Palace IFC Cinema at Hong Kong’s IFC Mall May Close Amid Low Foot Traffic

February 13, 2026

Palace IFC Cinema at Hong Kong’s IFC Mall May Close Amid Low Foot Traffic

Hong Kong's upscale Palace IFC cinema at the IFC Mall is under threat as Sun Hung Kai Properties explores new tenants. The struggling movie theatre sees falling visitors.

Africa Finance Corporation Plans to Tap China's Bond Market with Yuan-Denominated Panda Bonds

February 13, 2026

Africa Finance Corporation Plans to Tap China's Bond Market with Yuan-Denominated Panda Bonds

Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) is set to enter China’s bond market this year. By issuing yuan bonds, AFC aims to halve borrowing costs and reduce dollar volatility risks. This move follows similar panda bond issuances by Afreximbank and Egypt. AFC officials say entering Chinese capital markets is a 'natural evolution' supported by investor roadshows and strong credit ratings.

Pakistan Plans Debt Restructuring to Cut Power Tariffs Amid Solar Rise; Launches Fan Replacement Scheme

February 13, 2026

Pakistan Plans Debt Restructuring to Cut Power Tariffs Amid Solar Rise; Launches Fan Replacement Scheme

Pakistan’s government is considering restructuring the power sector debt to reduce electricity costs amid a surge in solar use. They launched a subsidised fan replacement scheme to cut energy bills and ease summer demand.

Karnataka Approves ₹25 Crore for 2,500 Women-Run Coffee Kiosks to Boost Industry

February 13, 2026

Karnataka Approves ₹25 Crore for 2,500 Women-Run Coffee Kiosks to Boost Industry

Karnataka government has approved ₹25 crore to set up 2,500 coffee kiosks operated by women from Self-Help Groups. This move aims to boost the coffee industry and create jobs for 1 lakh women across the state.

US and Taiwan Seal Major Trade Deal Cutting Tariffs to 15 Percent

February 13, 2026

US and Taiwan Seal Major Trade Deal Cutting Tariffs to 15 Percent

US and Taiwan signed a key trade deal cutting tariffs on Taiwanese goods to 15%. Taiwan agreed to spend $85bn on US energy, aircraft, and equipment.