations are sensitive to the assumptions made, they remain popular with City professionals. Some of the DCF results I’ve seen suggest that Legal & General’s currently priced at approximately 60% less than its fair value. Similarly, Barratt Redrow is said to be trading at a near-50% discount. Less complicated approaches include looking at a company’s share price relative to its earnings (past and forecast) and then comparing it to others in the same industry. Based on their historic and forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratios, both International Consolidated Airlines and JD Sports Fashion appear to offer good value at the moment. Another popular technique is to compare a company’s accounting value (assets less liabilities) with its stock market valuation. A figure less than one could indicate a bargain. On this metric, Vodafone looks cheap. At 30 September 2025, its book value was £49.1bn. However, today (22 January), its market cap’s approximately £23.6bn. This gives it a price-to-book (P/B) ratio of just 0.5. But care must be exercised as not all assets on a balance sheet can be quickly converted into cash and, in some circumstances, are valued using DCFs. Of course, I would have to do more research before deciding whether to invest in these companies but I think some of the valuation methods highlighted here are a good way of coming up with a shortlist of potential candidates. One stock that I’ve looked at in more detail is Barclays (LSE:BARC). And because it appears undervalued to me, it has a place in my ISA. Its P/B ratio is 0.9, which is the lowest of the FTSE 100’s five banks. And based on its 2024 earnings, its P/E ratio is the second-lowest on the index, beaten only by NatWest Group. By 2027, analysts are expecting earnings per share to grow by 64% compared to 2024. This implies a forward earnings multiple of only 8.2. But there are challenges. An economic slowdown will likely increase the bank’s losses from bad loans. And its net interest margin could suffer if borrowing costs fall in line with expectations. To help spread risk, Barclays operates a diversified business model, with its investment arm and wealth management division generating roughly the same income as its traditional banking operations. After weighing everything up, I think Barclays is a cheap UK share to consider. But it’s just one of many UK stocks that I think offer excellent value at the moment. That’s why I’m trying to buy as many as I can. The post Some UK shares offer tremendous value right now. Here’s what I’m doing… appeared first on The Motley Fool UK. When investing expert Mark Rogers has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for nearly a decade has provided thousands of paying members with top stock recommendations from the UK and US markets. And right now, Mark thinks there are 6 standout stocks that investors should consider buying. Want to see if Barclays PLC made the list? More reading James Beard has positions in Barclays Plc, JD Sports Fashion, Legal & General Group Plc, and Vodafone Group Public. The Motley Fool UK has recommended Barclays Plc, Barratt Redrow, and Vodafone Group Public. Views expressed on the companies mentioned in this article are those of the writer and therefore may differ from the official recommendations we make in our subscription services such as Share Advisor, Hidden Winners and Pro. Here at The Motley Fool we believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors.
|
https://www.fool.co.uk/2026/01/23/some-uk-shares-offer-tremendous-value-right-now-heres-what-im-doing/
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
a8abfce391d43aaaebe8c1cd57d4ba8e4d5d8a257fc4bc2e416062017b7a174e
|
2026-01-23T07:48:37+00:00
|
Dow Jones near 50,000: is it too late to invest?
