Major International Business Headlines Brief ::: 26 November 2025

[Bulls n Bears]

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Major International Business Headlines Brief :::  26 November  2025 

 


                                                                                  

 


 <mailto:info at bulls.co.zw> 

 


 

 


 

ü  Nigeria: Energy Transition - Nigeria Will Not Abandon Its Oil, Gas - Official

ü  Tanzania: New Cargo Ships to Boost Trade in Katavi, Kigoma

ü  Tanzania: FCT Clears 96% of Cases in Five Years, Moves to Full Digital System

ü  Kenya: KeNHA Gives Illegal Billboard Owners 30 Days to Remove Structures or Face Action

ü  Kenya: KeNHA Gives Illegal Billboard Owners 30 Days to Remove Structures or Face Action

ü  Nigeria: How Youth Unemployment Drives Deforestation in Rivers Community

ü  African Development Bank Group Makes $15 Million Investment in Adenia Entrepreneurial Fund 1 to Support Small and Mid-Cap Companies

ü  Malawi: Mutharika Finally Admits Malawi Is Unready for Planting Season As Fertiliser Crisis Deepens

ü  Warner settles lawsuit with AI music firm and launches joint venture

ü  This is the first year I can't find a holiday job

ü  Foreign tourists to pay extra fee to visit US national parks

ü  Venezuela demands international airlines resume flights

 


 <mailto:info at bulls.co.zw> 

 


 

 

 

Nigeria: Energy Transition - Nigeria Will Not Abandon Its Oil, Gas - Official

"The world is changing, but Nigeria is not abandoning oil and gas; we are repositioning them," he said.

 

Nigeria will not abandon its oil and gas resources despite the global shift towards cleaner energy but will reposition them to drive economic growth and development, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Emeka Obi, has said.

 

Mr Obi disclosed this at the 8th Valuechain Energy magazine annual lecture series held in Abuja on Tuesday.

 

He explained that energy is not just a commodity but the lifeblood of indpustrialisation, the backbone of economic productivity, the driver of jobs, and a critical lever for social stability and national security.

 

 

He added that Nigeria is moving from an extractive economy to a value-driven energy economy.

 

"The world is changing, but Nigeria is not abandoning oil and gas; we are repositioning them. Our government, the government of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, strongly believes that gas is Nigeria's transition fuel. It is cleaner, abundant, and central to power generation, fertiliser production, CNG/LNG mobility, industries and exports.

 

"Aligned with the Decade of Gas Initiative and the National Energy Transition Plan, Nigeria is building a new identity, not just as an oil exporter, but as an energy solutions hub for Africa," Mr Obi said.

 

According to him, no nation has achieved sustainable prosperity without first resolving its energy question.

 

"From manufacturing to agriculture, from transportation to digital infrastructure, every sector of the modern economy depends on reliable, affordable, and accessible energy. It is therefore no coincidence that countries with stable energy systems also have stronger currencies, lower unemployment, and more inclusive economic opportunities."

 

 

He said Nigeria holds over 37 billion barrels of crude oil reserves and over 200 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, one of the largest in Africa.

 

When properly harnessed, he said, these resources should be a foundation for national transformation rather than a source of conflict and disappointment.

 

"That is why the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 remains one of the most consequential reforms in Nigeria's modern history. It was not merely a legal reform; it was an economic reset, designed to improve transparency, strengthen governance, de-risk investments and reposition the sector for long-term growth," he added.

 

Also speaking, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris said Mr Tinubu has been clear from the outset that Nigeria's economic revival depends heavily on a stable, modern, and efficient energy sector.

 

Mr Idris, represented by Mohammed Bulama, director general, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, explained that the Renewed Hope Agenda places energy at the centre of sustainable growth, industrialisation, investment attraction, job creation, and long-term national competitiveness.

 

"This administration is taking decisive steps to reposition the sector steps that reflect courage, long-term planning, and a commitment to leaving Nigeria better than we found it.

 

"The administration's push for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is part of a broader strategy for the evolution of a sustainable and affordable energy mix ecosystem that provides for cleaner fuel options and a plan to actively situate and support Nigerian citizens and businesses," he said.

 

In his remarks, Musa Usman, Publisher/Editor-in-chief of Valuechain Magazine, explained that the global energy transition is challenging traditional models, noting that the urgency to maximise the nation's resources for the benefit of all Nigerians has never been clearer.

 

"This moment forces us to confront essential national questions such as, how do we unlock the full potential of natural gas as a catalyst for industrialisation and power generation," he said.

 

Read the original article on Premium Times.

