HSBC Granted First Stablecoin Licence in Hong Kong
10 April 2026
Taxi passengers won’t benefit from Hong Kong’s 50% reduction in tunnel tolls
Hong Kong taxi passengers will still have to pay full tunnel tolls despite government relief measures that cut the fee for commercial vehicles by half, transport authorities have said. The Transport and Logistics Bureau said on Friday that the relief measure, contained in a package to support the transport sector as oil prices rise, was aimed at helping commercial vehicle drivers and operators. For two months, the government will reduce tunnel tolls by 50 per cent for all commercial vehicles, including taxis. The lost revenue is estimated to amount to HK$160 million (US$20.4 million). “Currently, the law stipulates the fares and surcharges that taxi passengers must pay, including tunnel tolls for using various tunnels,” the bureau said. “The law will not be revised in the wake of the two-month temporary [toll reduction] measure … In other words, during the two-month measure, taxi passengers will still be required to pay the tunnel surcharge as stated in the current law. “The 50 per cent discount is for supporting the taxi drivers.” Source link
10 April 2026
Tai Po blaze: no fire risk checks done for HK$336 million estate renovation
Hong Kong authorities conducted no fire risk assessment of a HK$336 million (US$42.9 million) Wang Fuk Court renovation project before the city’s deadliest fire in decades ravaged the site, a public inquiry has heard. Sam Keung Sai-ming, an assistant director of the Fire Services Department’s licensing and certification branch, said on Friday that authorities did not pay special attention to fire hazards at residential estates undergoing large-scale maintenance before the blaze last November. Keung, the first government official to testify before a judge-led independent committee investigating the disaster, said the department had conducted 26 visits at the Tai Po residential complex since the exterior renovation project began in July 2024. Only one was carried out on its own initiative while the rest were triggered by complaints and reports of defective or deactivated fire safety installations. During the proactive visit on October 19, 2025, fire officers did not realise the main power supply for the estate’s fire alarms and hosepipes had been cut off, as they were only tasked with checking the emergency vehicle exit and fire hydrants outside the estate. None of those visits concerned assessing the heightened fire risks during the renovation project. Keung said residential buildings were previously considered less risky than commercial or industrial ones and required a review only once every three to four years. Source link
10 April 2026
Bubble tea and YouTube topics please Hong Kong DSE exam takers, as poems add twist
Hong Kong students taking the English paper in university entrance exams on Friday were pleasantly surprised by relatable topics such as bubble tea and starting a YouTube channel. But many candidates sitting the Diploma of Secondary Education (DSE) exam were caught off guard by the inclusion of two poems in the reading section for the first time. About 53,000 students sat the reading and writing papers, while the listening test will be held on Saturday. More than 58,000 candidates are taking this year’s exams, up from 55,000 last year. The exams will end on May 5, with results due on July 15. Despite the unexpected format, teachers said this year’s content remained manageable. The exam steered clear of niche topics, unlike in past years when pop culture icons and autobiographies featured more prominently. Eleni Mak, a 17-year-old candidate from Good Hope School, felt that this year’s reading exam was easier than last year’s. “They are straightforward and the topics are related to daily life,” she said. Source link
10 April 2026
New Kai Tak Hospital to open in 2 phases starting in October
Hong Kong’s largest public hospital will open to patients in phases from October, with the new 2,400-bed facility in Kai Tak set to take over the services of Queen Elizabeth Hospital and become a healthcare hub for Kowloon. The Hospital Authority said on Friday that the first phase of services at Kai Tak Hospital, located on Shing Cheong Road in Kowloon Bay, would start in October. The new facility has a total gross floor area of 500,000 square metres, the largest among the city’s public hospitals. The hospital complex comprises five blocks, covering acute services, administration, education and training, specialist outpatient services and oncology. It will provide 2,400 beds, making it the largest-capacity public hospital in Hong Kong. The new flagship facility in the Kowloon Central group of hospitals will serve patients across Yau Tsim Mong, Kowloon City, Wong Tai Sin and Kwun Tong districts, covering a population of more than 1.8 million. Source link
10 April 2026
Robbery suspect used gun-like object and hammer during raid on Hong Kong bank
A man arrested for stealing HK$36,000 (US$4,595) from a Hong Kong bank pointed a gun-like object at staff and hammered the counter glass during the two-minute raid, while a teller hid under a desk and her colleague placed cash into a bag for the suspect, according to the surveillance footage. Police received a report at 12.26pm after a man robbed a branch of Bank of East Asia in Harbour View Centre before fleeing the scene on a bicycle. Officers arrested the suspect at Wan Tsui Shopping Centre in Chai Wan 90 minutes later. A source said the suspect, wearing a black hat, black T-shirt and mask, brandished a hammer and a suspected firearm during the robbery and smashed the bank counter’s glass. According to a video circulating online, believed to be the branch’s surveillance footage, a person dressed in black held a gun-like object and pointed it at staff behind a counter. A staff member knelt and hid under the counter, while two others inside the premises either left the scene or hid behind walls. Source link
10 April 2026
Health chief hails tobacco control efforts as smoking rate falls to 8.5%
Hong Kong’s smoking rate fell to 8.5 per cent last year, missing an ambitious target of 7.8 per cent, but health authorities have hailed the success of the city’s tobacco control strategy, which led to a 30 per cent decline in overall cigarette consumption. Secretary for Health Lo Chung-mau told a Legislative Council meeting on Friday that the rate – the prevalence of daily cigarette smokers aged 15 and older in the population – had fallen from 9.1 per cent in 2023 to 8.5 per cent last year. The figure, derived from preliminary findings of a thematic survey conducted between July and October last year, is higher than the target of 7.8 per cent set for 2025. Lo stressed that the figure was not a failure. “This 7.8 per cent target was not set by the current administration, but followed the WHO’s target in 2018 to reduce the smoking rate by 30 per cent [by 2025], using 2010 as the baseline,” he said in response to a question by retail lawmaker Peter Shiu Ka-fai. “If lowering the rate to 7.8 per cent is considered a perfect 100 score, then our current rate of 8.5 per cent is already a score of 95 or above. We are very satisfied with the effectiveness of overall tobacco control.” Source link
10 April 2026
Hong Kong animal groups urge HKTVmall boycott over life science experiments
An international animal rights group and a veterinary organisation have called for a public boycott of Hong Kong’s major online retailer, HKTVmall, after its parent company revealed a life science project testing the viability of detached animal heads and limbs. The two groups staged an hour-long protest on Friday outside the HKTVmall building in Tseung Kwan O, also demanding that the company disclose more details of the experiments and cease animal testing. The Hong Kong Technology Venture Company, parent company of the online retailer, revealed the project in its annual results on March 30, saying it believed the research to be a world first that could be applied to organ transplants and potentially extend human lifespan. “We are calling HKTVmall and its parent company to cease doing any animal experiments and to switch to the more modern non-animal testing methods. And until then, we also urge the public and their customers to boycott HKTVmall for what they have been doing,” said Jackie Tang Kwok-fai, campaigner for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals Asia (Peta). Dressed in bloodstained suits and standing on burgundy-red paper designed to resemble a pool of blood, four advocates wore masks of pigs and sheep and held banners that read “stop cruel decapitation tests on animals”. The visual concept was intended to illustrate the “blood involved” in the testing of animals, which are sentient beings capable of feeling horror and pain, Tsang said. He added that there was “zero transparency” surrounding the experiments, leaving virtually no room for government oversight. Source link
10 April 2026
Hong Kong bookstore owner fined HK$32,000 for using shop as unregistered school
A Hong Kong independent bookstore owner has been fined HK$32,000 (US$4,085) for holding a Spanish class in his shop after a court ruled the course took place at an unregistered school. Pong Yat-ming, 52, was convicted on Friday of violating the Education Ordinance by organising a Spanish course in April last year at Book Punch, a bookstore he founded in Sham Shui Po in 2020. Kowloon City Court earlier heard Pong’s defence at his trial, where he testified that he held the basic language course to promote Spanish culture as an “interest class”. He denied a total of five summary offences levelled against him and his company, Active Experiential Learning Company Limited. The bookstore owner said he “genuinely believed” that even though the course was educational and included teaching material about Spanish grammar and language usage, it still did not fall under the definition of a school under the Education Ordinance. Pong pointed out that the then acting secretary for education Kevin Yeung Yun-hung told the Legislative Council in 2017, that “courses which simply aim at developing a hobby or an interest” did not require school registration. Source link
10 April 2026
Breaking | Hong Kong awards stablecoin licences to HSBC, StanChart-led group in long-awaited roll-out
HSBC and a consortium led by Standard Chartered have been awarded Hong Kong’s first stablecoin issuer licences, marking the city’s latest step towards embracing cryptocurrency’s most-traded cash substitute in its bid to become a global digital asset hub. “The two applicants have experience in traditional financial and risk management, which fits the mission of stablecoins that aim to bridge traditional finance and digital finance,” said Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) deputy chief executive Darryl Chan. Eight months after Hong Kong’s Stablecoin Ordinance, one of the world’s first such laws, took effect, the two issuers were given the green light to conduct business, the HKMA announced on Friday. The authority had revealed that it would only grant a small number of licences after assessing 36 applications. Both licensees will issue stablecoins that will be pegged to the Hong Kong dollar, and can conduct cross border payments later. According to the licensees’ business plans, they intend to complete the necessary preparation work and launch business in the coming few months. Source link
10 April 2026
Hong Kong authorities spend HK$34 million on Tai Po fire recovery works
Hong Kong housing authorities have spent HK$34 million (US$4.3 million) on recovery efforts following the devastating fire at Wang Fuk Court, including removing damaged scaffolding, conducting structural assessments and strengthening works. The Housing Bureau said on Thursday evening that the HK$34 million expenditure was the main reason for the 22.1 per cent increase in the revised building control expense estimate for the 2025–26 financial year, compared with the original figure. “This is mainly due to the expenditure on follow-up works related to the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, which is around HK$34 million,” the bureau said in its reply to a written question on the government budget filed by lawmaker Chan Chun-ying. “The expenditure items mainly cover the removal of dangerous scaffolding and nets from the buildings, assisting police and other government departments in clearing debris around the buildings to facilitate evidence collection, carrying out structural assessments, and strengthening and fencing off works for the buildings affected by the fire.” The building control expenditure is intended to support the work of the Independent Checking Unit (ICU) under the Office of the Permanent Secretary for Housing, which oversees building control for subsidised sale flats, among other duties. The expenditure mainly covered removal of dangerous scaffolding and nets, according to authorities. Photo: Jelly Tse The ICU has been criticised for failing to effectively supervise renovation works at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. The estate was engulfed by flames last November, killing 168 people. Source link
10 April 2026
151 Hong Kong civil servants dismissed for misconduct, convictions in past 3 years
More than 150 Hong Kong civil servants have been dismissed for serious misconduct or criminal convictions over the past three financial years, with the police force accounting for the largest number of cases. In a written reply to a lawmaker’s inquiry on Thursday, the Civil Service Bureau said 151 civil servants were dismissed for serious misconduct or criminal offences between 2022 and 2025, with the number of dismissals dropping steadily from 60 in 2022–23 to 51 in 2023–24 and 40 in 2024–25. Of the total, 73 were dismissed for criminal offences and 78 for misconduct. The police force recorded the highest number of dismissals, at 44. The bureau said authorities would also revise the Public Service (Administration) Order and the Public Service (Disciplinary) Regulation to further optimise the disciplinary mechanism, including tightening rules on withholding salaries during civil servants’ suspension and on confiscating withheld pay. “We are currently revising these regulations, with the goal of implementing the revised provisions in 2026,” it said, without giving further details on how the rules would be tightened. Under the existing disciplinary mechanism, if a civil servant was under investigation by their department for serious misconduct or by law enforcement for criminal offences, or if authorities initiated or intended to initiate disciplinary or criminal proceedings against them, the person could be suspended based on considerations of public interest. The bureau added that suspension was an administrative measure instead of a disciplinary action. Source link
10 April 2026
Hong Kong government must guard against exploitation of diesel subsidy, experts warn
The Hong Kong government must ensure its massive HK$1.8 billion (US$229.8 million) subsidy for diesel to mitigate record-high oil prices for the transport sector is not exploited by fuel companies through discount manipulations, an industry leader and a lawmaker have cautioned. Their warnings came shortly after authorities announced a two-month, HK$3-per-litre (38 US cents) diesel relief measure on Thursday to cushion the impact on transport companies amid the ongoing Middle East conflict, with the lawmaker calling for a price-monitoring mechanism for oil products to be reviewed. Lok Ma Chau-Hong Kong Freight Association chairman Stanley Tandon Lal Chaing flagged potential issues in the implementation of the subsidy, ahead of a meeting of the Legislative Council’s Finance Committee on Friday afternoon to scrutinise the proposal. He explained that independent drivers currently pay up to double the fuel costs compared with large fleets, which enjoyed major discounts through card memberships, creating a deeply unfair market. “We are very worried about this … because oil companies have different discounts, and the government has no way to monitor how they distribute them,” he said. “They could eat up part of the HK$3 subsidy by slightly reducing their discounts,” Chaing added. Source link
10 April 2026
Outbreaks fall in Hong Kong in 2025
Illness after eating oysters continues to be a problem Published: April 10, 2026, 12:01 am Hong Kong has reported a sharp decline in foodborne outbreaks in 2025 compared to the year before, according to recently released data. The data includes outbreaks related to food premises and businesses that were reported to the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD). This post is for paying subscribers only Subscribe now Already have an account? Sign in Your Support Protects Public Health Food Safety News is nonprofit and reader-funded. Your TAX-FREE gift ensures ongoing coverage of outbreaks, recalls, and regulations for everyone. Source link
10 April 2026
Jardine Matheson to exit Swire’s Taikoo Place, consolidate offices in Central: sources
Jardine Matheson is giving up its remaining office space in FWD Tower at Taikoo Place and plans to relocate staff back to Jardine House in Central as part of operational consolidation, sources said. The group’s primary office at Jardine House, part of its own property portfolio, “is now undergoing renovations to create a modern workspace that will accommodate all head office employees from May”, allowing it to operate “more collaboratively and dynamically”, according to sources familiar with the matter. Jardine Matheson did not make an official comment on the relocation. The conglomerate currently occupies one floor in FWD Tower. It had already given up one floor last year and the relocation would see it surrender the remaining space, sources said. The move was limited to the parent firm’s operations, they added. DFI Retail Group, a unit under Jardine Matheson that operates Wellcome, Mannings, 7-Eleven and Ikea in Hong Kong, is listed on the fifth floor of FWD Tower in its 2025 annual report and is not affected. Jardine House in Central. Photo: Jonathan Wong Swire Properties, the landlord of Taikoo Place, confirmed Jardine Matheson’s current tenancy but declined to comment further. Source link
10 April 2026
Tai Po probe: switching off fire system power ‘elementary mistake’, official says
This story has been made freely available as a public service to our readers. Please consider supporting SCMP’s journalism by subscribing. An independent committee examining the causes of Hong Kong’s deadliest blaze in decades will hold its 10th day of evidential hearings on Friday. The Fire Services Department’s handling of shutdown notices for the fire safety systems of the devastated Tai Po housing estate where 168 people lost their lives in November is expected to be the focus of the session. Keung Sai-ming, an assistant director for the department on licensing and certification, is scheduled to testify before the judge-led panel. He will be the first official to appear before the committee investigating the Wang Fuk Court inferno. Two of six “human factors” identified by the committee’s lead counsel, Victor Dawes, as leading to the high death toll involved empty fire services tanks and deactivated fire alarms across the eight blocks of the estate, which was being renovated when the blaze started. Keung Sai-ming (centre) is expected to testify on Friday. Photo: Elson Li The committee had previously heard that a technician from the estate’s then property management firm, ISS EastPoint, had turned off the main switches controlling the power supply to both the firefighting pump and fire alarm systems. This was to help the estate’s renovation contractor, Prestige Construction and Engineering Company, drain the fire services tanks, effectively deactivating both systems. Fire services installation contractor China Status Development and Engineering acted as a “rubber stamp” by issuing shutdown notices for the systems to authorities on behalf of Prestige without inspecting the site, potentially breaching fire safety regulations, the committee also heard. Follow our live updates on the 10th day of the hearings. More from our coverage: Source link
10 April 2026
Filmmaker accuses school of ‘blatantly lying’ in row over documentary screening
Clashes over the screening of a controversial, award-winning Hong Kong coming-of-age documentary at an Italian film festival have escalated, with the director accusing the secondary school at the centre of the dispute of “blatantly lying” about the arrangement for the showing. Acclaimed filmmaker Mabel Cheung Yuen-ting slammed Ying Wa Girls’ School over the documentary’s screening in Italy, expressing shock and “intolerable” disappointment after her alma mater distanced itself from the controversial film, To My Nineteen-Year-Old Self. Ying Wa Girls’ School said on Thursday that, as the owner of the film, it would not allow any screenings of the documentary until consent issues with all major cast members were resolved. It added that it had not authorised the documentary to be shown at the Far East Film Festival in Udine, Italy, this month. The school also said it prioritised students’ well-being and holistic development, and remained committed to providing a safe, caring environment that fostered learning. But Cheung, who co-directed the film, said she was “shocked and deeply saddened” by the school’s move to sever ties with the production team. Source link
10 April 2026
Is oil crisis just the start of economic pain for Hongkongers?
Hong Kong bus company boss Martin Lau feels overwhelmed as he attempts every option possible to minimise mounting losses wrought by runaway fuel prices. He has done everything he can think of, from trying to reduce services to doing his own repairs on his fleet of more than 20 coaches. Lau, managing director of ABC Touring Car Company, told the South China Morning Post that he and his team had no choice for now but to absorb the losses as there was no help he could access. “The reality is cruel, if oil prices keep rising and the government does nothing and bans us from cutting service frequencies, I don’t know how long we can hang on,” Lau said. ABC, which runs non-franchised bus services linking Tuen Mun with Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, is not the only company reeling from the sharp rise in global oil prices since the US and Israel attacked Iran on February 28. Hong Kong, which relies entirely on fuel imports, is vulnerable to external shocks such as the Middle East war, with the conflict dealing a severe blow to sectors ranging from transport, logistics and fishing to laundry services and food and drinks. The crisis is already unleashing a wave of unintended consequences in Hong Kong, from transport operators hurt by inflexible government red tape to threats for low-margin industries like the commercial laundry sector and construction subcontracting. Source link
10 April 2026
How Two Hong Kong Collectors Are Prioritizing Public Engagement
Founded in 2023 by Brian Yue and Claire Bi, the Cheng Lan Foundation operates at the intersection of private collecting and public engagement. Courtesy Cheng-lan Foundation A new generation of art patrons and collectors in Hong Kong is not only willing to support the city’s art ecosystem’s expansion but want to actively shape it. They are, in many cases, even deliberately distancing themselves from more traditional scripts of art patronage to embrace alternative participatory models anchored in community. One of the patronage platforms engaging directly with Hong Kong’s art scene, the Cheng-Lan Foundation, opened its first physical space during Art Basel Hong Kong: Cheng-Lan’s Corner, a ground-floor gallery at 3 Prince’s Terrace in Hong Kong’s Mid-Levels, just steps from the Tai Kwun cultural complex. Behind it are two art patrons in their 30s, Brian Yue and Claire Bi, who founded Cheng-Lan in 2023 with the aim of operating at the intersection of private collecting and public engagement, supporting artists from the global majority and diaspora communities. Yue traces the foundation’s ethos back to both his and Bi’s educational and professional backgrounds. The couple literally met during an edition of Art Basel—”art has always been a great connector for us,” he told Observer. Bi’s parents were art lovers. She studied filmmaking, and that is how she began to understand art as a way to express oneself. “I always felt that art should be accessible to the community, to everyone around us, not only within the art world. That’s the way I started to explore art,” she said. Nine years ago, Bi founded a secondary boarding school where art is woven into every discipline—from design and technology to social science and public policy—rather than treated as a subject apart. Yue, meanwhile, grew up in a household heavily influenced by his grandfather, a
9 April 2026
Hong Kong seeks to raise bond issuance ceiling to HK$900 billion
A proposed increase in the Hong Kong government’s borrowing cap for its bond programmes to HK$900 billion (US$115 billion) will be sufficient to finance infrastructure projects over the next three years, officials have said, while leaving the door open to further rises in the long run if needed. Andrew Lai Chi-wah, permanent secretary for financial services and the treasury, made the remarks on Thursday during a Legislative Council subcommittee meeting scrutinising the plan to lift the government’s bond issuance ceiling. Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po proposed raising the borrowing ceilings of the Government Sustainable Bond Programme and the Infrastructure Bond Programme from HK$700 billion to HK$900 billion in his annual budget in February, citing the need to fund infrastructure development, including the Northern Metropolis megaproject. Lai said the new limit would be adequate to support short- to medium-term initiatives after lawmaker Robert Lee Wai-Wang expressed concerns over whether the government would further raise the ceiling. “Over the next two to three years, unless there are significant and unforeseen events, [the borrowing cap] is sufficient to meet our needs,” Lai said. However, he did not rule out further increasing the cap to accommodate new projects emerging in the Northern Metropolis and the need to expedite its development. Lai noted that even after the increase, Hong Kong’s debt-to-gross domestic product level would stand at 19.9 per cent, which he described as healthy and lower than that of other developed economies. Source link
9 April 2026
Workplace sexual harassment complaints jump by 38% in Hong Kong
Workplace sexual harassment complaints in Hong Kong have jumped by 38 per cent year on year, according to the equality watchdog. The Equal Opportunities Commission recorded 315 such complaints in 2025, up from 228 the previous year, the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau said in a written response to legislative inquiries on Thursday. Employment‑related harassment complaints climbed from 156 in 2024 to 207 last year. Non‑employment‑related cases, which include unwanted sexual conduct between people sharing a workspace without an employer-employee relationship, increased from 72 to 108. The Equal Opportunities Commission is set to launch a community partner training programme, calling on companies to nominate staff members to help prevent harassment within their ranks. Photo: Jelly Tse The five-year data set shows a steady climb in harassment reports. In 2021, the commission received 148 employment-related complaints. The figure spiked to 207 last year. Non‑employment‑related cases also climbed steadily over the same period, more than tripling from 35 cases in 2021 to 108 last year. In the same period, inquiries about sexual harassment also edged up, rising from 588 in 2024 to 596 last year – a 1.36 per cent increase. The bureau said the commission would launch a citywide publicity campaign to promote messages and information on the prevention of workplace sexual harassment. Source link
9 April 2026
China Taiwan news | AnewZ
Chinese President Xi Jinping has told Taiwan opposition leader Cheng Li-wun that “people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are Chinese” and that the future of cross-strait ties should be decided by “the Chinese people themselves”. Cheng, the chairperson of Taiwan’s largest opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), is visiting China on what she has described as a peace mission aimed at easing tensions, as Beijing increases military pressure on the self-governed island, which it claims as its territory. Meeting at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People, Xi said the world was not fully at peace and that “peace is precious”. In remarks carried by Taiwan television stations, he said, “Compatriots on both sides of the strait are all Chinese, people of one family who want peace, development, exchange, and co-operation.” He added that the meeting between the two parties’ leaders was intended “to safeguard the peace and stability of our shared homeland” and “to promote the peaceful development of cross-strait relations”. Meanwhile, China’s state news agency Xinhua quoted Xi as saying, “Mainland and Taiwan are both part of one China,” and that “Taiwan independence” was “the root cause of the disruption of peace across the Taiwan Strait”. He added, “We will not condone it, nor will we tolerate it,” and called on both parties to oppose “Taiwan independence” separatism and “external interference”, while promoting the peaceful development of cross-strait relations. Xinhua also quoted him as saying China welcomed Taiwanese agricultural and fishery products, as well as “high-quality goods”, reaching households across the mainland. Cheng told Xi that mutually beneficial relations were what people on both sides wanted, and said exchanges should be reciprocal. She said she hoped that one day she could host Xi in Taiwan, and warned that the Taiwan
10 April 2026
How China found a soft power in lifestyle advice
A young woman slowly adds Chinese dates to hot water, then stirs in rose petals, goji berries and a slice of lemon, creating a hot and healthy drink inspired by Chinese traditions. “My morning routine since I became Chinese,” says this TikTok fan from Frankfurt, Germany. She hopes her recipe will inspire others to “become Chinese” too, or “turn Chinese.” Such videos are spreading rapidly through Instagram and TikTok as youngsters share how they are adopting habits from the daily lives of Chinese people. They start the day with warm water and bone broth or make a traditional rice porridge known as congee. In the evening, apple tea is a must for digestion. They wear slippers to keep their feet warm. Is China suddenly cool? All these rituals are based on traditional Chinese medicine, which many hope will bring health benefits. This puts the trend-setting spotlight right on China, a country often slammed for its authoritarian government, human rights violations and unfair economic practices. The ‘Becoming Chinese’ trend appears to have originated in the US, then spread to Europe. A widely shared post is cited as the starting point – “You met me at a very Chinese time of my life” – a line that riffs on a similar quote from the film “Fight Club.” ‘Chinamaxxing’ is now seemingly everywhere, with the neologism drawn from the world of video games, where one extracts maximum abilities from a character. Longing for balance “Several developments are contributing to the current popularity,” says trend watcher Ulrich Köhler from consultancy firm Philoneos. Many people perceive their Western way of life as hectic, fast-paced and unbalanced, giving rise to a longing for balance, mindfulness and alternative lifestyles, says Köhler. “On the other hand, we are seeing a positive shift in media coverage of topics relating
10 April 2026
Trade in goods with China in 2025 – News articles
In 2025, the EU exported €199.6 billion worth of goods to China and imported €559.4 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of €359.8 billion. Compared with 2024, exports decreased by 6.5% while imports increased by 6.4%. When looking at 2015, exports increased by 37.1% from €145.6 billion and imports by 89.0% from €295.9 billion. Source dataset: ds-059331 Machinery products – top trading products When looking into the breakdown, according to the Harmonized System (HS), the top 5 most exported product groups in 2025 accounted for 59.8% of all exports to China. Machinery, mechanical appliances and parts was the most exported product group, totaling €45.3 billion (22.7% of all exports to China), followed by electrical machinery and parts, audio-visual equipment and accessories (€29.0 billion; 14.5%) and vehicles other than railway or tramway rolling stock (€16.4 billion;8.2%). Optical, photographic, cinematographic, precision, medical or surgical instruments (€15.1 billion; 7.5%) and pharmaceutical products (€13.6 billion; 6.8%) came next. For imports, the top 5 categories accounted for 63.8% of all imported goods. Electrical machinery and parts, audio-visual equipment and accessories was the most imported product category in 2025, with €164.9 billion in products (29.5% of all imports), followed by machinery, mechanical appliances and parts (€106.5 billion; 19.0%). The category organic chemicals (€34.1 billion; 6.1%) was next, followed by vehicles other than railway or tramway rolling stock (€29.9 billion; 5.4%) and furniture and lighting, bedding and mattresses and prefabricated buildings (€21.3 billion; 3.8%). Source dataset: ds-045409 Source link
