Global stock markets remained mixed today as investors weighed fresh U.S. inflation data, corporate earnings reports, and the ongoing economic uncertainty in China and Europe. The U.S. stock market opened slightly higher on Monday morning, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average rising 0.4%, the S&P 500 climbing 0.3%, and the Nasdaq Composite gaining 0.5% in early trading. Investors responded positively to June's U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) report, which showed inflation cooling slightly to an annual rate of 3.0%, down from 3.3% in May."Markets are optimistic that the Federal Reserve may pause or even cut interest rates by the fall," said Lisa Raymond, chief analyst at Morgan & Co. "But it's still a wait-and-see situation, especially with more earnings coming this week."   Wall Street Opens Higher Dow +0.4%, S&P 500 +0.3%, Nasdaq +0.5% on Monday morning. Boosted by June CPI showing inflation cooled to 3.0% (down from 3.3%). Hopes rise for potential Fed rate cut or pause by fall. The U.S. stock market opened slightly higher on Monday morning, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average rising 0.4%, the S&P 500 climbing 0.3%, and the Nasdaq Composite gaining 0.5% in early trading. Investors responded positively to June's U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) report, which showed inflation cooling slightly to an annual rate of 3.0%, down from 3.3% in May. "Markets are optimistic that the Federal Reserve may pause or even cut interest rates by the fall," said Lisa Raymond, chief analyst at Morgan & Co. "But it's still a wait-and-see situation, especially with more earnings coming this week."   Tech Leads the Way Technology stocks led the gains in the U.S., with Apple (AAPL) up 1.8% and Nvidia (NVDA) jumping 2.4%, as demand for AI and semiconductors remains strong. Tesla (TSLA) also rebounded, rising 3.1% after announcing better-than-expected Q2 vehicle deliveries. Global stock markets showed a mixed performance as investors weighed persistent inflation concerns against a wave of corporate earnings reports. While strong results from major tech companies helped lift some indexes, uncertainty surrounding central bank policies and the future path of interest rates kept others in check. In the U.S.,   Europe Struggles on Growth Concerns   Meanwhile, European markets showed little movement, with the FTSE 100 in London flat and Germany’s DAX down 0.2%. Investors remain concerned about weak industrial output and rising energy costs across the Eurozone.“The European economy is showing signs of fatigue,” said Carla Dupont, economist at BNP Paribas. “High borrowing costs and geopolitical tensions are dragging down business activity.”Global stock markets showed a mixed performance as investors weighed persistent inflation concerns against a wave of corporate earnings reports. While strong results from major tech companies helped lift some indexes, uncertainty surrounding central bank policies and the future path of interest rates kept others in check. In the U.S., Market Performance Summary Table Region Index/Company Movement (%) Key Driver USA Dow Jones +0.4% Positive CPI report (3.0% inflation)   S&P 500 +0.3% Rate cut optimism   Nasdaq +0.5% Tech stock gains   Apple (AAPL) +1.8% Strong AI demand   Nvidia (NVDA) +2.4% Semiconductor growth   Tesla (TSLA) +3.1% Strong Q2 deliveries Europe FTSE 100 (UK) 0.0% Flat due to economic uncertainty   DAX (Germany) -0.2% Weak industrial output, high energy costs Asia Nikkei 225 (Japan) +0.6% Strong export performance   Shanghai Composite -1.2% Property sector risks, low consumer spending   Asia Mixed as Chinese Markets Slump   In Asia, markets showed mixed results. Japan’s Nikkei 225 gained 0.6%, supported by strong export data. However, Chinese markets fell sharply, with the Shanghai Composite down 1.2%, as fears about the country’s property sector and sluggish consumer spending persisted. Gains in consumer and tech sectors pushed markets higher, but weaker-than-expected bank earnings and inflation-related jitters limited broader momentum. European markets edged lower as traders grew cautious about global trade tensions and slowing growth indicators, while Asian markets saw mixed results, with Hong Kong posting modest gains and Tokyo slipping slightly. Overall, market sentiment remains cautious as investors await further economic data and guidance from central banks.   Looking Ahead   Investors are now turning their focus to key corporate earnings this week from major banks like JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Citigroup, as well as tech giants like Netflix and Microsoft. The results are expected to provide a clearer picture of business resilience amid high interest rates and uncertain global demand. Overall, market sentiment remains cautious as investors await further economic data and guidance from central banks.

