Author: Business Enquirer
Global mining heavyweight Barrick Mining Corporation has announced a significant change in its board leadership. Ben van Beurden has stepped down from his roles as both a Director and Lead Independent Director. His replacement at the helm of the independent board is Loreto Silva, a current non-executive director. Why the Change Matters The shift comes amid a period of broader executive turnover at Barrick. The board—as reaffirmed by Chairman John Thornton—stated the change underscores its focus on delivering long-term value to shareholders. As a company with one of the world’s largest portfolios of gold and copper assets, Barrick emphasised that…
Precision-casting specialist Doncasters has launched a major expansion of its Bochum, Germany, facility — committing $52 million in what stands as one of the boldest capital investment programmes in the company’s recent history. The three-year plan aims to transform Bochum into one of the world’s most advanced manufacturing centres for large industrial gas turbine castings and related superalloy components. What the Investment Involves Strategic Significance The expansion marks a shift in Doncasters’ global manufacturing footprint — positioning Bochum as a central node for the production of high-precision superalloy components used in demanding industrial applications such as gas turbines. The upgraded…
European and African leaders, meeting recently in Luanda, have recommitted to scaling up clean-energy and infrastructure investments across the African continent. The initiative seeks to combine climate action, economic development and strategic partnership — with significant implications for both regions. A Generational Investment Push Belgian officials describe the strategy as a “springboard for growth”, combining renewable-energy deployment, transport/port infrastructure, and economic incentives aimed at re-skilling, climate adaptation and industrial modernisation. Why This Move Matters For Africa’s development trajectoryThe infusion of capital promises to stimulate industrial growth, create jobs and improve access to clean energy for millions. Upgraded infrastructure and logistic…
Birmingham’s evolving skyline has reached a major milestone, with the city’s £145 million Edition Birmingham residential development securing full approval to move into construction. The twin-tower scheme has successfully cleared Gateway 2 under the Building Safety Act, allowing works to commence in 2026. A Landmark Decision for High-Rise Living Gateway 2 approval is one of the most stringent safety hurdles introduced under the UK’s post-Grenfell building regulations. It requires detailed confirmation that a project’s design, structure and fire safety systems meet the highest standards before construction can begin. Edition Birmingham is the first major residential tower scheme in Birmingham to…
The SmartLynx brand is entering a period of major transformation after the airline confirmed the complete cessation of its European operations. While the closure marks the end of SmartLynx’s long-standing presence in Europe’s ACMI and charter market, its Asia-Pacific businesses in Thailand and Australia are now preparing to relaunch under new brand identities. The End of an Era in Europe SmartLynx’s European arm, headquartered in Latvia, has ceased all commercial activity following sustained financial pressure. Despite restructuring efforts and changes in ownership, the carrier concluded that continuing operations in Europe was no longer viable. The shutdown brings to a close…
Few things stir the imagination like a beautiful country estate. Defined by architectural grandeur, sweeping landscapes and interiors rich with history, these remarkable properties offer more than just places to live — they represent a way of life. From rolling Welsh countryside to dramatic Scottish coastlines, each estate offers its own interpretation of rural refinement and enduring charm. Broneirion Set against the rolling hills of mid-Wales, Broneirion is a masterclass in historic grace. Its distinctive architecture sits harmoniously within expansive, manicured gardens, creating an atmosphere of calm seclusion. Inside, classic detailing and elegant proportions combine to deliver comfort wrapped in…
Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) has unveiled a major five-year investment plan worth US$150 billion, reinforcing the company’s long-term strategy to expand production capacity, accelerate gas development and strengthen its position in global energy markets. A Strategic Five-Year Outlook The investment programme, covering 2026 to 2030, is designed to support ADNOC’s ambitions across several fronts: ADNOC has also reported an increase in its reserves base, with crude oil reserves rising to an estimated 120 billion stock-tank barrels, and natural-gas reserves reaching approximately 297 trillion standard cubic feet. Major Project Focus: The Ghasha Offshore Development A key part of the…
In a strategic portfolio move, Osisko Development has reached an agreement to sell its 100 per cent interest in the San Antonio gold project in Sonora, Mexico, while retaining a near-10 per cent stake in the acquiring company. The deal reflects Osisko’s shift towards focusing resources and management time on its core development assets. The Deal in Brief The agreement sees Osisko transferring ownership of Sapuchi Minera, the subsidiary holding the San Antonio concessions, to Axo Copper in an all-share transaction. Under the terms, Osisko will receive approximately 15.3 million Axo shares (or the number necessary to secure a 9.99…
AST SpaceMobile, Inc. (NASDAQ: ASTS), the company developing a direct-to-smartphone satellite broadband network, has announced a major expansion of its U.S. manufacturing footprint as it prepares to accelerate production of its next-generation “BlueBird” satellites. The move underscores the firm’s ambition to scale rapidly while keeping the majority of manufacturing operations on U.S. soil. Expansion details The company has added two new manufacturing sites — one in Midland, Texas, and another in Homestead, Florida — bringing its total manufacturing footprint in the U.S. to approximately 500,000 square feet. Texas remains the core manufacturing hub, now hosting five facilities in support of…
A new residential heating system developed in China has delivered striking performance improvements: reducing household energy costs by around 55 % and lowering dependence on the electricity grid by roughly 75 %. What Sets the System Apart The innovation centres on a hybrid wind-/solar-driven heat-pump system that integrates multiple renewable and storage technologies with a holistic seasonal strategy. Key features include: Performance Highlights In a case study of a low-energy residential building, modelling showed: Why It Matters This system represents a promising advance for several reasons: Considerations & Adoption Challenges Despite its promise, several factors should be considered: Outlook &…