Briefing 13-10-2020

DSE turnover hits two-month low

Stocks extended the losing streak on Monday with turnover hitting two months low on Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE), as shaky investors continued their sell-offs on major sector-wise issues. Page 9

Virus stays long on banknotes, phones

The virus responsible for Covid-19 can survive for up to 28 days on common surfaces such as banknotes and mobile phone screens, much longer than previously thought. The study by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Australia's national science agency, found the virus survives longer at lower temperatures and on non-porous or smooth surfaces such as glass and stainless steel compared with porous surfaces such as cotton. Page 13

China grants $90m to Sri Lanka

China announced on Sunday that it was providing a $90 million grant to Sri Lanka, two days after the island nation's president sought help from a visiting Chinese delegation in disproving a perception that China-funded megaprojects are "debt traps." Page 18

Informal Saudi ban on Turkish goods

A de facto Saudi ban on Turkish goods has hit global fashion brands in the latest sign of the escalating rivalry between the regional powers. Saudi Arabia has "banned all imports for made in Turkey products", an employee at clothing group Mango told Turkish suppliers in an email seen by the Financial Times. Page 19