After a turbulent few years marked by high volatility, regulatory crackdowns, and the collapse of several major platforms, the cryptocurrency market is showing signs of a strong rebound in mid-2025.Bitcoin has reclaimed stability above $65,000, while Ethereum is trading confidently near $4,200, signaling renewed investor confidence and growing mainstream adoption.What’s driving the comeback? Experts point to three key factors: institutional investment, regulatory clarity, and technological innovation.   Institutional Money Is Back Major financial institutions—including BlackRock, JPMorgan, and Fidelity—have re-entered the market with renewed strategies. This time, they’re focusing on tokenized assets, blockchain-backed bonds, and Bitcoin ETFs that are now officially regulated in the U.S., Europe, and parts of Asia."The noise is gone, and the infrastructure is maturing," says Elena Park, a blockchain analyst at MorganTech Research. "Institutional players are treating crypto not as a gamble, but as a long-term asset class."Even central banks are exploring digital assets. Countries like Singapore, UAE, and Brazil have launched CBDCs (Central Bank Digital Currencies), integrating blockchain into national payment systems.   Regulatory Frameworks Bring Stability 2025 has seen clearer legal frameworks emerge, especially in the U.S., EU, and Southeast Asia. This regulatory clarity is reducing investor uncertainty and allowing new products—such as crypto-based retirement funds, lending platforms, and tokenized commodities—to enter the market with legal backing.The Crypto Market Stability Act (CMSA) in the U.S. has also introduced mandatory reserves for stablecoins, stricter KYC/AML protocols for exchanges, and real-time audit requirements."Regulation doesn’t kill crypto—it protects it," notes Dr. Omar Hussein, a digital finance professor in London. "Now, institutional and retail investors can participate with more confidence."   Layer 2 and Utility Coins Gain Momentum While Bitcoin and Ethereum dominate headlines, smaller utility tokens and Layer 2 solutions are making waves. Networks like Arbitrum, Optimism, and Solana have significantly improved transaction speeds and lowered gas fees, making DeFi and NFTs more accessible.Meanwhile, real-world utility tokens tied to carbon credits, music royalties, and real estate assets are finding niche but growing markets.   Cautious Optimism Remains Despite the rebound, the crypto market isn’t without risks. Geopolitical tensions, cyberattacks, and sudden market corrections remain constant threats. Investors are still haunted by memories of the 2022–2023 crashes and the FTX and Celsius collapses. As a result, risk management and education have become major themes in crypto investment. Exchanges now offer built-in insurance, and educational tools are more robust than ever.   Looking Ahead: The Next Wave With blockchain integration into everyday finance, from cross-border payments to gaming economies, crypto is evolving beyond speculation. Many believe the next phase will be utility-first, focusing less on price speculation and more on what blockchain technology can do. "This is no longer a gold rush—it’s a tech revolution," says Elena Park. "And this time, the world is watching with sharper eyes and smarter wallets."

Retail is no longer just about selling products—it’s about creating seamless, intelligent, and connected shopping experiences. From boutique stores in Paris to roadside stalls in Nairobi, businesses are upgrading to smart Point-of-Sale (POS) systems to stay competitive, efficient, and customer-focused. Once just a cash register, the POS system has evolved into a powerful business engine—offering everything from inventory tracking and digital payments to customer relationship management and real-time analytics. "POS systems today are more than tools—they’re business partners," says Jenna Raines, a retail technology consultant in San Francisco. "They help shop owners make better decisions, reduce loss, and scale with confidence."   Retail Gets a Digital Brain Modern cloud-based POS platforms like Square, Shopify POS, Lightspeed, and Toast are turning small retail stores, restaurants, and service providers into tech-savvy businesses. These systems now allow for: Real-time inventory tracking Multi-location sales syncing Digital invoicing & receipts Customer loyalty programs Sales trend forecasting QR-based and contactless payments Even micro-businesses, such as food trucks or mobile vendors, are using portable POS devices with mobile data connectivity to track sales and accept digital payments on the go.   Smarter Customers, Smarter Shops Today’s customer expects speed, personalisation, and convenience. POS systems now store customer preferences, purchase history, and offer loyalty rewards automatically—creating a more personalised shopping journey. "A good POS helps us know our customers better," says Niko Choi, owner of a lifestyle store in Seoul. "It tells us what’s selling, who’s buying, and what they’ll likely want next."   Bridging Offline and Online With the global boom in omnichannel retail, businesses are using POS systems to integrate in-store sales with their e-commerce platforms. Whether customers buy online, pick up in-store, or return an item at a different location, the system syncs all data in one place. This unified experience is key to building trust, especially in competitive markets like fashion, electronics, and speciality foods.   Data-Driven Decision-Making In 2025, running a shop without data is like sailing without a compass. POS analytics now help business owners track best-selling products, slow-moving stock, profit margins, and peak shopping hours—all visualised in clean dashboards. "I used to guess how much stock to reorder," says Maria Fernandez, a shop owner in Buenos Aires. "Now, my POS tells me exactly when and how much to restock."   Security, Scalability, and Speed Modern POS systems come with robust data protection, employee access controls, and cloud backups. They also scale easily—from one stall to multiple branches—without needing to overhaul infrastructure. Thanks to mobile compatibility and offline syncing, business doesn't stop even when the internet drops.   The Future of POS: AI, Automation, and Voice The next generation of POS systems will include AI-powered suggestions, automated inventory reordering, and even voice-activated checkout. Some are testing facial recognition for loyalty identification and augmented reality displays for product demos. As businesses adopt these technologies, customer experience is set to become faster, smarter, and more immersive. The point of sale is no longer just the end of the customer journey—it’s the core of smart business strategy. In a world where every sale counts, the right POS system can be the difference between staying afloat or scaling up. "It’s not just about selling anymore," says Jenna. "It’s about selling smart."

