The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business

Multinational computer and mobile-device maker Lenovo launched last month in Makati City the Lenovo K6 Note, a power-packed smartphone that delivers endless fun and entertainment in one’s hand. 

Brother International Philippines Corp. has launched in the Philippines its newest entry-level sewing machine, the Brother JA-1450NT, to further bolster its line of entry-level machines for homes and small businesses. 

By Alvin I. Dacanay  Four prize-winning films dealing with religious issues, including a best-picture Oscar winner, will be shown in select SM cinemas this month as part of a three-year partnership between the shopping mall chain’s lifestyle division and the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) in screening independent features to a wider audience under the Cine Lokal cinema …

After Christmas, the most awaited season for Filipinos is Lent. Many use this time, particularly Holy Week, to escape their distress and stress over life in Metro Manila and other major cities and seek the promised comfort and freedom of the provinces. Indeed, Holy Week is the perfect time to rest and reflect, one that combines solemn religious observance and …

The National Book Development Board (NBDB) will again hold its annual Pinoy Book Stop Tour on April 7 and 8 that will feature independent and campus-based bookstores within and south of Metro Manila, as well as community and university libraries and book museums. 

Delimondo Food Specialties Inc., maker of the very popular Delimondo corned beef, recently unveiled the Delimondo Store and Café’s new and refined appearance at the Jaka Center in Makati City.

By Luis Leoncio  Former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, in whose term economic experts attributed the start of critical economic reforms that had propelled growth, gave the most convincing argument in favor of Congress passing a complete tax-reform package, saying that revenues shrank during her term after the piecemeal approval of fiscal reforms. 

The Philippines is expected to grow at the fastest pace among key Southeast Asian economies until next year, while the regional bloc as a whole continues to evolve into a fertile ground for investors, regional investment powerhouse Maybank Kim Eng Group said. 

Several infractions with tax laws were slapped against local cigarette producer Mighty Corp. that saw the company, once bruited as a threat to multinational tobacco companies, fall in disgrace. 

By Riza Lozada  Local business groups wanted their voices heard in the crafting of trade strategies as they reiterated that government-private sector collaboration is now more critical than ever in formulating policies, especially those concerning foreign trade negotiations, to ensure Philippine interests are promoted.