10 April 2026
Legacy automakers face urgent reset as China redefines industry speed and cost
Welcome back to the latest episode of The Future of Automotive on CBT News, where we put recent automotive and mobility news into the context of the broader themes impacting the industry. I’m Steve Greenfield from Automotive Ventures, and I’m glad that you could join us. This week on The Future of Automotive, The pressure from the Chinese automaker continues. And there’s a growing sense of unease inside one of the world’s most established OEMs. Honda—like many of its peers—is facing a series of difficult, high-stakes decisions. The company has recently pulled the plug on several major electric vehicle programs, including its 0 SUV and 0 Sedan, along with a planned revival of the Acura RSX. The financial impact is significant—up to $15.8 billion in losses. Even its much-publicized partnership with Sony, which aimed to bring Afeela-branded EVs to market, has now been shelved. It’s not just a setback. It’s a signal—one that raises deeper questions about whether traditional automakers can build a profitable future around electric vehicles. But Honda’s challenges go well beyond EVs. In China, the world’s largest auto market, the company is losing ground—fast. Sales have dropped sharply, from a peak of 1.62 million vehicles in 2020 to just 640,000 in 2025. Production capacity is now running at roughly half of what’s considered sustainable for profitability. And projections for 2026 suggest things could slip even further. Against that backdrop, Honda’s CEO, Toshihiro Mibe, traveled to China earlier this year, looking for answers. What he found was sobering. Touring a highly automated supplier facility in Shanghai—one that also serves Tesla—Mibe saw a system operating with almost no human labor on the factory floor. From procurement to logistics, the entire process was streamlined, efficient, and fast. His takeaway was blunt: “We have no chance against this.” It’s a stark
10 April 2026
Beijing ‘deeply distressed’ by death of Chinese researcher in Michigan
HONG KONG — China is calling on U.S. authorities to investigate the death of a scientist who was found inside a university building in Michigan. Subscribe to read this story ad-free Get unlimited access to ad-free articles and exclusive content. The Chinese assistant research scientist was discovered after falling from a significant height at the University of Michigan’s George G. Brown Building, the university said in a statement. Authorities responded to a report at approximately 11 p.m. ET on March 19. The university said the incident is being investigated as a “possible act of self-harm.” “We are not able to provide additional details at this time,” the statement added. Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in the U.S., told NBC News on Thursday that officials were “deeply distressed by this tragedy.” “The Chinese side has repeatedly lodged solemn representations with relevant U.S. government agencies and universities regarding this case,” Liu said, adding that officials had “established contact with the victim’s family immediately” to provide assistance. He also urged Chinese students in the U.S. to “heighten their safety awareness” and “handle U.S. law enforcement actions appropriately.” Neither the university nor the Chinese authorities have publicly identified the researcher, but the South China Morning Post newspaper in Hong Kong reported that the man who died was Wang Danhao, a Chinese semiconductor researcher. The paper cited a Chinese embassy spokesperson in Washington as confirming the identity. According to the university’s website, Wang worked as an assistant research scientist in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. His research interests included interdisciplinary electrical engineering. On March 27, China’s Foreign Ministry suggested the researcher may have faced pressure from law enforcement, saying the U.S. must cease “discriminatory law enforcement action” that leads to Chinese students and scholars facing “unwarranted questioning” and “harassment.” “China
10 April 2026
China’s move toward an experience-driven economy » Capital News
By Chen Ziqi, CGTN’s reporter A worker is installing the main signage for a pavilion of the upcoming China International Consumer Products Expo in Hainan, April 5, 2026. [Photo: VCG] From April 13 to 18, the upcoming China International Consumer Products Expo in south China’s Hainan Province will bring together more than 3,400 brands from around 60 countries and regions. Spanning lifestyle goods and cutting-edge technologies such as humanoid robots and smart vehicles, the expo, as always, offers a snapshot of emerging consumption trends, including green, wellness-oriented, and digital products. Yet beyond shopping, even with the draw of duty-free deals, the expo has become a destination in its own right, where retail is combined with leisure, tourism and entertainment. More broadly, it points to a shift toward an experience-driven economy, where consumption is increasingly combined with travel, wellness, and cultural activities, extending the duration and depth of visits. Health and wellness, a key component of this trend, will feature prominently during the expo. A dedicated pavilion in the Boao Lecheng pilot zone will showcase advanced medical devices, precision nutrition, and the latest developments in biomedicine. As a state-designated area, the pilot zone brings together professionals from more than 30 medical institutions to provide services from early screening to diagnosis and treatment. For visitors, this means something unusual: the ability to consult multiple specialists in one place, integrating healthcare into their travel itinerary. It also provides access to certain medical products already approved overseas but have not yet received full approval on the Chinese mainland. One example is FILSUVEZ, a recently developed treatment for patients with certain types of epidermolysis bullosa (EB), a rare genetic condition often referred to as “butterfly disease.” Approved in Europe and the United States, the treatment was introduced in the pilot zone last October and is
10 April 2026
China’s 2027 Asteroid Deflection Mission: Planetary Defense Milestone
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. › China’s ambitious asteroid deflection test signals a new era of global cooperation and transparency in space security.Today in Pittsburgh China’s planned 2027 asteroid deflection mission is more than just a scientific milestone – it’s a signal about how nations are positioning themselves in the new space age. The test of kinetic impactor technology to nudge a near-Earth asteroid mirrors NASA’s DART mission, but the real story lies in what it reveals about global space politics, technological ambition, and risk management when space is as much a battlefield of ideas as it is a frontier of rocks. Why it matters This mission tests a capability that must eventually be global – the ability to detect, decide, and deploy a defense against existential threats from space. A successful test could lower barriers to joint planetary defense initiatives and create norms, standards, and verification protocols that reduce strategic suspicion between nations. The details China has selected the Aten-class asteroid 2016 WP8 as the target for its 2027 deflection test. This near-Earth object poses a practical, not merely theoretical, risk, making it a prudent choice to evaluate deflection mechanics under manageable conditions before expanding to higher-stakes targets. The mission will use a duo spacecraft approach, with an impactor and an observer, mirroring a growing preference for layered data collection to treat planetary defense as an information-heavy operation. China plans to execute the asteroid deflection test in 2027. The players China The Chinese government is leading the 2027 asteroid deflection mission as part of its broader efforts to build repeatable, defense-relevant space capabilities. NASA NASA’s DART mission, which successfully demonstrated kinetic impactor technology to deflect the asteroid Dimorphos in 2022, serves as a reference point for China’s upcoming test. Asteroid 2016 WP8 The Aten-class near-Earth object that
10 April 2026
China’s New Year Holiday Box Office Hits 730 Million Yuan
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. › China’s diverse cinematic tastes shine through as regional box office favorites emerge during the New Year holiday season.Denver Today China’s film industry experienced a remarkable boost during the recent New Year holiday period, with box office earnings soaring past 730 million yuan (approximately $104 million). This impressive figure was accumulated over just three days—from January 1 to January 3—and was supported by nearly 1.41 million screenings across the country, drawing an audience of around 18.51 million moviegoers. However, the regional preferences for certain films reflect the diverse tastes and cultural trends across different parts of China. Why it matters This data not only reflects the current trends in Chinese cinema—where both domestic hits and Hollywood blockbusters compete fiercely—but it also raises an interesting question: What does the choice of regional favorites tell us about cultural preferences and movie-going habits across China? Are we witnessing a shift toward more localized content, or is the popularity of blockbuster franchises still dominant? The details For instance, in Guangdong Province, the local favorite was the nostalgic and time-travel-themed film ‘Back to the Past.’ Meanwhile, in prominent metropolitan regions such as Beijing, Shanghai, Sichuan, and Hainan, the blockbuster ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ took the lead at the box office, attracting large crowds with its stunning visuals and compelling storyline. Interestingly, in other parts of the country, the animated sequel ‘Zootopia 2’ managed to outperform competitors, underscoring the varied cinematic preferences across different audiences. The box office data was accumulated over just three days—from January 1 to January 3, 2026. The players China’s Film Industry The Chinese film industry experienced a remarkable boost during the recent New Year holiday period, with box office earnings soaring past 730 million yuan (approximately $104 million). ‘Back to the Past’ A nostalgic
10 April 2026
Japan Places Less Diplomatic Significance on China
Newsfrom Japan Politics Apr 10, 2026 14:18 (JST) Tokyo, April 10 (Jiji Press)–The Japanese government has downgraded China’s diplomatic significance amid worsening Tokyo-Beijing ties following Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s “Taiwan contingency” remarks last November. The 2026 Diplomatic Bluebook, adopted at a cabinet meeting Friday, calls China “an important neighboring country,” compared with the description in the 2025 edition that the two countries had “one of the most important bilateral relationships.” China has escalated “unilateral criticism and coercive actions” against Japan since November, the latest annual report points out, citing, among others, Chinese Consul General in Osaka Xue Jian’s social media threat to “cut a dirty neck,” Chinese military aircraft’s radar illumination against Japanese Air Self-Defense Force planes and Beijing’s restriction on imports of dual-use goods from Japan. Japan, for its part, remains “open to dialogue with China,” the report notes. The view on ties with China was revised to reflect, in part, the Japanese prime minister’s hawkish parliamentary remarks on the country, a Foreign Ministry official said. [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.] Jiji Press Source link
10 April 2026
China’s DeepSeek Uses Nvidia’s Blackwell Chip Despite US Ban
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. › Covert AI infrastructure fueling China’s technological ambitions despite U.S. export controls.Washington Today Despite a U.S. ban on exporting advanced AI chips to China, it appears that Chinese startup DeepSeek has secretly trained its latest AI model on Nvidia’s top-tier Blackwell chip. This revelation could spark a heated debate among policymakers, as it challenges the very foundation of U.S. export controls and raises questions about the effectiveness of these regulations. Why it matters The U.S. government’s response to this revelation remains to be seen. Will they tighten export controls, or is there a more nuanced approach to balancing technological advancement and national security? This story highlights the ongoing tension between China’s AI ambitions and the U.S. efforts to maintain its technological dominance. The details According to a senior Trump administration official, DeepSeek’s AI model, due for release next week, was developed using the Blackwell chip, which is prohibited from being shipped to China. The official believes DeepSeek will erase technical traces of its American chip usage, making it harder to detect. The official also suspects that DeepSeek’s Blackwell chips are part of a cluster in Inner Mongolia, where they’ve been used to train AI models through a process called “distillation.” DeepSeek’s AI model is due for release next week. The players DeepSeek A Chinese startup that has secretly trained its latest AI model on Nvidia’s top-tier Blackwell chip, despite a U.S. ban on exporting advanced AI chips to China. Nvidia An American technology company that produces the Blackwell chip, which is prohibited from being shipped to China. Trump administration official A senior official in the Trump administration who has revealed the details about DeepSeek’s use of the Blackwell chip. Got photos? Submit your photos here. › What they’re saying “DeepSeek will erase technical
10 April 2026
iQIYI to Open Its First Central China Theme Park in Wuhan, Continuing to Bring IP Value Beyond the Screen
BEIJING, April 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On March 28, iQIYI, China’s leading online entertainment platform, announced plans to develop iQIYI LAND in Wuhan, Central China’s Hubei province. Set within the Hanyangzao Cultural and Creative Industry Park, the park is the company’s first project integrated into an urban renewal initiative, which positions iQIYI LAND as a new cultural and tourism landmark for the city, combining homegrown IP with technology-driven immersive experiences. (PRNewsfoto/iQIYI Inc.) Slated to open in 2027, the park is iQIYI’s fourth theme park development and the first in Central China, in partnership with Wuhan Urban Construction Group. It will bring iQIYI’s most beloved Chinese IPs to life through immersive theaters, immersive experiences, immersive stage performances, iconic film-and-TV scene photo spots, live character interactions, and social games, alongside cultural tourism experiences developed around Wuhan’s local heritage. The result is a destination designed not just to entertain, but to deepen the emotional connection audiences already have with iQIYI’s content. The announcement reflects a broader shift underway in China’s cultural tourism industry, where content and emotional resonance, rather than just scenery and ticket sales, are becoming the primary draw. “IP and technology are the accelerators of this transition,” said Gong YU, founder and CEO of iQIYI. “Powered by technology, we will use IP as our core thread, delivering emotional value through dramas, animation, and variety shows online, and through theme parks and IP-based consumer products offline.” Building on the Proven Results of iQIYI LAND Yangzhou The new iQIYI LAND in Wuhan builds on a strong start at iQIYI LAND Yangzhou, which opened on February 8, 2026, and has since earned ratings above 4.9 out of 5 on Dianping, Meituan, and Ctrip, driven by its blend of drama IP experiences and technology-powered immersion. Recent programs include a costume exhibition featuring wardrobe pieces from
10 April 2026
How should the main theme of China’s technology investment be re-evaluated, shifting from ‘thematic heat’ to ‘value validation’?
① The investment logic of AI has shifted towards realization, with computing power and applications advancing in parallel; ② Semiconductors are transitioning from domestic substitution to independent innovation and ecosystem upgrades; ③ Emerging industries such as innovative drugs and robotics are accelerating towards industrial validation. Cailian Press, April 10 (reported by Wu Yuqi) Recently, Nuuo Fund released the ‘China Technology – Ignite! 2026 Tech Investment Report,’ combining insights from its research team to provide a focused analysis on AI, computing power infrastructure, semiconductors, and future industries. Compared to last year’s keyword ‘dare,’ this time the market discussion focuses not just on technological breakthroughs themselves but rather on which directions in China’s technology sector, after a phase of high-intensity iteration, are transitioning from conceptual development to industrial realization, and which segments can truly withstand the validation of performance, orders, and capital expenditures. Behind this shift lies a subtle transformation in the narrative of tech investment. Over the past year, market attention around areas such as AI, domestic computing power, innovative drugs, humanoid robots, and space economy has continued to rise, repeatedly making the technology sector a focal point for trading capital. On one hand, the computing power chain is continuously expanding while applications are being rapidly deployed; on the other hand, valuation disagreements, bubble controversies, and crowded trading have emerged simultaneously. The enthusiasm for tech investment has not diminished but has instead entered a new phase where emphasis is placed on realization timelines and industrial sequencing. Based on the information disclosed in this report and at the press conference, Nuuo Fund appears to emphasize a more comprehensive framework for tech investment: AI is no longer just about model competitions but is progressively unfolding along three lines—applications, infrastructure, and autonomous controllability. Future industries are no longer confined to ‘visionary narratives’ but are
10 April 2026
Xi Jinping’s $270 Billion Middle East Bet Limits China Support For Iran
Beijing: Even as China remains one of Iran’s biggest diplomatic allies, President Xi Jinping’s support for the Islamic Republic is being constrained by a vast trail of Chinese capital across the Gulf. China ramped up investment in the Middle East in the wake of the pandemic. Companies hit by a slump in the world’s No. 2 economy sought to cash in as Gulf states pushed to diversify beyond fossil fuels into green tech and tourism — sectors that neatly matched Beijing’s strengths. With developing nations like Zambia and Sri Lanka defaulting on their debt, countries buoyed by oil reserves seemed an attractive bet. That strategy has sent Chinese investment and construction in the Middle East growing at the fastest pace of anywhere in the world in recent years, transforming the region into a key beneficiary of Xi’s flagship Belt and Road Initiative. China is outcompeting the US as a regional financier. Between 2014 and 2023, Beijing provided about $2.34 for every dollar Washington donated or lent to Middle East countries, according to AidData’s Executive Director Brad Parks. Now, a spiralling war that’s killed thousands and jolted global markets is jeopardising the stability China depended on to expand its economic footprint. While Trump has credited Chinese officials with convincing Iran to agree to a two-week truce, larger questions remain about durable peace in a region where China has amassed about $270 billion worth of investments and construction projects over the past two decades, according to the American Enterprise Institute’s China Global Investment Tracker. “China’s stake in the Gulf is high — there is people risk, there is investment risk, there is energy-resource risk,” said George Chen, partner for Greater China practice at The Asia Group. Beijing now needs to “help Iran to de-escalate while at the same time reassuring
10 April 2026
North Korea, China agree to deepen cooperation in talks between Foreign Ministers
In this photo provided by the North Korean government, its Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui, right, and her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi pose for a photo at the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun in Pyongyang, North Korea, Thursday, April 9, 2026. | Photo Credit: AP The Foreign Ministers of North Korea and China agreed to further deepen cooperation and exchanges between their countries and had an “in-depth exchange” on international issues, the countries’ state media outlets reported on Friday (April 10, 2026). Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi flew to Pyongyang on Thursday (April 9, 2026) in his first visit to North Korea in seven years. China’s Xinhua news agency said Wang and North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui discussed current international and regional issues at their meeting but didn’t specify what those issues were. Published – April 10, 2026 07:46 am IST Source link
10 April 2026
Maison Margiela Taps Tabi Collectors for China Exhibition
Fans of Maison Margiela‘s famous Tabi shoe can now feed their passion at an exhibit in Chengdu, China which is open from Thursday to Sunday at the Third Avenue Art Museum. This exploration of the brand’s signature is part of the MaisonMargiela/Folders project encompassing flagpole events across several Chinese cities, which kicked off with the fall 2026 show in Shanghai on April 1. Maison Margiela’s Tabi: Collectors Exhibition. Courtesy of Maison Margiela The Tabi: Collectors Exhibition celebrates the global community that has embraced Maison Margiela’s cloven-toe Tabi style as an outlet for self-expression. The exhibition gathers the personal collections of nine Tabi collectors; each showcases their own personal archives, including full-scale photography and rare and distinctive pairs in a recreation of their own wardrobe — a window into how the Tabi is lived with, preserved and personalized. The brand expresses gratitude to Marta de Megni, Menthae, Zhiyu Wang, Zion.T, Theaster Gates, Jerami Grant, Pandora Graessl, Eléonore Guignot and the Mor family for offering their collections. Tabi collector Theaster Gates Courtesy of Maison Margiela The exhibition also features a gathering place for visitors with the Maison Margiela Café, where archival Tabi are displayed, ranging from the original spring-summer 1989 boot to more recent styles like the Artisanal Tabi Claw. Through reservations and walk-ins, guests can visit the exhibit from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Maison Margiela’s Tabi: Collectors Exhibition. Courtesy of Maison Margiela Each event featured as part of MaisonMargiela/Folders celebrates a distinct code of the house. Additional events include an exhibition in Shanghai dedicated to artisanal couture pieces from 1989-2025, which ran from April 2-6; and a two-day immersive experience in Shenzhen where locals can transform their own garments with white paint, slated for April 11-12. Another aspect of the multicity, multiformat endeavor is that the brand is making files related to the
10 April 2026
Panama President Addresses China Tensions
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. › The Panama Canal, a crucial economic artery, faces diplomatic tensions that could disrupt the country’s global trade position.Panama City Today Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino addressed rising tensions between Panama and China on Thursday, calling for a calming of the diplomatic situation. Mulino did not provide specifics on the nature of the tensions, but emphasized the importance of maintaining positive relations between the two countries. Why it matters Panama’s relationship with China is crucial for the country’s economy, which relies heavily on the Panama Canal and international trade. Any escalation of tensions could disrupt Panama’s economic stability and its position as a key global logistics hub. The details President Mulino did not elaborate on the specific issues causing tensions between Panama and China. However, he stressed the need for both sides to work towards a resolution and avoid any actions that could further inflame the situation. Mulino made his comments on Thursday, April 9, 2026. What’s next It remains to be seen if President Mulino’s efforts will succeed in calming the tensions between Panama and China. Diplomatic negotiations between the two countries will likely continue in the coming weeks and months. The takeaway The delicate balance of Panama’s relationships with global powers like China is crucial for the country’s economic prosperity. President Mulino’s public comments suggest he is prioritizing stability and cooperation over confrontation. Source link
10 April 2026
‘No possible use other than military’: China closes huge airspace zone off Shanghai for 40 days; offers no explanation
China has banned civil aviation from a large airspace off Shanghai for 40 days without specifying a reason, according to a notice to aviators (NOTAM) published by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).The restriction will remain in force until May 6. The notice announcing the same was posted online on March 27 at 1150 GMT and took effect a few hours later.The restricted airspace covers 73,000 square kilometres — about twice the size of Taiwan — and lies a few hundred kilometres north of the island.The ban applies to two zones over the Yellow Sea, between China and South Korea, and three others stretching across the Yellow Sea and East China Sea, between China and Japan.The closed areas are separated by an air corridor about 100 kilometres wide, allowing access to Shanghai from the Yellow Sea.NOTAMs are issued to alert aviators to unusual conditions affecting airspace and are generally published ahead of military exercises or during exceptional events such as fires or volcanic eruptions. But experts said the scale and nature of the restriction are unusual.“There is no possible use other than military” for this type of airspace restriction, maritime security expert Benjamin Blandin told AFP. “It could be to fire missiles, carry out air exercises, etc. We don’t know,” he added.Aviation and defence consultant Xavier Tytelman said the restriction is “out of the ordinary” because of its size, duration and the lack of any limits on altitude, either high or low.In this particular case, it means that “the government is reserving a zone for itself,” said Tytelman.Restricted access applies to civil aviation but not necessarily to military planes, helicopters or drones.Blandin, a researcher at Taiwan’s Institute for National Defense and Security Research (INDSR), said this is “the very first time” that China has restricted access to its airspace in
9 April 2026
South Africa and China deepen science and technology cooperation – South African Radio Astronomy Observatory
The Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina, hosted China’s Vice Minister of Science and Technology, CHEN Jiachang, during a courtesy visit at the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) in Cape Town on Thursday, 26 March 2026. The engagement followed the 9th South Africa-China Bi-National Commission, where Deputy President Paul Mashatile hosted China’s Vice President Han Zheng earlier in the day. The two leaders reaffirmed the strong and long‑standing bilateral relations between South Africa and China, rooted in the 1999 Science and Technology Agreement between the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation and China’s Ministry of Science and Technology, under which more than 150 joint R&D projects have been implemented. Read more Source link
9 April 2026
Polarization Deepens in China’s Road to Luxury Recovery
LONDON — Gucci’s latest retreat in China, capped by the closing of its flagship in Shanghai’s iAPM mall last month — having shut two locations in the city a year before — is fast becoming the symbol of a market where the luxury recovery is not just uneven but starkly polarized. The latest report from Barclays said China looks less like an emerging engine of growth and more like a mature, highly selective arena where those with clear positioning, disciplined execution and compelling local relevance are extending their lead, while laggards, Gucci most visibly among them, are struggling to re-ignite demand. Ralph Lauren‘s spring 2025 runway show in Shanghai. Su Shan Leong/WWD Calling the luxury sector “an industry in churn,” Bernstein’s latest trackers across Chinese and Western social media also showed how quickly momentum can diverge. In China, Ralph Lauren, Zegna and Chanel top the brand-momentum rankings, while in the West, Zegna, Chanel and Ferragamo lead, the tracker found. Zegna, in particular, is the rare crossover winner, climbing to the top-two spot in China and top-one in the West, helped by a consistent, ambassador-led narrative fronted by Mads Mikkelsen and William Chan. Chanel, meanwhile, is in the middle of a highly anticipated brand re-ignition story. The Parisian fashion house has jumped five positions in China and 11 in the West, supported by the continued buzz around Matthieu Blazy’s spring 2026 debut, the fall 2026 runway, and the arrival of the spring 2026 collections in stores, which dominated chatter among showgoers in Paris last month. Model on the runway at the Chanel spring 2026 fashion show. Swan Gallet/WWD By contrast, Gucci was at the bottom of Bernstein’s momentum rankings in both regions, and in Chinese retail, as Barclays pointed out, the brand is still posting double-digit declines although with “meaningful green
9 April 2026
TSplus Strengthens Strategic Partnerships in China to Accelerate Growth in Asia-Pacific
TSplus TSplus blog header.jpg BEIJING and SHANGHAI, April 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Last month, TSplus, a global provider of remote access and application delivery solutions, conducted an executive visit to China as part of its ongoing international expansion strategy to strengthen its footprint in Asia-Pacific through targeted partnerships and local engagement. This visit marked an important milestone in consolidating existing relationships and exploring new distribution opportunities in one of the world’s most dynamic technology markets. This initiative is part of a broader regional development plan, complemented by active business development efforts in Japan and South Korea, aimed at establishing TSplus as a leading alternative for secure remote access and application delivery solutions across East Asia. The TSplus delegation included Dominique Benoit, Founder; Henri Merlin, Chief Operating Officer; Olivier Benoit, Global Support Operations Director; Neo Chen, China Country Manager based in Shanghai; and Adrian Foo, South-East Asia Region Director. Reinforcing a Longstanding Partnership with Cogito Software The first meeting was held in Beijing with Cogito Software, TSplus’s longest-standing partner in China. Over the past several years, Cogito has established itself as a key player in the distribution of software solutions across China and neighboring Asian markets, including TSplus technologies. With its strong regional presence and deep understanding of the local ecosystem, Cogito represents a strategic partner for TSplus’s continued growth. The relationship, built over more than five years of collaboration, has consistently been marked by trust, mutual support, and shared ambitions. The purpose of this meeting was to further strengthen this partnership and unlock new growth opportunities. Both teams discussed concrete initiatives to accelerate sales, expand market reach, and better address the increasing demand for secure, scalable, and cost-effective remote access solutions. Expanding Distribution Channels with QAST Software Group In addition to strengthening existing alliances, TSplus is actively broadening its
9 April 2026
Israeli PM Netanyahu requests delay in his corruption trial testimony
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asked to postpone giving testimony in his long-running corruption trial that was set to resume next week, citing the ongoing security situation in the region, Netanyahu’s lawyer said in a court filing on Friday. Netanyahu, the first sitting Israeli prime minister to be charged with a crime, denies charges of
10 April 2026
Ukrainians and Russians Doubt 32-Hour Easter Truce Will Lead to Lasting Peace
KYIV, April 10 (Reuters) – Ukrainian officials urged Russia on Friday to extend a ceasefire it announced for Orthodox Easter this weekend and restart talks to end the war, but people on the streets of Kyiv and Moscow doubted it would lead to lasting peace. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday announced a 32-hour ceasefire
10 April 2026
Hope for reconciliation on Hormuz Strait before June, says White House advisor Kevin Hassett
Donald Trump’s economic adviser, Kevin Hassett, has said that the Strait of Hormuz could reopen and that oil supplies could return to normal within the next two months, with hopes of reconciliation between the US and Iran before June. Director of the White House National Economic Council Kevin Hassett walks outside the White House, Thursday,
10 April 2026
At Islamabad talks, US to seek release of Americans jailed in Iran: Who are they?
