International News 27/03
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Value of private equity transactions in Japan on the rise.
The value of private equity deals in Japan has increased significantly, driven by low interest rates and a large number of target companies. According to research from Bain & Co, Japan was the only country in the Asia-Pacific region to see an increase in deal value, with a 183% year-on-year increase in deal value in 2023. This was three times the average annual increase from 2018 to 2022. In contrast, deal value in Asia Pacific fell by 35% over the same period, reaching its lowest level since 2014. The trend of increasing intercompany transactions in Japan is expected to continue through 2024, as companies face pressure to increase shareholder value. This trend transcends low interest rates and is seen as a long-term trend.
https://internasional.kontan.co.id/news/nilai-transaksi-private-equity-di-jepang-naik
France raises its terror alert to the highest level, what's going on?
The French government has raised its terror alert to the highest level in response to the shooting in Moscow. French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal said the decision was taken after a meeting with senior security and defence officials and President Emmanuel Macron. The decision was influenced by ISIS's claim of responsibility for the Moscow attack and the ongoing threats facing France, particularly with the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris. The highest level of alert allows for heightened security measures, including increased patrols by armed forces in public areas such as airports, train stations and religious sites. The death toll from the Moscow attack has risen to 137, including three children, and the search for more victims is continuing.
Ahead of elections, India extends onion export ban indefinitely.
India has extended its ban on onion exports indefinitely, much to the surprise of traders and exporters. The ban, originally imposed in December, was expected to be lifted as onion prices had fallen and supplies were plentiful. However, the government has issued a new order stating that the ban will remain in place until further notice. The move is expected to further exacerbate rising onion prices in overseas markets, as India is the world's largest exporter of the vegetable. In some wholesale markets in Maharashtra, the largest onion producing state, prices have fallen significantly since the export restrictions were implemented. The decision comes ahead of a general election in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third consecutive term.