 

 

 

Tanzania: New Cargo Ships to Boost Trade in Katavi, Kigoma

Katavi — MINISTER for Transport, Professor Makame Mbarawa has said that the construction of four new cargo ships will significantly unlock economic and commercial opportunities in Katavi and Kigoma regions.

 

Prof Mbarawa made the remarks recently while inspecting the ongoing construction of the vessels at the Port of Karema in Katavi during his two-day working visit. His tour included a review of project progress and an assessment of service delivery at the port.

 

The Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) has contracted a private contractor, Nzenching International Company to construct the ships. Each vessel will have a carrying capacity of 2,000 tonnes.

 

 

Construction of the ships began in April this year. The first vessel has reached 90 per cent completion, the second 85 per cent, the third 75 per cent and the fourth 35 per cent.

 

"We believe that once these ships are completed and begin operations, they will completely transform the economies of Katavi and Kigoma. We expect the project to create between 6,000 and 7,000 jobs. This effort continues the vision of the government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan to involve the private sector in major water transport projects," Prof Mbarawa said.

 

He added that the vessels will transport cargo from the Port of Karema to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kigoma, Katavi. Linked with the Port of Dar es Salaam and Zambia, the initiative is expected to boost trade and strengthen economic influence across the Lake Tanganyika zone.

 

Representing the Katavi Regional Commissioner, Mpanda District Commissioner Jamila Yusuph commended the sixth-phase government for investing in the project, noting that it will open significant opportunities for Katavi residents, while stimulating employment and business activities.

 

 

On his part, TPA Director General Mr Plasduce Mbossa said collaboration among TPA, Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC) and other government institutions forms the backbone of the project's progress.

 

He noted that the vessels will enhance economic activity along the transport corridor from Karema to Kigoma and onwards to Dar es Salaam, while also complementing ongoing railway and road construction from Mpanda to Karema.

 

Manager of Ship Registration and Inspection at TASAC, Engineer Said Kaheneko said the designs of the vessels were reviewed and approved before construction began.

 

He added that each ship will be 15 metres wide and 70 metres long, and will include special markings to indicate when cargo exceeds authorised limits.

 

Read the original article on Daily News.

 

 

 

Tanzania: FCT Clears 96% of Cases in Five Years, Moves to Full Digital System

Dar es Salaam — THE Fair Competition Tribunal (FCT) has recorded major progress in the resolution of business-related disputes after completing 152 out of 156 cases filed in the past five years equivalent to a 96 per cent clearance rate.

 

FCT Registrar Mr Wema Kaskasi said yesterday that the achievement based on the Tribunal's commitment to efficiency and timely justice as part of efforts to strengthen the country's business environment.

 

"The strong performance is a result of targeted institutional improvements, including strengthening legal frameworks and enhancing teamwork and accountability among staff," the Registrar said.

 

 

The Tribunal has also benefited from the Competition Act, which provides a clear and enabling legal environment that promotes stakeholder participation and facilitates effective resolution of cases.

 

"The Act," he said, "offers structured guidance on how disputes are processed and determined thereby improving transparency, understanding and efficiency in the Tribunal's operations".

 

He further told the Minister for Industry and Trade, Ms Judith Kapinga, who visited the FCT offices in Dar es Salaam yesterday that the remaining cases were scheduled for decision early next week.

 

"Hearing dates for the remaining matters have been set to ensure that no case lingers unnecessarily," he said.

 

Despite successes over the past five years using a manual system, the Tribunal has completed development of an Appeals Management System, which has already been tested by eGA.

 

"Through digital systems, we will reduce inconvenience, costs, and increase efficiency in the hearing of cases," Mr Kaskasi said and "once operational, the system will replace manual filings with electronic submissions and streamline the entire appeals process".

 

The case management system, according to FCT, will enhance transparency and speed up the handling of cases.

 

"It is now awaiting final regulations before going live," he said.

 

The new systems will also include digital recording of proceedings, which is crucial for accuracy, credibility and the secure preservation of records in technical legal matters.

 

The Minister Kapinga urged FCT to ensure their decisions support business growth and do not hinder market operations.

 

She said cases involving mergers, counterfeit goods and unfair market practices demand careful and timely handling to protect the integrity of the country's competitive market.

 

She noted that the business environment is changing rapidly and requires updated, practical and business-friendly rules.

 

She also encouraged the opening of the district-level offices to widen opportunities and prepare communities for ongoing economic shifts.

 

"Technology is changing rapidly and it is important to build capacity and support experts so that the Tribunal continues to remain strong, efficient and knowledgeable," she said.

 

She named Arusha, Mbeya, Mwanza, Dar es Salaam and Tanga as priority regions expected to begin using digital systems to improve access and reduce the cost of dispute resolution for business owners.

