Business

As global lockdowns increase, Amazon experiences significant order growth. Customers rely on the platform for essential groceries, household items, and medical supplies. To manage demand, Amazon temporarily suspends non-essential item deliveries, focusing on prioritizing critical product shipments during the coronavirus crisis.

In a 16-hour video conference, Japan and South Korea continue discussions over trade restrictions, with both sides expressing optimism about potential progress in resolving their export control disputes.

Billionaire Bill Gates has resigned from the boards of Microsoft and Berkshire Hathaway to concentrate on his charitable activities. In a LinkedIn post, he explained his decision to dedicate more time to global health, education, and climate change initiatives through the Gates Foundation, which he and his wife Melinda co-chair.

Walt Disney Company closes all eleven theme parks across continents, suspends Disney Cruise Line departures, and shutters hotels at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Paris in response to growing coronavirus concerns.

Two top executives from Thai aviation - the president of Thai Airways and Suvarnabhumi Airport's director - submitted resignation letters on March 12, expressing frustration with the government's confusing and ineffective coronavirus response, which created significant disruption for travelers.

Vietnam's gold market experiences significant price reduction, with major manufacturers like SJC lowering rates by VN₫300,000 to VN₫400,000. The largest gold jewelry company now sells at VN₫47.3 million per tael, reflecting decreased local buying interest and global market trends.

Italy has closed most businesses nationwide as coronavirus cases surge, with Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte ordering all restaurants, bars, and non-essential shops to shut down. Only supermarkets, food stores, and pharmacies remain open. The country has over 12,000 confirmed cases and 827 deaths, making it the second-most affected globally.

Grab Philippines has banned 125,000 users for creating multiple accounts, frequent cancellations, and giving unwarranted poor ratings to drivers. The company continues monitoring over 128,000 passengers for potential misconduct, including drunk riding and fare evasion.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk is scouting locations in central United States for a new Cybertruck factory. The planned manufacturing plant will produce the wedge-shaped electric pickup truck, originally revealed in 2019 and expected to start production with an initial price of $40,000.

European banks like RBS, Lloyds, and TSB are allowing mortgage payment delays and savings account flexibility to help customers facing financial hardship due to coronavirus impacts.