|
The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) is on fire this month, hitting record highs above 49,000 for the first time. One of the world’s oldest and most followed indexes, it’s now just a few percentage points away from 50,000. Last year (2025) saw some of its top constituents record spectacular gains: Caterpillar up 59%, Goldman Sachs climbing 54%, and Johnson & Johnson gaining 44%. With less tech exposure than the S&P 500 or Nasdaq, it benefitted from a resurgence in domestic industrial and finance stocks. As the tech-driven AI narrative appears increasingly speculative, this distinction is critical. Risk-averse investors looking for more stable, long-term exposure to US markets may find the Dow Jones a more appealing option. US stocks still promise moderate growth potential but they’re not without risk. President Trump’s recent tariff threats regarding Greenland sent ripples through global markets, knocking the Dow down 2%. It’s recovered since he withdraw the threats but gold continues to surge as investors seek safe havens. During these uncertain times, a moderate allocation into safe havens makes sense — but diversification remains key to spreading risk. Moving entirely out of stocks can result in lost gains if markets recover quicker than expected. Overall, things still look productive for the US in 2026. GDP is forecast to rise 2%-2.6% and Fed funds are expected to stabilise around 3%-3.25% after measured cuts. On the flip side, there are risks from elevated valuations, tariff escalation, the debt ceiling, and political uncertainty around Trump’s Fed picks. So what does this mean for UK investors — are US stocks still a buy amid all the volatility? For FTSE-focused Britons, the Dow still offers genuine diversification opportunities, which shouldn’t be ignored. While London loves miners and defence, America’s industrial heavyweights could offer an added buffer against the economic slowdown in China. In contrast to risky tech, the Dow offers ‘old economy’ large-cap plays that a retirement portfolio could benefit from. Fortunately, British investors can gain exposure to it without investing abroad with the iShares Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (LSE:CIND). With a tiny 0.33% in total expense and £1.24bn in assets, it fully replicates the Dow Jones index. Top holdings include well-known megacorps like UnitedHealth, Microsoft and Visa. Plus, the accumulating version automatically reinvests dividends, which are tax-free in an ISA — good for compounding over 10 to 20 years. Please note that tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in future. The content in this article is provided for information purposes only. It is not intended to be, neither does it constitute, any form of tax advice. Readers are responsible for carrying out their own due diligence and for obtaining professional advice before making any investment decisions. Admittedly, the 1.8% yield is far from an income investor’s dream but still, it adds some value in the form of reliable returns. On top of that, the stock’s delivered a 71% five-year return, equating to around 11% per year on average. Even near record highs, I believe there’s still a lot of value to be found in the Dow Jones. Naturally, a key risk is its reliance on US political stability and economic strength. With the EU having mulled counter-measures to new US tariff threats, both regions are at risk of volatility in the coming months. Still, for investors seeking a quick and easy way to gain exposure to the Dow Jones index, I think it’s a good option to consider. For those bearish on US markets, I’ve recently covered several FTSE 100 stocks that still offer excellent value, despite record highs. The post Dow Jones near 50,000: is it too late to invest? appeared first on The Motley Fool UK. When investing expert Mark Rogers has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for nearly a decade has provided thousands of paying members with top stock recommendations from the UK and US markets. And right now, Mark thinks there are 6 standout stocks that investors should consider buying. Want to see if iShares VII Public – iShares Dow Jones Industrial Average Ucits ETF made the list? More reading Mark Hartley has no position in any of the shares mentioned. The Motley Fool UK has recommended Microsoft and Visa. Views expressed on the companies mentioned in this article are those of the writer and therefore may differ from the official recommendations we make in our subscription services such as Share Advisor, Hidden Winners and Pro. Here at The Motley Fool we believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors.
|
https://www.fool.co.uk/2026/01/23/dow-jones-near-50000-is-it-too-late-to-invest/
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
3ba79ee7ff80d08fd26641520bdc014135e5c2c060e0742cd353fb846b417e57
|
2026-01-23T07:04:00+00:00
|
3 cheap UK shares tipped to grow 104% (or more) in 2026!