 

Read the original article on Daily News.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kenya: KeNHA Gives Illegal Billboard Owners 30 Days to Remove Structures or Face Action

Nairobi — Owners of illegal billboards on Kenyan roads have been given 30 days to remove their structures or face enforcement action.

 

In a notice published in a local daily, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) expressed concern over continued encroachment onto road reserves along national highways, which creates hazardous conditions for motorists.

 

"Under the Kenya Roads Act, 2007 (Sections 49 & 50), KeNHA is mandated to control roadside developments and remove any illegal structures, billboards, advertisements, and directional signs within KeNHA road reserves," said KeNHA acting Director General Luka Kimeli.

 

"All persons with illegal structures, businesses, developments--including unapproved or unrenewed billboards, advertisements, and directional signs on road reserves--are hereby required to remove them within thirty (30) days from the date of this notice."

 

Those who fail to comply may face enforcement action, including demolition and recovery of related costs, without further notice to the owners or agents of the unapproved structures.

 

Read the original article on Capital FM.

 

 

 

 

Nigeria: How Youth Unemployment Drives Deforestation in Rivers Community

"I have been doing this work for one year and three months now," he said. "My parents are poor farmers. I've written WAEC and passed, but there's no money to continue school. This is the only work I have for now."

 

Livelihood pressures, intensified by climate change and ineffective government policies, have driven communities such as Okolomade in Abua/Odual Local Government Area of Rivers State to abandon conservation rules and engage in widespread deforestation.

 

For 22-year-old Enaanasebhaami Mark, cutting and sawing trees is now the only viable means to maintain a livelihood. He once dreamed of studying welding and fabrication at the university, but poverty ended those hopes.

 

"I have been doing this work for one year and three months now," he said. "My parents are poor farmers. I've written WAEC and passed, but there's no money to continue school. This is the only work I have for now."

 

 

Mr Mark and his friend, 23-year-old Bright Joseph, from the Okolomade community, are among dozens of young men now living off the forest. Mr Joseph, who lost his father early, is learning the 'trade' under Mr Mark. "I see this work as the only source of income in this part of the country," he said. "I've written and passed my WAEC for over four years now. This is how we make income here."

 

Odual community, a predominantly farming and fishing community in Rivers State near the border with Bayelsa, has faced years of neglect and recurrent flooding that destroys crops and disrupts livelihoods. With few employment opportunities and limited government support, many young people are now turning to tree felling and logging as a means of survival, despite earlier community-led efforts to protect the forests.

 

That shift, from conservation to exploitation, is devastating the community's natural capital. Vast areas once rich in diverse flora and fauna are now stripped bare, threatening species found nowhere else. When a tree falls, smaller plants are destroyed along with it, worsening the forest depletion.

 

 

Some of these trees are medicinal, used for the treatment of malaria, typhoid, catarrh, and cough, while others produce edible fruits. Locals say many trees being cut are still immature.

 

Community rules

 

The Okolomade community has locally developed rules that guide forest use, including the size of wood that can be harvested.

 

According to local rules, a tree is considered mature enough to be cut when an adult can wrap their arms around its trunk and their hands cannot meet, or only reach halfway. Mature trees can yield three to four timber logs, with planks typically measuring eight by twelve inches or larger, and cubic sizes of twelve by sixteen inches or sixteen by thirty-two inches or more. This contrasts sharply with the much smaller sizes now being produced from immature trees.

 

 

Originally, trees were felled only for timber. But in recent years, commercial sawing has become common, leading to the abandonment of local regulations. As a result, the planks now being produced are much smaller, typically measuring two by eight inches in thickness and width, and cut to lengths of ten, twelve, thirteen, or fourteen feet, a reflection of the absence of mature trees.

 

The community, however, prohibits the cutting of ogbono (Irvingia gabonensis) and African oil bean, popularly known as "Ugba" in Nigeria, because of their economic value.

 

Chainsaws and survival

 

When Dataphyte visited the Okolomade community recently, the forest floor was strewn with felled and sawn trees cut down by young people. Many of these trees once provided shelter for various animal species, but with ongoing deforestation, those animals are now disappearing.

 

The sound of saws and machinery echoed from morning till evening in Odual and Okolomade communities, where stacks of wooden planks lined the forest edges and village outskirts, ready to be transported to nearby cities.

 

The tree species affected include the cotton tree, mahogany, iroko, abura, white afara, black afara, and "a thousand legs" (a name given by locals due to its many branches), as well as African breadfruit and several other species whose names are unknown to the locals in English. Additionally, it was observed that this trade represents a cycle for young men, encompassing the processes of felling, sawing, carrying, and loading the wood into waiting vans.