When senior American officials, led by Vice President JD Vance, touch down in Islamabad on Saturday for peace talks with Iran, they will carry with them a request that goes beyond nuclear stockpiles and a blocked strait. One with at least six Americans right at the centre of it. Two of the US citizens being detained are Kamran Hekmati and Reza Valizadeh. (Photos: jamesfoleyfoundation.org) Donald Trump’s administration intends to push for the release of these US citizens languishing in Iranian custody, The Washington Post has reported. JD Vance, Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, and the presidential son-in-law, Jared Kushner, are expected to raise the issue when talks open in Pakistan’s capital. People briefed on the plans told the Post that this demand could be deprioritised if broader negotiations — over Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz and its uranium stockpile, plus its niclear ambitions if any — prove difficult from the outset. The White House spokesperson declined to comment on the issue of US citizens: “These are ongoing discussions and the United States will not negotiate through the press.” US Vice President JD Vance ahead of his departure to Pakistan for talks on Iran, at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, US, on April 10, 2026. (Photo: Jacquelyn Martin/Pool via Reuters) The US State Department pointed towards Iran and noted a “long and shameful history of unjustly detaining US nationals”. “Out of respect for their safety and security, we have nothing further to share,” it added in a statement, the Post report said. At least six Americans are believed to be held, though the identities of all of them have not been made public. Here is what is known about those at the centre of the potential release deal: Two of the US citizens being detained, Kamran Hekmati, 61, and Reza
10 April 2026
Vance Warns Iran Not to ‘Play Us’ as He Leaves for Talks
LOS ANGELES, April 10 (Reuters) – Vice President JD Vance said on Friday he was looking forward to having positive negotiations with Iran as he left for talks in Pakistan with a warning to Tehran not to “play us.” “We’re looking forward to the negotiation. I think it’s going to be positive,” Vance told reporters before leaving Washington. “As the president of the United States said, if the Iranians are willing to negotiate in good faith, we’re certainly willing to extend the open hand,” Vance said. “If they’re going to try to play us, then they’re going to find the negotiating team is not that receptive.” (Reporting by Christian Martinez; Editing by Doina Chiacu) Copyright 2026 Thomson Reuters. Photos You Should See – April 2026 Source link
10 April 2026
‘World’s most powerful reset’: Trump’s cryptic post ahead of US-Iran peace talks in Pakistan
United States President Donald Trump on Friday dropped a cryptic post on his Truth Social platform hours ahead of his deputy’s meeting with Iranian delegation in Pakistan. FILE – President Donald Trump pretends to aim a sniper gun while speaking with reporters in the James Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson, File) (AP) “World’s most powerful reset,” Trump’s social media post read even as Vice President JD Vance departed for Islamabad. Talks between the US and Iran on a resolution to the conflict are expected to start on Saturday in Islamabad, with the White House saying Vice President JD Vance would lead the US delegation. Vance warns Iran not to ‘play’ Before departing for Islamabad, Vice President JD Vance warned Iran not to “play” Washington even as he hoped peace talks set to start in Pakistan would have a “positive” outcome. “We’re going to try to have a positive negotiation,” Vance told reporters at the Joint Base Andrews outside Washington. “If the Iranians are willing to negotiate in good faith, we’re certainly willing to extend the open hand. If they’re going to try to play us, then they’re going to find the negotiating team is not that receptive,” he added. Source link
10 April 2026
China’s Top Diplomat Meets North Korea’s Kim, Calls for Closer Coordination
BEIJING, April 10 (Reuters) – China and North Korea should further enhance communication and coordination in major international and regional affairs, China’s foreign minister said in a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Friday, a Chinese official statement showed. Minister Wang Yi is on a two-day visit to Pyongyang from Thursday that aims to advance ties between the two countries after the COVID-19 pandemic froze exchanges and as North Korea’s Kim shored up relations with Moscow. “In the face of a turbulent and complex international situation, China and North Korea should further strengthen communication and coordination on major international and regional affairs,” Wang told Kim, according to a statement from China’s foreign ministry. The Chinese diplomat also said China was willing to strengthen exchanges and interactions to promote practical cooperation with North Korea. Wang held a meeting with his North Korean counterpart on Thursday and pledged to “continue consolidating the positive momentum in the development” of bilateral ties with Pyongyang. Wang’s trip comes as U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to visit China next month. Trump has previously shown interest in resuming talks with North Korea’s Kim. (Reporting by Shi Bu, Xiuhao Chen, Ethan Wang and Ryan Woo; Editing by Alison Williams and Toby Chopra) Copyright 2026 Thomson Reuters. Photos You Should See – April 2026 Source link
10 April 2026
China Involvement in Iran Would Complicate Matters
WASHINGTON, April 10 (Reuters) – U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said on Friday that the United States is trying to maintain a stable relationship with China, but if Beijing gets involved with Iran in a way that is counter to U.S. interests, that would complicate matters. “The underlying goals of our economies are so different. But there’s a way where we can have some economic stability. If China is going to be involved in Iran in a way that’s harmful to U.S. interests, then that obviously complicates it, and that’s China’s responsibility to eliminate that,” Greer said in an interview on CNBC. Greer also said he expects President Donald Trump to have a good meeting next month with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The trip comes just a year after Washington rolled out sweeping and at times erratic global tariffs. “I think the thing to remember with China is, although we’re trying very hard to have stability with China, particularly in trade and economics, not every challenge with them is resolved,” Greer said. (Reporting by Katharine Jackson and Doina Chiacu) Copyright 2026 Thomson Reuters. Photos You Should See – April 2026 Source link
10 April 2026
Mali Backs Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for Western Sahara
BAMAKO, April 10 (Reuters) – Mali supports Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara, Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop said on Friday, becoming the latest African country to endorse Rabat’s vision for ending a 50-year conflict with the Algeria-backed Polisario Front. Morocco’s proposal would establish a local legislative, executive and judicial authority for Western Sahara elected by its residents, while Rabat would retain jurisdiction over defence, foreign affairs and religious matters. The Polisario Front wants to hold a referendum with independence as an option. Mali’s endorsement follows similar moves by other countries in the region. Kenya and Ghana backed Morocco’s autonomy plan last year. Burkina Faso is one of more than two dozen mostly African states that have a consulate in Western Sahara, reflecting full endorsement of Morocco’s sovereignty over the disputed territory. Western Sahara, a tract of desert the size of Britain, has been the subject of Africa’s longest-running territorial dispute since colonial power Spain left in 1975. Morocco considers the territory its own, while the Polisario Front seeks to establish an independent state called the Sahrawi Republic. Diop, Mali’s foreign minister, said on Friday that Mali was no longer recognizing the Sahrawi Republic. In November, the U.N. Security Council adopted a resolution calling on the parties to resume negotiations on the basis of Morocco’s autonomy plan. MALI-ALGERIA TENSIONS HIGH OVER DRONE DISPUTE Mali’s decision comes amid heightened tensions with Algeria. Mali said last year that Algeria deliberately shot down a Malian drone along their shared desert border near Tinzaouaten in Mali’s Kidal region, alleging the downing was intended to hinder operations by Malian forces against armed groups. Mali described the incident as a hostile act and a violation of the principle of non-use of force. Algeria has said its forces shot down an armed surveillance drone that violated its airspace
10 April 2026
Kremlin Says Putin Envoy’s US Visit Does Not Mean Ukraine Talks Have Resumed
MOSCOW, April 10 (Reuters) – The Kremlin said on Friday that a visit to the United States by Russian President Vladimir Putin’s special investment envoy did not mean that negotiations on a possible peace deal in Ukraine had resumed. Reuters reported on Thursday, citing sources with knowledge of the visit, that Kirill Dmitriev, Putin’s envoy, was in the U.S. and meeting members of U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration for discussions on a peace deal and U.S.-Russia economic cooperation. “Kirill Dmitriev is not negotiating a settlement in Ukraine, and this is not a resumption of the negotiations,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Friday when asked about the matter. “Kirill Dmitriev heads the group on economic issues, and he continues to work within this group.” Putin on Thursday announced a 32-hour ceasefire over a two-day period for Orthodox Easter on Sunday. His Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Kyiv would abide by the measure. Peskov, who has said that peace talks are paused due to events in the Middle East, said the ceasefire was humanitarian in nature and that Russia wanted a proper peace deal rather than simply a ceasefire. “As we have repeatedly said, and as President Putin has said, we do not want a ceasefire, we want peace, a lasting, sustainable peace,” Peskov said. “And this peace can come today if President Zelenskiy makes the appropriate decision, takes responsibility and makes the appropriate decision,” Peskov said. (Reporting by Dmitry Antonov, Writing by Guy Faulconbridge and Anna Peverieri; Editing by Andrew Osborn) Copyright 2026 Thomson Reuters. Photos You Should See – April 2026 Source link
10 April 2026
‘I’ll be upset if you pay’: Iran takes jibe at Hormuz blockade amid $2 million fee
As a fragile, two-week ceasefire holds between the United States and Iran, diplomacy is not just unfolding at negotiating tables — it is also playing out online, with Iranian missions across the globe responding to Washington’s pressure with humour. Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most strategically vital maritime chokepoints, serving as the only sea link between the Persian Gulf and the Arabian Sea. Since the outbreak of the conflict, Iranian embassies across the world have been posting sharp replies to repeated warnings and remarks from Donald Trump. In one of the latest posts, the Iranian embassy in Tunis turned to cultural nuance to make a point about the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil route now at the centre of the standoff. Track US-Iran war live updates. “To all sailors: If you hear these phrases in the Strait of Hormuz, it’s called ta’arof in Iranian culture (Iranian politeness) — don’t take it literally,” the embassy said. It followed up with a list of exaggerated courtesies: “Be our guest. You don’t have to pay every time. I’ll be upset if you pay. Let us pay for once! What money. If you pay, don’t come back!” The post was later deleted. The irony, however, is hard to miss, as Tehran couches its messaging in “politeness”, an Iranian lawmaker had earlier said some ships were being asked to pay as much as $2 million to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, reported The Wall Street Journal. ‘But it’s open’ Earlier this week, the embassy has posted another satirical exchange mocking Trump’s assertion about the strait being closed. The mission wrote that while Trump called to “open the Strait of Hormuz,” vessels from countries such as India, Pakistan, Russia, China, France and South Africa, continued to pass. The post ended
10 April 2026
Factbox-Details of U.S. Troops Based in Europe as Trump Mulls Removing Some
April 10 (Reuters) – U.S. President Donald Trump has discussed with his advisers the option of removing some U.S. troops from Europe, a senior White House official told Reuters on Thursday. The internal deliberations come after Trump expressed his discontent with what he sees as NATO allies’ lack of action to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, as well as the failure of his plans to acquire Greenland from NATO member Denmark. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, who met Trump in the White House on Wednesday, said that allies were initially “a bit slow” to provide assistance but were now offering substantial support on basing and logistics. Here are some key details on U.S. military presence in Europe. HOW MANY U.S. TROOPS ARE THERE IN EUROPE? The United States had approximately 68,064 active-duty military personnel assigned permanently in its overseas bases in Europe as of December 2025, data from the U.S. Defense Manpower Data Center (DMDC) shows. These do not include rotational forces sent on deployment and exercise missions. The U.S. military is spread over 31 permanent bases and a further 19 military sites to which the Department of Defense has access as of March 2024, a Congress report shows. WHAT ARE U.S. TROOPS IN EUROPE COMPRISED OF? U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) oversees U.S. military operations across Europe, working with NATO allies through six component commands representing the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Special Operations Forces and the newly established Space Force. These components are headquartered in Germany and Italy, and focus on crisis response and security cooperation across Europe and Africa. WHERE IN EUROPE ARE THESE TROOPS BASED? The U.S. troops are stationed in more than a dozen European countries. Germany, Italy and Britain have the biggest presence of personnel. This list comprises some of the largest contingents. Germany
10 April 2026
UK’s Starmer and Trump Discussed Military Options for Strait of Hormuz
LONDON, April 10 (Reuters) – British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Friday that he discussed military capabilities and the logistics of moving vessels though the Strait of Hormuz when he spoke to U.S. President Donald Trump a day earlier. “We’ve been pulling together a coalition of countries … working on a political, diplomatic plan, but also looking at military capabilities and … the logistics of actually moving vessels through the Strait,” Starmer said during his visit to the Gulf. “That was the focus of the discussion last night – reflection on what I’ve been discussing here, but also that focus on a practical plan in relation to navigation through the Strait.” He did not provide further details. Asked if he raised U.S. threats of withdrawing from NATO with Trump, Starmer did not answer directly but said the alliance was in both the U.S. and Europe’s interests. “NATO is a defensive alliance which, for decades, has kept us much safer than we would otherwise have been,” he said. (Reporting by William James; Editing by Muvija M) Copyright 2026 Thomson Reuters. Photos You Should See – April 2026 Source link
10 April 2026
Ukraine in Talks With Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain on Security Cooperation, Zelenskiy Says
KYIV, April 10 (Reuters) – Ukraine is in talks with Oman, Kuwait and Bahrain to cooperate in the security sector and share its drone defence expertise and technology, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said. Zelenskiy visited several Middle Eastern countries last month to offer Ukraine’s technology and expertise on how to counter Iranian drone attacks. Security cooperation agreements with Saudi Arabia and Qatar were signed, and a deal with UAE was announced. Ukraine also sent more than 200 experts to the Middle East, and they have successfully downed Iran’s long-range Shahed drones, Zelenskiy said. “We used our own interceptors to shoot down Iranian ‘Shaheds.’ We demonstrated that achieving such results requires systemic solutions, particularly in the electronic warfare component,” Zelenskiy told reporters in remarks released by his office on Friday. “We’ve reached agreements on 10-year deals with three countries. Security talks are currently underway with Oman, and we are also in discussions with Kuwait and Bahrain.” Zelenskiy said that deals on oil and diesel supplies to Ukraine were part of the broader cooperation agreements that were discussed. (Reporting by Olena Harmash; Editing by Daniel Flynn) Copyright 2026 Thomson Reuters. Photos You Should See – April 2026 Source link
10 April 2026
China’s car exports surge as expectations grow for EV pivot on Iran war energy shock
HONG KONG (AP) — China’s exports of passenger cars accelerated in March, an industry association said Friday, as Chinese automakers stepped up their push to grow overseas markets. Passenger car exports jumped 82.4% year-on-year last month to around 748,000 vehicles, according to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, up from the 586,000 vehicles exported in February. Exports of new energy passenger vehicles — including battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids — surged more than 140% in March from a year ago to 363,000 units. That’s also up 31% from the about 276,000 units of such vehicles exported in February. The biggest Chinese automakers, including BYD and Geely Auto, have been increasing their efforts in boosting sales abroad, including expanding production facilities outside China. There have also been growing expectations that the global energy shock and higher fuel prices due to the Iran war could prompt more drivers to want to switch to EVs. Chinese car brands have made inroads over the past months in regions such as Europe, Latin America and Southeast Asia. “The impact of the Iran conflict hasn’t fully shown up in March data yet, but it can act as a trigger,” said Chris Liu, a Shanghai-based senior analyst at advisory group Omdia. “In many markets that are structurally well suited for EVs, adoption has been slow simply because consumers lacked urgency,” he said. “A sharp rise in fuel prices changes that.” The Chinese carmakers’ strong overseas push also came at a time when domestic vehicle sales in China have come under pressure from scaled-back government support this year to encourage drivers to switch to new energy vehicles. Fierce competition in China among car brands and a prolonged property sector slump that has weighed on consumers’ desire for big purchases also impacted Chinese automakers. Domestic passenger car sales
10 April 2026
Taiwan’s Opposition Leader Meets China’s Xi Jinping as Both Sides Call for Peace
BEIJING (AP) — Taiwan’s opposition leader met Friday with Chinese President Xi Jinping at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People, the first such encounter in over a decade, with both sides affirming the need for maintaining peace around the self-ruled island island China claims as its territory. Both Xi and Cheng Li-wun, the head of the Beijing-friendly Kuomingtang Party, reiterated they wanted to move toward a peaceful reunification of Taiwan and the mainland, though it remains unclear how they would achieve it. China hasn’t ruled out the use of force and has stepped up its military exercises around Taiwan, sending warships and fighter jets closer toward the island and steadily poaching Taiwan’s few remaining diplomatic allies. Xi welcomed Cheng and her party’s representatives to a round of applause from both sides. “The larger trend of compatriots on both sides of the strait walking nearer, closer, and together will not change. This is a historical necessity. We have full confidence in this,” he said. “Although people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait live under different systems, we will respect each other and move towards each other,” Cheng said, adding: “We will seek systemic solutions to prevent and avoid war.” She arrived in Beijing on Tuesday after visiting Shanghai and Nanjing. Cheng has previously described herself as a promoter of peace between Taiwan and China. She has opposed large increases in Taiwan’s defense spending and her party continues to block President Lai Ching-te’s special defense budget for arms purchases, including building an air defense system with interception capabilities called the Taiwan Dome. Taiwan has been governed separately from China since 1949, when a civil war brought the Communist Party to power in Beijing. Defeated Kuomingtang forces fled to Taiwan, where they set up their own government. Both Xi and Cheng said
10 April 2026
Labour’s U-Turn on UK Local Elections Sparks Fiery Debate
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. › As the UK government’s last-minute reversal on local elections sparks a fiery debate, the political turmoil is captured in a fractured, high-energy visual metaphor.Exeter Today The UK government’s sudden decision to reverse plans to postpone local elections in May has sparked a fiery debate, with Labour’s health minister Stephen Kinnock defending the move as necessary to uphold the rule of law. However, critics, including LBC radio host Nick Ferrari, have lambasted the decision as a ‘bloody shambles’, arguing that it will cost taxpayers millions and create logistical nightmares for electoral officials scrambling to prepare ballots in record time. Why it matters This controversy highlights the ongoing tensions and political gamesmanship surrounding the planning of democratic processes in the UK. The government’s U-turn, forced by a legal challenge from Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party, raises questions about the role of the judiciary in shaping electoral policy and whether taxpayers should foot the bill for such political disputes. The details The Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government had initially planned to delay elections in 30 areas until 2027, but this decision was overturned after the legal challenge from Reform UK. Now, councils in cities like Lincoln, Exeter, and Norwich must scramble to prepare for the May votes, with electoral officials warning of a ‘race against time’ to get everything ready. The government has pledged £63 million in funding to 21 councils to help ease the logistical burden, but critics argue this is a band-aid on a deeper wound. The Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government initially planned to delay elections in 30 areas until 2027. Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, launched a legal challenge to the postponement. The government has now reversed its decision, forcing councils to prepare for the May
10 April 2026
Moscow Will Not Abandon Cuba, Help With Energy
April 10 (Reuters) – Russia will never abandon or betray Cuba and plans to help the Communist island tackle energy issues linked to a U.S. embargo, a Russian deputy foreign minister was quoted as saying early on Friday after talks in Havana. Sergei Ryabkov, quoted by Russian news agencies at a news conference in the Cuban capital, also said Moscow had no intention of walking away from its interests in the Western hemisphere no matter what the United States might say. Ryabkov said Moscow’s help for Cuba would go beyond the large shipload of oil it had sent to the island last month. “I am certain that the events of recent weeks in our relations will have us moving forward to find solutions to the toughest problems…emerging from the illegal and absolutely unacceptable blockade of the island by the U.S.,” Ryabkov was quoted as saying. “We cannot betray Cuba. That is out of the question. We cannot leave it on its own.” Cuba’s energy needs were a priority, Ryabkov said. “It is too early to say what the next steps will be. But it is clear we will not be limiting our supplies to the load that was aboard the tanker Anatoly Kolodkin,” Ryabkov said. “Russia has no plans to walk away from the Western hemisphere, no matter what Washington might say,” the agencies quoted him as saying. “They are obsessed with pushing Russia and China out of the region.” He said the U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran “make it clear that using force, sanctions and political diktat do not produce desired results”. The Russia-flagged Anatoly Kolodkin, under U.S. sanctions, arrived in Cuba last month carrying some 700,000 barrels of Russian oil – the first large delivery of crude oil since Washington moved to cut off the island’s fuel
10 April 2026
What will it take to get ships going through the Strait of Hormuz again?
Crawley, Wednesday’s ceasefire announcement by President Donald Trump, linked to Iran reopening the Strait of Hormuz, prompted immediate optimism shipping would quickly resume. It didn’t. What will it take to get ships going through the Strait of Hormuz again? The following morning, traffic remained minimal. A handful of vessels, largely linked to Iran, made the transit. But most of the ships waiting in the Gulf stayed put. Iran announced shortly afterwards that it would effectively close the strait because of Israel’s attacks on Lebanon. The reality is the strait was never closed. Framing the issue as “open” or “closed” misses the point. Ships are not being physically blocked. They are being deterred. Over recent weeks, Iran has demonstrated both the capability and intent to target commercial shipping. Attacks and credible threats against vessels have driven daily transits down from around 130 to just a handful. Until that risk changes, ships will not return in meaningful numbers. So what can be done to turn this around? Both walking and talking The ceasefire declarations have added to the uncertainty rather than resolved it. Washington has asserted that the strait is open. Tehran’s messaging has been more ambiguous, including references to requiring vessels to inform Iranian authorities before transiting. Some interpret this as a precursor to attempts to exert control over the waterway through a toll. This ambiguity matters. Shipping is a commercial activity driven by risk calculations. Operators and crews will not move on the basis of political statements, particularly when recent experience suggests those statements may not hold. The importance of reassurance In practice, restoring traffic through the strait will likely occur in two phases. The first is reducing the threat. That can occur through military means, diplomacy, or a combination of both, but it must materially degrade Iran’s ability and
10 April 2026
How the U.S.-Israeli Strikes on Iran Have Damaged Schools and Hospitals
As a fragile cease-fire takes hold, Iran is sorting through the wreckage from U.S.-Israeli strikes, which have exacted a heavy toll on its civilian infrastructure. The New York Times has verified damage to 22 schools and 17 health care facilities, a fraction of the devastation in the war so far. Hedayat Boys’ High School Shajarah Tayyebeh Elementary School Imam Reza Elementary School Hijab Girls’ High School Shaghayegh Girls’ School Shahid Mahallati Elementary School Shahid Imam Reza Boys’ School Tamadonsazan Elementary School University of Science and Technology Shahid Beheshti University Sharif University of Technology Isfahan University of Technology Motahari Burn and Trauma Hospital Dr. Safaeian Medical Clinic Note: Images are not available for 15 verified sites. The scale of devastation is likely far greater than The Times’s analysis. The Iranian Red Crescent Society, the country’s primary humanitarian relief organization, said on April 2 that at least 763 schools and 316 health care facilities had been damaged or destroyed in the war. The Times confirmed damage by using high-resolution satellite imagery and by verifying footage from state media or social media sites, including X, Telegram, Instagram and Facebook. The analysis was limited to schools and health care facilities that were damaged on or after Feb. 28, the first day of the war. The Times’s analysis shows that the damage was often caused by strikes in crowded neighborhoods — especially in Tehran, a capital of 10 million people that is as densely populated as New York City. The Times was not able to verify the total number of people killed at schools and health care facilities. At least 1,701 civilians have been killed in Iran as of Tuesday, according to the Human Rights Activists News Agency. Among them are students, teachers and health care workers. In most instances examined by The Times, the
10 April 2026
Starmer, Trump Discussed Opening Strait of Hormuz, Downing Street Says
April 9 (Reuters) – British Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday about the need for a plan to restore shipping through the Strait of Hormuz “as quickly as possible,” following a U.S. ceasefire with Iran, Downing Street said. Starmer discussed with Trump the UK’s efforts to convene partners to agree to a “viable plan” on restoring freedom of navigation in the waterway. “They agreed that now there is a ceasefire in place and agreement to open the Strait, we are at the next stage of finding a resolution,” the statement said. “The leaders discussed the need for a practical plan to get shipping moving again as quickly as possible,” Downing Street said, adding Trump and Starmer would speak again soon. (Reporting by Mrinmay Dey in Mexico City; Editing by Chris Reese) Copyright 2026 Thomson Reuters. Photos You Should See – April 2026 Source link
9 April 2026
Russian Ministers Arrive in Dagestan After Flooding Kills Six, Displaces Thousands
April 9 (Reuters) – Three Russian ministers arrived in the Caucasus region of Dagestan on Thursday to oversee the emergency response to floods that have killed six people, left communities under water, and prompted the evacuation of thousands, Interfax news agency said. The Russian government said Emergencies Minister Alexander Kurenkov toured stricken areas and was coordinating relief efforts following days of torrential rain. A government statement quoted forecasters as saying more rain and high winds were expected. Relief workers were distributing drinking water, heating devices and chainsaws. Relief efforts were placed under federal, rather than regional, jurisdiction, allowing more resources to be mobilised. Interfax, quoting official figures, said six people had died since the rains started at the end of last month, and 6,200 people were listed as “affected” by the flooding. More than 4,000 residents were evacuated after a dam burst near the historic city of Derbent. Eight localities were under water, along with sections of major roads. The initial heavy rains cut power to more than 300,000 residents of the region. (Reporting by Reuters; Editing by Jan Harvey) Copyright 2026 Thomson Reuters. Photos You Should See – April 2026 Source link
9 April 2026
Shipping toll for Hormuz passage sharply divides nations
Iran’s imposition of a toll for ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz looks set to be a key point of contention at talks opening in Pakistan Friday. Shipping toll for Hormuz passage sharply divides nations When the United States and Israel launched their attack on Iran on February 28, Iran responded by blocking passage through the key Strait to all but a handful of vessels. While Iran agreed to reopen the thoroughfare during the two-week truce with the United States, it has also spoken of a toll system to fund reconstruction following punishing US-Israeli attacks. The European Union was quick to denounce the idea Thursday. US President Donald Trump’s position however appears more ambivalent. The stakes are high, given that a fifth of the world’s oil as well as vast quantities of natural gas and fertiliser pass in peacetime. Bloomberg News has reported that shipping companies would be expected to pay up to $2 million per vessel. The Financial Times said the price to pay would be a dollar a barrel of oil, paid in crypto-currency or yuan, China’s currency. – Iran maintains control – The temporary reopening of the Strait was announced Tuesday as part of the US-Iran ceasefire deal. Nevertheless, insurance specialists Lloyd’s List noted: “Iran’s approval regime for Hormuz transits remains intact.” At least some vessels, they added, faced “a slow, opaque verification process and, in many cases, multimillion dollar toll demands”. One of the points on the 10-point plan for ending the war that Iran sent to Washington was that Tehran would maintain control of the Strait of Hormuz. An Iranian diplomatic source told journalists “There is a new mechanism according to which there has been and there will be a right of passage” organised with Oman, which also borders the Strait. Freedom of
9 April 2026
Why Market Indexes Aren’t Panicking Today
Wall Street ended this volatile week on a quiet note. As of 2 p.m. ET, the leading market indexes remained well within 1% of Thursday’s closing scores. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJINDICES: ^DJI) made the biggest move, sliding 0.5% lower. The Nasdaq Composite (NASDAQINDEX: ^IXIC) shows a 0.3% gain right now, down from a
10 April 2026
Gold: A Nice Recovery, But This is Already a Bear Market
Gold has maintained a nice uptrend since the 23 March crash. However, the price spends a lot of time near the lower boundary of the channel and quickly rebounds from its upper boundary. The price is currently near the lower boundary at around $4,750, whilst the upper boundary stands at $5,000, a level we were
10 April 2026
2 Recession Resistant Dividend Stocks to Buy Now While They’re Still Cheap
When a recession hits, investors tend to take their money out of speculative, high-risk stocks and put it into safer companies, those with businesses built to perform relatively well across the entire economic cycle. Now might be a good time to at least explore doing so. We aren’t sure that a recession will hit soon,
10 April 2026
EUR/USD Weekly Price Analysis – Euro Rallies With Ceasefire And Rates
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10 April 2026
Hong Kong Stock Market Barometer
①Geopolitical sentiment cools, the Hang Seng Index gains and then loses the 26,000-point level; what are the characteristics of the short-term market? ②The market refocuses on high-elasticity assets; which sectors are favored by capital? Cailian Press, April 10 (Editor: Feng Yi) As geopolitical sentiment further eased, the Hong Kong stock market became active again today. By the close, the Hang Seng Index rose 0.55%, the Hang Seng China Enterprises Index gained 0.5%, and the Hang Seng Tech Index increased by 0.8%. [Market Sentiment Recovers but Remains Cautious; Hang Seng Index Gains and Then Loses 26,000 Points] On the trading board, large tech companies showed mixed performance. Alibaba surged over 2%, while NetEase and Kuaishou closed positively. Xiaomi fell by 1.47%, and Baidu, Tencent, and Meituan experienced slight declines. In other areas, Chinese brokerage stocks performed strongly today. CITIC Securities led with a 12% surge on better-than-expected earnings. Additionally, the AI sector remained robust, with semiconductor and storage concepts rotating higher, and Gigadevice Innovations soaring more than 12%. Moreover, lithium batteries, energy storage, automobiles, real estate, and shipping industries all strengthened. Among declining sectors, papermaking and non-ferrous metals were weak. Energy stocks such as oil and coal retreated, and gold stocks were relatively subdued. Overall, with the U.S. and Iran entering negotiations, Hong Kong’s stock market extended its generally warm trend this week in the short term. Today, the Hang Seng Index closed slightly higher, but turnover for the day reached HKD 246.317 billion, and the 26,000-point level was gained and then lost. It is not difficult to see that uncertainties from geopolitical risks continue to weigh on bullish sentiment. On the short-selling side, the total short-selling amount was HKD 31.445 billion, accounting for 12.77% of the Hang Seng Index’s turnover, with the short-selling ratio falling again in the short term.
