Europe eyes growth

TOKYO: Europe appears to be on the brink of a period of sustained economic growth but it is essential that governments step up the pace of structural reform. “We might be witnessing in Europe the start of a period of sustained and stable growth, at least if current projections and surveys prove to be right in the coming months,” said Banque de France governor Christian Noyer. — AFP

Malaysia, US FTA

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia on Wednesday indicated for the first time that it might soon conclude a free trade pact with the US, its key economic partner despite strong opposition. “If the US continues to demonstrate flexibility as shown during the third round of negotiations in Malaysia, I am confident a mutually beneficial agreement could be reached in the very near future,” Rafidah Aziz, trade minister said. — AFP

Aussie trade deficit

SYDNEY: Australia’s trade deficit jumped to 1.26 billion Australian dollars in October on the back of a soaring imports, topping market forecas-ts. The trade gap widened to its worst level since May and was well up on September’s deficit 728 million. — AFP

BoJ rate hike

TOKYO: The Bank of Japan (BoJ) will do its utmost to avoid surprising financial markets and aims to flag any interest rate rise well in advance, governor Toshihiko Fukui said. “To increase the efficacy of monetary policy it is very important to explain the policy thinking fully to market participants,” he said. — AFP

Grihalaxmi scheme

KATHMANDU: Bank of Kathmandu (BoK) introduces ‘Grihalaxmi Saving Account’ , states a press release issued by the bank. Housewives can open account with a minimum balance of Rs 5000 in the valley and with Rs 2500 outside the valley. The scheme offers prizes every week and in every three months a bumper prize worth Rs 100,000 of home appliances. — HNS

Jagadamba’s scheme

KATHMANDU: Jagadamba Cement again brings its popular Dhanbarsa scheme. According to the comapny press release, a consumer gets a scratch coupon that can win Bajaj CT 100 bike, Konka fridge and Konka 29” Flat TV bumper prizes, in every purchase of 50 sacks of Jagadamba Cement under Dhanbarsa-2. It also offers instant cash prizes, Konka DVD Player and Microwave oven. — HNS

NIB declares winners

KATHMANDU: Nepal Investment Bank (NIB) has announced the winners of ‘Dashain Tihar Saugat’, states a press release issued by the bank. CEO of the bank Prithvi Bahadur Pande handed over the prizes to the winners on Wednesday. — HNS