Japan’s economy grows 0.3% in second quarter, misses forecasts
Japan’s GDP expanded 0.3% in the second quarter of 2026, with weak consumption and capital spending contributing to growth below forecasts.

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Latest reporting, briefings and public-interest updates from the business desk.
Japan’s GDP expanded 0.3% in the second quarter of 2026, with weak consumption and capital spending contributing to growth below forecasts.


BP will develop the second phase of the offshore Loran gasfield with Qatari and Emirati partners, marking a major new foreign energy investment in Venezuela.

Ethiopia urged greater representation for emerging and developing economies in the global financial system during a BRICS finance ministers and central bank governors meeting in Jaipur, India.

Sports Direct owner Frasers Group has acquired luxury department-store chain Harvey Nichols for an undisclosed sum after the retailer entered administration.

Water companies in England and Wales have been allowed to spend £3.4 billion beyond their existing plans, a decision expected to increase household bills as firms fund infrastructure for new homes and data centres.

UK gross domestic product expanded by 0.4% in the second quarter of 2026, easing from 0.6% in the first quarter, with services and construction contributing to growth.

Paramount Skydance has considered changes involving CNN, including a possible sale or oversight body, while a proposed Warner Bros. Discovery transaction faces a lawsuit from 12 US states.

U.S. annual consumer inflation slowed to 3.4% in July 2026, while core inflation was 2.5% and energy costs remained sharply higher than a year earlier.