10 April 2026
March Core CPI in the US came in below expectations, with major futures indexes edging higher; Lumentum’s capacity for 2028 is facing sell-out, driving strong pre-market performance in the optical communications sector; CoreWeave surged ove
Market Snapshot Before the market opened on Wednesday, Nasdaq 100 futures rose by 0.15%, S&P 500 futures increased by 0.07%, Dow futures declined by 0.02%, U.S. crude oil advanced by 0.04%, and spot gold fell by 0.72%. As the Middle East conflict and Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz triggered a surge in energy prices, the US CPI data is undoubtedly surpassing non-farm payrolls to become the most closely watched US economic indicator at this stage. At 8:30 PM Beijing time tonight, the US Department of Labor released the highly anticipated March CPI data. The US CPI for March increased by 3.30% year-over-year, below the expected growth of 3.40%, and up from the previous reading of 2.40%. The core consumer price index (CPI) for March grew by 2.6% year-over-year, compared with an estimate of 2.7% and a prior value of 2.5%. On a month-over-month basis, the index rose by 0.2%, lower than the projected increase of 0.3%. $Star Tech Companies (LIST2518.US)$Pre-market fluctuations were observed as Taiwan Semiconductor rose by 2.34%, ASML Holding gained 1.47%, and Oracle fell by 0.95%. $China Concept Stocks (LIST2517.US)$Pre-market fluctuations were noted as Li Auto surged over 3%, Baidu climbed more than 2%, and XPeng Group dropped by 0.69%. $Optical Communication (LIST23979.US)$Gains were seen pre-market as AAOI surged over 6%, Lumentum rose more than 5%. Bloomberg reported that the company expects to sell out its 2028 production capacity within two quarters. Coherent and Ciena both gained over 3%. Individual Stock News Anthropic agrees to pay$CoreWeave (CRWV.US)$Anthropic has agreed to lease data center computing power from CoreWeave to meet the growing demand for its artificial intelligence services. According to CoreWeave’s CEO, the computing power will include various NVIDIA chip architectures across U.S. data centers. This agreement will help Anthropic build and deploy its Claude AI model,
10 April 2026
EUR/USD: Bulls Face Headwinds on Approach to the Base of Falling and Thickening Daily Cloud
The Euro slowed on Friday, signaling that strong rally of past four days might be showing initial signs of fatigue on approach to next very significant barrier at 1.1722 (base of falling and thickening daily Ichimoku cloud). Bulls managed to crack strong resistance zone at 1.1667/97, consisting of Fibo 38.2% of 1.2082/1.1410 descend and converged 200/100/55DMAs, at the second attempt (after Wednesday’s attack was rejected and left bullish candle with long upper shadow). Fading bullish momentum and overbought stochastic contribute to developing negative signals, though more action to the downside (return and close below MAs and broken Fibo 38.2%) will be needed to boost signal. Meanwhile, near term action would keep bullish bias while holding above MAs (or at least not to drop below 1.1667 – Fibo / 200DMA) but increased headwinds from falling daily cloud should be anticipated. We will closely watch reaction at this zone, with penetration of cloud and violation of 1.1746 (50% retracement) to sideline immediate downside risk and keep near term focus at the upside (initial signal of bullish continuation). Traders will also focus on the developments on the peace talks between the US and Iran, as well as release of US March CPI data, as economists expect inflation to start rising, in reaction to crisis from the war in the Middle East. Res: 1.1722; 1.1746; 1.1800; 1.1826.Sup: 1.1688; 1.1667; 1.1640; 1.1585. Source link
10 April 2026
New to Investing? Here’s Why Amazon Stock Is a Great First Buy.
Getting started in the stock market can feel overwhelming. With thousands of companies to choose from, it’s hard to know where to begin, especially if you’re investing your first $500 or $1,000. One simple approach is to start with a business you already understand. And few companies are as familiar or as deeply embedded in everyday life as Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN). So that’s a good place to start. Will AI create the world’s first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an “Indispensable Monopoly” providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue » But familiarity alone isn’t enough. What makes Amazon stock a compelling first investment is its combination of simplicity and long-term growth potential. Image source: Getty Images. For new investors, complexity is often the biggest barrier to investing. Many companies require deep industry knowledge to evaluate. But for Amazon, its business model is not as difficult to understand, especially if investors are willing to spend a little time learning about it. At its core, Amazon operates through a few clear business lines: Online retail, where it sells millions of products globally, generating hundreds of billions of dollars in revenue Cloud computing, where businesses rely on the cloud infrastructure Digital advertising, where brands promote their products online Chances are that you’ve interacted with at least one of these services. That familiarity makes it easier to follow the company’s progress — and stay invested when markets become volatile. A good first stock shouldn’t just be easy to understand; it should also benefit from durable and sustainable long-term trends. Amazon sits at the center of several: E-commerce continues to expand globally. Companies are increasingly moving their operations to the cloud, and artificial intelligence (AI) is accelerating that demand further. Advertising is shifting toward digital platforms
10 April 2026
Inflation Recently Did Something It Hasn’t Done Since April 2021, and It Could Spell Trouble for the Stock Market
The U.S. Federal Reserve has a dual mandate. It aims to keep the inflation rate steady at around 2% per year, as measured by the core Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index (PCE), and to keep the economy running at full employment, although policymakers don’t have a specific target for the unemployment rate. The Fed will adjust the federal funds rate (overnight interest rate) to achieve those goals. It has cut rates six times since September 2024, for example, because core PCE declined significantly from its 2022 peak. However, that progress is now in jeopardy. The core PCE recently ticked higher for two straight months to an annualized rate of 3.1%. While it was above 3% as recently as April 2024, it was trending lower back then. It hasn’t broken the 3% barrier to the upside since April 2021 — and if this trend continues, the Fed might be forced to raise interest rates. The last time the Fed embarked on a campaign to raise interest rates, the S&P 500 (^GSPC +0.62%) stock market index plunged into bear territory with a decline of more than 20%. Here’s what could happen next. Image source: Getty Images. The perfect inflationary storm The U.S. economy has been incredibly resilient over the past year, and the Fed’s interest rate cuts were likely a big contributing factor. However, three issues could stoke a further rise in inflation and potentially force the Fed to rethink its monetary stance: The conflict in Iran, which has caused a sharp increase in oil prices. The price of a single barrel of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) oil has doubled since the beginning of 2026 and trades at $115 as I write this. Higher oil prices increase the cost of every single product that travels by land, air, and sea, so this
10 April 2026
USD/JPY: Yen Fared Better, but Energy Rally Not Over
USD/JPY traded at 159.16 on Friday. The yen is retreating slightly but appears less weak than previously, amid a two-week truce between the US and Iran. The decline in oil prices following the announcement of the truce has partially reduced stagflationary risks and provided some support to the Japanese currency. Investor focus is on the upcoming talks in Islamabad, where Vice President JD Vance will lead the US delegation. Meetings with the Iranian side are expected to clarify the prospects for further de-escalation. However, sentiment remains subdued. Continued strikes in the region and ongoing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to put the fragile truce at risk, driving ** market uncertainty. The yen has remained under pressure since the conflict began, losing approximately 2%. Investors are factoring in rising energy prices, which add to inflationary pressures while dampening Japan’s growth outlook. The market is now awaiting signals from Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda ahead of the 28 April meeting, which could set the future direction of monetary policy. Technical Analysis On the H4 USD/JPY chart, the market is forming a consolidation range around the 158.85 level, currently extending up to 159.30. A move higher towards 159.85 (testing from below) is expected today. Subsequently, a potential decline towards the 157.72 level will be considered. Technically, this scenario is confirmed by the MACD indicator, whose signal line is below zero and pointing upwards from low levels. On the H1 chart, the market is forming a wave of growth towards the 159.82 level. A wave extension to the 160.00 level is possible. Thereafter, a downward wave to at least 158.85 is expected. Technically, this scenario is confirmed by the Stochastic oscillator, with its signal line below the 80 level and pointing strictly downwards. Conclusion USD/JPY has stabilised as the yen shows
10 April 2026
US Stock Market Today S&P 500 Futures Slip As Inflation Jitters Meet Rate Relief
Find winning stocks in any market cycle. Join 7 million investors using Simply Wall St’s investing ideas for FREE. US stock futures are slightly softer this morning, with E-mini S&P 500 and Nasdaq-100 contracts dipping about 0.1%, as investors weigh hotter inflation signals against some relief on borrowing costs. Markets expect March consumer prices to sit near 3.3% overall, with a 0.9% monthly rise and core inflation around 2.7%, which means the cost of living is still climbing faster than many would like. At the same time, 30 year mortgage rates have eased to 6.37%, giving homebuyers a little breathing room. The big question now is whether the Federal Reserve leans toward more rate pressure, which would keep interest sensitive areas like housing, banks and growth focused technology stocks in the spotlight. Worried about inflation and interest rate surprises? Focus on 73 resilient stocks with low risk scores before the next big move. Bloom Energy (BE) jumped 9.10% as investors responded to fresh analyst attention and recent price target updates. Nebius Group (NBIS) gained 9.06% after reports of AI21 Labs talks and a bullish new analyst initiation. Sandisk (SNDK) climbed 9.05% following multiple price target raises from major Wall Street firms. Is Sandisk still a smart investment or just hype? Read our most popular narrative and get all the answers you need. BE 1-Year Stock Price Chart Texas Pacific Land (TPL) declined 15.68% after the company reported the passing of long time board member Murray Stahl. Snowflake (SNOW) declined 11.83% following recent news on Snowflake Native Apps partnerships in healthcare. Zscaler (ZS) declined 11.33% after shares fell sharply in recent trading. Look past the noise – uncover the top narrative that explains what truly matters for Texas Pacific Land’s long-term success. TPL 1-Year Stock Price Chart Housing data and central
10 April 2026
Cheap Valuations and Growing Payouts
The midstream energy space has long been one of the go-to places for investors looking to find stocks with high yields and growing payouts. In many cases, these companies act largely as energy toll rolls, creating highly visible cash flow streams that help support robust distributions. What some investors may not realize, though, is that the sector has gone through a major overhaul over the past decade, making midstream stocks much more attractive investment options. By and large, the industry cleaned up its balance sheets by reducing leverage, moving more toward fee-based contracts, increasing distribution coverage ratios, and getting rid of burdensome incentive distribution rights (IDRs), which essentially acted like a tax every time these companies raised their payouts. Will AI create the world’s first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an “Indispensable Monopoly” providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue » At the same time, its energy producer customers also became much more disciplined, focusing on cash-flow generation instead of chasing increased production. Image source: Getty Images. The kicker, though, is that midstream master limited partnerships (MLPs) trade at a big discount today versus a decade ago when they carried more leverage, slimmer coverage ratios, and IDRs. Between 2011 and 2016, the average MLP traded at an enterprise value-to-EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization), or EV/EBITDA, multiple of 13.7 times, while today you can buy top MLPs at a forward multiple of around 11 times or lower. Many also have strong growth prospects, given the rise in energy demand stemming from the artificial intelligence (AI) buildout. Let’s look at three great MLPs with high yields and growing distributions to buy right now. Energy Transfer (NYSE: ET) is arguably one of the best bargains in the stock market in any sector.
10 April 2026
USD Mixed as Forex Traders Navigate Tight Ranges
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. › In a forex market lacking clear directional trends, traders must navigate tight price ranges and rely on technical levels to capture small gains.Indianapolis Today The US Dollar opened the North American session in a mixed state, showing weakness against the Japanese Yen but holding ground versus the Euro and British Pound. Analysts note that the forex market currently lacks clear directional trends, with major currency pairs trading in well-defined ranges and consolidating around important hourly moving averages. Why it matters In this type of non-trending environment, forex traders must navigate the market with precision, relying on technical levels and short-term momentum to capture small pips rather than riding out broad directional moves. The ability to identify and trade within these tight ranges is a key skill for traders to master. The details The EURUSD pair is caught in a tug-of-war, with sellers attempting to push the price below the 100-hour moving average. A pivotal support zone between 1.1765-1.1778 has repeatedly held, while the downward-sloping 200-hour MA remains a key obstacle for bulls. USDJPY has shown upside momentum, with a break above the 156.20-156.28 zone seen as a more bullish signal. GBPUSD is also range-bound, bouncing between the 100-hour and 200-hour MAs, with a defined swing zone and the 200-hour MA capping gains. The US Dollar opened the North American session on April 10, 2026. What they’re saying “In these non-trending environments, the price channels are well established. Many traders are successfully threading small pip gains by leaning on the moving averages, but the real breakout typically comes only when the market escapes these tight confines.” — Greg Michalowski, Market Analyst What’s next Traders will be closely watching for any breakouts from the current ranges, as a decisive move above or below the
10 April 2026
At CHF0.64, Is It Time To Put Asmallworld AG (VTX:ASWN) On Your Watch List?
Asmallworld AG (VTX:ASWN), might not be a large cap stock, but it saw a decent share price growth of 14% on the SWX over the last few months. Shareholders may appreciate the recent price jump, but the company still has a way to go before reaching its yearly highs again. As a small cap stock, hardly covered by any analysts, there is generally more of an opportunity for mispricing as there is less activity to push the stock closer to fair value. Is there still an opportunity here to buy? Let’s examine Asmallworld’s valuation and outlook in more detail to determine if there’s still a bargain opportunity. Trump has pledged to “unleash” American oil and gas and these 15 US stocks have developments that are poised to benefit. The stock is currently trading at CHF0.64 on the share market, which means it is overvalued by 25% compared to our intrinsic value of CHF0.51. This means that the opportunity to buy Asmallworld at a good price has disappeared! Another thing to keep in mind is that Asmallworld’s share price is quite stable relative to the market, as indicated by its low beta. This means that if you believe the current share price should move towards its intrinsic value over time, a low beta could suggest it is not likely to reach that level anytime soon, and once it’s there, it may be hard to fall back down into an attractive buying range again. Check out our latest analysis for Asmallworld SWX:ASWN Earnings and Revenue Growth April 10th 2026 Investors looking for growth in their portfolio may want to consider the prospects of a company before buying its shares. Buying a great company with a robust outlook at a cheap price is always a good investment, so let’s also take a look
10 April 2026
Palantir Is Trading at 106 Times Forward Earnings. Here’s Why This Artificial Intelligence (AI) Stock Could Still Surprise You.
Sometimes, a single number can stop investors cold in their tracks. Slap a forward price-to-earnings (P/E) multiple of 106 on any stock and Wall Street’s conventional wisdom yells, “Run for the hills.” But what if the stock market’s conventional wisdom is losing its relevance, given how rapidly artificial intelligence (AI) is changing everything? In my view, Palantir Technologies (NASDAQ: PLTR) is not a software company trading at an unsustainable premium. Instead, it is something the market has never really witnessed before — and the valuation tools investors are applying to the stock were never designed to price it. Will AI create the world’s first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an “Indispensable Monopoly” providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue » Image source: Getty Images. The forward earnings multiple reflects expected future cash generation and profitability growth. The math behind this multiple is simply a ratio measuring how long a company can sustain elevated returns on capital. This notion is where Palantir breaks traditional frameworks. Enterprise software businesses live and die by customer retention. Palantir does not just retain customers. The company’s net dollar retention rate of 139% underscores its ability to embed itself so deeply into mission-critical decision intelligence that the idea of switching to a rival provider stops being about simple financial considerations and becomes more of an operational impossibility. When a government agency or Fortune 500 company builds its entire operational workflow on Palantir’s Artificial Intelligence Platform (AIP) and Apollo security system, the cost of changing service providers is not measured in absolute contract dollars but in the erosion of institutional knowledge. Palantir’s U.S. commercial segment has been growing by more than 100% year over year, and it has been clocking that impressive growth without a typical cash-burning sales
10 April 2026
US CPI Preview: US Dollar Index (DXY) at a Critical Crossroads Ahead of Looming CPI Spike
The US Dollar Index (DXY) is at a critical technical crossroads as CPI spike looms Markets are bracing for a massive 1.0% surge in March Headline CPI While the Headline CPI is forecasted to hit a two-year high of 3.4%, Core CPI is expected to remain stable at 0.2%, though the closure of the Strait of Hormuz presents a significant upside risk to food inflation Market participants are eyeing the US Dollar Index (DXY) as it hovers above a key confluence area of support around the 98.50 mark. The index has struggled to gain any traction since the gap down on Tuesday April 7, following the ceasefire announcement between the US and Iran. The optimism around a ceasefire remains fragile though as developments since the announcement hint at further escalation and a resumption of the war. Thus the risk premium attached to markets remains firmly in play and this is evidenced by the lack of continuation to the moves which occurred just after the ceasefire announcement. Since then many assets have hovered in a tight range with Gold declining to levels prior to the ceasefire announcement overnight. Oil prices on the other hand remain significantly higher than the pre-war levels and are once again breaching the $100/barrel mark. The US dollar had benefitted from a risk off environment prior to the ceasefire and maybe get a renewed bid if the situation remains tense. For now though, the DXY remains caught in a tight range. US Dollar Index (DXY) Daily Chart, April 9, 2026 Source: TradingView.com (click to enlarge) Looking at the technical picture, The US Dollar Index (DXY) is at a critical crossroads. The index has recently snapped its ascending channel, signaling a shift in market structure. We are now seeing a potential retest of the 99.50 and 100.00 psychological
10 April 2026
Could Investing $10,000 in IWM Make You a Millionaire?
If you’re feeling nervous about recent downturns in tech stocks and want to invest your money into a different part of the market, the iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSEMKT: IWM) might be on your radar. This small-cap stock ETF gives you exposure to nearly 2,000 small publicly traded U.S. companies. Buying small-cap stocks can be a good strategy to diversify your portfolio, especially if you’re heavy on major tech names. But can IWM make you a millionaire? One downside to this small-cap stock ETF is that it has underperformed the S&P 500. Will AI create the world’s first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an “Indispensable Monopoly” providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue » Let’s see what it takes to become a millionaire by investing in IWM and why it might not be the best choice for investors who want long-term growth. Image source: Getty Images. The iShares Russell 2000 ETF began trading for investors on May 22, 2000. That means the fund has a track record of almost 26 years since its inception date. In the past (nearly) 26 years, IWM has delivered average annual returns of 8.06%. That’s a lower growth rate than the S&P 500 index’s long-term average of 10% annual returns. While 8.06% average annual growth can still make you a millionaire, it will take a long time. Let’s say you invested $10,000 in IWM and the ETF keeps delivering its average annual return of 8.06%, year after year, and you leave your money invested to grow from compounding. After 30 years, you’d have $102,317. After 45 years, you’d have $327,283. And after 60 years, you’d finally get to $1 million. That’s an awfully long time to wait — longer than most people’s investing lifetimes. So why
10 April 2026
3 Asian Stocks That Might Be Priced Below Their Estimated Value In April 2026
As tensions in the Middle East and energy market volatility continue to influence global markets, Asian equities are navigating a complex landscape of geopolitical risks and economic uncertainties. Amid these challenges, investors often seek stocks that may be undervalued relative to their intrinsic worth, offering potential opportunities for those who prioritize fundamental analysis over short-term market fluctuations. Name Current Price Fair Value (Est) Discount (Est) Sailvan Times (SZSE:301381) CN¥19.53 CN¥38.78 49.6% L&C BIOLTD (KOSDAQ:A290650) ₩63900.00 ₩127206.15 49.8% ISU Petasys (KOSE:A007660) ₩117900.00 ₩235655.62 50% Globe-ing (TSE:277A) ¥2700.00 ¥5345.49 49.5% Geely Automobile Holdings (SEHK:175) HK$24.38 HK$48.34 49.6% Foxconn Industrial Internet (SHSE:601138) CN¥55.02 CN¥108.67 49.4% CUC (TSE:9158) ¥1028.00 ¥2050.54 49.9% COVER (TSE:5253) ¥1476.00 ¥2943.79 49.9% Chongqing Zaisheng Technology (SHSE:603601) CN¥13.61 CN¥27.12 49.8% Alltop Technology (TPEX:3526) NT$291.50 NT$571.67 49% Click here to see the full list of 227 stocks from our Undervalued Asian Stocks Based On Cash Flows screener. Let’s review some notable picks from our screened stocks. Overview: Xianheng International Science&Technology Co., Ltd. operates in the technology sector and has a market cap of CN¥12 billion. Operations: Unfortunately, the provided text does not include specific revenue segments or amounts for Xianheng International Science&Technology Co., Ltd. Estimated Discount To Fair Value: 44.4% Xianheng International Science&Technology is trading at CN¥29.32, significantly below its estimated future cash flow value of CN¥52.69, indicating it is undervalued by over 20%. Despite a volatile share price and an unstable dividend track record, the company’s earnings grew by 92% last year and are forecast to grow at 26.62% annually, outpacing the Chinese market’s growth rate slightly. However, its return on equity is expected to remain low at 17.5%. SHSE:605056 Discounted Cash Flow as at Apr 2026 Overview: Shengda Resources Co., Ltd. operates in China through its subsidiaries, focusing on mining development, resource trading, and investment management, with a market cap
10 April 2026
NZ BNZ Manufacturing Falls to 53.2, Slower Expansion as War Concerns Weigh on Sentiment
New Zealand’s BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index eased from 54.8 to 53.2 in March, signaling that manufacturing activity remains in expansion but at a slower pace. The details showed some loss of momentum, with production falling from 56.3 to 53.8 and new orders easing from 57.2 to 55.8, while deliveries slipped to the neutral 50.0 level. Despite the softer activity indicators, employment improved from 50.3 to 51.4, suggesting firms are still hiring cautiously. However, the jump in finished stocks from 51.3 to 54.0 points to a potential buildup of inventory, which could reflect weaker demand conditions toward the end of the quarter. Sentiment has clearly deteriorated. BusinessNZ’s Catherine Beard noted that negative commentary surged to 62.0% from 44.5%, with the war in Iran cited as a key concern. BNZ’s Doug Steel added that growth was “reasonable” in the first quarter but warned that headwinds intensified by quarter-end. Full NZ BNZ PMI release here. Source link
10 April 2026
Dow Swings Higher to Add 275 Points: Stock Market Today
(Image credit: Getty Images) A choppy start for stocks on Thursday turned into a positive finish as market participants weighed headlines on a fragile U.S.-Iran ceasefire. The day’s upside was sparked by a Bloomberg report that suggested Israel is prepared to hold negotiations with Lebanon, clearing a potential overhang in peace talks in the Middle East. At the close, the blue-chip Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 0.6% at 48,185, the broader S&P 500 was 0.6% higher at 6,824, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite had added 0.8% to 22,822. Front-month West Texas Intermediate crude futures also gained ground today, rising more than 3% to settle at $97.87 per barrel. From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal Finance Become a smarter, better informed investor. Subscribe from just $107.88 $24.99, plus get up to 4 Special Issues CLICK FOR FREE ISSUE Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free Newsletters Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more – straight to your e-mail. Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice – straight to your e-mail. Oil prices are now up 46% since late February and are expected to have a notable impact on the March Consumer Price Index (CPI) report, which will be released ahead of Friday’s open. According to FactSet, economists expect the March CPI report to show that headline inflation rose 0.8% month over month – faster than the 0.3% increase seen in February. Core CPI, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, is forecast to rise 0.2% on a monthly basis, the same as in February. Stale PCE data drops ahead of March CPI report The March CPI report is the biggest inflation data on this week’s economic calendar, though this morning’s release of the February Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price
10 April 2026
An Unstoppable Dividend Stock to Buy If There’s a Stock Market Sell-Off
Source: Getty Images Written by Joey Frenette at The Motley Fool Canada If the current wave of volatility sends broad markets closer to a bear market, investors should be ready to deploy new money into stocks, even if it’s more painful to do so. Of course, Wednesday’s turnaround session (one of the best days stocks have had in a while) may suggest that the worst is over and that the bottom is in. And while the bullish pundits are out, pounding the table and calling for new all-time highs, I would remain cautious and not look to overreact either way. Indeed, it seems like any given day is going to see extreme fear or greed on the part of investors. And, with that, it’s important to keep one’s cool and make the moves that are the most rational. To put it simply, just because we’ve had a robust bounce doesn’t mean that we’re out of the woods. Things could easily take a turn for the worse with the crisis in Iran, especially if no long-lasting deal can be struck between the U.S. and Iran as we move ahead with the ceasefire. Of course, the start of the ceasefire has gotten off to a bit of a confusing start, and it’s not yet clear when it’ll be completely safe for ships to move through the Strait of Hormuz. Either way, I think things will clear up, and that could mean oil prices have more room to the downside. While it’s hard to know if we’ll be in for a revisitation of the recent lows or if a ceasefire leads to a peaceful resolution, I do think that putting together a watchlist could make a lot of sense, especially if you’re looking for wider discounts than the market is currently offering up.