 

Local leaders losing grip

 

Despite widespread disregard for conservation rules, community leaders say they feel powerless, insisting that logging and tree felling remain the only source of livelihood for many young people.

 

"The community is helpless because stopping young men from cutting down trees may lead to crime and criminality," Osebhenaan Micah, a former youth leader in Okolomade community, said. "In this community, there is no other means of livelihood. The only means of living here is timber," Mr Micah said.

 

For Mr Micah, the situation is fuelled by worsening flooding incidents and the limited availability of alternative jobs for young graduates.

 

"Most of us are graduates, but no employment," Mr Micah said. "In politics, nobody cares about us. This community does not have up to five persons who the local government employs, maybe one or two persons."

 

COP30: Amid rising heat, sustainable cooling can slash emissions and save trillions of dollars - Report

 

"If the government wants to stop the unsustainable felling of trees," Mr Micah said, "let them look into our situation. We have so many youths, let them bring programmes that will empower us in the area of vocational training and support people to do businesses."

 

The Chairman of the Community Development Committee (CDC), Patrick David, said that the Community leadership's efforts to preserve the forest trees have not been successful due to the livelihood pressures faced by young people. "The boys are hustling for money," he said.

 

Mr David explained that flooding has indirectly increased deforestation in the community. "Flood cannot destroy trees, but flood can destroy farming, which increases pressure to maintain livelihood by cutting trees," the CDC chairman stated.

 

Nigeria's forest depletion crisis

 

Deforestation is a global problem, driving dangerous warming and biodiversity loss. In Nigeria, a Global Forest Watch report revealed that 96% of the tree cover loss from 2001 to 2024 is attributed to humans, with the remaining 4% attributed to other causes, like natural disturbances and fires.

 

Rivers State has faced a substantial loss of forest cover. According to Global Forest Watch, in 2020, Rivers State had 485,000 hectares of natural forest, accounting for 57% of its total land area. However, by 2024, the state lost 2,020 hectares of natural forest, resulting in emissions of approximately 1.40 million tonnes of CO₂.

 

A senior official in the Ministry of Agriculture in Rivers State, who requested anonymity due to a lack of authorisation to discuss this issue, blamed the government for the failure to manage forests sustainably.

 

The official, a director, pointed out that although there are laws, policies, and guidelines at the national level, Rivers State has its own forest law, which remains unimplemented.

 

The director mentioned that there are currently no forest guards due to a staff shortage in the ministry. "In the past, we had forest guards who monitored our forests," the director said.

 

"Reserved forests were established to preserve both flora and fauna and to regulate how people utilised these areas. Because the government has neglected the forests, communities have taken control of them."

 

The director clarified that, according to the law, logs should not be sawn directly at the cutting site. Instead, they should be transported to approved mills.

 

"There is a specified girth for timbers, but what is currently being sold in the markets is undersized," the director stated.

 

This story was produced as part of Dataphyte Foundation's Biodiversity Media Initiative project, with support from Internews' Earth Journalism Network. We have permission to publish.

 

Read the original article on Premium Times.

 

 

 

 

African Development Bank Group Makes $15 Million Investment in Adenia Entrepreneurial Fund 1 to Support Small and Mid-Cap Companies

The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group has authorised a $15 million equity investment in Adenia Entrepreneurial Fund 1 (AEF 1).

 

The investment, decided by the Bank Board in Abidjan on 19 November 2025, will enable the Fund to channel growth capital to small- and mid-cap companies in various African countries, which work in sectors that contribute to economic resilience. Such sectors include light industry, consumer goods and services, renewable energies, health, and education.

 

The Fund will take majority stakes in firms, so that it can drive operational improvements, strengthen management practices, and support the implementation of growth strategies.

 

Adenia, the Fund manager, will help the firms to design development plans, create value, receive advice from sector experts, and obtain technical assistance. The African Development Bank estimates that the Fund will generate $55.5 million in tax revenue for governments, as well as strengthening regional integration. A total of 1810 local jobs (full-time-equivalent) should be created over the life of the Fund, of which 45% for women and 55 percent for young people.

 

"By targeting small- to mid-cap companies, AEF 1 will contribute to inclusive growth by facilitating access to finance for these businesses and promoting the creation of sustainable jobs. The Fund will also strengthen regional integration by investing in companies operating on a regional scale and supporting them as they expand beyond their home markets," explained Ousmane FALL, acting director of the Industrial and Trade Development Department at the African Development Bank.

