Thai economy beats growth forecast for Q2

Thailand’s economy has expanded around 3.3 percent in the second quarter, smashing forecasts which had puts growth at 1.7 percent. The figure was released by the National Economic and Social Development Board (NESDB) reflects measures taken by the government to boost the economy following last year’s flood and slow growth. Year-on-year growth has been of…

Brazil launches $66bn stimulus package

Although the world’s second largest emerging economy has provided investors with plenty of opportunities over the last few years, growth last year plummeted partly as a result of the country’s inadequate infrastructure. In order to address investors concerns, the Brazilian government yesterday announced a massive $65.6bn investment in its transport infrastructure over the course of…

How to increase the value of your home with DIY upgrades

This May, it was reported that home prices jumped another 2.2 percent. Some industry experts are saying the housing market recovery is finally underway. By making do-it-yourself (DIY) upgrades to your home, you can increase the value of your home and take advantage of the recovering real estate market.Mistakes you shouldn’t makeBefore getting into what you…

German economy makes sluggish gains

Figures released this morning show that the German economy, which has held together the chaotic eurozone during the last few years of financial strife, has grown just 0.3 percent over the last quarter. Fuelled by domestic consumption and relatively strong exports, the rate is less than the 0.5 percent of the previous quarter, but more…

JP Morgan hopes merging divisions will pay dividends

With many financial institutions coming under pressure to restructure their businesses in the wake of the last few years of economic turmoil, some firms have looked to separate aspects of their business in order to isolate the potential risks. JP Morgan, however, have announced plans to merge their corporate and investment banking divisions with their…

Belgium shuts nuclear reactor for possible cracks

Belgium has interrupted the use of one of its seven nuclear reactors, after suspicion was raised that one of its components might be cracked, according to the local atomic regulator. The Doel 3 reactor, located around 25km north of Antwerp provides around 16 percent of the country’s nuclear energy. The suspected damages aren’t thought to…