Monthly Archives: October 2015

Samsung in hot water over TV power consumption

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Samsung under fire as allegations emerge over ‘gaming’ lab testsSamsung under fire as allegations emerge over ‘gaming’ lab tests

Consumer confidence is being tested again following news that discrepancies have been found during the official testing of Samsung TVs in Europe. An EU-funded research group says it has logged higher energy consumption rates for the manufacturers’ TVs in real life than were recorded in lab conditions, leading to allegations that the company is gaming the testing process and bringing into question the veracity of Samsung’s power consumption and emissions claims. Read more…

No upturn in sight for Chinese economy

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China’s economy shows no signs of recovery China’s economy shows no signs of recovery

Chinese manufacturing activity fell to a six-year low as China’s president defended his government’s stock market intervention during his recent state visit to the US. Xi Jinping claimed that although the economy was experiencing difficulties, it was on the road to recovery. International concern remains, though, as evidence of the country’s economic slump was seen in a dip in average annual growth rate to around 7.4% – with IMF forecasts standing at 6.8% for next year. Read more…

IMF forecasts weaker economic growth

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Head of the IMF, Christine Lagarde, warned of a period of weakened economic growth aheadChristine Lagarde warns of weakened economic growth

The head of the International Monetary Fund has warned of a continued global economic slowdown – especially in the large emerging market countries – that will cut global growth to its lowest level since 2009. Forecasts to be published by the IMF in October will show global economic activity lower that the figure recorded in 2014 and predict that only a modest acceleration can be expected in 2016. Read more…

Which way now for VW after global emissions scandal?

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Car manufacturer Volkswagen facing fallout from cheating emissions testsVolkswagen facing fallout from cheating emissions tests

Car manufacturer Volkswagen is facing public condemnation after stories emerged that the company had rigged its diesel vehicles’ performance in emissions tests. A number of staff have been suspended as investigations continue and shares have plummeted following admissions that 11m cars were fitted with devices designed to disrupt testing. VW has set aside €6.5bn to fix the issues but will likely face punitive fines from US regulators, as well as legal action from customers and shareholders all over the world. Read more…