Business

Maritime security firms seek cheap labor

Maritime security firms are increasingly turning to India and other Asian countries to hire lower-paid security guards. For some armed forces veterans, it's a lucrative way to return to civilian life.  

EU weighs costs of punishing Poland

The EU has given Warsaw two months to show it takes its own judicial independence seriously or risk possible funding cuts in the new EU budget. But would Brussels dare cook a goose that lays the bloc's few golden eggs?   

When will our cars finally really drive us?

For years we have been talking about autonomous, self-driving vehicles. Yet we don't see them on the streets. But be patient, even if you can't see them, something is happening.  

China slowdown, trade row hurt carmakers

Car sales have fallen in all key regions, especially in China, the world's biggest auto market. With concerns about the economy and stricter emissions rules looming, there is no end in sight for carmakers' troubles.  

Who will win Berlin's urban mobility battle?

The German capital's fame as a cyclist's paradise has attracted many rental bikes companies. And now electric scooters have joined this fast-paced business race. The fight for this new market has started.  

Perspectives

IMF's criticism of German family firms flawed

The IMF says Germany's family firms share part of the blame for the nation's rising inequality. But the head of the foundation for German family businesses rejects the IMF's stance, and claims the opposite is true.  

Huawei calls shots despite US ban

Huawei’s revenues for the first half of 2019 were up and, despite US blacklisting it in May, the Chinese telco is confident of more growth this year. It is now even wooing US allies, like Poland, with investment pledges.  

Renewables deliver majority of electricity

In Germany, sun, wind, water and biomass have so far produced more electricity in 2019 than coal and nuclear power combined. But it's a snapshot of a special market situation and might not be a long-term trend.  

Sweet-and-sour: The life of Italy's Chinese

In Milan, Chinese finger food is becoming such a trend that its Chinatown is reportedly the country's fastest growing real estate area. This zesty neighborhood is an example of the collaboration between China and Italy.  

Chinese slowdown is not a sign of weakness

China's economic growth slowed to 6.2% in the second quarter — the weakest pace since 1992. But the numbers may not be as gloomy for the world's second-largest economy as they appear, says Wang Tao from Swiss bank UBS.