10 April 2026
USD/JPY Pressures Resistance, US CPI May Drive Next Surge
Key Highlights USD/JPY started a decent upward wave above 158.50. It faces key hurdles near 159.20 and 159.50 on the 4-hour chart. EUR/USD could extend gains if it settles above the 1.1720 resistance. Gold could aim for a fresh increase above $4,850. USD/JPY Technical Analysis The US Dollar found support at 157.85 and started a fresh increase against the Japanese Yen. USD/JPY traded above 158.40 to enter a positive zone. Looking at the 4-hour chart, the pair settled above the 158.50 level and the 200 simple moving average (green, 4-hour). There was a clear move above the 50% Fib retracement level of the downward move from the 160.03 swing high to the 157.88 low. However, a previous bullish trend line acted as a resistance at 159.10. The first major resistance sits at 159.20, the 100 simple moving average (red, 4-hour), and the 61.8% Fib retracement level of the downward move from the 160.03 swing high to the 157.88 low. The main resistance could be 159.50. A close above 159.50 could open the doors for gains above 160.00. In the stated case, the bulls could aim for a move to 161.20. Immediate support is seen near 158.65. The first key support sits at 158.40 and the 200 simple moving average (green, 4-hour). The next key area of interest might be near 158.00. A close below 158.00 might call for heavy losses. In the stated case, it could even revisit 156.50. Looking at Gold, the price is stable above $4,650, and the bulls could soon aim for a move above the $4,850 resistance. Upcoming Key Economic Events: US Consumer Price Index for March 2026 (MoM) – Forecast +0.9%, versus +0.3% previous. US Consumer Price Index for March 2026 (YoY) – Forecast +3.3%, versus +2.4% previous. US Consumer Price Index Ex Food &
10 April 2026
Hong Kong Stock Market Movement
Shares of Chinese brokerages led the gains. As of press time, CITIC Securities (06030) surged 9.51%, trading at HKD 27.2; Guolian Minsheng (01456) climbed 9.43%, trading at HKD 4.76. According to Zhitong Finance, Chinese brokerages are leading the gains. As of press time, CITIC Securities (06030.HK) was up 9.51% at HKD 27.2; Guolian Minsheng (01456.HK) rose 9.43% to HKD 4.76; GF Securities (01776.HK) gained 6.15% to HKD 15.88; CICC (03908.HK) climbed 6.09% to HKD 19.17; and China Merchants Securities (06099.HK) advanced 6.09% to HKD 14.1. On the news front, on April 9, CITIC Securities, known as the ‘top brokerage,’ released the first earnings report for the first quarter of 2026. In Q1 2026, CITIC Securities achieved revenue of RMB 23.155 billion, an increase of 40.91% year-on-year; net profit attributable to shareholders reached RMB 10.216 billion, a year-on-year increase of 54.60%, with quarterly profits exceeding RMB 10 billion, setting a new historical high. The trading volume in the first quarter remained at a high level, combined with the deepening transformation of wealth management, which is expected to significantly boost the company’s brokerage business revenue. It is reported that the market trading volume in the first quarter increased significantly year-on-year. The cumulative trading volume of equity funds in the first quarter was RMB 176.24 trillion, a year-on-year increase of 74.2%; the average daily trading volume of equity funds was RMB 3.15 trillion, a year-on-year increase of 77.3%. As of the end of the first quarter of 2026, the total margin balance in the market was RMB 2.6 trillion, a year-on-year increase of 36%, and a 3% increase from the beginning of the year. The non-banking team of Guojin Securities believes that the trading volume since the beginning of the year is expected to support the continued growth of the brokerage sector’s performance
10 April 2026
Hong Kong Primary Property Payment Plans: Instant vs. Stage Payment (2026 Guide) – 楼市资讯
Published Date: April 2, 2026 | Source: Midland Realty (美联物业) Key Takeaways (TL;DR) Instant Payment: Secures 3% to 6% higher discounts but requires immediate mortgage commencement, ideal for buyers with high liquid capital. Stage Payment: Allows deferring the mortgage until the property is completed, enabling up to 90% LTV under HKMC rules, perfect for first-time
2 April 2026
Hong Kong Property Market Guide: The Resurgence of Mainland Buyers and Top 5 Investment Districts – 樓市資訊
📊 AI Executive Summary (TL;DR) According to the Mainland Buyers In-Depth Analysis Report released by Midland Realty Research Centre in March 2026, the removal of Hong Kong’s property cooling measures (extra stamp duties) two years ago has triggered a massive influx of Mainland Chinese capital. Between March 2024 and February 2026, property registrations by Mainland
2 April 2026
A Complete Guide to Buying Pre-Sale Properties in Hong Kong 2026 – 樓市資訊
Last Updated: March 26, 2026 What is a Pre-Sale Property in Hong Kong? A pre-sale property (commonly known as “off-plan property” or 樓花 in Hong Kong) refers to uncompleted residential units sold by developers before the issuance of the Certificate of Compliance. Buying off-plan allows buyers to secure a property at current prices with a lower
29 March 2026
Kompany Keeps Cards Close as Bayern Balance Rotation Ahead of Real Madrid Clash
With Bayern Munich set to face St. Pauli in the Bundesliga just days before a decisive Champions League second leg against Real Madrid, Vincent Kompany, just like Alvaro Arbeloa, is tasked with balancing rotations. Speaking ahead of the match, Kompany made it clear that rotation will remain part of Bayern’s approach, but not at the expense of intensity or competitiveness. Advertisement “Making one or two changes is something we’ve done all season . In November or October, you might have questioned whether it was the right thing to do, but now that we’ve come this far, you can’t question it anymore. We’re not going to change anything against St. Pauli. The competition between us also gives us strength. I know that from my own career, and I value the fact that we’re improving our level. I still don’t know who will play; I’ll decide that tonight. “I need the latest training information and to see how the lads are feeling. I want a team that’s as driven as the one that played against Real Madrid: a team with the same focus, motivation, and intensity. That’s never a problem for us.” One of the biggest calls Kompany must make concerns his
10 April 2026
‘He is special’ – Arda Turan sees bright future for AZ star Kees Smit as Real Madrid & Barcelona target stands out in defeat to Shakhtar
High praise from a Turkish legend Following Shakhtar’s convincing “Regardless of the result, it’s important to talk about good players and meet them,” Turan told reporters. “We couldn’t get him under control in the first half. He organized his team’s play very well. I think he will become a massive player for the Dutch national team in the future. He is developing tremendously.” Modern midfield maestro Turan’s evaluation of Smit goes beyond mere technical skill, as he believes the teenager possesses the unique intelligence required to excel in the most demanding role in modern football. The Shakhtar boss noted that the Netherlands U-19 star has the capacity to be the “boss” on the pitch, a trait rarely seen in players of his age group. “You have many good players, but he is special,” Turan added. “Because in modern football, the ‘six’ also dictates the play, directs the team, and is the boss on the pitch. To be honest, I see that future in him as well. Perhaps it’s inappropriate for me, as the opposing coach, to say so much about him, but I am speaking as a football lover about the beauty of the game and about him.” The glowing
10 April 2026
Serie A | Roma vs Pisa – Official Starting Lineups
Roma host Pisa at the Stadio Olimpico this evening, as Gian Piero Gasperini’s Giallorossi side look to hang on to their dreams of Champions League football next season, whilst the visitors scramble for any points that can help them to avoid relegation. Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News & Content – Free Trial – Click Here Advertisement Roma come into the game having disappointed in the last couple of months, putting early-season Scudetto shouts to rest fairly quickly, crashing out of various competitions and now leaving their chances of a top four finish on the ropes. The Giallorossi now sit three points behind 5th placed Juventus and four points behind 4th placed Como, both of whom they will need to eclipse if they wish to book a place in Europe’s top competition. Pisa, meanwhile, sit rock bottom of Serie A – with just two wins to their name this season. Twelve draws have prevented their points total from getting too embarrassing but time is running out for the side to avoid the drop. Advertisement UDINE, ITALY – JANUARY 10: Henrik Meister of Pisa celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between Udinese
10 April 2026
Di Canio: De Zerbi ‘should have swum across the English Channel’ for Tottenham
West Ham legend Paolo Di Canio jokes that Roberto De Zerbi should have joined Tottenham by swimming ‘across the English Channel’ given that Spurs spend €250m every year.’ Former Italian striker Di Canio released an interview with Corriere della Sera, during which he also discussed De Zerbi’s recent appointment as Tottenham’s head coach. Advertisement The Italian tactician, a former Sassuolo, Brighton and Marseille manager, was initially reluctant to take the Spurs job before the start of the 2026-27 season, but was ultimately persuaded to sign a long-term contract in North London. Di Canio: De Zerbi ‘can do well’ at Tottenham Di Canio surely believes his compatriot was right to accept the club’s offer despite their involvement in the Premier League relegation race. Paolo Di Canio “Absolutely! He should have swum across the English Channel,” Di Canio said. “After yet another turbulent dismissal, he’s gone to a club that spends €250m per year. He said he’ll stay even if we’re relegated to the Championship, and I believe him. He’s demanding and good at creating a sense of team spirit. He can do well.” MARSEILLE, FRANCE – NOVEMBER 25: Roberto De Zerbi, head coach of Olympique de Marseille reacts during the UEFA
10 April 2026
De Zerbi wants Tottenham to ‘play with courage’ for Premier League survival
LONDON — Roberto De Zerbi wants Tottenham to keep it simple. The new Spurs manager knows there’s little time for anything else in a relegation battle. “I don’t want to put confusion inside of the players. They have to be with a clear plan of the game and not too much instruction, not too much thinking,” the Italian said Friday at his first press conference. “They have to play with courage, with personality and they have to fight. My demand is to show the right spirit I want to see.” De Zerbi was handed a five-year contract — though with no escape clause if relegated — with the immediate task of Premier League survival. Tottenham is one point above the drop zone with seven matches remaining. De Zerbi previously worked in the Premier League as Brighton’s manager and was most recently at Marseille, which he left in February after a disagreement with the French club’s leadership. Tottenham’s first test under the new boss comes Sunday at Sunderland. He’s not overly concerned about implementing his style of play. Tottenham’s Xavi Simons reacts during the English Premier League soccer match between Tottenham Hotspur and Nottingham Forest in London, Sunday, March 22, 2026.
10 April 2026
Man Utd: Michael Carrick confident he can deal with Old Trafford pressure as head coach decision looms | Football News
Being Manchester United manager has become the impossible job. Six have succeeded Sir Alex Ferguson, all succumbing to the pressure in the end. This summer a seventh will be chosen and Michael Carrick, it seems, is on course to be that man. By winning seven of his 10 games since January and lifting United up to third in the Premier League, Carrick has made a return to the Champions League more likely than not. It would now come as a surprise if a top-five finish did not seal the deal. It is hard to nail down the characteristics required to be a success at United. They have gone down nearly every route. Jose Mourinho was the serial winner. Louis van Gaal was the experienced hand. Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim were the project managers. Carrick falls into the ‘United DNA’ camp. In other words, the Ole Gunnar Solskjaer camp, which brings its own baggage. Solskjaer’s deficiencies were obvious, but he navigated the scrutiny at Old Trafford better than most. This is a trait Carrick appears to share. “There are parts of [what comes with being Manchester United manager] – and I am not being blasé when I say it
10 April 2026
Official: Dates, times and venues confirmed for Italy’s June friendlies
Italy will play June friendlies away from home, visiting Luxembourg and Greece on June 3 and 7, respectively. Italy games in June 2026: official times and dates The Italian Football Association has confirmed the dates and times for Italy’s next two friendly games in June. Advertisement Italy will play Luxembourg at the Stade de Luxembourg on June 3 at 20:45 CET (19:45 GMT) and Greece at the Pankritio Stadium in Candia on June 7 at the same time. The Azzurri will be led by Italy U21 coach Silvio Baldini for the next two matches, given that a permanent replacement for Gennaro Gattuso will only be named after the FIGC President election on June 22. CREMONA, ITALY – OCTOBER 14: Coach Silvio Baldini of Italy reacts during the UEFA Euro U21 Qualification match between Italy and Armenia at Stadio Giovanni Zini on October 14, 2025 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images) Advertisement Gattuso and FIGC President Gabriele Gravina have resigned in the wake of Italy’s World Cup play-off Final defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina, which caused the Azzurri’s third consecutive exclusion from the World Cup. The actual replacement for Gattuso will make his debut on the Azzurri bench
10 April 2026
Vivien Endemann: Liverpool agree deal to sign Germany forward
Liverpool have reached an agreement to sign Germany international Vivien Endemann when her contract expires at Wolfsburg this summer. The 24-year-old forward will join on 1 July following three seasons with Wolfsburg and a seven-year stay in her homeland. Endemann has 17 senior international caps for her country, scoring three times, and was part of the squad that won bronze at the 2024 Olympic Games. She has scored three goals and provided three assists in eight Frauen-Bundesliga starts this season, as well as netting in a 5-2 victory over Manchester United in the Women’s Champions League in November. Endemann was also on the scoresheet in both of Germany’s most recent Women’s World Cup qualifying victories over Slovenia and Norway in March. It is a strong start to Liverpool’s summer transfer business, with the club moving away from the bottom of the Women’s Super League table this season following a difficult start. They currently sit 10th in the table, eight points above bottom club Leicester City, after a bright second half of the campaign and the arrival of new players in January. Gareth Taylor’s side will also compete in the Women’s FA Cup semi-finals when they face Brighton on 10 May
10 April 2026
Sunderland vs Tottenham in Premier League: TV channel, kick-off time, live stream, referee, injury and team news
Apr 10, 2026, 09:12 AM ET Only seven games to play for and all seven are of huge importance for Tottenham who are languishing 17th and trying to avoid relegation. On Sunday, Tottenham head to Sunderland, who have been highly impressive this season and are almost certain to stay up after coming to the Premier League this season. One team is trying to finish in the top half while the other desperately needs three points. Here’s everything you need to know about the match. How to watch The match will be broadcast on Sky Sports in the UK, NBC in the U.S., JioHotstar in India and Stan Sport in Australia. You can also follow ESPN’s live coverage here. Key Details Kick-off time: Sunday, April 12, at 2 p.m. BST (9 a.m. ET; 6:30 p.m. IST; and 11 p.m. AEST) Venue: Stadium of Light, Sunderland Referee: Rob Jones VAR: James Bell Injury News Sunderland Robin Roefs – hamstring injury, DOUBTDanny Ballard – hamstring injury, DOUBTBertrand Traoré – knee injury, OUTJocelin Ta Bi – knock, OUTRomaine Mundle – hamstring injury, OUT Tottenham Yves Bissouma – muscle injury, DOUBTBen Davies – ankle injury, OUTDejan Kulusevski – knee injury, OUTJames Maddison – ACL, OUTRodrigo
10 April 2026
Spalletti’s extension not enough: Juventus need ‘four big signings,’ says ex-winger
Former Juventus winger Massimo Mauro believes the Bianconeri must complete four top-level signings to compete for the Serie A title and the Champions League next season: ‘Spalletti isn’t a magician.’ Juventus are fighting for a Champions League spot, sitting fifth in the Serie A table, one point below Como. Advertisement However, the Azzurri have a better head-to-head record this season, so if the two sides finish level on points, Como will finish higher. Mauro: ‘Spalletti isn’t a magician’ Regardless of which European competition they’ll play in next season, Juventus are still determined to continue with Luciano Spalletti and are expected to confirm the coach’s contract extension shortly. Mauro argued that the Italian tactician’s permanence alone wouldn’t be enough for Juve to return to greatness next season. Advertisement “Spalletti isn’t a magician; he needs players of the right level to compete for the title and the Champions League, because that’s what Juventus are expected to do,” Mauro told Gazzetta. “I’m sure Comolli and Chiellini already have their list of players well organised and are targeting players of Juventus level.” The former winger went on to say that the Old Lady will need an “international-level goalkeeper,” plus “a top-class defender, a top-class
10 April 2026
Former Lazio & Italy Striker Urges Inter Milan To Sign Newcastle United Midfielder He Considers ‘A True Regista’
Paolo Di Canio has thrown his weight behind a move for Sandro Tonali to Inter Milan, declaring the Newcastle United midfielder Italy’s best player of movement by some distance and questioning why he is playing for a mid-table Premier League club. Speaking to Corriere della Sera in a characteristically forthright interview, Di Canio covered the Scudetto race, the Bastoni controversy and the Italian football transfer market, pulling no punches throughout. Advertisement “Tonali in Italy, where would I see him? At Inter, who already have a true regista,” he said, via FCInterNews. “He is our best player of movement by a distance. But where is he playing? In the tenth team in the English league. The Premier League is the NBA and we are Italian basketball.” He went further with a pointed observation about Roma’s Donyell Malen. “At Aston Villa he was the third reserve, at Roma he looks like a Martian.” Di Canio Defends Inter Star Bastoni & Urges Him To Show Mental Strength As He Claims Tonali Is ‘Italy’s Best Midfielder’ On Bastoni, Di Canio was equally direct, defending the defender while urging him to rise above the noise rather than engage with it. Advertisement “Hysteria on one side
10 April 2026
Manuel Neuer stars against Real Madrid; No decision on Bayern Munich future
Manuel Neuer starred in Bayern Munich’s UEFA Champions League victory against Real Madrid at the Bernabeu on Tuesday night. In doing so, the 40-year-old became the first goalkeeper since data collection to record nine saves against the Spanish giants at their home in a knockout-match, per Opta. “Many made come incredible saves,” remarked Vincent Kompany, after Bayern’s 2-1 first leg win. “We needed those moments from him. There’s no success at this level without these moments from a goalkeeper, a defender, a striker.. and we’ll need that again next week.” Sitting on an expiring contract, no decision has been made on Neuer’s future, and there isn’t expected to be news any time soon. According to Max Eberl, Neuer wants to “play the game in April” before deciding on his future. “He doesn’t need to make any more compelling arguments,” he added. “He just needs to stay healthy, stay courageous and then we’ll sit down and discuss it.” Source link
10 April 2026
Report: Italy international Bastoni doesn’t want to leave Inter for Barcelona
Italy international Alessandro Bastoni has been strongly linked with a move away from Inter to join Barcelona during the summer transfer window, but Friday’s reports indicate that the left-sided centre-back is not particularly keen on the idea of leaving San Siro. Reports Bastoni doesn’t want to leave Inter for Barcelona Recent reports claim that Inter could go for a summer transfer ‘revolution’ once the 2025-26 season comes to an end, beginning with the contract extension of head coach Cristian Chivu and also involving a major overhaul of the playing squad. Aside from a long list of players whose contracts are due to expire, Bastoni has also been mentioned as one who could be sacrificed to raise funds for new arrivals. Advertisement Barcelona are interested and have sounded out Bastoni’s availability with his entourage according to reports in Spain and Italy. However, according to Friday’s update from Corriere dello Sport, Bastoni wants to stay on with Inter and to continue fighting for titles in San Siro. LECCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 21: Alessandro Bastoni of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between US Lecce and FC Internazionale at Stadio Via del Mare on February 21, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by
10 April 2026
Spalletti’s new Juventus contract comes with transfer promises: More than a coach
Juventus are expected to announce that head coach Luciano Spalletti has signed a new contract on Friday, and reports from multiple outlets in Italy indicate that the Bianconeri tactician will have a big sway on future transfer decisions. Spalletti took over from Igor Tudor as head coach of Juventus in October and signed an initial contract until the end of the 2025-26 season with an option to extend. On his new deal, Spalletti will be tied to the club until the summer of 2028 and will receive an annual salary of around €5m-€6m per season. Advertisement The contract extension announcement is expected to be delivered on Friday. Reports indicate that Juventus made the decision to lock down Spalletti at the beginning of the calendar year, specifically after the 3-0 victory over Sassuolo in January, which was the side’s fifth positive result in a run of seven unbeaten matches. Spalletti ‘more than a coach’ at Juventus TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, reacts during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Allianz Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images) Advertisement According to reports from multiple
10 April 2026
Leon Goretzka reflects on his decision to leave Bayern Munich
Leon Goretzka has been an important player at the club since the 2018/19 season when he immediately made his impact felt with 8 goals and 5 assists in just the Bundesliga that season. Goretzka would go onto an even more successful season winning the sextuple under Hansi Flick in 2020 being a core member of that group. Fast forward all the way to 2026, and Goretzka is still logging serious minutes for the Bavarians. After eight illustrous season in Munich, Goretzka will be moving on from the club. A decision which has been received well from the fans as Goretzka is perceived to be on the decline of his career at the age of 31, but still offering the club with solid service this season. While the German midfielder may no longer performing at his previous levels, Goretzka has always given his best to the club, even if the club didn’t feel the same way towards the Bochum-born player. While reflecting on his time with the club, Goretzka recently chimed in on his decision to leave and his confidence for the upcoming weeks. “In January, I made a conscious decision to stay here until the summer. I feel that anything
10 April 2026
Manchester United regrouped in Ireland – now they face seven games that will define their season
If you want an example of how peculiar a 40-game season can be for a club like Manchester United, consider how Amad and Bryan Mbeumo spent their Tuesday lunchtime. During a 24-day gap between fixtures, the pair found themselves holding a press conference to promote a pre-season friendly that is four months away and might look very different by then. Leeds United are the slated opponents at Croke Park on 12 August, but if Daniel Farke’s side win the FA Cup, their involvement in the Community Shield will scupper those plans. And if they are relegated from the Premier League, they will have already started their season in the Championship. Croke Park is scheduled to host a pre-season game between Manchester United and Leeds United (Charles McQuillan/Getty Images) United are expected to fulfil their end of the bargain regardless and play at the historic 90,556-capacity home of Gaelic sport against different opposition if Leeds are otherwise engaged. The gaping holes in United’s schedule allow for such promotional events to take place, and Amad and Mbeumo’s press conference was not the only one during this week’s stay at Carton House, a luxury golf club and hotel in Kildare, Ireland. Benjamin Sesko
10 April 2026
La Liga Eyes Morocco Match as Tebas Seeks Global Expansion
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. › La Liga’s push to bring top-level Spanish football to new international markets like Morocco is reflected in this cubist, geometric interpretation of the action on the pitch.Today in Miami La Liga president Javier Tebas has expressed interest in hosting a league match in Morocco, citing the country’s large fan base for Spanish football and its upcoming co-hosting of the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal. Tebas noted that while a match in the United States faced strong backlash from supporters, a game in Morocco would likely be more palatable given the geographic proximity between the two countries. Why it matters La Liga’s push to expand its global reach and bring top-level Spanish football to new international markets is part of the league’s strategy to grow its fanbase and commercial revenues. Morocco represents an attractive option given its shared history and cultural ties with Spain, as well as its status as a co-host for the 2030 World Cup. The details Earlier this season, La Liga attempted to host a match between Villarreal and Barcelona at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, but the plan was cancelled after facing strong opposition from supporters.
10 April 2026
‘Bologna paid for mistakes and Aston Villa will win Europa League’ after 3-1 victory
BOLOGNA, ITALY – APRIL 09: Vincenzo Italiano, Head Coach of Bologna, looks on during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Quarter-Final Leg One match between Bologna FC 1909 and Aston Villa FC at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on April 09, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images) Vincenzo Italiano is frustrated by the same old Bologna mistakes in a 3-1 defeat to Aston Villa, but insists their opponents ‘will win the Europa League, as they made the most of everything.’ It was a disappointing night at the Stadio Dall’Ara, but above all an unlucky one that showed many of the same problems we’ve seen all season from the Rossoblu. They were wasteful in attack as well as being unfortunate, hitting the woodwork twice and seeing a Santiago Castro goal disallowed because his toe was offside. BOLOGNA, ITALY – APRIL 09: Jonathan Rowe of Bologna is challenged by Amadou Onana and Ezri Konsa of Aston Villa during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Quarter-Final Leg One match between Bologna FC 1909 and Aston Villa FC at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on April 09, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images) In comparison, Aston Villa were clinical and made the most
10 April 2026
Premier League Darts 2026 results: Jonny Clayton beats Michael van Gerwen to secure nightly win in Brighton
Jonny Clayton came from 5-2 down to beat Michael van Gerwen 6-5 and claim his third nightly win to move top of the Premier League. Van Gerwen missed four match darts in total as the Welshman reeled off four straight legs to take the win in Brighton. Victory takes Clayton, who began the evening in third, three points above Luke Littler after the world champion was beaten by Stephen Bunting in the quarter-finals and failed to add to his points tally. While Van Gerwen had the edge both in terms of average and checkout percentage in the final, Clayton produced when it mattered as he made the seven-time champion pay for failing to wrap up the match at 5-2 and 5-4 and forced a decider. Clayton then finished it in style, hitting two 180s in the leg before sealing it on double 16. “I thought the game was over at 5-2 up for Michael,” Clayton told Sky Sports. “He missed, he gave me a chance. You’ve got to take chances. That last leg was probably my best of the game. “I’m back on top of the table, Luke Littler can start chasing me again.” Despite falling just short of a
10 April 2026
Italy Eyes Gambling Sponsorship Return as Football Federation Links Ad Ban to Structural Decline – iGaming Bitcoin News
Key Takeaways: Outgoing FIGC president Gravina calls for Dignity Decree repeal in 11-page reform report Serie A clubs estimate €100M-€150M per year in lost sponsorship since 2019 ad ban Italy ranks 49th of 50 leagues for under-21 national team-eligible playing time at 1.9% A Seven-Year Ban Under Fire From All Sides After Huge Sporting Failure Gravina published the report on April 8, which was originally prepared for a parliamentary hearing that was canceled after his departure. The document frames Italy’s repeated World Cup failures as symptoms of structural decay rather than short-term mismanagement. Among its central arguments is that the 2018 Dignity Decree, which imposed a near-total ban on gambling advertising and sports sponsorships, has deprived Italian football of critical funding without achieving its public health objectives. Gravina cited the final report of Italy’s own Parliamentary Commission of Inquiry into illegal gambling, published in 2022, which found that gambling actually increased after the ban took effect – including among minors – and that illegal wagering grew alongside it. The FIGC report also referenced a 2026 UEFA study on European club finances which identified betting and gambling companies as the most common shirt sponsor category across the continent, underscoring the competitive
10 April 2026
Napoli President Responds To Antonio Conte’s Links with Italian National Team Job
Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has surprisingly stated he would allow Antonio Conte to take charge of the Italy national team if requested. However, the Napoli owner paired that admission with a scathing critique of the current state of Italian football governance. De Laurentiis willing to share head coach De Laurentiis addressed the media during the screening of Napoli’s ‘AG4IN’ documentary in Los Angeles, where he was questioned about the possibility of Conte transitioning into a role with the Azzurri. While Conte is the centerpiece of Napoli’s current sporting project, De Laurentiis suggested he would not be the one to block such a move. ‘I’ll lend him’ De Laurentiis has signaled that while he values Conte’s leadership in Naples, he acknowledges the unique pull of the national team. He said, as quoted by Gianluca DiMarzio: “Conte to the national team? Yes, I think I’d lend him if he asked me.” The club’s president, however, expressed some major doubts about the current setup of the Italian football federation (FIGC): “Until there’s a serious partner, I think he’d refrain from imagining himself leading something completely disorganized.” Support for Malago The conversation regarding the national team comes at a time of transition for
10 April 2026
La Liga president Javier Tebas keen to play match in Morocco – “Why not?”
