Ancient trade in Persian carpets imperilled by western sanctions
Exports reach lowest levels on record, putting craft of weaving fine rugs at risk
Exports reach lowest levels on record, putting craft of weaving fine rugs at risk

Changing fashion, modernisation and a lack of willing apprentices mean the craft is threatened with extinction

After hefty investment and hyped deals with luxury brands, many material innovation start-ups are winding down. What comes next?

There are lasting lessons about energy resilience to be learnt from this conflict

Central bankers and economists prepare to meet in Washington to assess conflict’s damage

Political pressure in response to public anxiety will demand policy responses

Traders warn of further jump in prices and ‘huge pain’ as economies cut consumption