|
The FTSE 100 and FTSE 250 are still soaring, but the UK is still a great place to buy cheap shares. Some quality names have actually fallen in price, providing scope for a potential share price rebound in 2026. I’ve done some research to dig out stocks with the best chances of a recovery this year. My work shows that City analysts think their share prices will double in value or more during the next 12 months. I too am optimistic these cheap stocks could rebound. Want to know why I think they’re worth considering right now? Gamma Communications (LSE:GAMA) helps companies switch to cloud-based systems, allowing them to modernise how they handle voice, video and messaging communications. It’s a hot growth area, but one that’s currently underperforming amid tough economic conditions. Yet analysts remain overwhelmingly positive on the stock. Of the eight studying the FTSE 250 firm, seven consider it a Strong Buy, with the remaining one rating it a Buy. Even the least optimistic of this grouping’s predicting a sharp price rebound over the next 12 months. They’re tipping a 21% rise, to £10.80. The most bullish number cruncher, meanwhile, is expecting Gamma shares to reach £18.20, a whopping 104% uplift. Helped by falling interest rates, demand for its services might rebound strongly as businesses boost IT-related investment. Gamma will also benefit approaching the shutdown of all copper-based phone services in the UK next January. Card Factory‘s (LSE:CARD) another FTSE 250 company trending lower over the last year. Not even its focus on the value end of the greetings market has protected its share price. But could it be about to turn higher? Seven brokers currently have ratings on the retailer. And their views on the company are largely positive — five class it as a Strong Buy, with two giving it a Hold rating. This is reflected in their price forecasts for Card Factory shares. One analyst thinks the price will reach 170p during the next year, up 153% from today. Even the least bullish forecasts predicts a healthy 12% increase, to 75p. A prolonged downturn in the UK economy could hinder any such price recovery. But aided by recent international expansion, I think Card Factory could bounce back strongly this year. JD Sport Fashion (LSE:JD.) is another casualty of tough market conditions. In particular, it’s struggled to tackle weak consumer spending in its major US region. Fierce competition on main street and online haven’t helped it either. City analysts aren’t overwhelmingly positive in their view of the FTSE 100 share. But opinions are undeniably more positive than negative. Out of 17 rating the stock, seven consider it a Strong Buy or Buy. The remainder have a Hold rating, with not a single one giving it a Sell. The most optimistic JD share price target is 200p, up 146% from today. The most pessimistic is 85p, suggesting a 5% increase. I think there’s a good chance of a robust rebound as analysts expect. Conditions are improving in North America — this week it reported “improved” like-for-like sales there. And the broader athleisure fashion segment is tipped for further broad growth. The post 3 cheap UK shares tipped to grow 104% (or more) in 2026! appeared first on The Motley Fool UK. When investing expert Mark Rogers has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for nearly a decade has provided thousands of paying members with top stock recommendations from the UK and US markets. And right now, Mark thinks there are 6 standout stocks that investors should consider buying. Want to see if Card Factory plc made the list? More reading Royston Wild has no position in any of the shares mentioned. The Motley Fool UK has recommended Gamma Communications Plc. Views expressed on the companies mentioned in this article are those of the writer and therefore may differ from the official recommendations we make in our subscription services such as Share Advisor, Hidden Winners and Pro. Here at The Motley Fool we believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors.
|
https://www.fool.co.uk/2026/01/23/3-cheap-uk-shares-tipped-to-grow-104-or-more-in-2026/
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
a886ca34b5ad38db8c3c8f1ab82c72a20d4a01eb9df8d8bd27a39cee4186fe12
|
2026-01-23T07:02:00+00:00
|
£20k in a Stocks & Shares ISA? That could lead to a £13k passive income
|
The FTSE 100 has rocketed in value, yet Stocks and Shares ISA investors still have loads of excellent income opportunities. Around half a dozen Footsie shares like Legal & General (LSE:LGEN), M&G and Phoenix Group offer dividend yields of 6% and above. By drawing back and looking across the whole London stock market, the number increases to above 100. Not all of these will be rock-solid dividend contenders. The yields on many stocks have leapt as their share prices have plummeted, reflecting in some cases serious operational or balance sheet problems. But among that grouping there are genuine long-term passive income opportunities. Have £20,000 in an ISA to invest today? Here’s how you could target a strong and sustainable second income. The Stocks and Shares ISA is (in my view) head and shoulders above any other form of investment account. That’s not just in the UK. From a global perspective it’s also unmatched. Investors don’t pay a single penny to the taxman in capital gains or on any dividends they receive. By keeping 100% of their returns, they have more money to invest and let compound over time. Now, £20k is a decent chunk of cash to achieve a large passive income and portfolio growth over time. Please note that tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in future. The content in this article is provided for information purposes only. It is not intended to be, neither does it constitute, any form of tax advice. Readers are responsible for carrying out their own due diligence and for obtaining professional advice before making any investment decisions. Based on 6%-yielding dividend shares like I’ve described, a £20,000 ISA today would deliver a £1,200 passive income over a year. That’s a decent sum of money. But it’s hardly a life-changing one. Want to know how you could target the latter? It’s simple: building a diversified portfolio across a broad range of income stocks. Dividends are never guaranteed, but history shows that a balanced mix of shares spanning sectors and regions reduces risk and can deliver a smooth return over time. A Stocks and Shares ISA that grew 4% a year on average, and delivered a 6% dividend yield that was reinvested, would