Japan Welcomes First Female PM; Unilever Delays Spin-off; US Army Modernization Talks
Japan welcomes its first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, as elected by the country's parliament. Meanwhile, Unilever has postponed the spin-off of its €15bn ice cream division due to the US government shutdown. In the US, private equity firms are in talks to finance a $150bn modernization of the US Army.
Takaichi's election marks a historic moment for Japan, as she becomes the first woman to hold the position of prime minister. Her appointment comes amidst ongoing political turmoil in the country.
In business news, Unilever has delayed the spin-off of its ice cream division, Magnum and Walls, due to the ongoing USPS shutdown. The spin-off was initially planned for later this year but has now been pushed back.
Across the Atlantic, private equity firms are in discussions with the US government to fund a $150bn modernization of the US Army. Firms such as Apollo, KKR, and Carlyle are exploring potential projects, including technological upgrades and supply chain investments. The USCIS is considering supporting these initiatives through public-private partnerships.
In geopolitics, Ukraine and its European allies have called for negotiations to end the war with Russia to be based on the current line of contact. This comes as the conflict in Eastern Europe continues.
In economic news, the Argentine peso has fallen below the level it reached before the US Treasury began purchases earlier this month. The currency's depreciation reflects ongoing economic challenges in the country.
Japan's election of Sanae Takaichi as prime minister signals a shift in the country's political landscape. Unilever's delayed spin-off and the potential modernization of the US Army through private equity funding are significant developments in the business world. Meanwhile, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and economic challenges in Argentina continue to unfold.
