Urgent.News

What's breaking now, across thousands of outlets.

More in Business

‘Biodiversity imparting a powerful competitive advantage to SL’s businesses’

By Ifham Nizam Biodiversity is rapidly moving beyond the traditional boundaries of conservation to become an increasingly important economic and business issue, with Sri Lankan companies being urged…

  • Biodiversity is seen as a significant economic advantage for Sri Lankan businesses.
  • Sri Lanka's biodiversity can differentiate it in the market, particularly in the apparel industry.

Life after 7-Eleven

  • 7-Eleven plans to close 645 locations in 2026, citing high costs and inflation
  • At least eight 7-Eleven stores have closed in Winnipeg since August 2024
  • Former 7-Eleven site on Nairn Avenue now houses a six-story apartment building with 99 housing units

Japan's Toy Market Tops 1 Trillion Yen

Japan's toy market continues to expand despite the country's declining number of children, reaching a record 1.1664 trillion yen in fiscal 2025 as manufacturers increasingly target adults and…

  • Japan's toy market reached 1.1664 trillion yen in fiscal 2025.
  • Manufacturers target adults and incorporate social issues into products.
  • Toys that teach while playing and investment games gain popularity.

Sri Lanka opens up: A new season of direct connectivity

For as long as we can remember, flying to Sri Lanka has meant relying on a handful of options — SriLankan Airlines direct services, useful but limited in schedule and market coverage, or a stop in…

  • British Airways resumes direct flights from London Gatwick to Colombo on October 23.
  • Edelweiss Air increases Zurich service to three times weekly starting October 26.
  • Jetstar introduces first non-stop, year-round, direct service from Melbourne to Colombo.

Consumer confidence slips back on oil price uncertainty

The proportion of households thinking it's a good time to buy a major household item fell five points.

  • Consumer confidence in Australia drops to 98 from 100
  • Oil price uncertainty cited as main cause for decline
  • 22% see better financial situation next year

More from Thursday 27 August →