turn into £217,000 after 25 years. A 6% yield on a portfolio this size would then generate a £13,000 passive income! Those who could invest more along the way could, of course, make even more, based on the same rates of return. I think investors looking for brilliant dividend yields should give Legal & General shares a serious look. For me, it’s the best FTSE 100 passive income stock money can buy. It’s not just the fact that the firm has the index’s biggest forward yield (8.5%). Dividends have risen in 14 of the past 15 years, helping investors build a growing stream of income. But what makes it such a reliable dividend star? Its businesses require limited capital to operate, leaving plenty of excess cash on its books. And with limited growth opportunities, Legal & General prioritises distributing this capital to shareholders over reinvesting in its operations. With a Solvency II capital ratio of 217%, I’m expecting Legal & General’s proud dividend record to remain intact. That said, tough economic conditions persist and near-term earnings could come under pressure. Dividends on Legal & General shares are expected to rise again in 2027, driving the yield to 8.7%. I think the company’s a brilliant stock to consider for any Stocks and Shares ISA investor. The post £20k in a Stocks & Shares ISA? That could lead to a £13k passive income appeared first on The Motley Fool UK. When investing expert Mark Rogers has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for nearly a decade has provided thousands of paying members with top stock recommendations from the UK and US markets. And right now, Mark thinks there are 6 standout stocks that investors should consider buying. Want to see if Legal & General Group Plc made the list? More reading Royston Wild has positions in Legal & General Group Plc. The Motley Fool UK has recommended M&g Plc. Views expressed on the companies mentioned in this article are those of the writer and therefore may differ from the official recommendations we make in our subscription services such as Share Advisor, Hidden Winners and Pro. Here at The Motley Fool we believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors.
|
https://www.fool.co.uk/2026/01/23/20k-in-a-stocks-shares-isa-that-could-lead-to-a-13k-passive-income/
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
4c6366e1c0d5703980b1b3b1b78de12f7c9fc3af27d6ccd93e7225be083b583f
|
2026-01-22T17:06:00+00:00
|
Why I’m still betting on Berkshire Hathaway – even after Warren Buffett
|
Warren Buffett retired as Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE:BRK.B) CEO at the start of the year. But he’s still around as Chairman of the Board of Directors – for now, at least. Investors though, need to think about the question of what will happen to the company on the sad day Buffett is gone from it entirely. And there’s an important risk to consider. The issue for Berkshire shareholders has two parts to it. One is that Buffett has been an extremely good leader for the company and will be an extremely tough act to follow. On this front, I think there’s reason to be optimistic about Greg Abel. The new CEO has wasted no time in getting to work by making a move to sell off the firm’s stake in Kraft Heinz. More generally, Abel has a reputation for being much more involved with Berkshire’s subsidiaries than Buffett was. And this might be what the company benefits from most going forward. Berkshire’s size means acquisition opportunities that can make a difference to its profits are hard to come by. So a CEO focused on improving the existing operations could be what’s needed. The other issue for Berkshire shareholders is what happens to Buffett’s shares in the company. These are set to be distributed to various philanthropic organisations, but what comes next? Those organisations are likely to sell the stock, either because they want to or because they have to. And this raises the possibility that they might fall into the hands of activist investors. New shareholders could push for changes that might cause the share price to jump in the short term, but aren’t in the firm’s long-term interests. And that’s the risk. Buffett owns around 15% of Berkshire’s economic interest, but the nature of the Class A shares makes this over 30% of the voting power. So someone buying these could have a very big say. Buffett’s stake is worth around $150bn, so it would take a lot for any individual or organisation to buy the shares. But it isn’t entirely out of the question and it’s a risk I’ve been thinking about. Over the last few years, Berkshire Hathaway has – very conspicuously – grown its cash reserves to $382bn. That’s more than enough to buy Buffett’s shares when the time comes. In other words, Berkshire might stop a potential activist by buying Buffett’s stake before anyone else can. And the company has done something similar before, back in 2012. This would also benefit investors by reducing the number of shares outstanding. While the firm needs cash to cover potential insurance liabilities, $200bn should be more than enough for this. Investors have been wondering why Berkshire Hathaway has been accumulating huge capital reserves. Buffett has said for some time that it isn’t because he’s expecting a stock market crash. One potential reason, though, is that it puts the company in a strong position to deal with what happens when Buffett’s shares are sold. And this isn’t just about fending off a potential risk. Buying back around 15% of the firm’s equity should benefit existing shareholders in a major way. That’s why I hold the stock and why I’m still a buyer at today’s prices. The post Why I’m still betting on Berkshire Hathaway – even after Warren Buffett appeared first on The Motley Fool UK. When investing expert Mark Rogers has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for nearly a decade has provided thousands of paying members with top stock recommendations from the UK and US markets. And right now, Mark thinks there are 6 standout stocks that investors should consider buying. Want to see if Berkshire Hathaway made the list? More reading Stephen Wright has positions in Berkshire Hathaway. The Motley Fool UK has no position in any of the shares mentioned. Views expressed on the companies mentioned in this article are those of the writer and therefore may differ from the official recommendations we make in our subscription services such as Share Advisor, Hidden Winners and Pro. Here at The Motley Fool we believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors.