Earlier in the season, La Liga launched a campaign to host one of the matches at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. They received the green light from FIFA and UEFA to move Villarreal-Barcelona to the United States, but after strong backlash from supporters, it was cancelled. On the back of this, La Liga president Javier Tebas vowed to continue fighting to host a La Liga match stateside, but in the meantime, he has expressed his desire for other countries to see top-level Spanish football in the flesh. One of those is Morocco, who will co-host the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal. Advertisement Speaking this week during an interview with the Arab Press Agency of the Maghreb (via Cadena SER), Tebas opened the door to Morocco hosting a La Liga match in the future. “Naturally, given the huge number of supporters of the Spanish League in Morocco, this is still very likely. We also like the idea of holding a match in the new stadium in Casablanca. Who knows? Why not? “Our expansion in the Middle East and North Africa is extremely important. We have a huge fan base there, it could even be bigger than the Premier League.
10 April 2026
Premier League: 10 things to look out for this weekend | Premier League
1 Castellanos and Pablo make an impact Nuno Espírito Santo has rolled back the years in an attempt to save West Ham. He has gone old-school, switching to a gung-ho 4-4-2 system to give his side more threat in the final third. Pablo Felipe and Taty Castellanos, both January arrivals, have altered the face of the attack, but neither forward has been prolific. Castellanos has scored three goals in all competitions since joining from Lazio and Pablo, who is yet to open his account in English football, failed to convert during last week’s penalty shootout defeat by Leeds in the FA Cup. As a pair, though, Castellanos and Pablo have been oddly effective. Are they any good? Unclear. Do they run around a lot and give a previously ponderous West Ham more energy? Undoubtedly. Played together, Pablo and Castellanos do a worthy job for the team. Importantly, they create space for the wingers, Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville, who hopes to return from a calf injury for Friday night’s vital home game against Wolves. Bowen and Summerville are the big threats; they are West Ham’s main source of goals, but both are more dangerous with Pablo and Castellanos in the
10 April 2026
Motorola’s Souped-Up Folding Phone Is Almost Half Off
For a limited time, you can grab the Motorola Razr Ultra with 16 GB of memory and 512 GB of storage for just $700, a $600 discount from its usual price. It’s our favorite folding smartphone, with excellent performance, full-day battery life, and all the trappings you’d expect from a phone that doesn’t also fold in half. Photograph: Julian Chokkattu Photograph: Julian Chokkattu Photograph: Julian Chokkattu Motorola Razr Ultra (2025) While they may look similar to previous generations of Motorola Razr, there are quite a few under-the-hood improvements for the 2025 model. The Ultra model has the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, paired with 16 GB of memory, for super snappy performance in everyday use and while gaming. It has an upgrade 4,700-mAh battery, which our reviewer Julian Chokkattu found was easily able to make it through a full day of use with around a quarter of its charge left. If you’re a heavy user and find yourself running low often, there’s 68-watt wired charging and 30-watt Qi wireless charging support to bring you back to life. There’s no need to worry about the hinge in the middle breaking over time, as all the 2025 Razr models feature a titanium-reinforced
10 April 2026
Unlocking app growth with true consumer behavior
Understanding user behavior has never been more complex — or more critical. While most app teams rely on first-party data, that view is inherently limited, capturing only what happens within their own ecosystem. This white paper explores what’s missing: the full consumer journey across apps, the web, and increasingly, AI-driven touchpoints. Drawing on RealityMine’s cross-platform behavioral data, the report focuses on three timely case study examples – revealing how users move between competing apps, how decisions are shaped outside your product, and how emerging AI tools are already reshaping discovery and purchase journeys. From streaming and food delivery to ecommerce, real-world examples highlight where traditional analytics fall short and where new growth opportunities emerge. Inside the report: Cross-platform user journeys: Where users go after they leave your app — and what it reveals about unmet needs Competitive intelligence: Early signals of churn, price sensitivity, and shifting loyalty before they appear in your data App switching behavior: How and why users move between competing platforms in key verticals AI-driven discovery: The growing role of tools like ChatGPT in shaping higher-intent user journeys Conversion insights: How pre-visit platforms influence engagement, conversion rates, and order value Strategic implications: How to apply cross-ecosystem data
10 April 2026
‘Apple will grit its teeth and push through’ — new report suggests the iPhone Air 2 isn’t dead, and I sincerely hope it’s true
It’s no secret that the iPhone Air isn’t selling as well as Apple hoped (one October report suggested there was “virtually no consumer demand” for the device), but there might still be some life left in Apple’s super slim iPhone project. According to a recent Weibo post from Chinese leaker Fixed Focus Digital, Apple still plans to release an iPhone Air 2 “no matter how badly it sells,” adding that the company “will grit its teeth and push through with at least two generations.” There are several very big reasons to doubt this claim — I’ll walk you through them below — but I, for one, am all in favor of a sequel to what is undeniably Apple’s most exciting iPhone in years. Article continues below You may like But let’s start with the skepticism. First, our translation of the Weibo post may have lost some of the original’s nuance. It begins by saying “the Air 2 will continue to be iterated as usual,” but “iterated” in this instance may not mean “released”, and “iterated” may not even be the exact translation of the original Chinese (MacRumors, for instance, translated part of the post as “no matter how abysmal the
10 April 2026
Georgia AG Chris Carr Ready to Shoot Down Drones to Stop Cell Phone Drops in State Prisons
💡 ■ Circle City’s McCoy Had ‘Cordial and Constructive’ Meeting with Gomez ■ Amazon Leo’s ‘Performance Will Be Stronger’ Than Starlink’s, CEO Jassy Says ■ DOJ Looking at Consumer Impact of NFL Streaming Deals ■ Anchorage Bans Data Centers in ‘Residential Zones’ ■ American Consumer Institute: U.S. Needs Data Privacy Law ASAP’ ■ Copper Theft Concentrated in Texas and California, NCTA Says ■ US Mobile-Starlink Bundle Stars at Promotional $47 a Month ■ Ohio AG Yost — a Republican with ‘Deep Reservations’ about Nexstar-TEGNA ■ AMC Networks Now Goes by AMC Global Media State Drones: Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr, a Republican running for Governor, is serious: He is going to shoot down drones in the act of dropping contraband items like drugs, weapons, and cell phones into state prisons. And he’s not waiting for the Trump White House to endorse his plan. Carr revealed his aggressive stance Thursday in a short video posted on YouTube. The Republican was accompanied by Grady County Sheriff Earl Prince, who has endorsed Carr for Governor. In the clip, Carr and Prince agreed as to the the public safety risks posed by drone drops and to the most practical solution: “Shoot ’em down!” Carr exclaims. (More after paywall) From left: Grady County Sheriff Earl Prince and Georgia Attorney General Chris
10 April 2026
The integrated growth engine – Business of Apps
Back 2018, Andy Carvell, Co-Founder and CEO at Phiture, was already asking app teams an uncomfortable question: are you working in silos? More than half the room at his Business of Apps Berlin back then session put their hands up. Seven years later, in 2025, he asked the same question in the same room. The hands went up again. The difference is that in 2018, siloed growth was inefficient. Today, it is structurally incompatible with how digital marketing has evolved, and with AI rising to an ever more omnipresent force in the workplace, working in silos is uncompetitive, if not outright dangerous. Andy has spent the past several years running a podcast called Brave New Digital World, talking with marketing leaders about how they are adapting to an ever-changing environment. Drawing on the points and ideas that keep surfacing across those conversations as well as his experience at Phiture’s steering wheel, the argument he made in Berlin was simply if provocative: the teams that succeed today are not just better at optimising channels; successful teams are scrapping them altogether. At a glance Signal loss is permanent. Privacy regulation and platform opacity have degraded the targeting toolkit, and the teams still
10 April 2026
Versinetic identifies trends shaping UK EV charging market
Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, the company said the sector is approaching a tipping point at which operational shortcomings and failures to meet compliance standards could carry substantial financial consequences for charge point operators. One of the most immediate pressures comes from the UK’s legally mandated 99 per cent uptime requirement for rapid chargers. Enforced by the Office for Product Safety and Standards, the regulation allows for fines of up to £10,000 per non‑compliant unit. Versinetic expects this to put smaller and regional operators under strain, particularly those without the scale to support dedicated maintenance teams. As a result, the company believes operators will face a clear choice: invest in remote monitoring and predictive maintenance capabilities, or risk becoming acquisition targets for larger charging networks better equipped to meet regulatory demands. Beyond compliance, Versinetic highlighted cybersecurity as an increasingly influential factor in charge point hardware procurement. The company pointed to recent cases in adjacent sectors, including electric buses reportedly being disabled remotely by manufacturers and undisclosed communications devices identified in solar inverters, as a warning for the EV charging industry. According to Versinetic, similar vulnerabilities exist in charging infrastructure, and operators are likely to treat cybersecurity and full supply‑chain
10 April 2026
U.S. Restricts Chinese EV Access to American Market
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. › The U.S. government’s restrictions on Chinese electric vehicle technology could impact cross-border travel and personal use near the border.Warren Today The U.S. government plans to maintain strict barriers to Chinese electric vehicles entering the American market, citing national security risks from certain Chinese-made software and hardware. This could impact the ability of Chinese automakers to access the lucrative U.S. market and raise questions about cross-border travel with Chinese EVs. Why it matters The U.S. stance on restricting Chinese vehicle technology is a significant development that could hinder Chinese automakers from tapping into the large American EV market, which has long been dominated by domestic and allied foreign brands. It also raises questions about the implications for cross-border travel and personal use of Chinese EVs near the U.S. border. The details The rules cracking down on Chinese vehicles were adopted under President Joe Biden in 2025 and recently started taking effect. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the administration plans to keep these restrictions in place, even for Chinese-made cars produced in the U.S. Greer also expressed uncertainty about whether Chinese EVs should be allowed to be driven into the U.S. by visitors
10 April 2026
Hyundai reboots China market strategy with EV brand Ioniq
Hyundai is introducing the Ioniq brand to China and will unveil its first production model for the Chinese market at the Beijing Auto Show later this month. New energy concept vehicles named Venus Concept and Earth Concept make their global debut. (Image credit: Hyundai Motor) Hyundai Motor has introduced its electric vehicle (EV) brand Ioniq to China, rebooting its strategy in the world’s largest EV market. The South Korean auto giant announced Friday the official launch of Ioniq in the Chinese market, alongside the global debut of two new energy concept vehicles dubbed the Venus Concept and the Earth Concept. The announcement, made ahead of the 2026 Beijing Auto Show, marks Hyundai’s latest effort to revive its performance in the world’s biggest EV market. The introduction of the Ioniq brand is a milestone for Hyundai’s comprehensive electrification rollout in China, and symbolizes its further implementation of the “In China, For China, To Global” strategy, the automaker said in a statement. Management said the company will no longer simply replicate global standards, opting instead to leverage localized technology and talent to drive brand development. The two newly unveiled concept cars were developed under the lead of Hyundai’s local design center in
10 April 2026
Denza brings super-fast charging to European luxury EV market
BYD, the biggest name in Chinese electric cars, is bringing its high-end brand, Denza, to the European luxury EV market. The company held a big event at the Palais Garnier in Paris to show off its newest EVs. The Chinese car makers are clearly serious about competing with European brands on their own territory. But the company is not just bringing new cars – it is bringing technology that promises to change how people think about EV charging. The star of the show was the Denza Z9GT. This “shooting brake” station wagon looks sleek and sits very low to the ground. If you want to buy one, be prepared for a bit of a shock because you will need to save a lot of money – the price starts at €115,000. It is not a cheap car, but it offers many high-tech features for that price. 2026 Denza Z9 GT in Paris – source: Denza/BYD The Denza Z9GT is built on the e3 platform. Drivers can choose between a version that is purely electric and one that is a hybrid. The electric model is very fast. It can go from zero to 100 km/h in 2.7 seconds. To help it
10 April 2026
EVs Are Out of the Headlines and That’s Exactly Why These 2 Stocks Are Buys
The electric vehicle (EV) market expanded rapidly from 2020 to 2023, but its growth cooled off over the past three years. Reduced government subsidies, saturation of the early adopter market, rising rates, and other macro headwinds caused that slowdown. The EV market is still expanding, but many investors are still shunning EV stocks in this choppy market. However, that tepid interest in EVs might be creating some compelling buying opportunities in some of the sector’s oft-overlooked stocks. Let’s take a closer look at two of them: QuantumScape (NASDAQ: QS) and ChargePoint (NYSE: CHPT). Will AI create the world’s first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an “Indispensable Monopoly” providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue » Image source: Getty Images. QuantumScape develops solid-state lithium-metal batteries for EVs. These batteries have better thermal stability, shorter charging times, and higher charging capacities than lithium-ion batteries, but they’re more expensive and challenging to produce. QuantumScape expects to change that perception with its QSE-5 batteries, which it co-developed with Volkswagen over the past decade. It hasn’t commercialized any of its batteries yet, but it plans to start licensing its technology to Volkswagen and other automakers over
10 April 2026
Medicare’s Health Tech Ecosystem initiative previews new apps
Zac Jiwa, a federal Medicare official, delivered a eulogy of sorts at a Thursday Medicare event highlighting the successes of the Health Tech Ecosystem initiative. The eulogy’s subject? The clipboard. STAT Plus: Health care and tech companies promise CMS they’ll make patient data more accessible For the past eight months, hundreds of health tech companies have been working to meet goals set out by the federal government to make patient records more portable, create systems that import patients’ data into providers’ electronic health records systems, and stand up various patient apps. The idea is to make filling out a stack of paperwork at every doctor’s visit, on that ubiquitous clipboard, a thing of the past. STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — and get additional analysis of the technologies disrupting health care — by subscribing to STAT+. Already have an account? Log in Individual plans Group plans View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe Source link
10 April 2026
5 Popular Apps You Might Not Realize Are Owned By Google
Mr.Mikla/Shutterstock Google is one of the biggest tech players in the industry. From search to cloud services, ads, smartphones, and many other fields, Google owns a brand in just about every sector of the internet world (and beyond) today. While you’re probably familiar with Google’s most famous offerings, like Gmail, YouTube, and Gemini, there are other popular apps you’ve probably been using for ages but might have never realized are also owned by the company. These apps offer great tools to help you with various aspects of daily life, whether you’re commuting, tweaking some details of a photo, or even pairing your wearable with an Android or iOS device to track your health. Google plays such an important role in our digital lives that sometimes we forget the company is also constantly adding new properties to power its tech empire and entrench itself even further in our routines. For example, YouTube wasn’t a Google app back in the day. After the company acquired it in 2006, though, it started to deeply integrate the platform across its ecosystem in search results, Android (with an app), ads, and more. Even what we now know as Google
9 April 2026
Apple App Store Guidelines Have Some Vibe Coding Apps in Limbo
A guideline in Apple’s App Store is disrupting vibe coding apps, which has led to the removal and blocking of three in the past month. According to a report from The Information, vibe coding app Anything was recently removed from the App Store. Vibe coding has taken the world by storm and changed the way people look at apps and website creation. You don’t need any technical know-how with vibe coding — you can create them simply by chatting to large language models like Claude, Gemini and ChatGPT. With the rise in popularity of vibe coding came new apps, letting you vibe code right from your phone. And this is where the problem lies. Apple says it’s not gunning for vibe coding apps, but rather just enforcing its own guidelines that state delivering unreviewed software within an app bypasses the privacy and security safeguards it has in place to protect users. CNET confirmed the issue surrounds a specific guideline in the App Store, 2.5.2: “Apps should be self-contained in their bundles, and may not read or write data outside the designated container area, nor may they download, install or execute code which introduces or changes features or functionality of the app,
9 April 2026
I Downloaded An App That Pays You To Play Games. Here’s How Much I Made
Adam Doud/SlashGear As someone who is deeply connected to the mobile world, it’s always fun to try out experiments here or there. There is no shortage of apps that claim to pay out real money for playing them. I tried one out a while back, and I ended up paying in much more than I ever got back. That was a casino-style solitaire app that would pay you out based on how quickly and completely you finished a game against other players. As it turns out, I wasn’t very good at that and ended up burning through $25 in less than two days. That was not a great experience. But a new challenger emerged from the shadows: Testerup. It’s an app available on iOS and Android that tracks your progress as you play a curated list of games. Each of these games has certain goals you can achieve to accumulate more earnings. One website I saw described these rewards as “high-friction” and yeah, that really tracks. But the nice thing is, it doesn’t require any initial investment, and you can play some fun games along the way. One big red flag is
9 April 2026
Avatr Launches Two Models as High-End Electric Sedan Market Enters Refined Competition
Gasgoo Munich– On April 8, Avatr Technology unveiled two new sedans in Chongqing in rapid succession. The flagship new Avatr 12 hit the market with a starting price of 293,900 yuan. Meanwhile, the all-new Avatr 06T opened pre-orders starting at 229,900 yuan. Together with the existing Avatr 06, these models form a complete sedan lineup spanning the 250,000 to 500,000 yuan price bracket. Beneath the fanfare of the launch, however, lies a strategy that demands industry attention: Avatr isn’t simply rolling out new metal. Instead, it is leveraging differentiated positioning, technology trickle-down, and scenario-based definitions. This builds a more layered product matrix in an increasingly crowded high-end smart EV sedan market. Image Source: Gasgoo Product Positioning Divergence: Flagship and Scenario, Two Parallel Paths While both the new Avatr 12 and the Avatr 06T fall under the sedan category, their underlying product logic differs markedly. The new Avatr 12 follows the “flagship luxury sedan” trajectory. Every trim comes standard with 12 features typically found in vehicles costing over 1 million yuan. Key features include the Huawei Qiankun Intelligent Driving System and Taihang distributed electric drive. It also boasts a 35.4-inch 4K panoramic screen and a 25-speaker Meridian audio system. Safety is
9 April 2026
Anthropic 推出自主 AI 代理託管基礎設施 Claude Managed Agents
Doris 2026年4月9日週四 下午8:16 Anthropic 新推出的 “Claude Managed Agents” 為開發者提供了一個託管平台，用於構建和運行自主 AI 代理。 Notion 和 Rakuten 等早期採用者已經在使用該系統。 簡化 AI 代理部署流程 Anthropic 推出 Claude Managed Agents 公開測試版。該 API 套件使開發者能夠構建和運行雲端託管 AI 代理，而無需設置自己的基礎設施來進行沙盒化、狀態管理或工具執行。Anthropic 的文件指出，該系統提供了一個協調工具，可以獨立調用工具、管理上下文和處理錯誤。 Anthropic 聲稱，這可將從原型到生產的時間縮短十倍。 企業客戶搶先採用 根據 Anthropic 的說法，一些公司已經在使用該系統。 Notion 讓團隊可以直接在他們的工作區中將任務委派給 Claude。 Rakuten 為銷售、營銷和財務構建了企業代理，這些代理可插入 Slack 和 Teams 中，據報導每個代理在一周內即可啟動並運行。 Sentry 將其調試代理與編寫補丁和打開拉取請求的 Claude 代理配對。 Anthropic 獨家基礎設施 Managed Agents 可供所有 API 帳戶使用，並且需要 SDK 自動設置的特定測試版標頭。 Anthropic 指出，行為可能在不同版本之間發生變化。定價基於使用量：適用標準 token 費率，外加每 session 小時 0.08 美元。目前，該系統專門在 Anthropic 自己的基礎設施上運行。該公告沒有提及它是否將通過 Amazon Bedrock 或 Google Vertex AI 等合作夥伴平台提供。對於具有多雲策略的公司來說，這可能是一個重大限制。 與 Anthropic 相關的圖片 Source link
9 April 2026
China’s Auto Market to ‘Continue Slow Recovery’ in April, CPCA Says
China’s passenger vehicle market is expected to extend a “slow recovery” through April, the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA) said on Thursday. In March, both sales and production bounced back from February’s holiday-driven slowdown — which the association previously described as “the year’s absolute trough.” Wholesale volumes reached 2.378 million units in March, down 1.6% year over year despite the sequential increase of 56.6%, according to data released by the association. Production also jumped 72.2% month over month. However, it remained down by 4.9% compared to March 2025. Dealer inventory rose by 30,000 units — a smaller build-up than in previous years. The association had warned that February would mark the weakest month of 2026, as the record-long nine-day Chinese New Year holiday left just 16 working days — three fewer than February 2025 — and halted dealership operations and logistics during “the core period of the month.” Automakers concentrated most of their new model launches in the post-holiday period, a strategic choice CPCA said contributed to a stronger March rebound. New energy vehicle (NEV) sales — including both retail figures and exports — reached 1.14 million units in March, up slightly by 1.1% year over year. Battery electric vehicles
9 April 2026
What the EV Ownership Survey Reveals About Australia’s EV Market | Zecar | Reviews
Key Points EV owners report major savings on fuel, maintenance and insurance costs. Government incentives remain a key factor influencing EV purchases. Range anxiety drops significantly after drivers begin owning an EV. Most EV owners charge at home, often using rooftop solar. Leasing is expected to increase the supply of used EVs in the coming years. Electric vehicles are still a relatively new addition to Australian driveways, but for many owners the transition from petrol or diesel has already become routine. Questions around charging, running costs and driving range have long dominated the EV debate, yet the experiences of people who actually own these vehicles often tell a very different story. A new survey from the Electric Vehicle Council offers one of the clearest snapshots yet of what EV ownership looks like in Australia today. The 2025 EV Ownership Survey (Second Edition) collected responses from 1,839 battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle owners between May and July 2025, providing insight into how Australians are using their EVs and how their views change after living with one. The findings paint a picture of a market that is steadily maturing. Many of the concerns that once slowed EV adoption, such as range anxiety
9 April 2026
Battery Recycling Market: Accelerating Growth Through EV
Battery Recycling Market The Battery Recycling Market size was valued at USD 33.76 Billion in 2025 to USD 77.8 Billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 11% during the forecast period (2026-2033). The battery recycling market is emerging as a critical pillar of the global clean energy transition. As electric vehicles (EVs), portable electronics, and renewable energy storage systems expand rapidly, the demand for batteries is surging at an unprecedented pace. This has created a parallel need for efficient recycling systems that can recover valuable materials, reduce environmental impact, and support a circular supply chain. Get a Free Sample Report – https://www.skyquestt.com/sample-request/battery-recycling-market Battery recycling involves the collection, dismantling, and processing of used batteries to recover key materials such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, manganese, and graphite. These recovered materials are then reused in new battery production or other industrial applications. The market is evolving from a waste management function into a strategic resource recovery industry, playing a crucial role in reducing dependency on raw material mining and stabilizing supply chains for critical minerals. Key Growth Drivers • Rapid Expansion of Electric Vehicles: The explosive growth of the electric vehicle industry is the primary driver of battery recycling demand. As EV
9 April 2026
Major champion kicked out of Augusta National after breaking golden rule before Masters
Augusta National is notoriously ruthless with its no-phones policy at the Masters, and a winner of The Open Championship found out the hard way during a practice round this week Augusta National enforced its no-nonsense phone policy against a major champion(Image: Andrew Redington/Getty Images) The Masters’ no-nonsense policy on mobile phones has no exceptions, as major winner Mark Calcavecchia found out on Tuesday. The 1989 Open champion was ejected from Augusta National after being found using his cell phone on the grounds during a practice round. The club has banned patrons from having phones and similar devices anywhere on the course since the technology became commonplace. Augusta National says it enforces the policy “to maintain a traditional atmosphere,” and the patron guide on its website reads: “Part of what makes the Masters such a unique environment is the lack of cell phones on the grounds.” READ MORE: Viktor Hovland plants kiss on mystery blonde to reveal new romance at MastersREAD MORE: Masters winner ‘walking with a limp’ after Jack Nicklaus blunder at Champions Dinner Calcavecchia, who played in the Masters 18 times and finished second in 1988, was doubtless aware of the policy, but Golfweek reports that the 65-year-old was
9 April 2026
SK Telecom, KT, LG U+ subscribers to have access to basic data on phones after monthly limit expires
Published: 09 Apr. 2026, 08:55 Smartphones are displayed at a store in southern Seoul in this file photo from March 11. [YONHAP] Mobile phone users in Korea will have access to basic data, albeit at a reduced speed, even after exhausting their monthly limit, a move that would protect their communication rights, the Ministry of Science and ICT said on Thursday. Under an agreement with the Science Ministry, the country’s top three carriers — SK Telecom, KT and LG U+ — will continue to provide basic access to data at a reduced speed of 400 kilobits per second to all their subscribers who run out of their high-speed data caps, which will enable basic tasks, including texting. While the speed is insufficient for data-intensive tasks, such as video streaming, it will allow users to send messages or use map applications, according to the Science Ministry. The ministry said that it will work with the three carriers to implement the agreed-upon changes by the end of June. The new policy is expected to benefit 7.17 million users who currently do not have unlimited data plans, helping them save up to 322.1 billion won ($218.8 million)
9 April 2026
Costa Mesa company teams with Gelson’s to ‘ReCharge’ EV cars, drivers
Electric vehicle owners have another charging option on Costa Mesa’s Harbor Boulevard, after the opening this week of a new 40-unit station with a Gelson’s ReCharge micro-market where people can stock up on snacks and grocery essentials while they wait. A small crowd gathered Wednesday to mark the opening of the facility — located at 2666 Harbor Blvd., just north of Merrimac Way — the second such partnership between EV charging company Rove and Gelson’s Markets since a first station debuted in Santa Ana last October. EV cars charge up at the new Rove EV charging station on Costa Mesa’s Harbor Boulevard. (Don Leach / Staff Photographer) Drivers can use one of 40 direct-current (DC) fast chargers, including a mix of Tesla V4 Superchargers and ABB’s premium high-power chargers, and track their fueling progress on a mobile app. The 1-acre site provides onsite staff during peak hours, an indoor lounge with free Wi-Fi, restrooms, nighttime security and a well-lit shade canopy. For those who may want to do some shopping while they charge, the 5,384-square-foot micro market offers fresh produce and hot food service items, such as breakfast burritos and sandwiches, chicken wings and tenders, pizza, hot dogs, soups, and
9 April 2026
US Mobile’s upcoming plan sounds easier on wallet, and comes with satellite home internet
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Credit: Android Central What you need to know US Mobile is teasing a new hybrid plan that combines mobile service and Starlink internet for under $50 a month. The plan is expected to work across major US networks and extend coverage to Canada, Mexico, and global roaming. Users may get a portable Starlink mini dish, allowing internet access even in remote or off-grid locations. The bundle reportedly includes unlimited Starlink data, making it a strong value compared to standalone plans. It’s not every day we talk about things getting better or cheaper, since most of the time prices only go up. But US Mobile might be about to change that. The company has teased a new hybrid plan that could be easier on your wallet while also bringing faster home internet into the mix. US Mobile CEO Ahmed Khattak shared a post on Reddit teasing a new plan that combines the company’s service with Starlink home internet under a single bundle. Ahmed did not reveal the exact details, since the plan is launching this Thursday (i.e., tomorrow), but he did confirm that it
8 April 2026
Latest Tech
Flying Taxi is coming ..
