Subscribe
business
Business / 1 day ago
Only a few countries boast bigger economies than California
The U.S. state of California, home to roughly 40 million people, towers over most sovereign nations in economic output. Recent data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) show that the Golden State’s nominal gross domestic product (GDP) reached about $4.1 trillion in 2024.
Business / 2 days ago
U.S. dollar sees significant inflation surge from 2015 to 2025, peaking in the pandemic aftermath
Over the past decade, the U.S. dollar has experienced a steady yet noticeable erosion in purchasing power, with cumulative inflation pushing the nominal value of $500,000 in 2015 to a staggering $678,147.56 by 2025. This represents a cumulative inflation growth of approximately 35.6%, according to data compiled by World Visualized using figures from the U.S. Department of Labour.
Business / 6 days ago
Countries richer than the global average
Although the global average for GDP per capita at purchasing power parity (PPP) is estimated at roughly $24,250 in both 2024 and 2025, there are a few nations that surprisingly exceed the global average. According to the latest estimates from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, countries exceeding the global PPP average span several regions.
Business / 1 week ago
These are the final Trump reciprocal tariff rates for more than 20 countries starting August 1
The Trump administration has finalised its list of country‑specific “reciprocal” tariff rates that will take effect on August 1, following a temporary suspension that extended a baseline 10% duty for most nations. The White House said affected countries will face rates ranging from 20% to 50%, replacing the interim blanket levy introduced in April 2025. Announced in a White House fact sheet and executive order on July 7, the extension delays enforcement of elevated reciprocal tariffs until August 1, while new country‑specific duties are formally placed by letters from President Trump to national leaders.
Business / 1 week ago
Global diamond production hits billions - Here’s who’s leading
Russia, long known for its vast mineral resources, is the world’s top diamond producer, generating an astronomical $3.6 billion worth of diamonds annually. Close behind is Botswana, a country whose economy is heavily reliant on diamond exports, with production valued at $3.3 billion.
Business / 2 weeks ago
Labubu: How a mischievous elf became a billion-dollar marketing marvel
More than a strange toy, Labubu represents a masterclass in how scarcity, emotional design, and cross-platform marketing can transform a fictional character into a global cultural phenomenon. Born from the imagination of Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, Labubu began life as part of The Monsters series, an underground collectable with a niche fanbase. Everything changed in 2019 when Chinese toy giant Pop Mart acquired licensing rights. With that move, Labubu launched from cult favourite to international icon.
Business / 2 weeks ago
World leaders' annual salaries show vast global disparities
A new report from the World Population Review unveils eye-opening figures about the annual salaries of heads of state across 40 selected countries. The data provides insight into how national leaders are compensated and how that compensation compares to their countries' economic realities. At the top of the chart, Saudi Arabia’s head of state stands out with a huge $9.6 billion annual salary. Not far behind is the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at $4.61 billion, followed by Kuwait with $165 million and Monaco at $52 million. These figures, mostly from oil-rich monarchies or high-net-worth microstates, dwarf the salaries of leaders in Western democracies.
Business / 2 weeks ago
Indonesia, Vietnam among hardest hit by Trump's Asia tariffs
U.S. President Donald Trump has finalised a sweeping new round of tariffs on key Asian trade partners, targeting exports to the United States. Set to take effect August 1, 2025, the tariffs will impact seven countries, with Laos facing the steepest penalty at 40%, according to an infographic released by World Visualized and supported by reports from Reuters and Indonesia Business Post.
