This is a comprehensive weekly business newsletter from Ukraine, covering various news and trends in the country’s economy, technology, and politics. Here are some of the key points:
**Ukraine-Russia Conflict**
* Russia’s war on Ukraine has created parallel realities, with businesses growing alongside daily air raid sirens and Russian attacks.
* A report by Yelyzaveta Sekretarenko highlights small businesses near the front lines that contribute to a semblance of normalcy in their communities.
**Economy and Inflation**
* Ukraine’s inflation rate is expected to peak at 15% by mid-2025 before dropping to 8.4% by year-end, according to the Central Bank.
* The country’s largest private delivery company, Nova Poshta, invested $43 million to expand its network in 2024.
**Businesses and Privatizations**
* 93 companies have removed signs of Russian ownership and continue to do business in Ukraine despite a moratorium on altering registrations.
* Ukraine has announced an auction to privatize the state-owned Radiorele plant, which produces electromagnetic switches and relays.
**Technology and Innovation**
* A Ukrainian bakery chain, Lviv Croissants, opened its first French location in Cannes, marking the fifth country outside of Ukraine where it operates.
* The company’s expansion comes as Ukraine continues to innovate and grow its economy despite the ongoing conflict.
**Politics**
* The article mentions a statement by US President Donald Trump expressing interest in acquiring Ukraine’s rare earths, which are valuable minerals used in electronics and other high-tech products.
