Coconuts Get Pricier as Poor Weather Drives Global Shortage
'Fresh coconut milk was very limited during Eid,' said the 45-year-old restaurant manager, who had to make less of signature dishes like beef rendang. 'I could only buy three packets instead of six and it wasn't enough.'
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Yahoo
16 hours ago
- Yahoo
Gold demand in key Asian hubs improves amid price correction
By Rajendra Jadhav and Anmol Choubey (Reuters) -Physical gold demand in key Asian markets improved slightly this week as a pullback in prices sparked buying interest, though volatility kept some buyers cautious. Spot gold hit its lowest level in a month on Wednesday and was headed for third consecutive weekly loss. [GOL/] Invest in Gold Thor Metals Group: Best Overall Gold IRA Priority Gold: Up to $15k in Free Silver + Zero Account Fees on Qualifying Purchase American Hartford Gold: #1 Precious Metals Dealer in the Nation "This week, footfall was better than last week. Buyers were inquiring about price trends and making small purchases," said a Pune-based jeweller. Domestic gold prices were trading around 97,700 rupees per 10 grams on Friday after rising to 100,555 rupees last week. Discounts offered by Indian dealers narrowed to as much as $7 an ounce over official domestic prices, inclusive of 6% import and 3% sales levies, compared to up to $15 last week. Jewellers were keen to make purchases to replenish inventory after a correction in overseas prices, but a significant drop in the rupee offset the impact of the price fall to an extent, said a Mumbai-based bullion dealer with a private bank. India's gold consumption in 2025 is set to fall to a five-year low, as record-high prices are denting jewellery purchases, the World Gold Council said on Thursday. In China, dealers quoted gold in a wide range, between a discount of $4.2 and a premium of $12 per ounce above international rates. "China appears to slightly buy the dip in gold... trading volume for the physical proxy contract AU9999 on the Shanghai Gold Exchange has been on the rise (11 tons traded yesterday), reflecting a renewed interest in the metal," said Hugo Pascal, a precious metals trader at InProved. In Hong Kong gold was sold at par to a $1.50 premium, while Singapore prices ranged from par to a $1.40 premium. In Japan, bullion was sold at par to a premium of $0.60. "There was lots of demand to buy if the price dropped even slightly. Regardless of the Japan-U.S. trade deal, gold is being purchased as an asset class amid low interest rates," a Japan-based trader said. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Time Business News
a day ago
- Time Business News
Move-In Ready: Why Deep Cleaning Is Essential for UAE High-Rise Apartment Transitions
The United Arab Emirates (UAE), home to iconic skylines in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, is a symbol of luxury, innovation, and urban opportunity. For the country's predominantly expat population—over 80% as per 2024 government data—moving into or out of high-rise apartments is a common occurrence. But transitioning between homes in the UAE involves more than logistics or furnishing. With unique climate challenges and cultural expectations around hospitality and hygiene, deep cleaning becomes a critical step to ensure homes are healthy, pristine, and move-in ready. This article explores why deep cleaning is essential for high-rise apartment transitions in the UAE—highlighting cultural context, cleaning challenges, professional service benefits, and actionable tips for seamless moves. Cultural Significance: Cleanliness as a Mark of Respect In Emirati and broader Islamic tradition, cleanliness is both a spiritual and cultural obligation. A spotless home symbolizes respect for guests, pride in one's living space, and personal dignity. High-rise apartments in prestigious areas like Dubai Marina or Reem Island often host social gatherings, particularly during festive times such as Eid or National Day. Clean homes are not just preferred—they are expected. For tenants moving into a new apartment, cleanliness sets the tone for a fresh start. Likewise, landlords require outgoing tenants to return apartments in excellent condition, with cleanliness influencing deposit returns and tenancy records. Deep cleaning ensures that every corner of the home meets these expectations. Service providers like TelusCare, Justlife, Servicemarket, and Home Maids offer specialized move-in/move-out packages that align with these high standards, from polishing chandeliers to sanitizing kitchen appliances. The Unique Challenge of Cleaning High-Rises High-rise apartments pose distinctive cleaning challenges due to environmental factors and their architectural design. The UAE experiences 10–15 dust storms annually, as reported by the National Center of Meteorology, which allows fine sand to settle even in tightly sealed apartments. Combined with summer humidity levels exceeding 90%, these conditions foster mold in AC units, kitchens, and bathrooms—areas often poorly ventilated in high-rise settings. Specific cleaning obstacles include: Hidden Dust & Mold : Accumulating in ducts, window tracks, under appliances, and in tile grout, these contaminants often go unnoticed during routine cleaning. : Accumulating in ducts, window tracks, under appliances, and in tile grout, these contaminants often go unnoticed during routine cleaning. Luxury