A prominent US oilfield services company is boldly expanding its operations in Russia even as competitors pull back. Investors are increasingly turning to US treasuries amidst rising recession fears. Meanwhile, retail sales in the US made a remarkable rebound, raising hopes for a stable economic future. In a separate financial saga, Coca-Cola faces a staggering potential $16 billion tax bill due to a prolonged dispute with federal authorities, shedding light on their intricate tax strategies.
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Quick takeaways
SLB's expansion in Russia amid geopolitical tensions highlights the complex interplay between business interests and international politics.
Investors are returning to U.S. treasuries, viewing them as a safe haven amidst recession fears and shifting interest rate expectations.
Deep dives
US Oil Company Expands in Russia
A major U.S.-based oil field services company, SLB, is expanding its operations in Russia despite many Western firms withdrawing due to geopolitical tensions following the invasion of Ukraine. SLB is signing new contracts and hiring additional staff in the region, filling a gap left by other companies. The absence of sanctions specifically targeting oil field services allows SLB to continue its activities, as countries are apprehensive about the potential impact on global fossil fuel exports and prices. This situation underscores the complexities that lie in balancing business interests with international political considerations.
Bond Market Rally Amid Economic Uncertainty
The bond market has experienced a significant resurgence as investors flock back to U.S. government bonds, driven by concerns about a potential recession in the U.S. The recent dip in the jobs market data has fueled fears that the Federal Reserve may lower interest rates sooner than expected, enhancing the appeal of bonds as a safe investment option. The dynamics of the bond market often reflect prevailing economic uncertainties, as evidenced by its positive performance when equities falter. This revival in bonds provides investors with a safety net, helping to mitigate losses during periods of stock market volatility.
Coca-Cola's Potential $16 Billion Tax Bill
Coca-Cola faces a substantial tax bill amounting to $16 billion, stemming from accusations that it has been hiding profits in low-tax jurisdictions. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) claims that the beverage company has incorrectly allocated its profits, which were generated in overseas manufacturing operations, while its branding and intellectual property remain in the U.S. This issue originated over a decade ago when the IRS initially issued a $3 billion tax bill, which has since ballooned due to ongoing legal disputes. The outcome of this case could have a lasting impact on Coca-Cola's financial health, as the potential payment represents a significant portion of its net profit.
A huge US-based oilfield services company is expanding its Russian business, investors are piling into US treasuries, and US retail sales saw their biggest jump in a year and a half in July. Plus, a decade-long dispute between Coca-Cola and federal tax authorities has escalated to the point that the company could owe $16bn in back payments.
The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help from Breen Turner, Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music.