Today’s consumers are not just buying products—they’re buying values. Across the world, people are increasingly choosing to spend their money on brands that align with their beliefs about the environment, ethics, and social impact. As a result, businesses—big and small—are shifting from pure profit models to purpose-driven strategies.From eco-friendly fashion startups in Copenhagen to ethical tech brands in Seoul, the new business trend is clear: sustainability is not just good for the planet—it’s good for business.   The Rise of the Ethical Buyer Studies from Nielsen and McKinsey show that 73% of Gen Z and Millennials prefer to support brands that are environmentally responsible and socially aware. They want to know where products come from, how they’re made, and whether workers are treated fairly."Today’s consumer does their research," says Clara Wang, a brand strategist based in Singapore. "They check labels, read reviews, and expect transparency. If your business isn’t ethical, you’ll lose trust."   Green is the New Gold Sustainable packaging, carbon-neutral logistics, circular product models, and local sourcing are becoming key selling points. Major corporations like Unilever and Nike have already launched product lines made from recycled or renewable materials, while small businesses are building their entire identity around eco-conscious missions.Tech platforms like EcoCart and Planetly now help businesses track and offset their carbon footprint. Meanwhile, Shopify and Etsy have introduced features to highlight sustainable sellers and eco-friendly shipping."We’ve seen a 40% increase in sales after switching to biodegradable packaging," says Antonio Ruiz, founder of a Spain-based organic skincare line. "Customers appreciate the extra effort."   Business with a Human FaceIt’s not just the environment—social justice, fair trade, mental health, and inclusivity have also become central to business branding. Companies are using their platforms to speak up on issues, support communities, and create equitable workplaces.Initiatives like "Buy One, Give One," local donation programs, or employing marginalized workers are making real-world impact and building loyal customer bases."Purpose is now a competitive edge," says Jessica Morgan, an economist at the University of Toronto. "Consumers reward brands that care, and investors increasingly consider ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) performance in funding decisions."   Challenges and Accountability While many businesses adopt sustainable practices sincerely, others risk falling into greenwashing—claiming eco-friendliness for marketing without real action. This has led to increased demand for third-party certifications, impact reports, and public accountability.Customers are becoming more critical, pushing businesses to back up their words with real evidence—whether that’s plastic reduction data, ethical sourcing documentation, or fair labor audits.   The Future: Business as a Force for Good What began as a niche movement is now mainstream. Conscious consumerism is no longer optional; it’s a business imperative. As global challenges like climate change and inequality intensify, companies that contribute to solutions—rather than problems—will be the ones that survive and thrive."In 2025, success isn’t just about revenue," says Clara. "It’s about relevance, responsibility, and real impact."