|
https://www.fool.co.uk/2026/01/22/why-im-still-betting-on-berkshire-hathaway-even-after-warren-buffett/
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
631ac9286ad803be6952fa4054c6243ade0bd3c4e052c27ec0dbe4b61312db6b
|
2026-01-22T16:45:00+00:00
|
2 top REITs I’m considering for my 2026 Stocks and Shares ISA
|
There’s still more than two months to go before the new 2026 Stocks and Shares ISA allowance kicks in. So there’s plenty of time, and no need to even think about it yet, right? No, that’s not my approach at all. When I have the opportunity to invest up to £20,000 tax-free in the stock market, I want to plan as soon as I can. And for the coming year, I have my eyes on some property-related investments. Please note that tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in future. The content in this article is provided for information purposes only. It is not intended to be, neither does it constitute, any form of tax advice. Readers are responsible for carrying out their own due diligence and for obtaining professional advice before making any investment decisions. Investors just starting out this year should really look for diversification in their first picks and probably not concentrate on any specific sector. But I’m happy with my current selection, so I think I’m fine to focus a bit. Why property? Inflation has just blipped up. But the general trend is down, and I can see mortgages getting cheaper in the next year or two. And when inflation falls, retail and other purchasing stands a good chance of getting a boost too. So, commercial real estate investment trusts (REITs), those are what I’m turning my eye towards. I like the look of the UK’s biggest, Segro (LSE: SGRO), which invests in shopping centres, warehouses, and other industrial and logistics properties. By REIT rules, it has to distribute at least 90% of its taxable income as dividends. And I like that, with a forecast 4.1% dividend yield on the cards. Segro is also involved in partnerships and joint ventures with others. And that helps rake in extra management fees on top of its own rental incomes. And speaking of rents, in October’s Q3 update the trust reported a 94.3% occupancy rate with “continuing strong like-for-like net rental income growth“. Segro is moving into data centres too, to capitalise on growing AI demand. I fear that might turn out to be a bit double-edged though, and any slowdown in the AI bandwagon could hurt the stock. But I’m still hoping for some share price growth on top of the dividends. To provide a boost to the much-needed Stocks and Shares ISA diversification, I’m also checking out the iShares UK Property UCITS ETF (LSE: IUKP). It’s about the closest thing we have to a REIT index tracker, spreading its shareholders’ cash across a range of individual REITs. It actually includes some Segro. But Land Securities, LondonMetric Property, and Primary Health Properties are among the 30 or so individual trusts it holds. I like the look of all three of those. They all made my first-pass shortlist for these current ISA considerations. The expected dividend yield is lower at 3.4% — and dividends are never guaranteed. It’s also open to sharing the risk of any one of its holdings having a bad year. But as a way to get into real estate investing, especially for Stocks and Shares ISA newcomers, I definitely think it’s a strong one to consider. The broad diversification alone makes iShares UK Property attractive to me. The post 2 top REITs I’m considering for my 2026 Stocks and Shares ISA appeared first on The Motley Fool UK. When investing expert Mark Rogers has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for nearly a decade has provided thousands of paying members with top stock recommendations from the UK and US markets. And right now, Mark thinks there are 6 standout stocks that investors should consider buying. Want to see if iShares II Public Limited Company – iShares UK Property UCITS ETF made the list? More reading Alan Oscroft has no position in any of the shares mentioned. The Motley Fool UK has recommended Land Securities Group Plc, LondonMetric Property Plc, Primary Health Properties Plc, and Segro Plc. Views expressed on the companies mentioned in this article are those of the writer and therefore may differ from the official recommendations we make in our subscription services such as Share Advisor, Hidden Winners and Pro. Here at The Motley Fool we believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors.</a>
|
https://www.fool.co.uk/2026/01/22/2-top-reits-im-considering-for-my-2026-stocks-and-shares-isa/
|
Business & Finance
|
svg
|
d01e3f6da40f21999ccd73cd18c3ca81b6c570ebcfa657846dc21e4bdaef12d8
|
2026-01-23T12:38:20+00:00
|