Finishes : Materials like marble, glass, and custom fabrics require delicate handling to avoid damage. : Materials like marble, glass, and custom fabrics require delicate handling to avoid damage. Time Constraints : Expat families and professionals frequently face tight relocation schedules, limiting time for detailed cleaning. : Expat families and professionals frequently face tight relocation schedules, limiting time for detailed cleaning. AC Maintenance: UAE apartments rely heavily on-air conditioning. Without proper cleaning, filters and coils collect dust and moisture, degrading air quality and cooling efficiency. DIY efforts often fall short, making professional deep cleaning the most practical and effective option. Professional Services: Expertise That Delivers Deep cleaning providers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, including TelusCare, Eco Fix, Dubai Housekeeping, and Schon Cleaning, specialize in preparing apartments for handover or occupancy. Their services go beyond general tidying and are tailored to meet both hygiene and aesthetic standards. Key components of a professional deep clean include: Advanced Equipment : HEPA vacuums capture ultra-fine dust, while steam cleaners remove up to 99.9% of bacteria and mold—crucial for sanitizing upholstery, bathrooms, and kitchens. : HEPA vacuums capture ultra-fine dust, while steam cleaners remove up to 99.9% of bacteria and mold—crucial for sanitizing upholstery, bathrooms, and kitchens. AC Servicing : AC units are cleaned internally—filters, coils, and ducts—helping reduce mold spread and enhance airflow. The ASHRAE notes that clogged filters can reduce airflow by 20% and increase energy costs. : AC units are cleaned internally—filters, coils, and ducts—helping reduce mold spread and enhance airflow. The notes that clogged filters can reduce airflow by 20% and increase energy costs. Eco-Friendly Products : Providers like Eco Fix use non-toxic cleaning agents, aligning with UAE's Green Growth Strategy and protecting sensitive individuals. : Providers like Eco Fix use non-toxic cleaning agents, aligning with UAE's Green Growth Strategy and protecting sensitive individuals. Comprehensive Scope : Deep cleaning includes spaces often missed—behind ovens, inside cabinets, light fixtures, and door frames. : Deep cleaning includes spaces often missed—behind ovens, inside cabinets, light fixtures, and door frames. Custom Packages: Services like Home Maids offer move-in/move-out plans focusing on kitchens, bathrooms, and AC systems, ensuring landlord or tenant expectations are fully met. For example, TelusCare move-in service deep cleans fixtures and appliances, while Dubai Housekeeping's move-out packages aim to meet inspection criteria, helping outgoing tenants recover their full deposits. Practical Steps for Smooth High-Rise Transitions To ensure a stress-free move in or out of a high-rise apartment in the UAE, residents can pair professional services with strategic actions: Schedule Early: Book deep cleaning at least a week in advance. Platforms like TelusCare allow residents to compare prices and reviews to choose trusted providers at real time availability and negotiations based on requirement and availability to your close location. Target Problem Areas: Focus on AC units, kitchens, and bathrooms where mold and grime accumulate. Companies like Schon Cleaning specialize in AC sanitization, improving both hygiene and energy efficiency. Go Green: Choose non-toxic products, especially if children, pets, or allergies are concerns. Eco Fix and Urban Company are well-rated for their sustainable cleaning practices. Landlord Checklist Compliance: Use professional services like Dubai Housekeeping to ensure all landlord requirements are met—appliances cleaned, floors polished, and windows dusted. Preventive Additions: Consider installing dehumidifiers in bathrooms and sealed windows to minimize humidity. Use high-quality doormats to reduce dust infiltration. Budget Smartly: Deep cleaning for a 3-bedroom apartment typically costs AED 500 to 800, and for larger homes AED 700–1000. Most services are customizable to include specific zones like AC units vents or kitchens, size of apartments and villa. Why Deep Cleaning Is Non-Negotiable for High-Rise Moves Deep cleaning during apartment transitions is not just about aesthetics—it delivers wide-reaching benefits: Health & Safety : Eliminates mold, allergens, and dust—reducing respiratory risks by up to 50% according to WHO findings. : Eliminates mold, allergens, and dust—reducing respiratory risks by up to 50% according to WHO findings. Property Preservation : Protects flooring, cabinetry, and luxury materials from lasting dust or mold damage. : Protects flooring, cabinetry, and luxury materials from lasting dust or mold damage. Landlord Satisfaction : Ensures a successful handover and avoids penalties or deposit deductions. : Ensures a successful handover and avoids penalties or deposit deductions. Efficiency & Time-Saving : Enables busy professionals to delegate tasks and focus on the logistics of moving. : Enables busy professionals to delegate tasks and focus on the logistics of moving. Cultural Harmony: Meets the UAE's expectations of cleanliness and hospitality, reflecting pride in home ownership or tenancy. In a country that values excellence in presentation and hygiene, deep cleaning is essential—not optional. Conclusion: A Clean Start to New Beginnings Relocating to or from a high-rise apartment in the UAE is an important life moment. Whether you're beginning a new chapter in Downtown Dubai or closing one in Corniche Abu Dhabi, deep cleaning services ensures that your space reflects both the UAE's cultural values and environmental needs. By investing in professional cleaning services like TelusCare, Just life, Home Maids, or Urban Company, and implementing basic preventive strategies, residents can ensure a seamless, stress-free move. Clean, healthy, and ready from day one—that's the UAE standard for high-rise living. Visit platforms like TelusCare to book your service today, and take the first step toward a smooth, spotless transition. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Yahoo