 

About Adenia: Adenia Partners Ltd is a private equity firm committed to responsible investment for a sustainable Africa. Founded in 2002, Adenia is a leading pan-African private equity platform that has raised over $900 million from a range of partners (private investors, institutional investors and development finance institutions). The manager has successfully headed five funds (three of which have been fully liquidated), invested in 34 companies and completed 20 exits.

 

Read the original article on African Development Bank (AfDB).

 

 

 

 

 

 

Malawi: Mutharika Finally Admits Malawi Is Unready for Planting Season As Fertiliser Crisis Deepens

President Peter Mutharika has publicly conceded that his government has failed to prepare the country for the 2025/26 planting season, admitting that Malawi is heading into the rains without adequate fertiliser and with procurement dangerously behind schedule.

 

The President made the confession at Mtunthama State Lodge during a high-stakes meeting with IMF Africa Department director Abebe Aemro Selassie -- a meeting that laid bare just how fragile the economy has become.

 

"We are struggling with supplies... we are not yet ready in terms of fertiliser," Mutharika openly told the IMF delegation, acknowledging what farmers, experts and civil society have been warning for months.

 

 

The admission marks one of the clearest indicators yet that the administration is overwhelmed by a cocktail of crises: late procurement of inputs, a suffocating foreign exchange shortage, unstable fuel supplies and rising debt repayments eating into essential imports.

 

 

Although government launched the Farm Inputs Subsidy Programme (Fisp) two weeks ago, only 30 000 metric tonnes of inputs -- largely procured from Zambia -- have arrived, according to Agriculture Minister Roza Mbilizi. National demand stands at 110 000 MT, and the ministry cannot say when the remaining 80 000 MT will be secured.

 

For a country whose planting calendar is already closing in, the uncertainty threatens yields, food security and economic stability.

 

Government Pleads for Help

 

Facing the IMF, Mutharika painted a bleak picture: fuel queues returning "after a week," industry disruptions, and a debt burden so heavy that it has swallowed the little fiscal space the Treasury once had.

 

"We are heavily indebted, both to private and official institutions... we have to restructure," the President said, a rare admission that the government can no longer meet its obligations without external rescue.

 

 

A Broken Economy Exposed

 

IMF envoy Selassie did not sugar-coat the situation. He confirmed that Malawi's economic pressures are severe and getting worse:

 

"The government has inherited a very difficult economy... imbalances are elevated, foreign exchange shortages are significant and inflation is high," he said, stressing that the Fund sees the situation as urgent enough to warrant accelerated support.

 

Two IMF missions have already been in Malawi in recent weeks, and more are expected as pressure mounts to prevent a full-scale economic collapse.

 

Foreign Exchange Crisis at the Centre

 

Finance Minister Joseph Mwanamvekha, who called the talks "very successful," admitted that Malawi's immediate problem is simple but devastating: it has no money to import what the country needs.

 

"If we get foreign exchange, our problems are sorted out. Everything revolves around foreign exchange," he said.

 

The minister said the government is enforcing austerity -- cutting expenditure, freezing recruitment, tightening travel, and intensifying tax collection -- measures he insists are "not cosmetic work."

 

But with fertiliser missing, fuel unstable, and debt piling up, the administration is now openly depending on the IMF to prevent further deterioration.

 

The IMF is expected to meet development partners this week in an effort to mobilise emergency support for food, fertiliser, forex and fuel. Mwanamvekha also plans extensive engagements with Parliament and the media as negotiations intensify.

 

Both sides say technical discussions will continue this week, with hopes of striking a deal that can ease immediate import pressures and stabilise the economy.

 

But the bigger story is this: for the first time, President Mutharika has publicly admitted that Malawi is facing a planting season -- and an economic year -- for which his government is dangerously unprepared.

 

Read the original article on Nyasa Times.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Warner settles lawsuit with AI music firm and launches joint venture

Warner Music Group (WMG) will begin an artificial intelligence (AI) music venture with technology start-up Suno - a year after it sued the firm in a landmark case.

 

As part of the settlement agreement struck between the two firms, Warner will let users create AI-generated music on Suno using the voices, names and likeness of artists who opt-in to the programme.

 

The record label, which represents artists like Dua Lipa, Coldplay and Ed Sheeran, was among several music giants like Sony Music that sued Suno and a similar platform called Udio.

 

AI-generated content has been controversial, with many artists voicing concerns that it could undermine human songwriters.

 

 

Starting next year, Suno will roll out new advanced and licensed models to its generative-AI music platform, which allows users to create music based on simple descriptions, said Warner in a statement.

 

The Massachusetts-based firm has around 100 million users and was launched two years ago.