Andy Burnham faces decision on bid to return as MP
|
Some of Sir Keir Starmer's allies say they will try to stop Burnham from standing in a by-election.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clyeeqyvv78o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
1669ccb8bdb47e982e35c0f66888cca345728cccf3736fad6cc9e77b0c60c6d5
|
2026-01-22T22:40:55+00:00
|
Chris Mason: Andy Burnham faces tricky run to win Labour crown
|
The Greater Manchester mayor must overcome substantial obstacles in order to challenge Keir Starmer.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvg553rk7zvo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
826018e0edf7c140cb3eab2973b08811c3a8df47c56afe266a2b256d3eccd357
|
2026-01-23T05:59:34+00:00
|
Trump backed down over Greenland because he heard UK’s concerns, says Lammy
|
The deputy PM says the US President rowed back on threats after UK stood up for Denmark's sovereignty.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cm244zlnmkvo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
6d9923710768268f42bdbaabd190d2409c9d2212c821ebc249fdb886ea795faf
|
2026-01-22T18:15:32+00:00
|
Number of police forces to be cut in major shake-up
|
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood will announce plans for police reform next week.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cpwnn10rgk4o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
21516f2e888c71d34c0d87b6cec325f964cf8699742525904fc15d4ca4b0938d
|
2026-01-23T07:00:06+00:00
|
Botched insulation scheme was 'doomed to fail', say MPs
|
Installers should be investigated by the Serious Fraud Office, an influential parliamentary committee has said.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c8011kkdn5jo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
c645b1c3524f84c9c86d96f7748b7d36af71553933fe8010ce3692d580199c49
|
2026-01-23T11:22:19+00:00
|
Twenty-nine English councils to delay elections, minister confirms
|
A major shake-up of local government is underway and postponing ballots is intended to help deliver that reorganisation.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx2ggk333l4o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
a3ad7e6c3bb95d30a2d06c637616862280e10a19d11cda29ed8d1732a4e5e7e4
|
2026-01-23T13:03:41+00:00
|
Trump 'wrong' to claim Nato troops avoided Afghanistan front line, Downing Street says
|
The US president says Nato troops stayed "a little off the front lines" - despite 457 UK military deaths in the conflict.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czr444j671vo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
cecb9329ff23df5bb11b0e450535c519542300f06b2c835acef083b451e3115d
|
2026-01-23T12:40:08+00:00
|
Scottish government facing legal action over Sturgeon inquiry evidence
|
The Scottish Information Commissioner is taking ministers to court after they missed a deadline to release documents.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cgk88vl308lo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
e3467d47ef7133640141be6a992d038e97fae3e2e3b585f4eb97c2ecfd16ef41
|
2026-01-23T11:40:40+00:00
|
Health Secretary to meet dad over diabetes plea
|
John Story says he is "cautiously optimistic" the health secretary will stay true to his word.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c98ppz5n3jvo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
603acae4a5c87faa133da75f54a26bcb7419e73f26b58457c303a97bb54f7ba7
|
2026-01-22T14:21:17+00:00
|
Danish PM thanks Starmer for support over Greenland
|
Mette Frederiksen says it's good to know "Europeans stand together", after President Trump's climbdown.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cjrzzn98qv3o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
f16d469c25322bb1ba970887b1af95c02a2c6e1cef7e596df65fc65d46769240
|
2026-01-22T15:40:34+00:00
|
UK holds off joining Trump's Board of Peace over Putin concerns
|
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper says the Russian president has shown no commitment to peace in Ukraine.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cp9jj1j74ggo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
4adeb2dd4f535af7eb93d6bc75680e2795e6f2fb79932b8701848344f31380a0
|
2026-01-23T00:01:15+00:00
|
Retired civil servants left in pension limbo
|
Civil service pension scheme failed to pay some pensions and lump sums after transferring to a new administrator.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cp9jkdx1gp8o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
fe88136033050aabb90fbda0d4197098223c53fa06dafac493f73379874f8596
|
2026-01-22T20:01:57+00:00
|
Minister told armoured vehicle which left soldiers vomiting was 'safe'
|
