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VP Harris Proposes Ban On “Price Gouging” Amid High Grocery Prices

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VP Harris Proposes Ban On "Price Gouging" Amid High Grocery Prices

Vice President Kamala Harris has proposed a ban on “price gouging” by food suppliers and grocery stores, aiming to tackle high grocery prices and inflation. The proposal is part of a broader agenda to lower the cost of housing, medicine, and food.

Harris’ plan comes as grocery prices have shot up 21% under the Biden-Harris administration, despite improved supply chains. Since the pandemic, wages have risen sharply, outpacing prices for over a year, but Americans continue to struggle with higher costs.

So, what is “price gouging”? It refers to spikes in prices following a disruption in supply, such as after a natural disaster. Consumer advocates argue that gouging occurs when retailers sharply increase prices, particularly for necessities, under such circumstances.

Several states already restrict price gouging, but there is no federal-level ban. There are federal restrictions on related practices, such as price-fixing laws that bar companies from agreeing to not compete against each other and set higher prices.

Harris’ proposal may have an impact on future crises, but most economists say it won’t lower grocery prices significantly. Instead, they argue that rising wages should help Americans handle higher costs. President Joe Biden recently declared that inflation has been defeated, with the inflation rate falling to 2.9% in July, the smallest increase in three years.

Harris’ proposal may be a political move, as inflation remains a highly salient issue. Voters blame grocery stores and food manufacturers for the surge in inflation, despite corporate profits soaring in 2021 and 2022. Harris’ plan aims to address this concern and provide relief to Americans struggling with high grocery prices

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Nigerian Banks’ Upgrade Chaos: A Call for Customer-Centric Solutions

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Diaspora Watch Newspaper-Vol.20

Diaspora Watch Newspaper-Vol.20

Nigerian banks’ rush to upgrade their core banking systems has caused confusion and frustration for many customers. With banks upgrading to more secure software, the lack of communication and customer support has left millions unable to access their funds, sparking questions about the bank’s commitment to customer welfare.

Dr. Uju Ogubunka, President of Bank Customers Association of Nigeria (BCAN), emphasized the severe impact of these disruptions, stressing the need for better communication and customer preparedness during such transitions. Banks must strike a balance between technological upgrades and customer service to retain trust, especially in an economy facing devaluation pressures.

Read Also:
Oando PLC Makes Historic Acquisition Of Nigerian Agip Oil Company, Reshaping Nigeria’s Oil And Gas Landscape

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“Diaspora Watch is a vital source of information for Nigerians abroad. It connects us with home, highlighting issues and successes within our community. The articles are insightful and relevant, making it a must-read!”

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Echoes Of Unfulfilled Promises In Nigeria’s Journey

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As Nigeria commemorates its 64th Independence anniversary, the stark contrast between celebration and the persistent challenges of corruption, mismanagement, and unfulfilled promises becomes evident.

The editorial revisits historical attempts at reform, such as the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission’s (ICPC) prosecutions and the House of Representatives’ inquiry into the unfulfilled $14.5 million aircraft repair contract. Many of these initiatives have faded from public memory, leaving questions about accountability unresolved.

High-profile corruption cases, including the Halliburton scandal involving alleged bribes of $180 million, highlight systemic failures within the political landscape.

The editorial emphasizes the need for collective action from citizens, civil society, and the media to demand transparency and accountability. It warns that without addressing these entrenched failures, Nigeria’s path toward democracy and good governance may continue to be fraught with unfulfilled promises.

Dive into the world of Diaspora Watch and stay informed, engaged, and inspired.

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Global Competition Claims Scotland’s Oldest Refinery: Grangemouth To Close In 2025

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Global Competition Claims Scotland's Oldest Refinery: Grangemouth To Close In 2025

In a significant blow to Scotland’s energy sector, the 100-year-old Grangemouth refinery is set to close in 2025, citing its inability to compete with modern plants in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. The refinery’s operator, Petroineos, announced the closure, which will result in the loss of 400 jobs. 

Located in Scotland, Grangemouth refinery has been in operation since 1924, making it the country’s oldest and only refinery. However, despite its rich history, the refinery has struggled to remain competitive in the face of mounting global competition. Petroineos, a joint venture between PetroChina Internation al London (PCIL) and INEOS Group, a British chemicals firm founded by billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has invested $1.2 billion in the refinery since 2011.

However, the company has incurred significant losses, totalling over $775 million during the same period. According to Petroineos, the refinery is currently losing around $500,000 per day and expects a $200 million loss in 2024. 

The company’s Chief Executive, Frank Demay, stated that the market for petrol and diesel fuels is expected to shrink further due to the upcoming ban on new petrol and diesel cars within the next decade. “Grangemouth is increasingly unable to compete with bigger, more modern and efficient sites in the Middle East, Asia and Africa.  

Due to its size and configuration, Grangemouth incurs high levels of capital expenditure each year just to maintain its licence to operate,” Demay explained. The closure of Grangemouth refinery marks a significant shift in the global oil refining landscape, with modern and efficient plants in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East gaining a competitive edge. The Dangote Refinery in Nigeria, one of the largest refineries in Africa, may have contributed to the decline of Grangemouth refinery.

The refinery will be converted into a fuel import terminal, ensuring Scotland’s energy needs are still met. However, the closure raises concerns about the country’s energy security and the impact on local communities.

Read Also
Oando PLC Makes Historic Acquisition Of Nigerian Agip Oil Company,
Reshaping Nigeria’s Oil And Gas Landscape
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