February 18, 2026

Asian Paints Q3 decorative volume growth slips to 8%, EBITDA margin improves to 20.1%

Asian Paints reported slower 8% decorative volume growth in December quarter with steady international revenue. EBITDA margin rose to 20.1% aided by lower raw material costs. FY26 growth forecast is cautious at 5% value growth amid subdued pricing and demand.

February 18, 2026

Hong Kong Workers Brace for Unpaid Lunar New Year as Scaffold Net Rules Halt Projects

Hong Kong construction workers face unpaid months and may skip Lunar New Year breaks due to new scaffold net safety rules. Hundreds of jobs are stalled as projects pause.

February 18, 2026

Nomura, UBS Say IT Stock Sell-Off Overdone; Adaptability and AI Key for Growth

Nomura and UBS say fears about IT services stocks are exaggerated. Transition pains are front-loaded. High cash flows and dividend yields support stock floors. Adaptability to AI and new models will decide winners. Top picks include Infosys, Coforge, and eClerx.

February 18, 2026

Auto Loans Reach Rs328bn in January; Experts Urge Higher Financing Limits to Boost Car Sales

Auto loans in Pakistan rose to Rs328 billion in January 2026, marking the 14th month of growth. Experts say raising loan limits can drive more car sales and boost the auto market.

February 18, 2026

Wealthy Americans Lead Surge in New Zealand Gold Visa Applications Post Rule Changes

New Zealand's revamped golden visa has attracted 573 applications mainly from wealthy Americans. The Active Investor Plus visa now requires less investment and only three weeks' residency. Investors seek New Zealand’s beauty and safety from Trump-era politics. The scheme has already generated $3.39 billion for the country.