The defence minister claims he wasn't made fully aware of issues which led to 35 people falling ill.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cp3zzv7jw4jo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
1ec0a047b7605dd786c7183978ee03225f8e0d4fa334d6e4b274091f8bb64dce
|
2026-01-22T00:57:24+00:00
|
Starmer warned of Labour rebellion if leasehold reforms watered down
|
Former minister Justin Madders tells the BBC Labour must stick to its pledge to cap ground rents.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czx3gz6pq90o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
2722fdd05d3632b76efb0c40eb993b9bdbc152915add350c97fda47c098f2307
|
2026-01-22T18:33:43+00:00
|
Ex-Labour minister quits as MP, paving way for Burnham return
|
Greater Manchester MP Andrew Gwynne says he is stepping down due to "significant ill health".
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c14rrez0mr4o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
f5ab3ef931a8e6ee8e1e2faf1f8cacf4503c372f6ef129e0cb753fd974e0c0a6
|
2026-01-22T20:00:12+00:00
|
First asylum seekers moved into former army camp
|
The Home Office says 27 people seeking asylum have been housed in the training camp in East Sussex.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce3kkvkdpw0o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
fae7585fcbfdac76f370b18bf67840fff3d820c7b8159c6c59f184ddc572322c
|
2026-01-22T16:57:04+00:00
|
Starmer needs to act to stop separatists running Wales, first minister says
|
The first minister said the threat of a UK break up will become real if pro-independence parties are in power in Wales and Scotland.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cg7yy5yx3k9o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
bb30e0f9a3ea2d51499f038aff24468748c0ba89e8cf239ee78dad8f525627e7
|
2026-01-22T14:57:03+00:00
|
Sharp fall in government borrowing in December, figures show
|
More money than expected was collected through tax and higher National Insurance Contributions, although public sector spending also increased.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clymd1pj887o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
cd8452331ad4662a16bea1f793071312b6ce4111becd4e3b4ddf06046b840a9a
|
2026-01-21T20:00:48+00:00
|
MPs remove conditional immunity measure for Troubles-era crimes
|
The controversial clause had already been found to be unlawful and was opposed by Northern Ireland parties and victims' groups.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5y2jyxwexlo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
ee2b02c759a1b4350ac832b10ea3f081a5c3a12259f0a7e82702828b32402ba3
|
2026-01-21T16:15:23+00:00
|
I will not yield to Trump's pressure on Greenland, says PM
|
Sir Keir says President Trump criticised the UK's Chagos Islands deal in order to exert pressure on the PM.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c98j90y2y6lo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
b354f30823c1af7adbd393f81c4320fa5aae1148abc0f568a02ce3ad0d6e45d0
|
2026-01-22T12:43:50+00:00
|
Council leader ousted over election delay row
|
Nuneaton and Bedworth's leader loses a vote of no confidence after calling for a delay to elections.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c24gg35l0leo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
fe2ca222d927bbdf6c7abdf1fcbb0fd77d0b8df70c3a6b71577391a107edcb42
|
2026-01-21T23:01:41+00:00
|
Chris Mason: Latest twist in Trump diplomacy brings relief for Starmer
|
The row over Greenland risked uprooting the PM's carefully cultivated relationship with the US president.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c62wwre0jrro?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
68f8f370d2c3999c32d17291b342af334c0107cc1a3eb770314a7540ba7ff044
|
2026-01-22T18:15:32+00:00
|
What we know about Trump's 'framework of future deal' over Greenland
|
Denmark and Greenland have made it clear they will not relinquish sovereignty of the world's largest island.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c86vvjxe9z7o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
7a6ff119162e367cf788708ee07076eed63b98cccb27bcd6bc085b03ec5c3126
|
2026-01-21T14:24:32+00:00
|
Starmer toughens stance on Trump as pressure from Labour MPs grows
|
Behind the scenes, Sir Keir had been coming under greater pressure to change his approach to the president.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czx3gql261xo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
8cdf09e6af1cbf37e5b5fd6093f55237b73602e47dfed13eaca70cb9704dcc18
|
2026-01-22T14:40:14+00:00
|
Wes Streeting answers questions about healthcare in Oxfordshire
|
The Health Secretary admitted the NHS is "falling short" on meeting demand for adult autism and ADHD diagnosis.
