Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP.O) announced on Monday that it will acquire Dutch coffee company JDE Peet’s (JDEP.AS) for €15.7 billion ($18.4 billion) in cash, representing a 20% premium to JDE Peet’s stock market valuation at the end of last week. Shares of JDE Peet’s surged 18% in early trading, marking their best day on record.
The merged entity plans to split into two separate U.S.-listed companies: “Beverage Co.” and “Global Coffee Co.” Beverage Co., with annual net sales of more than $11 billion, will focus on North America’s $300 billion refreshment market, while Global Coffee Co., with around $16 billion in combined net sales, will target the $400 billion global coffee industry. Keurig’s CEO Tim Cofer will head Beverage Co., while CFO Sudhanshu Priyadarshi will lead Global Coffee Co.
Keurig Dr Pepper, valued at about $48 billion, owns brands including Dr Pepper, Snapple, 7UP, and Green Mountain Coffee. JDE Peet’s, valued at €12.76 billion as of Friday’s close, owns popular coffee brands such as Jacobs, L’Or, Tassimo, and Douwe Egberts. Both companies have recently faced pressure from volatile coffee bean prices, which have surged due to unpredictable weather and a new 50% U.S. levy on Brazilian imports.
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British consumer confidence edged up in August following the Bank of England’s recent interest rate cut, according to a survey by GfK released on Friday. The consumer confidence index rose to -17 from -19 in July, its highest level since December, with households showing a modest three-point improvement in sentiment about their personal finances.
Despite the uptick, analysts warned that optimism remains fragile. GfK’s consumer insights director Neil Bellamy noted that confidence is still moving within a narrow band, with little sign of a decisive shift toward stronger optimism. He cautioned that unexpected developments could trigger sudden changes in sentiment, especially with inflation pressures and fiscal concerns looming.
Official data showed inflation climbed to 3.8% in July, while media reports suggested potential tax increases in Finance Minister Rachel Reeves’ upcoming autumn budget. Meanwhile, GfK’s measure of savings fell by four points to +30 in August after hitting its highest level since 2007 the previous month. The survey polled 2,002 individuals between August 1 and 14.
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French researcher Laurent Vinatier, who was already serving a three-year sentence in Russia for violating the country’s “foreign agent” laws, is now facing a fresh espionage charge. Court documents from Moscow’s Lefortovo Court, cited by Russian news agencies, confirmed the new charge, though details remain undisclosed. A hearing on the case has been scheduled for next Monday.
Vinatier, 49, was convicted last October for failing to register as a “foreign agent” while carrying out research that Russian authorities claimed involved collecting military-related information. His appeal against the sentence was rejected in February. At his trial, Vinatier expressed regret, saying he loved Russia and apologised for breaking the law.
France has condemned his detention as arbitrary, with President Emmanuel Macron denying any state links to Vinatier and describing his case as part of Moscow’s misinformation campaign. Vinatier is employed by the Switzerland-based Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, a conflict mediation organisation. Academics familiar with his work described him as a respected scholar engaged in legitimate research, caught in the middle of heightened tensions between Russia and the West over the war in Ukraine.
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Hundreds of supporters gathered outside Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London on Wednesday as Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, better known by his stage name Mo Chara from the Irish rap group Kneecap, sought to dismiss a terrorism charge. The 27-year-old is accused of displaying Hezbollah’s yellow flag and shouting “Up Hamas, up Hezbollah” during a London gig on November 21, 2024. Kneecap maintain the flag was thrown onto the stage by the audience and that the case is an attempt to silence them.
Ó hAnnaidh, who appeared in court wearing a Palestinian keffiyeh scarf and accompanied by an Irish language interpreter, faces prosecution under the Terrorism Act, which makes it an offence to display symbols of proscribed organisations in a way that suggests support. His lawyers argue that the charge was filed too late, on May 22, one day past the six-month deadline. Prosecutors countered that it was formally brought on May 21, within the time limit, leaving Judge Paul Goldspring to decide.
The rapper’s bandmates, Móglaí Bap and DJ Próvaí, joined him in court as fans filled the public gallery. Kneecap, known for mixing Irish and English lyrics and voicing strong political stances, have openly supported the Palestinian cause and Irish republicanism. Since the charge, they have become increasingly vocal about the Gaza war, leading a 30,000-strong crowd at Glastonbury in chants against Prime Minister Keir Starmer and accusing Israel of war crimes—allegations Israel denies.
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Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Tuesday that U.S. President Donald Trump and his administration showed a sincere desire to achieve a long-term and sustainable peace in Ukraine during last week’s U.S.-Russia summit in Alaska. Lavrov described the atmosphere at the meeting between Trump and President Vladimir Putin as “very good.”