 

Suno's 2026 model will replace its existing version and will require users to pay for audio downloads, said Warner. Songs on the service's free tier can still be played and shared.

 

Warner said the "first-of-its-kind partnership" will open "new frontiers" in music creation while ensuring the creative community is compensated.-bbc

 

 

 

 

 

 

This is the first year I can't find a holiday job

Nicholas Strahl has always been able to find extra work around the holidays. But this year has been the exception.

 

Mr Strahl, 41, works as a part-time retail sales associate at an office supplies store just outside Indianapolis, Indiana. While the pay is "okay", he said it "never hurts to have a little bit more".

 

Finding seasonal holiday employment, for extra cash to pay his bills and buy holiday gifts for friends and family, has been a challenge. He started his search in early October and applied to CVS, Best Buy and a slew of other retailers - to no avail.

 

"I've never seen the job market like this - it's pretty crazy," he said.

 

"It doesn't really leave a lot of power for people who just want to get a job, or have a supplement in income."

 

Seasonal hiring is poised to drop to its lowest level since the aftermath of the 2008 recession, according to the National Retail Federation. The pullback, a sign of caution among US businesses in the face of tariffs and consumer angst, comes as more people are looking for work in the cooling job market.

 

 

Nicholas Strahl Nicholas Strahl, wearing glasses and a checked shirt, sits in an armchair holding a tablet.Nicholas Strahl

Nicholas Strahl, who lives near Indianapolis, Indiana, said he has always been able to find extra work around the holidays - but this year has been the exception

The industry group expects retailers to hire between 265,000 and 365,000 seasonal workers, down from 442,000 last year.

 

The outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas, which also predicted the weakest holiday season for retail hiring in more than 15 years, said tariffs, inflation and reliance on automation are dampening demand for seasonal hires.

 

If Mr Strahl can't land a holiday job, he plans to cut down on holiday gifts and hold off on some car repairs. He will wait to replace his old laptop.

 

"At this point," he said, "I'm willing to take anything I can get."

 

Data from Indeed shows that while postings for seasonal work have largely held steady compared to last year, more people are seeking seasonal jobs.

 

And in retail, traditionally one of the biggest hirers for the holidays, there are fewer opportunities.

 

 

Getty Images A woman wearing an apron stands behind a counter wrapping Christmas presents with a thick red and gold ribbon. Reels of ribbons are seen behind her.Getty Images

The labour market is "frozen with frostbite", said Allison Shrivastava, an economist with the Indeed Hiring Lab. The fact that seasonal job postings have held steady from last year is reflective of the labour market's paralysis, she said.

 

"You have a much bigger labour pool competing for a smaller number of jobs," she added.

 

The government shutdown, which lasted more than one month before ending on 13 November, had delayed the release of official data on the labour market. But data for September, finally released last week, showed a surprising pick-up in hiring after a lacklustre summer.

 

Employers added 119,000 jobs in September, more than double what many analysts had expected, but the unemployment rate ticked up from 4.3% to 4.4%.

 

Data from Revelio Labs, a workforce intelligence firm, shows job openings in the retail sector in October were down 22% from last year. The drop signals less demand among retailers for holiday workers.

 

"We're just not seeing the usual pick-up in holiday hiring," said Lisa Simon, Revelio's chief economist.-BBC

 

 

 

 

 

Can Canada wait out the trade war with the US?

Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney appears in no rush to resume trade talks with the US.

 

He dismissed a question over the weekend about when he last spoke to US President Donald Trump, responding: "Who cares? It's a detail. I'll speak to him again when it matters."

 

Carney added that, in his view, there is no "burning issue" to raise with his US counterpart.

 

The prime minister has faced criticism for his apparent lack of urgency, which raises the question about whether Canada is shifting its approach to trade talks with the US.

 

 

'Great deal of posturing'

Still, Carney is considering travelling to Washington next week for the Fifa World Cup draw. Canada is a host country of the international tournament next year, along with Mexico and the US.

 

Sources have told Canadian media that Carney and Trump could take the opportunity to meet, though nothing firm has been announced.

 

"This is one of those negotiations where there's a great deal of posturing on both sides," said Chris Sands, director of the Center for Canadian Studies at Johns Hopkins University.

 

"Trump doesn't want to look like he needs a deal too badly. Carney doesn't want to look too desperate either, and so they kind of play each other out trying to look nonchalant. But of course, there's money on the table, and there's a lot to be negotiated."

 

Talks between the two countries stalled last month when Trump took offence at an anti-tariff advertisement featuring former US President Ronald Reagan, which was commissioned by the province of Ontario and aired in the US.