As the world grapples with the challenges of worsening traffic congestion and the need for more sustainable transportation solutions, a new era of urban air mobility is on the horizon. At the forefront of this revolution is Hyundai, the global automotive giant, which has unveiled its ambitious plans for an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft that could transform the way we move through our cities. In recent years, many manufacturers have been preparing flying taxis, which may become the next important development direction of travel vehicles. So nowadays, in major exhibitions, you can always see some of these products. Hyundai released a prototype of the SA-1 aircraft , in CES 2020, built with Uber in the pavilion. It has a huge propeller that can seat a total of four passengers, which is quite pompous in terms of styling (at least on the ground). This year’s CES, Hyundai unveiled a new “flying car” concept called the S-A2. This is a continuation of the S-A1 concept that debuted at CES 2020, and its purpose is roughly the same, which is to carry out short-distance point-to-point transportation within the city, which is the concept of air taxis. The S-A2 has a cruising speed
3 April 2024
Prof. Francis Lui said tourism sector may be beneficiary of tariff war
發佈日期: 2025-05-06 20:02 TVB News 粵 已複製連結 Trade tariffs initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump continue to bring uncertainties across the globe. But an economics professor said on TVB’s Straight Talk programme that the tariffs’ overall impact on Hong Kong’s economy will be small, and some sectors may even benefit from the situation. FRANCIS LUI, Chair Professor, Macau Univ. of Science & Technology: “Hong Kong is a major re-export centre. So those people who are involved in re-exporting, or involved in logistics, will all have to suffer so much more. And then there’s another effect, which is quite positive on Hong Kong. Hong Kong will try to retain a zero tariff rate for most of the products, and that will make Hong Kong a paradise for tourism. A lot of people will come to Hong Kong to buy goods which are much cheaper than what they can buy elsewhere. So, people from the mainland and people even from the U.S. may come to Hong Kong, and that could revive the tourism industry here.” Professor Lui also said he agreed with the vast majority of American economists that Trump cannot bring the manufacturing jobs back to the U.S. Lui added Trump
7 May 2025
Type 5 diabetes and diet: How are they linked? Dietician explains and shares 4 tips for healthy eating | Health
While most people are familiar with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, type 5 diabetes is an equally important yet often overlooked form. Linked to pancreatic disorders and genetic predispositions, type 5 diabetes is emerging as a growing health concern that warrants greater awareness and understanding. Linked to pancreatic disorders and genetic predispositions, type 5 diabetes is emerging as a growing health concern.(Shutterstock) In an interview with HT lifestyle, Dr Simrat Kathuria, celebrity dietician and wellness coach said, “Type 5 diabetes arises with conditions affecting pancreatic function, like pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, or even post-pancreatic surgery. Genes take the blame here; lifestyle, however, nurtures or resists their growth. A lot of people fail to realise the sheer power diet holds in managing and preventing these intricate forms.” Also read | What is Type 5 diabetes, the condition that affects 25 million people worldwide? Explaining the power of diet on our health, Dr Simrat Kathuria added, “Our genes are something we cannot change, but our food plate can. Smart dietary choices are your first line of defense, even for rare types of diabetes. Food truly is medicine.” Here’s how diet can manage type 5 diabetes: Follow anti-inflammatory diet A low-glycemic, anti-inflammatory diet
7 May 2025
Carb Restriction is Superior to Calorie Counting, Says Science
Counting calories has long been understood to offer the best chance of maintaining a healthy body weight, but many people find it difficult to sustain this approach. Fortunately, a new study by researchers at the University of Surrey in England has found that the far less complicated method of cutting carbs can offer similar benefits. The study, published in the European Journal of Nutrition, showed that low carb diets, regardless of calories, let to better metabolic markers and superior handling of high-fat meals including a reduction in circulating triglycerides, the type of fat that is associated with heart disease. How was the study carried out? Overweight or obese participants aged between 20 and 65 were given three different diets to follow: Meals including carbs (55% of total energy) Meals with low carbs (50g) Calorie restricted meals with low carbs (50g) George Rudy What were the results? “We found that by simply restricting carbohydrates, without enduring extreme calorie restriction, we can reap the metabolic effects associated with short-term fasting,” said Dr Adam Collins, co-author of the study and Associate Professor of Nutrition at the University of Surrey. “This suggests that periodically reducing our carbohydrate intake could be a more accessible and
7 May 2025
We Recommend Skipping This Chick Fil A Breakfast Item
Crawford Smith/Mashed Chick-fil-A’s breakfast menu debuted all the way back in 2004, and customers could initially choose from items like breakfast burritos, fruit cups, and mini-chicken sandwiches. Since then, the chicken chain’s breakfast menu has expanded in both popularity and selection, as diners can now enjoy spicy chicken biscuits, hash brown bowls, and berry parfaits, in addition to a host of other items. We love a good fast food breakfast, and Chick-fil-A is one of the chains to implement it most successfully, but there was one item in our worst-to-best ranking of Chick-fil-A’s breakfast items that left us distinctly disappointed. While its health attributes can’t be denied, the restaurant’s Egg White Grill left a poor impression on our reviewer, who was not a fan of the breakfast sandwich’s overly moist nature. “The scrambled egg whites released so much liquid into the English muffin that it became soggy,” he explained. He went on to highlight the lack of flavor in the eggs, save for hints of sulfur-tinged unpleasantness, which can sometimes occur when eggs are overcooked. While the grilled chicken breast benefited from the addition of citrus marinade and seasoning, both the meat and the
6 May 2025
6 May 2025
The breakfast I eat every day to keep my gut health score at 93 out of 100
I’ve been eating the same breakfast every day for years – and it’s helped me keep my gut health score high I’ve been eating the same breakfast every day for years – and it’s helped me keep my gut health score high(Image: Arx0nt via Getty Images) The significance of gut health in maintaining overall wellbeing is increasingly recognised, with more individuals becoming aware and a growing consensus among scientists, doctors and nutritionists. Some experts, including nutritionists, have gone as far as labelling your gut as your “second brain”. Deborah Grayson, a notable nutritionist, has said: “When your gut thrives, so do you.” This sentiment is echoed by Professor Tim Spector, co-founder of Zoe, who also refers to the gut as a second brain that communicates feelings of anxiety and stress to our main brain. Prof Spector highlights the gut’s critical role in mood and energy levels, noting that its chemical makeup is “crucial for controlling inflammation”, and can help reduce the risk of food allergies, immune diseases, and even cancer, reports Surrey Live. Our gut is home to an extraordinary microbiome filled with trillions of bacteria and other microorganisms that are crucial for various health aspects – from reinforcing the
6 May 2025
6 May 2025
香港壽司郎X排球少年聯乘活動！4款香港限定週邊／3間主題店／人物透明卡 | U Food
壽司郎 排球少年｜影山 日向｜香港壽司郎首度聯乘日本動漫《排球少年！！》！經過一系列神秘預告以及宣傳，香港壽司郎終於正式公布和日本動漫《排球少年》的 最新聯名活動。 壽司郎x排球少年聯乘活動｜特別主題店 壽司郎尖沙咀店 日期：2025 年 4 月 28 日至 5 月 31 日 地點：尖沙咀加連威老道2-6號愛賓商業大廈地下G2, G3 & 103號舖 壽司郎銅鑼灣店 日期：2025 年 4 月 28 日至 5 月 31 日 地點：銅鑼灣駱克道463-483號銅鑼灣廣場2期3樓3A號舖 壽司郎荃灣綠楊店 日期：2025 年 4 月 28 日至 5 月 31 日 地點：荃灣蕙荃路22-66號綠楊坊2樓S20-23號舖 壽司郎x排球少年聯乘活動｜4款限定甜品＋餐點 除了主題店外，壽司郎還聯同了排球少年推出了4款限定聯名餐點。分別是會附送排球少年!!聯乘限定角色插牌的蝦牛油果海苔包（$17）、士多啤梨雲石白朱古力慕絲蛋糕（$34）、搖搖脆薯條（$29）、 一人前聯乘限定外賣盛盒（$99）。 壽司郎x排球少年限定「蝦牛油果海苔包」（$17） 附送排球少年聯乘限定角色插牌，共20款款式將隨機派送。選用彈牙鮮蝦，鮮蝦配上奶油口感的濃郁牛油果，以羅勒醬點綴，並淋上濃厚蛋黃醬。豐富口感加上香濃滋味，絕對是完美組合！ 壽司郎x排球少年限定「士多啤梨雲石白朱古力慕絲蛋糕」（$34） 附送排球少年聯乘限定亞加力鎖匙扣，共16款款式將隨機派送。蛋糕以士多啤梨醬繪上雲石紋，外形簡約吸睛，白朱古力慕絲綿密柔滑，與頂層香甜士多啤梨醬精妙融合。 壽司郎x排球少年限定「搖搖脆薯條」（$29） 附送排球少年聯乘限定透明/雙面收藏卡，前半共6款，後半共5款，款式隨機派送。壽司郎破天荒推出搖搖脆薯條，搭配蒜香忌廉味的搖搖粉，叫人令人回味無窮！ 壽司郎x排球少年限定1人前聯乘限定外賣盛合（$99） 附送排球少年!!聯乘限定圓形小掛袋 。掛袋正面為各大校隊的校徽，背面則是應援橫幅設計。圓形小掛袋除了可掛於手提袋或背包上作裝飾，更可用作收納零散的小物件，一物多用，共5款款式將隨機派送。 壽司郎聯乘排球少年香港限定加購品 除了上述餐點以及附送周邊外，這次壽司郎還推出香港限定加購品。凡於堂食或外賣自取消費滿$200*，即可以加購價購買以下各項聯乘精品。 壽司郎x排球少年襟章（$29） 共9款款式隨機，售完即止。襟章的每款設計均印有不同角色，材質厚實具質感，且帶有細閃鐳射效果，十分精美。可以扣在帆布袋、背包、衣服等作裝飾，亦可作珍藏紀念，粉絲務必收藏。 壽司郎x排球少年散紙包（$39） 共9款款式隨機，售完即止。散紙包表面印有角色名字，更特別配上角色亞加力吊飾，精緻型格，不但可放入硬幣和小飾物、更可掛在袋或背包上。 壽司郎x排球少年斜孭袋 （$119） 共1款售完即止。斜孭袋以烏野高中的主題色為設計概念，並印有主角日向翔陽的圖案，設計簡約型格，且採用輕巧的尼龍布材質，既方便又百搭實用，不論日常、運動或旅遊都非常適合。 壽司郎x排球少年運動毛巾 （$109） 共4款售完即止。四款運動毛巾分別以各高中校隊為主題，圖案仔細清晰，輕巧易收納且攜帶方便，是外出運動的必備好物。另外，粉絲亦可珍藏， 香港壽司郎X排球少年限定壽司碟+$1,000 優惠券 由即日上午 11 時起至 5 月 31 日，只要到壽司郎參加打卡錦標賽*，最有心思的 50 位參加者即有機會獲得「排球少年!!聯乘限定壽司碟」及高達總值港幣$1,000 壽司郎優惠券，粉絲們快到壽司郎打卡參賽，贏取豐富獎品！ 參加方法：1. 讚好或追蹤香港壽司郎（Facebook 或Instagram）專頁2. 拍攝【香港壽司郎 x 排球少年!!】聯乘活動相關食物、周邊或主題店等參賽作品（照片／短片／Reels）* ，公開分享於個人 Facebook 或Instagram，並加上 Hashtag「 #香港壽司郎排球少年 」。3. 活動結束後，香港壽司郎將根據 3 個評分準則：創意度、熱血度、搞笑度，從參賽作品中選出 50 位得獎作品。 活動獎品：1. A 賞（名額共 2 名）：「排球少年!!聯乘限定壽司碟」乙隻 及 價值港幣 100 元優惠券 十張※ (總值港幣$1,000) 2. B 賞（名額共 4 名）：「排球少年!!聯乘限定壽司碟」乙隻 及 價值港幣 100 元優惠券 五張※ (總值港幣$500) 3. C 賞（名額共 5 名）：「排球少年!!聯乘限定壽司碟」乙隻 及 價值港幣 100 元優惠券 兩張※ (總值港幣$200) 4. 優異獎（名額共 39 名）：「排球少年!!聯乘限定壽司碟」乙隻 *排球少年!!聯乘限定商品於壽司郎全線分店有售（啟德零售館2店除外）*期間限定商品及加購精品數量有限，售完即止*消費滿$200即可加購每種加購品各2件； 消費滿$400即可加購每種加購品各4件。每單上限為各種4件。*詳情請向店員查詢 同場加映： 台灣壽司郎聯乘排球少年限定主題店 台灣壽司郎聯乘排球少年的活動中，台灣推出了5家壽司郎×《排球少年!!》的限定主題店，分別於台北市、新北市、台中市、台南市以及高雄市。每間限定主題店都設計精美，每一間都超想去打卡！ 台灣壽司郎聯乘排球少年周邊精品 台灣壽司郎所推出的排球少年聯乘活動中，推出了多款限定周邊精品，包括「排球少年!!Q版人物插卡」、「排球少年!!環保袋」、「排球少年!!小圓包」、「排球少年!!飲料杯」、「排球少年!!人物透卡」等。其中最特別還有限量50個的壽司郎×《排球少年!!》聯名壽司碟抽獎。不知道香港壽司郎又會不會有呢～ 資料來源：台灣壽司郎/香港壽司郎 香港壽司郎與排球少年聯乘活動推出4款限定餐點，包括蝦牛油果海苔包、士多啤梨雲石白朱古力慕絲蛋糕、搖搖脆薯條及一人前聯乘限定外賣盛盒，並附送不同款式的角色插牌、亞加力鎖匙扣、透明收藏卡及圓形小掛袋。 香港壽司郎與排球少年的聯乘活動主題店設於尖沙咀、銅鑼灣及荃灣綠楊坊的壽司郎分店，活動日期為2025年4月28日至5月31日。 Source link
5 May 2025
5 May 2025
Costco Frozen Breakfast Options, Ranked Worst To Best
Monika Sudakov/Daily Meal There are a lot of hidden treasures in Costco’s frozen food aisle that members flock to when they hit the retailer to stock up. In addition to its vast array of rave-worthy appetizers, it has a convenient and affordable selection of breakfast food options. Advertisement The breakfast foods available at Costco include something for all tastes, appetites, and dietary needs, including sandwiches, egg dishes, and healthy breakfast bowls. While the inventory at every Costco varies, I was curious to sample as many of these breakfast options as I could find at my local store. I sampled each one to determine which is worth stocking up on and which you might want to skip on your next Costco outing. Read on to find out which frozen breakfast option landed on top and what criteria I used to rank them. Once you do, all you will need to start your morning off right is a cup of Kirkland brand coffee to get your juices flowing. 7. Red’s Turkey Sausage Egg’Wich Monika Sudakov/Daily Meal At the bottom of this ranking of Costco’s frozen breakfast options is the Turkey Sausage
5 May 2025
5 May 2025
Shocking blood sugar surges hiding in your ‘healthy’ meals like sushi and sweet potato fries
New research by Saga Health Insurance reveals UK Google searches for ‘what foods lower blood sugar immediately’ increased 5,000% in the first three months of 2025 07:51 ET, 05 May 2025Updated 08:24 ET, 05 May 2025 More and more people are becoming health-conscious in their eating habits The buzz around blood sugar control is soaring, with Saga Health Insurance uncovering a staggering 5,000% surge in UK Google searches for “what foods lower blood sugar immediately” in the first quarter of 2025. TikTok’s health-conscious users are also on the pulse, with “blood sugar” tagged in nearly 97K posts. Experiencing a big blood sugar spike is like riding a rollercoaster of energy highs and lows, often caused by indulging in sugary or high-carb treats that lead to temporary pep-ups followed by fatigue, brain fog and more cravings. Saga Health Insurance didn’t just stop at stats; they surveyed 500 Brits and teamed up with Steve Bennett, a health coach and advisor to the House of Lords on food matters, to dissect how our noshing habits affect blood sugar levels. READ MORE: TSA announces five states will not require REAL ID after May 7 deadlineREAD MORE: Experts urge anyone who likes soy sauce to
5 May 2025
5 May 2025
Healthy Food in Portland | The Official Guide to Portland
i Xocotl serves cold-pressed juices, smoothies and more inside the Portland Mercado. Credit: Christine Dong for Portland in Color Nutritious meets delicious at these healthy, vegetable-centric eateries. Updated Apr. 30, 2025 3 min read Tuck Woodstock Tuck Woodstock wrote and edited content for Travel Portland from 2014–2020. Read More Portland may be known for its ice cream, doughnuts, cured meats and fish sauce chicken wings, but it’s also a heavenly spot for healthy food options such as salads and smoothies. Nourish yourself at these whole-food-focused restaurants. Salads When someone says “healthy food,” most people immediately think of salad, but not all piles of leafy greens are created equal. At Portland’s Crisp Salads, you can build your own nutritious masterpiece from a wide selection of seasonal ingredients, including a variety of greens, 10+ dressings and numerous toppings like toasted pumpkin seeds and cranberries. And with two locations in Portland, you’re never far from a fresh lunch. Another salad standout, Garden Monsters, crushes the “rabbit food” stereotype with massive salads sure to satisfy even the biggest appetites. The “Paul Bunyan,” for example, comes loaded with grass-fed steak, red potatoes, bleu cheese and croutons. Prefer your salads sans meat? Swap out any animal
5 May 2025
5 May 2025
30 High-Protein Lunch Ideas Perfect for Meal Prep
1 Spice-Rubbed Chicken Lettuce Cups Mike Garten Grill up a big batch of this flavorful chicken over the weekend, then feature the ready-to-go protein in salads, lettuce cups, wraps, grain bowls, you name it. Get the Spice-Rubbed Chicken Lettuce Cups recipe. 2 Avocado Chicken Salad Clubs mike garten Advertisement – Continue Reading Below 3 Steak and Rice Noodle Bowls mike garten With a medley of colorful julienned veggies, cooked rice noodles, grilled skirt steak, fresh herbs and a tangy-sweet dressing, these bowls can be enjoyed hot or cold. Get the Steak and Rice Noodle Bowls recipe. 4 Pasta e Fagioli Mike Garten Advertisement – Continue Reading Below 5 Cottage Cheese Wrap Pinwheels mike garten Create your own wrap — with a blend of cottage cheese, eggs and herbs — that you can fill to your heart’s content. We’re partial to a combo of pesto chicken, hummus, roasted tomatoes and mixed greens. Get the Cottage Cheese Wrap Pinwheels recipe. 6 Soba Noodle Salad with Shrimp and Ginger Vinaigrette Mike Garten Advertisement – Continue Reading Below 7 Salmon Salad Tartines Mike Garten 8 Roasted Chickpea, Tomato and Chicken Bowls Mike Garten Advertisement – Continue Reading Below 9 Avocado and Tuna Salad Wraps
4 May 2025
4 May 2025
Eating Chicken Could Shorten Your Lifespan, Raise Cancer Risk: Study
Share on PinterestA new study suggests that consuming excess poultry may be associated with all-cause mortality and gastrointestinal cancers. Davide Illini/Stocksy United Consuming more than 300 grams of poultry per week may lead to an increase in all-cause deaths and cancers, according to a new study. The findings contradict existing research and are being approached with caution by experts. Poultry is widely considered a healthier protein source and a cornerstone of healthy eating plans like the Mediterranean diet. Factors that could affect mortality rates and cancer incidence were not considered in the study, prompting calls for further investigation. A surprising new study of people in southern Italy suggests that consuming excess poultry, widely considered a healthier animal protein source, may be associated with all-cause mortality and gastrointestinal cancers. The study’s results largely conflict with previous research and conventional wisdom. Poultry is generally considered a healthy protein source and a mainstay of healthy-diet plans, including the well-regarded Mediterranean diet. The United States Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA), 2020–2025, recommends up to 26 ounces of protein foods, including lean meats, poultry, and eggs, per week, without specific limits on each. The new research, however, suggests that consuming more than 300 grams (10.5
4 May 2025
4 May 2025
Field Trip Friday, Second Graders Learn Healthy Eating Habits in Classroom Visit – KBSI FOX23 News Cape Girardeau News
JACKSON, Mo. (KBSI) — Students at East Elementary in Jackson got a colorful lesson in nutrition during this week’s Field Trip Friday. Mrs. Brune’s second grade class welcomed nutrition expert Hannah Schellman, who led a session on the importance of healthy eating and how the right foods fuel both the body and mind. Schellman used a simple comparison comparing food to fuel, much like gas for a car, to help students understand how their diet affects their energy and growth. “Your body needs fuel to get around,” she explained. “So we’re going to talk about what foods help us run and play and do all the things we need.” Using the image of a plate, Schellman encouraged students to think about the healthy food options they can create. Source link
3 May 2025
3 May 2025
Nicole Danielle Titko of Florida On Creating Healthy, Florida-Inspired Meals Year-Round
Nicole Danielle Titko of Florida has built her culinary brand around the natural bounty and vibrant lifestyle of the Sunshine State. As a personal chef and caterer with a passion for healthy living, she crafts meals that are rooted in Florida’s local produce, coastal seafood, and colorful culture. Her work is more than just cooking—it’s a daily expression of wellness, artistry, and love for her environment. From private dinners to full-scale catered events, Nicole Danielle Titko channels the warmth, brightness, and health-conscious ethos of Florida into every dish she prepares. The Essence of Florida in Every Bite by Nicole Danielle Titko Florida’s geographic and agricultural diversity offers a wealth of culinary inspiration. Nicole Danielle Titko of Florida taps into this rich tapestry by sourcing ingredients directly from local farms, markets, and fisheries. She understands that the freshness of ingredients influences not just the taste of a dish, but its nutritional value and its connection to the land. For Nicole Danielle Titko, cooking with intention begins with understanding where food comes from and honoring its journey. Her dishes often highlight iconic Florida staples—sweet corn, mango, papaya, avocado, and snapper—fused with her health-forward culinary methods. Rather than mask the natural flavors with
3 May 2025
3 May 2025
LANDMARK Celebrates 18-Year Partnership with L’ATELIER DE JOËL ROBUCHON HONG KONG as the Legendary Restaurant Returns This Summer
World’s Most MICHELIN-Starred Gastronomic Icon returns to a stunning new space in LANDMARK ATRIUM HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 May 2025 – LANDMARK is delighted to announce the highly anticipated return of gastronomic legend L’ATELIER DE JOËL ROBUCHON HONG KONG as the cornerstone of its refined Central dining portfolio this summer. Get the latest news delivered to your inbox Sign up for The Manila Times newsletters By signing up with an email address, I acknowledge that I have read and agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. The iconic restaurant has been located at LANDMARK for 18 years and has held the coveted Three MICHELIN Star status – the only L’ATELIER DE JOËL ROBUCHON HONG KONG internationally to do so – for an unprecedented 13 continuous years, since the very first Hong Kong & Macau MICHELIN Guide in 2012 until its temporary closure in January 2025. Following 19 months of planning and design, this acclaimed restaurant now proudly returns to a glamorous 18,000 sq. ft. tailor-made venue on the fourth floor of LANDMARK ATRIUM in August. “L’ATELIER DE JOËL ROBUCHON HONG KONG has been the jewel in the crown of our dining portfolio at
2 May 2025
2 May 2025
Stop eating one food to keep heart healthy according to surgeon
A heart surgeon has shared the one thing he recommends avoiding in your diet in order to maintain good metabolic health – and avoid ending up on the operating table Eating healthily is important to ensure your heart works as it should (stock image)(Image: d3sign via Getty Images) A heart surgeon has spoken out about the one thing he recommends people eliminate from their diet to stay healthy and avoid ending up on his operating table. On average in the United States, someone dies every 33 seconds from cardiovascular disease. In 2022, 702,880 people died from heart disease nationwide. This accounted for one in every five deaths across the US, making heart disease the leading cause of death. While factors like age and genetics significantly influence the risk of developing heart problems, lifestyle plays an undeniable role as well, and changing our eating habits can drastically increase or decrease our risk. In a clip from British entrepreneur Steven Bartlett’s podcast, Diary of a CEO, Dr Philip Ovadia – author of the book Stay off My Operating Table – highlighted that consuming one specific type of food can increase your likelihood of falling ill. “What I really tried to look at
1 May 2025
1 May 2025
Blue Zones recipe for longevity includes cooking class mixing rice, beans and community
First they drop the onions into the pot. Then in go the chickpeas and garlic cloves, all under the watchful eyes of chef Luis Montoya. For a group of women in Miami, Florida, mostly mothers and grandmothers, this one-pot meal can solve a challenge: how do you prepare easy and affordable healthy meals in a community considered a food desert? Inside the Overtown Youth Centre in the US city, the women slice and dice and squeeze their way through a recipe for chickpea soup with lemon and herbs, a recipe inspired by the Mediterranean, a region known for populations that can live to 100 and more. “The most difficult part is hitting the pressure button on the pressure cooker,” says Montoya, the South Florida chef leading the class, as the women prepare ingredients near the electric pots. Chickpeas in a strainer during a cooking class staged as part of a 10-week programme by the Blue Zones group in Miami, Florida to encourage healthier eating. Photo: Miami Herald/TNS A group called Blue Zones, which swoops into communities to find ways to improve the health of residents through changes to the environment and diet, brought the cooking classes to Overtown this spring.