Speaking to Rossiya 24 state television, Lavrov emphasized that the U.S. leadership appeared genuinely committed to finding a “reliable and lasting” solution to the conflict. He contrasted this with Europe’s approach, noting that some European leaders, who attended an extraordinary White House summit with Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Monday, focused only on securing a cease-fire while continuing military support to Kyiv.
Lavrov suggested that Washington’s stance could open the door to more constructive negotiations, while Europe’s insistence on arming Ukraine risked prolonging tensions. His remarks underscore Russia’s effort to highlight differences in Western strategies on the Ukraine conflict as Moscow continues to seek leverage in international diplomacy.
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British motorists can now lease a Tesla electric vehicle for just over half the price compared to last year, The Times reported on Monday, citing industry sources. The price cuts come as Tesla offers discounts of up to 40% to leasing companies in an effort to clear excess inventory.
The move is reportedly driven by a lack of storage space for Tesla vehicles in the UK, forcing the automaker to take aggressive measures to move stock. Reuters could not immediately verify the report, and Tesla has not yet responded to a request for comment.
According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), Tesla’s UK sales fell nearly 60% in July to 987 units, while overall new car registrations across the country dropped 5% year-on-year. Despite the decline, battery electric vehicles are projected to make up 23.8% of new registrations by 2025, slightly higher than the previous forecast of 23.5%.
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A highly anticipated summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday concluded without any agreement to pause or resolve Moscow’s war in Ukraine. The nearly three-hour meeting, described by both leaders as “productive,” offered few details, and neither leader took questions from the press. Trump, standing before a backdrop reading “Pursuing Peace,” said the talks made “some headway” but acknowledged unresolved issues.
Market watchers and analysts noted that while the summit signaled diplomatic engagement, it produced no concrete commitments. Helima Croft of RBC Capital Markets said the outcome fell short of easing European sanctions, while Carol Schleif of BMO Private Wealth called it “absolutely no news” in terms of market impact. Others, like Comerica’s Eric Teal, highlighted potential opportunities in the energy sector given the absence of new sanctions on Russian oil.
Analysts also emphasized the symbolic significance of the meeting. Eugene Epstein of Moneycorp noted it as a “first step” toward future dialogue, while Tom Di Galoma of Mischler Financial suggested groundwork may have been laid for a potential three-way summit with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. Still, with no tangible outcome, experts believe the talks will be seen as maintaining the status quo, leaving markets and geopolitics largely unchanged for now.
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Supporters of Serbia’s ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) clashed with anti-government protesters in Novi Sad on Wednesday evening, throwing flares and firecrackers, prompting police intervention to end the standoff. The incident marked a sharp escalation in the nine-month-long protests sparked by the deaths of 16 people when the roof of a renovated railway station in Novi Sad collapsed last November. The demonstrations have eroded support for populist President Aleksandar Vucic and the SNS, which has ruled for 13 years.
At a late-night press conference, Vucic, alongside Interior Minister Ivica Dacic, said 16 police officers and around 60 SNS supporters were injured in Novi Sad, accusing unidentified foreign powers of orchestrating unrest. Footage from N1 TV showed flares and firecrackers hurled from the direction of SNS offices and protesters with bloodied faces claiming they were attacked with sticks and truncheons. Opposition groups, including the Move-Change movement, blamed Vucic’s loyalists for the violence, calling it a violation of the right to life and peaceful protest.
In Belgrade, police in riot gear blocked protesters from approaching SNS camps near the parliament, while clashes also erupted outside local party offices in several cities. Protest leaders, largely students, have accused the government of corruption, ties to organized crime, and curbing media freedoms—allegations officials deny. They are demanding early elections in hopes of ending SNS’s long hold on power. The latest unrest follows injuries sustained by protesters in the town of Vrbas on Tuesday, prompting calls for nationwide demonstrations outside SNS offices.
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British bookmaker Evoke (EVOK.L) has swung to an adjusted pre-tax profit in the first half of 2024, buoyed by cost-cutting measures and a robust performance in its international operations. The owner of William Hill UK and 888 posted a profit of £12.6 million for the six months ended June 30, compared to a £9.8 million loss a year earlier, with revenue rising 3% to £887.8 million. Shares rose 3.7% to 64.6 pence following the results.
The company has doubled down on expansion plans and operational efficiencies as part of its turnaround strategy, helping drive second-quarter momentum and a return to growth for its UK retail business. Evoke reiterated its full-year revenue growth forecast of 5%-9% and an adjusted core earnings margin of at least 20%, noting that third-quarter revenue so far is tracking in line with expectations. CEO Per Widerstrom said a strong product pipeline and efficiency initiatives give the group confidence in stronger growth during the second half.