 

Prior to that, Carney said he and Trump texted regularly, telling Toronto Life magazine that Trump texts with "a lot of caps. And exclamation marks. And there is no time limit—there is a 24/7 element to it".

 

Despite the pause, Canadian representatives are still advocating on the country's behalf with US lawmakers on Capitol Hill, Richard Madan, the trade representative for the province of Manitoba, told the BBC.

 

But Madan added that trade talks have not formally progressed beyond that.

 

Reuters Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, meets with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at Al Shati Palace in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, November 20, 2025. The two are seated across from each other. Carney is wearing a black suit, while the Al Nahyan is wearing a traditional Emirati thobe and white gutra. Behind them are the UAE and Canadian flags. Reuters

Carney has embarked on a string of global trips this month, including to the United Arab Emirates, to push for foreign investment in Canada

 

Ontario's Reagan ad – in which former President Ronald Reagan says tariffs "hurt every American" – likely hit a nerve with Trump in part because many Americans report feeling financially squeezed, said Mr Sands.

 

This discontent comes at a politically critical time for Trump ahead of next year's US midterm elections.

 

Madan said many Congress members are already in campaign mode. "They're facing some political headwinds on affordability, and these tariffs aren't helping," he said.

 

A November Fox News poll suggested that 76% of US voters view the economy negatively, up from 67% in July, and that many believe Trump's economic policies have hurt them.

 

The president walked back tariffs on dozens of food items earlier this month, and has signalled an openness to lower tariffs on imported metals from Canada and Mexico if some conditions on shifting production to the US are met.

 

Before the abrupt pause in talks, Trump and Carney were discussing a possible deal on metals and energy, which Canadian officials had hoped would ease the tariffs on Canada's steel and aluminium sectors.

 

The US has imposed a 35% levy on all Canadian goods – though most are exempt under an existing free trade agreement. It has also slapped sector-specific levies on Canadian goods, including a 50% levy on metals and 25% on automobiles.

 

About three-quarters of Canada's exports are sold to the US, making its economy particularly vulnerable. Carney has noted, however, that due to the duties exemption under the current free trade deal, Canada is facing lower tariffs than other countries.

 

Carney's focus has instead been on his pledge to double Canada's non-US exports in the next decade. The prime minister recently made a string of global trips to pitch Canada overseas, including to the United Arab Emirates and on the sidelines of the G20 in South Africa.

 

Tariff relief measures

In the meantime, the Carney government has signalled it will be offering financial relief to sectors impacted by US tariffs as they weather the trade storm.

 

Relief would be welcome by Canada's aluminium producers, who have had to absorb initial tariff-related costs to meet their contractual obligations with US customers.

 

But Jean Simard, president and chief executive of the Aluminium Association of Canada, told the BBC that Americans are starting to feel squeezed as their stockpiles of the metal deplete. He noted that the US consumes far more aluminium than it produces, leaving it dependent on imports.

 

"Time is on our side and pain is on their side," Mr Simard said.

 

"We can stay the course, and we think it is to the benefit of Canada to take its time and not rush into a deal prematurely."

 

However, Carney is still facing pressure from others to reach a resolution quickly.

 

Madan noted that US tariffs on heavy machinery have been felt deeply in Manitoba and that people in that sector "are deeply concerned".-BBC

 

 

 

 

 

 

Foreign tourists to pay extra fee to visit US national parks

Foreign tourists visiting popular US national parks like the Grand Canyon and Yosemite will need to pay an extra fee, the Trump administration said on Tuesday.

 

The Department of the Interior, which runs the country's national parks, said each international visitor will need to pay $100 (£76) on top of existing fees to access 11 of the most popular sites.

 

>From 2026, non-residents will also need to pay more than $250 for an annual pass to the parks, while US citizens and permanent residents will continue to pay $80.

 

The fee hike aims to "put American families first" and reflects President Donald Trump's goal to make the parks more accessible and affordable for US citizens, said the department.

 

 

"These policies ensure that US taxpayers, who already support the National Park System, continue to enjoy affordable access, while international visitors contribute their fair share to maintaining and improving our parks for future generations," said Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum.

 

The increase will take effect at the start of 2026, alongside the launch of an upgraded online booking system and better access for motorcyclists across the parks.

 

In its announcement, the department also noted eight resident-only, "patriotic fee-free" days for 2026, including Memorial Day, Independence Day and Veteran's Day.

 

The fee hike follows an executive order, signed by Trump in July, to raise entrance fees at national parks for overseas visitors. The extra revenue would raise funds for conservation and maintenance at the sites, the White House said at the time - even as the Trump administration planned deep cuts to the Park Service budget.