Global – In today’s fast-evolving digital economy, small is powerful. From freelance consultants in Toronto to solo e-commerce brand owners in Jakarta, a quiet revolution is underway—led by the rise of the "solopreneur". Empowered by automation tools, remote work, and global e-commerce platforms, millions of people are choosing to work for themselves—building lean, one-person businesses that generate significant income without large teams or offices. "You don’t need a big company to make a big impact anymore," says Ana Delgado, a content strategist based in Mexico City who serves clients across three continents. "With the right tools and mindset, one person can build a global brand."   Technology Levels the Playing Field In 2025, solopreneurs have more resources than ever. AI tools handle tasks like scheduling, customer service, accounting, and even marketing. Platforms like Shopify, Canva, and ChatGPT allow individuals to operate like micro-agencies—efficiently, scalably, and at low cost. Digital banks, no-code website builders, and automated fulfilment services have made it possible for anyone to start and run a business from their laptop or smartphone. "I run my online store from my phone while travelling," says Felix Mumba, a solo entrepreneur selling handmade leather goods from Lusaka, Zambia. "It’s freedom and income combined."   Passion Meets Profit Unlike traditional entrepreneurship, today’s solo businesses are often rooted in personal passion—whether it’s coaching, digital art, handmade crafts, or niche consulting. Many are rejecting the pressure of rapid scaling, instead opting for sustainability, work-life balance, and creative control. This has also led to a rise in "lifestyle businesses"—ventures designed not to dominate markets but to support a fulfilling life. "My goal isn’t to be a billionaire," says Laila Chowdhury, a wellness coach in Dubai. "It’s to make a living doing what I love, on my own terms."   The Gig Economy Evolves The gig economy—once dominated by short-term, unstable jobs—is maturing. Professionals now build long-term client relationships, recurring income models, and personal brands. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr Pro, and LinkedIn have transformed into career-building ecosystems rather than one-off job markets. Even traditional employers are adapting, increasingly hiring solopreneurs for project-based consulting roles instead of permanent staff, allowing for flexibility on both sides.   Challenges Still Exist Of course, the solopreneur path isn’t without obstacles. Isolation, inconsistent income, legal complexities, and scaling limitations are real challenges. But communities, co-working spaces, and digital mentorship platforms are helping ease these burdens. Governments in countries like Estonia and Singapore are now introducing policies to support solo business owners—including simplified taxes, remote business registration, and digital nomad visas.   The Future is Independent As younger generations prioritise freedom, creativity, and purpose over corporate titles, the solo business trend is expected to grow even further. According to recent data from Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, over 430 million people globally now identify as independent entrepreneurs or freelancers. "The 9-to-5 is no longer the only success path," says Ana. "In 2025, success looks like independence, impact, and balance—and the solopreneur is leading the way."

Five years after the COVID-19 pandemic forced companies to rethink how and where we work, the ripple effects are still shaping business models around the world. From Fortune 500 corporations in New York to tech startups in Nairobi, businesses are shifting toward hybrid work—creating a balance between office collaboration and remote flexibility. What was once a temporary survival strategy has evolved into a long-term cultural transformation. Today, flexible work is no longer seen as a perk—it’s an expectation.   Work Without Borders Companies are no longer confined by geography when hiring talent. Businesses in London now employ designers in the Philippines, developers in Argentina, and marketers in Kenya. This global workforce expansion has allowed small businesses to scale faster and large enterprises to tap into more diverse skill pools. "We hire for talent, not time zones," says Michelle Tan, CEO of a Singapore-based e-commerce platform. "Remote work has made our company more inclusive, agile, and cost-effective."   Office Space Reinvented As remote work continues, traditional office spaces are undergoing massive change. Instead of cubicles and corner offices, businesses are investing in collaborative hubs, co-working partnerships, and experience-based workspaces. Real estate experts in major cities like Toronto, Amsterdam, and Dubai are seeing an increase in "hot desks" and pop-up offices—flexible spaces where employees can meet only when needed. This shift has allowed companies to significantly reduce overhead costs, freeing up capital to invest in innovation, training, and employee well-being.   Challenges of the New Normal Despite their advantages, hybrid work models are not without challenges. Work-life balance, digital burnout, and communication gaps remain key concerns. Companies are now investing in digital wellness programmes, asynchronous communication tools, and regular off-site team bonding retreats. "The future of work is not just remote—it’s human-centred," says Luca Moretti, an organisational psychologist in Milan. "Businesses that focus on trust, flexibility, and mental health will thrive."   Technology at the Core Cloud systems, AI-driven productivity tools, virtual collaboration platforms, and digital performance tracking are now the backbone of the modern business ecosystem. Platforms like Slack, Notion, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams have become standard tools, while innovations in virtual reality are paving the way for immersive remote meetings and training. Meanwhile, cybersecurity has emerged as a top priority. As data becomes more distributed, companies are investing heavily in secure cloud infrastructure and employee training.   Looking Ahead The global business landscape in 2025 is marked by adaptability, decentralisation, and digital transformation. While industries like manufacturing and logistics may still require physical presence, the broader trend is clear: the office is no longer a place—it’s a network. Businesses that embrace this evolution are not just surviving—they're thriving. "It’s not about where we work," Michelle adds. "It’s about how we grow, how we lead, and how we stay connected."

