Storm Malik hits northern Europe with force; at least 4 dead

HELSINKI (AP) — A powerful winter storm swept through northern Europe over the weekend, killing at least four people, destroying houses and cars, closing bridges and causing flooding and halting transport while leaving thousands of households without electricity. Storm Malik was advancing in the Nordic region on Sunday, bringing strong gusts of wind, and extensive…

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China manufacturing activity grows at slower pace in January

BEIJING (AP) — Manufacturing activity in the world’s second largest economy grew at a slower pace in January compared to the previous month, according to an official government measure, as the country’s strict “zero-tolerance” COVID-19 measures put a dampener on economic activity. The purchasing manager’s index, tracked by China’s National Bureau of Statistics, slipped to…

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Boris Johnson’s mounting trouble is treasure for satirists

LONDON (AP) — A politician’s troubles are a humorist’s treasures. The scandal-prone British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has given cartoonists and meme-makers unimaginable riches for years, and with his hold on power now in jeopardy, their fortunes are only growing. Johnson and his staff are facing civil and criminal investigations into social gatherings they hosted…

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Malaysian Firms Facing U.S. Bans Over Forced Labour Summoned By Ministry

Malaysian Firms Facing U.S. Bans Over Forced Labour Summoned By Ministry

KUALA LUMPUR (Reuters) – Malaysia’s Human Resources Ministry said on Sunday it would call in all companies facing U.S. import bans over suspected forced labour practices to discuss immediate action to address the allegations. Malaysian factories, which include major suppliers of palm oil and medical gloves, have been under increased scrutiny over allegations of abuse…

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China Jan Factory Activity Growth Slows, Demand Wanes As COVID Surges

China Jan Factory Activity Growth Slows, Demand Wanes As COVID Surges

BEIJING (Reuters) – Growth in China’s factory activity slowed in January as a resurgence of COVID-19 cases and tough lockdowns hit production and demand, but the slight expansion offered some signs of resilience as the world’s second-largest economy enters a likely bumpy new year. The official manufacturing Purchasing Manager’s Index (PMI) registered 50.1 in January,…

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