|
https://www.bbc.com/news/videos/cvg55n1vw60o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
|
World & Politics
| |
1d6a69244fed0a23335c98fcdd09071f9b0721c446273110f60e937c14f99587
|
2026-01-23T13:37:47+00:00
|
Watch live: Whole Hog Politics with Chris Stirewalt and Bill Sammon
|
The Hill’s SVP of Editorial, Bill Sammon, joins NewsNation’s Chris Stirewalt to discuss the latest political hot topics and national news in Whole Hog Politics. Sign up for the Whole Hog Politics weekly newsletter here or in the box below.
|
https://thehill.com/homenews/5702889-whole-hog-politics-newsletter/
|
World & Politics
| |
73203a13503b8aca348f790012a5b2f28fcf474594106cb3204ffefa57cf534f
|
2026-01-23T13:30:00+00:00
|
Trump appeases Putin while invading US cities
|
A decent president, if we had one, would stand up to blood-soaked tyrants like Putin rather than treating fellow Americans as enemies.
|
https://thehill.com/opinion/white-house/5700616-trump-ice-militarization-minnesota/
|
World & Politics
| |
e0d6c74fd91edb022f3f90c703e020be507a464287aaf952c5723b9467df3742
|
2026-01-23T13:29:33+00:00
|
Carney pushes back on Trump remarks about Canada: ‘The choice is up to us’
|
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Thursday praised his country, saying “the choice is up to us” when it comes to Canada’s future, after President Trump said Canada “lives because of the U.S.” “Canada and the United States have built a remarkable partnership, in the economy, in security, and in rich cultural exchange,” Carney wrote…
|
https://thehill.com/policy/international/5702850-carney-trudeau-partnership-us/
|
World & Politics
| |
2bf2d466728a2a09a62624b2cbbadfa785543b244565e21910d9700ca00bee0a
|
2026-01-23T13:20:25+00:00
|
Trump not ‘huge fan’ of housing plan that would open 401(k)s for down payments
|
President Trump said late Thursday he does not support his administration’s proposal to allow people to tap into their 401(k)s in order to secure down payments for homes. “I’m not a huge fan of it. Other people like it. They’re talking about taking money out to put a deposit down on a home. And one…
|
https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5702874-donald-trump-401k-down-payment-housing/
|
World & Politics
| |
1004ffd3efec25f52c661d3115204d2293bcffb44573c946bc30e4bf378d2af1
|
2026-01-23T13:00:00+00:00
|
Whole Hog Politics: Democrats find ‘reform’ a better rejoinder than ‘democracy’
|
[Watch Whole Hog Politics live: Join our live online audience on Jan. 30 and ask your questions to Chris Stirewalt and host Bill Sammon. Click here to join us!]  Two seemingly disparate but very much related stories played out in politics this week. One, the whole world watched. The other happened quietly and mostly behind closed doors.  Nobody missed President Trump’s Greenlandic opera, which took us from the…
|
https://thehill.com/newsletters/whole-hog-politics/5702526-trump-greenland-bluff-politics/
|
World & Politics
|
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.