A record 228,047 vehicles crossed the Jamuna Bridge between Sunday midnight and Friday midnight, generating Tk 167,646,550 in toll revenue. Among these days, the highest number of vehicles crossed the bridge and the highest toll was collected in a 24-hour period between Wednesday midnight and Thursday midnight, marking the busiest day in the bridge’s history. This information was confirmed by Ahsanul Kabir, executive engineer at the Jamuna Bridge site office. According to sources at the toll plaza, under normal conditions, around 18,000 to 20,000 vehicles cross the Jamuna Bridge daily. Typically, traffic increases during Eid holidays, but this time, the surge began even before the holiday officially started. Between Sunday midnight and Friday midnight, over a span of five days, 128,047 vehicles crossed the bridge from its eastern end (Tangail side) toward northern Bangladesh, generating Tk 94,304,600 in toll revenue. During the same period, 87,290 vehicles crossed from the western end (Sirajganj side), collecting Tk 73,341,950 in tolls.

For the second consecutive day, global stock markets surged, extending a rebound that’s offering investors a much-needed sense of optimism amid a volatile economic landscape. The gains came on the heels of improved economic data, cooling inflation numbers, and rising investor sentiment that central banks could soon begin easing their monetary stance.But what exactly is behind this mini rally? And how long can it last? Here's a breakdown of the key drivers powering the market upswing—and the risks still looming in the background.   The S&P 500 climbed 1.3% on Wednesday, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced over 250 points, or 0.7%, closing in the green for the second straight session. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite led the way, soaring 1.9% on the back of a strong performance by tech giants like Apple, Microsoft, and Nvidia.European markets mirrored the rally, with the FTSE 100 gaining 1.1% and Germany’s DAX rising 1.6%. Asian indices, including Japan’s Nikkei 225 and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng, also saw notable gains, signaling broad investor confidence.   Top Performing Sectors: Technology: Investors returned to high-growth tech names after signs that interest rates may stabilize. Consumer Discretionary: Spending data boosted optimism that consumer demand is still resilient. Financials: Bank shares rose as recession fears eased slightly.   One of the biggest tailwinds for this rally is the latest U.S. inflation data. According to the Labor Department, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by just 0.2% in June, lower than the 0.3% expected by analysts. The year-over-year inflation rate dropped to 3.0%, marking the lowest reading in over two years. With the Fed’s July meeting approaching, the softer inflation print could shift expectations toward a more dovish stance—or even a pause in rate hikes altogether. Earnings season is underway, and early results have been encouraging. Several big names, including JPMorgan Chase, PepsiCo, and Delta Airlines, posted stronger-than-expected profits and revenue. PepsiCo raised its full-year guidance after reporting double-digit organic revenue growth. Meanwhile, JPMorgan’s strong loan growth and better-than-expected margins eased fears of a credit crunch in the banking sector.   Investor Takeaway: Healthy earnings suggest the corporate sector remains resilient despite macroeconomic headwinds. Forward guidance from companies is also showing cautious optimism, which markets are rewarding. Beijing announced modest stimulus measures to prop up its faltering property sector and consumption. Economic sentiment improved after German industrial production posted a surprise uptick.  Crude prices held steady, with Brent trading around $84 per barrel, reflecting both supply concerns and growing expectations of demand recovery.   Wall Street analysts are split on whether this rally marks the beginning of a sustained uptrend or just a temporary bounce.  Morgan Stanley’s Chief Strategist says the market may be “pricing in a soft landing too early,” warning that corporate earnings might not fully reflect tightening financial conditions. Goldman Sachs, on the other hand, raised its year-end target for the S&P 500, citing “solid labor markets, contained inflation, and stronger-than-expected earnings.”  Meanwhile, retail investors have shown renewed interest in equities, with trading volumes on platforms like Robinhood and Fidelity seeing a spike over the past 48 hours.   The past two days have given investors something they haven’t had in a while—hope. A combination of cooling inflation, better-than-expected earnings, and easing recession fears has fueled optimism across the board. Yet, as always, the market’s path forward depends on both data and decisions. For now, staying diversified and paying close attention to macro trends remains key. Whether this is the start of a new bull run or just a temporary uptick in a bumpy year, the next few weeks—filled with earnings reports, central bank meetings, and economic data—will provide a clearer picture. Until then, enjoy the rally, but keep your feet on the ground.

TCB to resume truck sales tomorrow

NBR plunges into turmoil

Islami Bank removes MD

IsDB to give $241.3m for climate-resilient bridges