 

US national parks have seen record numbers of tourists in recent years, with upwards of 331 million visitors in 2024 - an increase of at least 6 million compared to the year before.

 

The country's most visited parks include the Everglades in Florida, Yosemite in California and Colorado's Rocky Mountains.-BBC

 

 

 

Venezuela demands international airlines resume flights

Venezuela has told international airlines to resume flights to the country within 48 hours or risk being stripped of their clearance to fly there altogether.

 

Several airlines suspended their flights to Venezuela after the US aviation regulator warned on Friday of "heightened military activity" in the area.

 

The warning came as the US ramped up pressure on the Venezuelan government, sending the world's largest aircraft carrier to the southern Caribbean as part of a larger military build-up.

 

The International Air Transport Association (Iata) has warned Venezuela's aviation authority that rescinding airlines' clearance would only isolate the country further.

 

 

Venezuela's aviation authority (Inac), which reports to the country's ministry of transport, issued the ultimatum on Monday.

 

Among the airlines affected are Spain's Iberia, Air Europa and Plus Ultra, Brazil's Gol, Chile's Latam, Colombia's Avianca, Portugal's TAP and Turkish Airlines.

 

All of them - except Trinidad and Tobago's Caribbean Airlines, which had already stopped flights in September - halted their flights to Venezuela after the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a "Notice to Air Missions" on Friday.

 

In it, the FAA advised flight operators "to exercise caution when operating in the Maiquetía flight information region at all altitudes due to the worsening security situation and heightened military activity in and around Venezuela".

 

Maiquetía is the location of Venezuela's main international airport, serving the capital, Caracas.

 

While a number of airlines, including Panama's Copa and Venezuela's state-owned Conviasa, have continued to fly in and out of Maiquetía, the suspensions have severely curtailed the number of international flights.

 

Aviation industry body Iata urged Inac to drop the deadline, to avoid further reducing "connectivity to the country, which is already one of the least connected in the region".

 

Iata stressed in a statement that its member airlines had suspended their flights temporarily and remained "committed to restoring operations to and from Venezuela as soon as conditions allow".

 

Tension between the US and Venezuela has been growing since the former escalated its military presence in the southern Caribbean, in an operation it says is designed to combat drug trafficking.

 

The US Navy has carried out at least 21 strikes against boats allegedly carrying drugs - mostly in the Caribbean but also a few in the Pacific - since the beginning of September.

 

The Venezuelan president, Nicolás Maduro, has denounced the strikes and the military build-up, accusing the US of trying to overthrow him.

 

On Monday, he struck a defiant note telling viewers of his TV show that "they [the US] will not be able to defeat Venezuela, we are invincible".

 

The US government has labelled Maduro as an illegitimate leader, pointing to his 2024 re-election, which was widely dismissed as rigged.

 

However, US President Donald Trump has not ruled out speaking directly to Maduro, telling reporters last week that "at a certain period of time, I'll be talking to him".-BBC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 


 


 Invest Wisely!

Bulls n Bears 

 

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INVESTORS DIARY 2025

 


Company

Event

Venue

Date & Time

 


 

 

 

 

 


 

 

 

 

 


 

 

 

 

 


Companies under Cautionary

 

 

 


 

 

 

 


CBZH

GetBucks

EcoCash

 


Padenga

Econet

RTG

 


Fidelity

TSL

FMHL

 


 

 

 

 


 <mailto:info at bulls.co.zw> 

 


 

 


DISCLAIMER: This report has been prepared by Bulls ‘n Bears, a division of Faith Capital (Pvt) Ltd for general information purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy or subscribe for any securities. The information contained in this report has been compiled from s believed to be reliable, but no representation or warranty is made or guarantee given as to its accuracy or completeness. All opinions expressed and recommendations made are subject to change without notice. Securities or financial instruments mentioned herein may not be suitable for all investors. Securities of emerging and mid-size growth companies typically involve a higher degree of risk and more volatility than the securities of more established companies. Neither Faith Capital nor any other member of Bulls ‘n Bears nor any other person, accepts any liability whatsoever for any loss howsoever arising from any use of this report or its contents or otherwise arising in connection therewith. Recipients of this report shall be solely responsible for making their own independent investigation into the business, financial condition and future prospects of any companies referred to in this report. Other  Indices quoted herein are for guideline purposes only and d from third parties.

 


 

 


 (c) 2025 Web:  <http://www.bullszimbabwe.com> www.bullszimbabwe.com Email:  <mailto:bulls at bullszimbabwe.com> bulls at bullszimbabwe.com Tel: +27 79 993 5557 | +263 71 944 1674

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

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