The Bank of Russia unexpectedly maintained its key interest rate at a record-high 21% , defying analysts’ expectations of another significant hike as inflation remains stubbornly elevated. The decision marks a shift toward a more measured approach in balancing economic growth and price stability. Key Details Inflation Concerns: Annual inflation climbed to 8.9% in November, well above the central bank’s 4% target , with inflation expectations reaching 13.9% in December. Policy Rationale: The central bank cited the significant tightening of monetary conditions after October’s 200-basis point hike as sufficient to resume disinflationary processes. Governor Elvira Nabiullina emphasized avoiding both economic overheating and severe slowdowns. Economic Overheating: Elevated government spending on the war in Ukraine and social programs, coupled with labor shortages and rising wages, have fueled strong domestic demand, exacerbating price pressures...
Royal Philips NV has reduced its sales-growth forecast for 2024, citing sluggish demand from China, which has impacted the company's order intake. Philips now expects comparable sales growth of up to 1.5% for the year, a sharp decline from its previous forecast of up to 5%. The company saw a 2% drop in order intake during the third quarter, driven by the slowdown in China.
The Dutch medical technology firm has been affected by China's anti-corruption campaign in the healthcare sector, which includes tighter scrutiny on local medical-technology procurement. The country has also imposed stricter requirements for domestic products in various categories, further affecting demand.
Roy Jakobs, Philips' CEO, noted that uncertainty in China is likely to persist over the next few quarters, while the company continues to see solid growth in other regions globally.
Philips reported adjusted operating earnings of €516 million ($557 million) for the third quarter, which aligned with analyst expectations. However, the company is still dealing with the aftermath of a recall of faulty sleep apnea devices, which has cost it around $5 billion and attracted scrutiny from the US Department of Justice. Philips has not yet made financial provisions for this ongoing investigation, and its outlook excludes the potential impact of legal proceedings.
Despite the recall challenges, Philips' shares have risen around 45% this year, though they remain down by more than 30% since the recall began in June 2021.
Earlier this month, Charlotte Hanneman made history as Philips’ first female Chief Financial Officer and management board member in its 133-year history.
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