a day ago
- Yahoo
Cocoa Prices Sharply Lower on the Outlook for Adequate Supplies
September ICE NY cocoa (CCU25) on Friday closed down -274 (-3.22%), and September ICE London cocoa #7 (CAU25) closed down -165 (-2.92%). Cocoa prices settled sharply lower Friday as supply concerns eased on speculation that cocoa will be exempt from President Trump's tariffs. US Commerce Secretary Lutnick noted earlier this week that goods not produced in the US could be exempted from tariffs. More News from Barchart Brazil Tariff Risks Underpin Arabica Coffee Prices Arabica Coffee Rises as Tariff Risks Remain Cocoa Prices Settle Sharply Higher on Supply Woes Stop Missing Market Moves: Get the FREE Barchart Brief – your midday dose of stock movers, trending sectors, and actionable trade ideas, delivered right to your inbox. Sign Up Now! Earlier this week, cocoa prices rallied to 1-month highs on concern that the slowdown in the pace of Ivory Coast cocoa exports could tighten global supplies. Monday's government data showed that Ivory Coast farmers shipped 1.75 MMT of cocoa to ports this marketing year from October 1 to July 27, up +6.1% from last year but down from the much larger +35% increase seen in December. Concerns about dry weather in West Africa are also bullish for cocoa prices. According to the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts, rainfall in the Ivory Coast and Ghana this season remains below the 30-year average, and combined with high temperatures, risks hurting cocoa pod development for the main crop harvest that starts in October. Concerns over tepid chocolate demand are bearish for cocoa prices. Last Tuesday, chocolate maker Lindt & Spruengli AG lowered its margin guidance for the year due to a larger-than-expected decline in first-half chocolate sales. Also, chocolate maker Barry Callebaut AG reduced its sales volume guidance earlier this month for a second time in three months, citing persistently high cocoa prices. The company projects a decline in full-year sales volume and reported a -9.5% drop in its sales volume for the March-May period, the largest quarterly decline in a decade. Cocoa prices sold off last month, with NY cocoa sinking to an 8.5-month nearest-futures low and London cocoa slumping to a 17-month nearest-futures low. Weakness in global cocoa demand has hammered prices. The European Cocoa Association reported on July 17 that Q2 European cocoa grindings fell by -7.2% y/y to 331,762 MT, a bigger decline than expectations of -5% y/y. Also, the Cocoa Association of Asia reported that Q2 Asian cocoa grindings fell -16.3% y/y to 176,644 MT, the smallest amount for a Q2 in 8 years. North American Q2 cocoa grindings fell -2.8% y/y to 101,865 MT, which was a smaller decline than the declines seen in Asia and Europe. In a bearish development, ICE-monitored cocoa inventories held in US ports reached a 10.5-month high of 2,368,141 bags last Tuesday. Higher cocoa production by Ghana is bearish for cocoa prices. On July 1, the Ghana Cocoa Board projected the 2025/26 Ghana cocoa crop would increase by +8.3% y/y to 650,000 from 600,000 MT in 2024/25. Ghana is the world's second-largest cocoa producer. Cocoa prices have support from quality concerns regarding the Ivory Coast's mid-crop cocoa, which is currently being harvested through September. Cocoa processors are complaining about the quality of the crop and have rejected truckloads of Ivory Coast cocoa beans. Processors reported that about 5% to 6% of the mid-crop cocoa in each truckload is of poor quality, compared with 1% during the main crop. According to Rabobank, the poor quality of the Ivory Coast's mid-crop is partly attributed to late-arriving rain in the region, which limited crop growth. The mid-crop is the smaller of the two annual cocoa harvests, which typically starts in April. The average estimate for this year's Ivory Coast mid-crop is 400,000 MT, down -9% from last year's 440,000 MT. On May 30, the International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) revised its 2023/24 global cocoa deficit to -494,000 MT from a February estimate of -441,000 MT, the largest deficit in over 60 years. ICCO said 2023/24 cocoa production fell by 13.1% y/y to 4.380 MMT. ICCO stated that the 2023/24 global cocoa stocks-to-grindings ratio declined to a 46-year low of 27.0%. Looking ahead to 2024/25, ICCO on February 28 forecasted a global cocoa surplus of 142,000 MT for 2024/25, the first surplus in four years. ICCO also projected that 2024/25 global cocoa production will rise +7.8% y/y to 4.84 MMT. On the date of publication, Rich Asplund did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on
