Ihs Markit

British economy on track for biggest contraction 'in living memory'

Car sales plunged to the lowest level since 1946, with a quarter of industry workers on government aid. However, business optimism is edging up as a gradual restart comes into view.

Why the EU has double standards on sanctions and arms sales

In an attempt to threaten Turkey over its limited cross-border operation in Syria, many European countries discontinued selling arms to Ankara, while they continue to sell weapons to Saudi Arabia to fuel its full-scale war in Yemen.

British chancellor warns of huge financial toll of Brexit

Philip Hammond says he might vote against PM Theresa May’s successor if they decide to force a hard Brexit through parliament.

Germany urged to show flexibility on arms sales ban on Saudi Arabia

Berlin is “losing its commercial credibility” over its ban on arms sales to Saudi Arabia and the move is affecting Europe’s “defence industry and ability to fulfill NATO requirements.”

The Middle East pays more for weapons and China floods their markets

Military spending has increased in several countries of the Middle East, especially Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Iran. China uses the opportunity to flood their markets with cheap drones, as proxy-wars rage in the region.

Optimism over eurozone recovery

Key surveys are showing increases in business activity and confidence – not only in Germany, but in other countries in the region.