China COSCO Shipping Corporation is reportedly seeking to acquire at least a 20% stake in a $23 billion deal involving Panama Canal ports operated by CK Hutchison Holdings. Negotiations are ongoing and no final agreement has been reached. Meanwhile, in the UK, the government has appointed advisers, including FTI Consulting, to prepare contingency plans for the potential collapse of Thames Water, the country's largest water utility. The company has faced financial difficulties, with over £10 billion paid in dividends and nearly £14 billion in interest payments since 1989, while receiving little new shareholder investment. Discussions about temporary nationalisation have intensified as lenders prepare for possible losses. Additionally, reports indicate that a Chinese company could potentially take over Thames Water. Separately, KKR is expected to launch a £7 billion sale of Viridor next month, with bids anticipated from CK Hutchison and Equitix.