Looking ahead, the bookmaker faces potential headwinds from possible tax increases in the UK’s autumn budget. The domestic market remains critical for Evoke, contributing about two-thirds of its total revenue in 2024. Despite the uncertainty, the company remains optimistic about sustaining its recovery trajectory through continued innovation and disciplined cost management.
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From a humble start to building a cross-continental empire, Dr Jolly Antony’s story is a testament to what unyielding passion, vision, and bold ambition can achieve.
Among the countless success stories of migrant Keralites who made it big abroad, Dr. Jolly Antony stands out as a trailblazer who dared to dream beyond borders. As the Founder and CEO of the UAE-based Al Safina Travel and Tourism, he has built a diverse business empire that spans Travel and Tourism, Hospitality, Wellness, E-commerce and Direct Selling, Farm Tourism, and Education. A true visionary, globetrotter, and storyteller, Dr. Jolly has journeyed through over 90 countries—not just collecting stamps on a passport, but forging strategies, relationships, and lasting impressions. Behind his impressive list of ventures lies the relentless spirit of a man who never allowed limits to define his ambition or inspiration.
From Wanderlust to Worldwide Impact
Dr. Jolly’s professional journey began with a strong foundation in Travel and Tourism, coupled with a decade of immersive industry experience that saw him rise to the position of General Manager. These formative years provided him with deep industry insight and prepared him for his entrepreneurial leap.
In 2005, he established Al Safina Travel and Tourism in the UAE — a venture that has since grown with multiple branches across the UAE and India.
However, his aspirations reached beyond conventional travel services. Having explored nearly 90 countries, Dr. Jolly realized that travel and hospitality are deeply interconnected. This global exposure sparked the idea for a broader vision — one that would redefine the meaning of travel through integrated experiences and global connectivity.
Reimagining Hospitality in God’s Own Country
When Dr. Jolly turned his attention toward Kerala, he did not see it as just home, but potential. In 2014, he launched The Fog Resort & Spa in Munnar, a four star deluxe resort that brings a new level of luxury to the scenic highlands. But he didn’t stop there. The success of this venture led to the creation of Vibe Munnar Resort and Spa, a private limited company, under his Chairmanship. A five-star deluxe property with its own helipad featuring 97 rooms, private pool villas, jacuzzi suites, deluxe rooms, biggest rooftop pool and 6000 sq.ft spa named Vibe Wellness. A symbol of his commitment to delivering once-in-a-lifetime experiences to those who are upwardly mobile and believe in fine living.
Hospitality, to him, is about emotions, not amenities. “We Sell Happiness” and “We Sell Memories” are not just taglines but philosophies that underpin every guest experience. With dedicated butler services and personalised attention, Dr. Jolly has crafted destinations that offer more than comfort—they offer connection, emotion, and magic. Dr Jolly believes in offering guests memories of a lifetime.
And now, he’s preparing for the launch of his third resort in Munnar—Zeus Resort & Spa, a game-changer with 106 keys, India’s first 8000 sq.ft 24/7 infinity pool and the largest resto-bar in Kerala, expected to open in September this year.
A Business Empire with Soul and Scale
Dr. Jolly’s business landscape is vast and diverse—but what connects all his ventures is a singular purpose: to elevate human experiences.
From the eco-luxury of The Fog and Vibe Munnar to the hi-tech e-commerce platform Growvia.Biz, he’s constantly identifying gaps in the market and building thoughtful solutions. His initiatives include:
Kerala Farm: An organic farm tourism concept blending sustainability and experiential travel.
Safina Holidays Pvt. Ltd: Bringing curated international travel experiences to Indian travellers.
The Great Marina Mall, Kochi: A bold retail concept changing the shopping experience in the region.
Good Shepherd College of Hotel Management and UrbX College, Kochi: Institutions built to train the next generation of hospitality leaders.
Rani Drug House, Nellayi: A revival of authentic Ayurvedic healing with modern manufacturing precision.
WRV Gold & Diamond: A unique cooperative model allowing gold leasing—a radical innovation in the jewellery sector.
Novacera: A brand that manufactures tile glue, showing his reach even in construction materials.
His projects aren’t just businesses—they are ecosystems, interlinked and mutually empowering. Whether it’s digital commerce, education, wellness, or manufacturing, each venture feeds into a larger vision of inclusive growth and sustainability.
Building Networks That Empower
Dr. Jolly’s vision goes beyond building standalone businesses — he creates interconnected ecosystems that generate long-term impact. His ventures are not isolated efforts but collaborative platforms designed to empower communities and drive collective growth.
A prime example is the upcoming launch of www.growvia.biz on August 17, 2025, at Le Meridien, Kochi. Co-founded with six seasoned industry leaders, each with over 25 years of experience, this direct-selling and digital commerce platform aims to unlock scalable economic opportunities and foster entrepreneurship on a broad scale.
