AstraZeneca hit the headlines for drug deals boosting US sales and tariff relief, as it continues to shape global pharma amid geopolitical shifts.
UK Prime Minister Starmer visits China to reset relations, securing trade deals and easing sanctions. The trip aims to balance engagement with strategic differences, amid global tensions and China's rising trade surplus. Critics see the efforts as superficial, but the UK emphasizes a pragmatic approach.
Several major corporations released their 2025 financial results, showing varied performance. Tui reported stable revenue and growth in cruises and holiday experiences. AstraZeneca and Novo Nordisk faced challenges with sales forecasts amid pricing pressures. Shell and BP experienced profit declines due to falling oil prices, with Shell increasing debt to sustain shareholder payouts. Exxon posted a solid quarter despite lower revenue. The results highlight ongoing industry shifts and economic pressures as 2026 begins.
Prime Minister Starmer's visit to China signals a shift towards a more nuanced relationship, balancing economic engagement with security concerns. Key issues include China's role in offshore wind projects and the potential approval of Ming Yang's £1.5 billion turbine factory in Scotland, amid European and US scrutiny.