Likewise, as a Director of WRV Gold and Diamonds, Dr. Jolly is redefining the jewellery industry with its September 2025 launch. The venture introduces an innovative model where gold can be leased like real estate — offering a new path to financial empowerment and enabling everyday individuals to generate income through their assets.
Leadership Rooted in Empowerment and Balance
Though Dr. Jolly oversees 24 diverse business ventures, he ensures each one is independently strong. By setting up Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and empowered managerial teams, he balances his time between strategic guidance and personal well-being. He believes in complementary partnerships—choosing collaborators who fill in his gaps and vice versa. This method has not only sustained his long-term ventures but has also ensured growth with integrity and mutual respect. In short, the ability to empower and uplift the people he works with is one of his most outstanding managerial qualities.
Reaching for the Moon, Rooted in Love
Among Dr. Jolly’s many visionary pursuits, one truly stands out — his purchase of a plot on the moon through the Lunar Society of New York, making him the first Keralite to do so. For Dr. Jolly, this bold step isn’t just a novelty — it symbolizes the boundless reach of human ambition and his firm belief that no dream is too far when driven by purpose and passion.
Family: The Heart of His Journey
Behind every milestone Dr. Jolly has achieved stands a strong, supportive family. His wife, Mrs. Viji Jolly, is a postgraduate in Botany, a dedicated politician, social worker, and the Director of The Fog and Vibe Resorts. Her wisdom, resilience, and active involvement in both community and business life have been instrumental in shaping Dr. Jolly’s path.
Their three children — Juvana, a BBA student; Jovan, studying Psychology; and young Antonio, in Grade 5 — are his emotional foundation. With their unwavering support, Dr. Jolly has now stepped into a semi-active role, focusing solely on high-level strategic decisions. This shift allows him to prioritize time with his loved ones while continuing to shape his legacy.
Dr. Jolly Antony with his family — (From left) Juvana Jolly (daughter), Dr. Jolly Antony, Antonio Jolly (son), Mrs. Viji Jolly (wife), and Jovan Jolly (daughter)
Shaping the Future of Indian Tourism
Dr. Jolly’s global exposure gives him a unique lens on India’s tourism potential—and the gaps that need urgent attention. He cites how nations like Georgia and Armenia transformed their economies with simple tourism policies like visa-on-arrival for UAE residents. Being directly involved in tourism initiatives in these countries, he witnessed the transformation. For instance, Georgia had just five five-star hotels in 2010 and today the number stands at a whopping 400. He believes in harnessing the power of tourism and is optimistic about India leveraging it. He laments the fact that despite having unmatched assets—Ayurveda, mountains, backwaters, culture—there is very little proactive governmental support in infrastructure, accessibility, and traveller safety. He foresees India emerging as a global leader in Wellness and Spiritual Tourism with better policies and streamlined experiences.
Kerala’s Rising Edge: Wellness Retreats and Grand Wedding Destinations
To Dr. Jolly, wellness tourism isn’t just a trend — it’s a transformative movement. With ventures like Kerala Farm and Vibe Wellness, he is at the forefront of positioning Kerala as a global hub for preventive health and holistic experiences. As travelers increasingly seek healing, rejuvenation, and natural therapies, Kerala’s rich Ayurvedic heritage and lush landscapes offer the perfect canvas.
Dr. Jolly is aligning his resorts to meet this demand by blending luxury with time-honored wellness practices — creating immersive experiences that restore both body and soul.
Simultaneously, through his WedInIndia initiative, he’s setting his sights on turning Vibe Munnar into a leading big wedding destination. By merging Kerala’s natural charm with grand celebration experiences, he aims to redefine destination weddings in India’s most scenic state.
A Legacy of Impact Over Income
When asked what he considers his greatest achievement, Dr. Jolly doesn’t mention awards or profits. Instead, he says:
“If I’ve helped even one person upgrade their life—even in the smallest way—that is my success.”
From empowering individuals with no prior business experience, to creating job creators instead of job seekers, his focus has always been on upliftment. This mindset, he says, comes from his mother—a legacy of kindness, positivity, and resilience.
He sums it up beautifully: “An interviewer once asked me, ‘What exactly is your business?’ I replied, ‘My business is to keep many people in business.’”
A Visionary Leader Who Dares to Make a Difference
Dr. Jolly Antony is not just a travel magnate or hospitality pioneer—he stands as Kerala’s emblem of bold entrepreneurship, visionary thinking, and compassionate leadership. Whether it’s launching a helipad-equipped resort, pioneering a jewellery cooperative, or building an Ayurvedic production unit, his efforts are united by one powerful mission: to uplift and empower lives.
In an era where many chase personal success, Dr. Jolly Antony exemplifies a higher purpose—measuring true achievement by the positive impact created for others.
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