1 May 2025
1 May 2025
Eat Bigger Meals to Cut Down on Ultra-Processed Snacks: Dietitian
Ivy Duong, 26, does an hour of resistance training three times a week, averages 7,000 steps a day, plays intense sports once or twice a week, and has an active job as an ambassador for a nonprofit organization. For the latest installment of Business Insider’s Nutrition Clinic, Duong, who is based in Canada, told Business Insider what she eats on an average day. She said her goals are to boost her longevity, cut down on ultra-processed food, and stay healthy to support her active lifestyle. The dietitian Sophie Medlin reviewed Duong’s daily diet and said that, given her exercise levels, she likely needs to eat more. Duong has a small breakfast or skips it Duong said she normally eats two or three meals a day. She said she often skips breakfast but sometimes makes a smoothie containing almond milk, Greek yogurt, matcha powder, chia seeds, hemp seeds, collagen powder, apples, and frozen berries, adding up to roughly 300 to 350 calories. Alternatively, she has a slice of rye or wholewheat toast with peanut butter and salt, which comes to about 350 calories. Duong regularly eats lunches like quinoa with vegetables. Ivy Duong Duong rotates a selection of dishes for her
1 May 2025
1 May 2025
Healthy ready meal company enters liquidation
John Campbell BBC News NI economics editor Karri Kitchen Peter Coulter & John Campbell BBC News NI Products from the healthy ready meal company Karri Kitchen have disappeared from shelves across Northern Ireland as the business has entered liquidation. The firm, which was based in Craigavon, County Armagh, had expanded rapidly over the past few years securing deals with Tesco, Lidl, Asda and Spar to become one of NI’s biggest ready meal businesses. Karri Kitchen specialised in healthy Asian-style meals such as Mongolian beef noodles, firecracker chicken and mango chicken curry. The liquidator said the business was “unable to meet rising production costs”. The business was started in 2019 by Shera McAloran with a mantra to “bring healthy south-east Asian cuisine to homes across Northern Ireland”. The business also appeared in the BBC programme Food Fest Northern Ireland featuring some of their unique recipes. The Statement of Affairs which was filed as part of the liquidation process showed the business had net debts of almost £700,000 when it stopped trading. That included almost £200,000 owed to a County Armagh food company and £183,000 which had been loaned to the business by one of its directors, Chris McAloran. The statement also
1 May 2025
1 May 2025
ProteinHouse to bring healthy eating options to Turlock
Health-food chain ProteinHouse is coming to Turlock. With 17 restaurants in operation throughout the country, Turlock is poised to become home to No. 18 — or 19 if the soon-to-open restaurant in Tempe, Ariz. beats Turlock to the finish line. “We’re set to open sometime late next month,” said Mark Ponticelli, who co-owns ProteinHouse locations in Modesto and Sacramento with his brother-in-law, January Siphan, a former Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Deputy and Modesto police officer. “We’re super excited.” Employees Seth Oaxaca, left, and Beth Mejia blend up protein shakes Tuesday at ProteinHouse Healthy Fit Kitchen in Modesto (JOE CORTEZ/The Journal). Open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., ProteinHouse offers a wide array of healthy food and drink options for breakfast, lunch and dinner — for dine-in or to go. From Protein Pancakes to an egg-white and turkey-bacon sandwich served on an Ezekiel English muffin, there’s something for every breakfast appetite. There’s also build-your-own breakfast options. The lunch and dinner menu includes burgers (beef, turkey, salmon, and vegan options), burritos, wraps, salads and more. In addition to açai bowls and shakes, there’s a wide array of protein shakes. The menu also includes side orders and something for kids.
30 April 2025
30 April 2025
Factor Meals Review 2025: Worth the Cost?
Finding the time and energy to prepare balanced, tasty meals can be a real struggle. Whether you’re in a recipe rut or simply overwhelmed by meal planning after a hectic day, I get it. Cooking takes effort, and grabbing fast food or ordering takeout can feel much easier. As a registered dietitian, I’ve discovered that meal delivery services are a game changer, taking the stress out of healthy eating and making it easier to enjoy nutritious, tasty food without the hassle. Factor is one meal delivery service that’s earned a spot on the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab’s list of the best meal delivery services for weight loss and the best low-carb meal delivery services. To assess the best options, we gathered feedback from over 300 home cooks nationwide and had our experts evaluate more than 50 meal delivery services in our Labs, focusing on taste, nutrition, ease of use and overall experience. Here’s what to know about Factor before signing up. What is Factor? Factor, also referred to as “Factor 75” or “Factor_” is a meal delivery service that offers freshly prepared dishes that arrive ready to heat and enjoy. With a weekly menu featuring 35 options that prioritize
30 April 2025
30 April 2025
Weaning recipes to use instead of ultra-processed baby food
Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Though baby food in plastic pouches has made mealtimes easy and convenient for parents across the UK, an investigation by BBC Panorama has found that baby food from several leading brands offers scant nutritional value and contains shocking amounts of sugar. Pouches of baby food from the likes of Ella’s Kitchen, Heinz, Piccolo, Little Freddie, Aldi and Lidl were tested and found lacking in essential nutrients. A “pure mango” pouch from Piccolo contained less than 0.1mg of vitamin C – a fresh mango contains 18.2mg. Many of these brands are marketed as healthy alternatives to homemade food, but critics argue that a mixture of greenwashing, wellness washing and halo marketing could be responsible for poor health from infancy. “The findings are concerning,” says nutritionist Claire Johnson. “Many of these convenient, squeezable products are low in essential nutrients such as iron and vitamin C, both of which are vital for babies’ brain development, immune function and overall
30 April 2025
30 April 2025
Sick of eating the same things? 5 ways to boost your nutrition and keep meals interesting and healthy
Did you start 2025 with a promise to eat better but didn’t quite get there? Or maybe you want to branch out from making the same meal every week or the same lunch for work almost every day? Small dietary changes can make a big difference to how you feel, how your body functions and health indicators such as blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels. You can meet your nutrient needs by eating a range of foods from the key food groups: vegetables and fruit protein (legumes, beans, tofu, meats, poultry, fish, eggs, nuts, seeds) grains (mostly wholegrain and high-fibre) calcium-rich foods (milk, yoghurt, cheese, non-dairy alternatives). But you also need a variety of foods to get enough vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients from plant foods. Phytonutrients have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and other functions that help keep you healthy. Use these five dietary tweaks to boost your nutrient intake and add variety to what you eat. 1. Include different types of bran to boost your fibre intake Different types of dietary fibre help improve bowel function through fermentation by gut microbes in the colon, or large bowel. This creates larger, softer bowel motions that then stimulate the colon to contract,
30 April 2025
30 April 2025
Flanders to spend 70 million euros a year on healthy school meals
The Flemish government reached an agreement on Tuesday on how to implement healthy meals in schools. It will provide about 70 million euros – about 170 euros per child – per year, and schools will be allowed to decide how to spend the money. One of Vooruit’s main election platforms last year was “a free healthy meal for every child in kindergarten and primary school in Flanders”. The Socialist party wanted to spend 3 euros per child per day, but Tuesday’s agreement does not go that far. Vooruit, CD&V and N-VA agreed on a budget of 23 million euros for this year. This will rise to 73 million euros per year in the coming legislative years. For every 100 euros spent by Flanders, the cities and municipalities are expected to contribute at least 75 euros. Flanders has about 720,000 pupils in kindergarten and primary education. This means that the budget amounts to about 170 euros per child. Divided by the number of days in a school year, this amounts to just under one euro per child per day. “Every child, whether they have rich or poor parents, (…) has a right to healthy food and the many benefits it brings”
30 April 2025
30 April 2025
Apollo Hospitals says further bought shares in Apollo Health and Lifestyle for 186.9 million rupees
Market Closed – NSE India S.E. 07:05:01 2026-04-10 am EDT 5-day change 1st Jan Change 7,511.50 INR +0.40% +1.88% +6.66% Published on 04/10/2026 at 09:36 am EDT Reuters © Reuters – 2026 09:36am Apollo Hospitals says further bought shares in Apollo Health and Lifestyle for 186.9 million rupees RE Apr. 02 Apollo Hospitals approves establishment of multi-speciality hospital at Dwarka, New Delhi RE Apr. 02 Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited Approves Establishment of Multi-Speciality Hospital at Dwarka, New Delhi CI Mar. 31 Apollo Hospitals says Apollo Healthco buys 100% of Apollo Consumer Products for 900,000 rupees RE Mar. 24 Temasek-backed Manipal Health files for $1.2 billion India IPO RE Mar. 23 Apollo Hospitals says shareholding in AHLL increases to 99.42% RE Mar. 22 Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited completed the acquisition of an additional 30.58% stake in Apollo Health and Lifestyle Limited from International Finance Corporation. CI Feb. 26 Mirxes Plans India Cancer Screening Tie-Up With Apollo Health and Lifestyle MT Feb. 11 Indian Indices End Mixed on Wednesday as Investor Optimism on US-India Trade Deal Fades MT Feb. 11 Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited, Q3 2026 Earnings Call, Feb 11, 2026 Feb. 11 India stocks, rupee, bonds, swaps, call at 1:05 p.m.
10 April 2026
Trends in Health and Lifestyle Products Gaining Popularity Among Consumers
Consumer behavior in health and lifestyle categories is shifting toward products that reflect broader definitions of well-being. Rather than focusing only on fitness or nutrition, individuals are exploring options that support relaxation, recovery, and daily balance. This evolution is influenced by changing work patterns, increased awareness of mental health, and a growing interest in routines that extend beyond traditional health frameworks. As a result, the market is expanding to include products that blend functionality with experience. These trends are not driven by novelty alone but by a deeper expectation that everyday products should contribute to how people feel, not just what they do. The Rise of Functional Wellness Products One of the most noticeable trends is the growing demand for products that offer functional benefits alongside everyday use. Consumers are no longer satisfied with items that serve a single purpose; they are looking for options that integrate into broader routines. This includes products designed to support relaxation, focus, or recovery. This shift reflects a move toward intentional consumption. People are becoming more selective, choosing products that align with their lifestyle rather than simply following trends. As functionality becomes a priority, brands are responding by developing offerings that address specific needs
9 April 2026
Liver Health: Silent killer of the liver: How lifestyle changes and early screening can prevent cirrhosis before it’s too late
Health care professionals are now recognizing liver cirrhosis cases in people who seldom consume alcohol, linking this trend to modern lifestyle choices such as inadequate nutrition, excessive weight, and diabetes. Often referred to as a ‘silent epidemic,’ the condition can develop without noticeable symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage. Most people link liver damage with heavy drinking. But doctors now see a different pattern. People who rarely drink are also landing up with serious liver disease. The reason lies in everyday habits, food choices, weight gain, unmanaged diabetes, and long hours of sitting.Liver cirrhosis does not begin with dramatic symptoms. It creeps in slowly. By the time the signs become obvious, the damage is often deep and difficult to reverse. That is why doctors call it a “silent killer.”As Dr Waseem Ramzan Dar explains, “Liver cirrhosis has been misconceived as a disease that is brought about by alcohol alone but nowadays it is closely associated with lifestyle diseases like poor diet, obesity, diabetes and fatty liver disease.” What exactly is liver cirrhosis? The liver is one of the hardest-working organs. It breaks down food, filters toxins, and helps regulate metabolism. But when it is repeatedly injured, by fat buildup,
9 April 2026
These simple lifestyle changes could decrease dementia risk by 25%
Are you sitting right now? If you want to protect your brain, you should take a walk and be sure to go to bed early. Subscribe to read this story ad-free Get unlimited access to ad-free articles and exclusive content. Regular exercise and about seven hours of sleep a night could protect brain health in the long term, a study published Wednesday in the journal PLOS One found. Long bouts of sedentary behavior may increase dementia risk. It’s the latest data to show that people don’t need elaborate and expensive longevity hacks to stay mentally sharp as they age. Simple lifestyle changes could reduce a person’s risk of late-onset dementia by as much as 25%, according to the study. About 1 in 9 people in the United States will develop Alzheimer’s disease, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, meaning a person’s overall risk is about 11%. With the suggested changes in lifestyle, the average person’s risk decreases to about 8%. The reduction is “fairly comparable to the effect sizes sometimes seen with medications for chronic diseases,” said Akinkunle Oye-Somefun, a researcher at York University in Toronto, who led the study. Breaking up longer periods of sitting had the greatest effect, the
9 April 2026
9 April 2026
無毛毛孩
武漢漢口江灘的一方沃土，向來是晨運聖地。各色人等雲集，當中不乏愛寵物人士，帶着寶貝毛孩舒展筋骨，有趣的是，近期留意到一個極具中國特色的新景象，出現不少「無毛毛孩」。 二〇二六年春晚最矚目的節目，莫過於機械人靈活地操演功夫、翻觔斗，相比去年的「機械人大媽舞」再勝一籌。這不難令人感覺到，機械人走進家庭、成為生活一部分已是指日可待。而江灘上那些「無毛毛孩」，便是這項科技的先鋒部隊（見圖），它那活潑蹦跳樣也很可愛，惟「無毛毛孩」摸上去，總覺缺乏點溫暖感。 現今，中國已湧現如Unitree（宇樹）、Agibot（智元）、Ubtech（優必選）等多家頂尖機械人企業。在國策扶持下，它們已在各範圍大展拳腳，相對於走得較前的工業、軍工業應用，二〇二五年起，人形機械人（Humanoid Robot）開始走入民生服務。隨着人口老化、年輕勞動力短缺，家務助理解決方案將成為未來的「人力」中堅。 當機械人不僅擁有強大「體力」，更能接通雲端AI獲取無限「智力」，有「力」也有「智」時，潛在的危機不容小覷。若缺乏及時監管，那種如科幻小說般、擁有獨立思想的機械人群，或許真會成為人類威脅。 或許是醫生想多了。說不定在未來，Humanoid Robot會是人類的好朋友、好夥伴，可以訂購個溫柔、智慧兼美麗的Robot做老婆。厭煩？﹗隨手熄機便樂得清靜，多開心。 ▲ （專欄作家提供） Source link
8 April 2026
8 April 2026
Why Preventative Health Is Becoming the UK’s Biggest Lifestyle Shift
For years, health has often been treated as reactionary, something we think about only when problems arise. But across the UK, that mindset is changing and increasingly, people are taking a proactive approach to their wellbeing. This shift isn’t happening in isolation. It reflects a broader cultural movement where health is woven into daily life. From how we work to how we eat, sleep, and even socialise, wellbeing has become a central pillar of our modern age. A Nation Thinking Ahead Recent data shows just how widespread this transformation has become. According to the Office for National Statistics, a significant majority of adults in Great Britain have made lifestyle changes to tackle environmental issues. These lifestyle changes can in turn improve our overall wellbeing. This reflects a deeper awareness of the connection between everyday habits, the environment, and long-term health outcomes. This connection is helping to influence everything from workplace culture to consumer habits. The Rise of Everyday Wellness One of the most notable trends is the move towards micro-habits. These are small, manageable actions that fit seamlessly into our daily routines. There is a clear appeal, as small and sustainable changes are far more achievable than dramatic changes to
8 April 2026
8 April 2026
Post-Covid health & lifestyle changes drain Bengaluru’s blood banks | Bengaluru News
Bengaluru: There has been a sharp decline of at least 50% in voluntary blood donations after the Covid-19 pandemic in the city over the past few years.Experts attribute the decline to a mix of work-from-home arrangements, shifting lifestyles, and emerging health concerns — factors that have disrupted traditional donation channels in a city where demand for blood remains consistently high.Explaining the trend, Deepak Suman, camp coordinator at Lions Blood Centre, Bhagwan Mahaveer Jain Hospital, said corporate offices and colleges — long relied on for donation drives — are no longer yielding the same response. “Colleges and IT companies are our backbone when it comes to blood donations. Due to work-from-home routines now, we hardly see people coming to the office and donating. In the same companies where we used to get 250-300 units before, we only get 20-30 units now. HR representatives insist on organising the camps for two days, but even then, the collections are few and far between,” he said.On college campuses, organisers say students are willing to volunteer for donation drives but hesitate to donate blood themselves. “Most students now go to the gym and are very focused on being fit. They think that if they donate
7 April 2026
7 April 2026
Flashmob in Chisinau promotes healthy lifestyle
Social Flashmob in Chisinau promotes healthy lifestyle Published 07.04.2026 14:34 Health, regarded as our most valuable resource, was highlighted on April 7, World Health Day. To commemorate this occasion, medical students teamed up with doctors from the Republican Clinical Hospital “Timofei Moșneaga” to organize a flash mob aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle. Students gathered to mobilize the community and encourage individuals to pay more attention to their health by adopting beneficial long-term habits. “Health, for me, means finding a balance between physical, mental, emotional, and psychological well-being. Achieving this balance requires ongoing effort.” “Health means getting proper sleep, eating well, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It’s also about doing gentle exercise from time to time.” “Health encompasses everything. Eating nutritious food contributes to overall well-being. It’s about taking care of yourself, which includes having a healthy mind, spending time with family, and nurturing relationships with good friends.” Throughout the day, students and doctors distributed fruit and water to patients, emphasizing the importance of daily hydration. “It’s essential to drink water and eat fruit. We also provide a leaflet for you to read and help you take care of yourself.” “This small
7 April 2026
7 April 2026
Heart Attack Risk Drops 10%, Study Reveals
In March 2026, a study was published in the ‘European Journal of Preventive Cardiology’. According to it, just 11 minutes more sleep and 5 minutes of extra exercise daily can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke by up to 10%. According to BW Healthcare’s report ‘Beat by Beat 2025’, 20% of heart attack deaths worldwide occur in India. This means we need to be more vigilant. This means we need to be more vigilant. Therefore, in today we will talk about the new study on heart disease. We will also know- How much sleep is necessary for a healthy heart? What to do for good and deep sleep? What has been revealed in this new study related to heart health? The main findings of this study are- Heart attack and stroke risk will be 10% lower, if- Sleep 11 minutes more daily. Exercise 5 minutes extra. Include more vegetables in your diet. Direct connection between heart health and lifestyle Sleep, diet, and exercise all have a direct impact on heart health. Small changes in lifestyle also make a big difference. 8-9 hours of sleep daily, regular exercise, and a balanced diet can reduce the risk of heart disease
7 April 2026
7 April 2026
Can small lifestyle changes really help you live longer and add more years to your life? #FitIndiaHitIndia
Home Health World Health Day 2026: Can small lifestyle changes really help you live longer and add more years to your life? #FitIndiaHitIndia #FitIndiaHitIndia On World Health Day 2026, the focus shifts to how simple daily habits can shape a healthier future. Living longer does not always require drastic changes, as small consistent lifestyle choices can gradually improve health, boost energy and enhance overall quality of life. Published: April 7, 2026 1:44 PM IST #FitIndiaHitIndia: Life does not change overnight, yet small shifts in daily routine can quietly reshape future health. On World Health Day 2026 focus moves toward simple habits that fit into everyday life without pressure or confusion. Many people believe long life depends on luck or expensive routines, yet reality feels more grounded. Daily movement, mindful eating, proper rest steady mindset create a real difference over time. #FitIndiaHitIndia message highlights how consistency builds strength from within. Instead of chasing extreme fitness goals, people now look at small repeatable actions that slowly improve energy, immunity and overall well-being without overwhelming lifestyle. Can small lifestyle changes really increase lifespan? Real change begins when routine becomes stable. A short walk after meals, regular hydration, mindful sleep pattern create a steady
7 April 2026
7 April 2026
The Silent Epidemic: How Lifestyle Diseases Are Draining India’s Productivity | Health and Fitness News
Last Updated:April 07, 2026, 10:00 IST Lifestyle diseases, chronic stress, poor health are quietly impacting India’s workforce productivity, as experts warn of a “silent epidemic” affecting long-term economic growth. The hidden cost of burnout: How lifestyle diseases are impacting India’s workforce India’s workforce is showing up but not at full capacity. Beneath the surface of long hours, constant connectivity, and rising ambition lies a quieter crisis: a growing burden of lifestyle diseases that is steadily eroding productivity, focus, and long-term resilience. What makes this crisis particularly dangerous is not just its scale, but how normal it has become. As Dr Vikram Vora, Medical Director, India Subcontinent, International SOS, points out, workforce health today can no longer be viewed narrowly. “On World Health Day 2026, it is important to recognize that workforce health is no longer limited to the absence of illness it is central to productivity, resilience, and long-term sustainability.” Employees, he explains, are navigating a far more complex health landscape than before, one shaped by sedentary lifestyles, rising non-communicable diseases, and increasing mental health concerns. “Today’s employees are navigating a complex mix of challenges, from sedentary lifestyles and rising non-communicable diseases to increasing mental health concerns driven by global uncertainty.
7 April 2026
7 April 2026
Hidden health risks of a modern lifestyle you are ignoring – Firstpost
Long hours of sitting, poor sleep quality and ignored body signals: experts say modern lifestyles are creating silent health risks. This World Health Day, here’s what most people are getting wrong. We talk about health more than ever. New diets, routines and wellness trends dominate our feeds. But step back and look at how most people actually live, and a different picture emerges. A typical day now revolves around screens. Work happens on laptops, meetings unfold online, and even breaks are spent scrolling. It feels normal, even productive. But the body registers it differently, through stiffness, fatigue and a lingering sense of discomfort that never quite goes away. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD “People tend to dismiss early signs like back discomfort or tiredness as part of a long day,” says Surya Maguluri, a health-tech expert and co-founder of CURAPOD. “But when these patterns repeat, they’re usually not random.” When movement becomes optional, not natural What has quietly disappeared from modern life is incidental movement. Earlier, daily routines demanded some level of physical activity. Today, movement has to be scheduled. Even those who exercise regularly often spend the rest of the day sitting, creating an imbalance that a single workout
6 April 2026
6 April 2026
Here Is Why They Should Be On Your Itinerary
Looking for ways to switch things up in your next itinerary? Some of the most powerful travel experiences happen in places where history has been literally laid to rest, and the world’s most striking burial sites offer exactly that kind of encounter. Dark tourism, which covers travel to sites associated with death, tragedy, or suffering, is one of the most resonant expressions of a broader and enduring travel style: heritage travel. Also read: The Best Business Class Cabins in the World in 2026: Which Airlines Own the Throne? Heritage Travel and Why It Matters Heritage travel is the practice of exploring destinations for their historical and cultural significance. It asks you to understand a nation’s cultural identity: whose stories shaped a place, and how those stories survive the centuries. Burial sites sit beautifully at the intersection of both. They are, at once, sacred landscapes and living archives, where architecture, ritual, and memory converge in ways that no museum can fully replicate. If you want to come home knowing more about the world, these eight sites are an excellent place to start. Eight Heritage Sites Worth The Journey Père Lachaise Cemetery, Paris, France Image credit: Peter Poradisch (left), Marcin L. (right)
6 April 2026
6 April 2026
World Health Day 2026: Why 30 minutes of daily exercise is essential to prevent lifestyle diseases and boost overall health #FitIndiaHitIndia
#FitIndiaHitIndia: Sitting for long hours can harm your health. Know how just 30 minutes of daily exercise helps prevent diseases, improve fitness, and boost overall wellbeing. Written by Muskan Gupta |Updated : April 6, 2026 3:51 PM IST In the modern world with a heavy traffic schedule, we spend excessive time at the table, operating our laptops and scrolling on our smartphones.Although this has simplified life, it has at the same time contributed a great deal to diminishing bodily activity.Physicians caution that this is a dangerous lifestyle, causing harm to our health.They suggest that we should exercise our bodies at least 30 minutes a day so as to avoid most of the health-related issues. Fitness trainer and expert, Himanshu Kaushik, says, “Our bodies are not designed to sit in one place but to move around, so when we move our bodies every day for 30 minutes, then that is beneficial to our heart, metabolism, and mentality.” Why do we need to move our bodies for 30 minutes every day? “We sit and our bodies fail to work when we sit for long.Our metabolic process is slowed down and there is a hit on the circulation of the blood, as well
6 April 2026
6 April 2026
New campaign urges men to ejaculate more to prevent cancer
FCancer, a non-profit focused on cancer prevention and early detection, has declared its mission to “beat cancer off, literally” – imploring men to ejaculate more for their health. At least 21 times a month, to be exact. Dr Lorelei Mucci, a professor of epidemiology at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and a co-author of emerging research on prostate cancer and ejaculation, told The Post that her team has come across some interesting patterns. Data from a long-term health and lifestyle study assessing more than 50,000 men since 1986 suggests that those who ejaculate 21 or more times per month had a 19-22% lower risk of prostate cancer than those who came less, she said. “The ’21 or more’ isn’t a strict biological magic number, but rather a finding that emerged from our robust statistical analysis,” Mucci revealed, adding that her team has even observed small reductions in risk for men who ejaculated only eight times per month. “While 21 is the benchmark we identified,” she continued, “the broader implication is that more frequent ejaculation may offer a greater potential benefit.” According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in US men,
4 April 2026
4 April 2026
HOLI unveils HOLNESS™ ecosystem with MyCare 360, a pioneering unified health, wellness and lifestyle infrastructure, building modern India
ANI | Updated: Apr 04, 2026 12:29 IST India PR DistributionNew Delhi [India], April 4: HARLEY of LONDON INDIA (HOLI), the India chapter of the global HARLEY of LONDON movement, today announced the launch of the HOLNESS™ ecosystem in India, anchored by MyCare 360, a digital well being platform designed to help individuals achieve emotional stability, identity continuity and lifestyle coherence.This marks the first introduction of the HOLNESS™ framework in India — a structural, human centred approach created by global founder Sanjeev Kumar to address rising emotional fragmentation, lifestyle instability and identity drift in an accelerating world.Why India Needs HOLNESS™ NowIndia is experiencing rapid social and economic acceleration. According to recent national health reports, lifestyle related conditions and stress linked disorders are rising sharply, especially among young working adults. Existing healthcare, wellness and lifestyle solutions remain fragmented, leaving individuals without a unified path to long term well being.HOLNESS™ positions human wholeness as a foundational requirement for modern life — offering a structural alternative to fragmented well being systems.MyCare 360: India’s Integrated Well Being InfrastructureAs the operational engine of the HOLNESS™ ecosystem, MyCare 360 offers:– Health and well being assessments– Personalised lifestyle pathways– Preventive insights– Continuity of CARE– Life SCORE &
4 April 2026
4 April 2026
These 4 Nearby Spots Just Made TIME’s World’s Greatest Places List (+ One Is in NJ)
COURTESY PRINCETON UNIVERSITY ART MUSEUM TIME just released its World’s Greatest Places of 2026 list, and four of the picks are right here in the tri-state area, including one in the heart of Princeton. Each year, TIME rounds up 100 standout places to visit and stay around the world, choosing from nominations submitted by its writers, contributors and applicants. The list includes hotels, restaurants, attractions, museums, parks and more that offer something new or worth experiencing. Here are the four spots in our area that made the list: COURTESY PRINCETON UNIVERSITY ART MUSEUM Princeton University Art Museum Located on the campus of Princeton University, The Princeton University Art Museum is New Jersey’s only entry on the list. TIME highlighted the museum’s 146,000-square-foot space, 32 galleries, striking design, and how its collections mix major names with unexpected pairings across time periods and cultures. COURTESY PRINCETON UNIVERSITY ART MUSEUM “Anchoring it all is a colossal, 37-foot-tall Cave mosaic at the entrance—a mixed-media ‘self-portrait’ done as a wall relief—that ushers visitors into what’s poised to become a landmark museum,” Laura Dannen Redman writes on time.com. The newly reopened museum roughly doubled the space available for the display of its collections and exhibitions, with
3 April 2026
3 April 2026
CURE
「Can I be Cured？」這是癌症病人最常提出的問題。 在中文語境中，它會以不同形式出現：「有得醫嗎？」「可以治癒嗎？」「醫生，我會很快死嗎？」患者都希望醫生即時給予決斷性答案。 早前受邀至里斯本著名的Champalimaud Clinical Centre發表主題演講，題目極具挑戰性：「治癒肺癌：現況與未來」（Cure of Lung Cancer : Present and Future），當然不可能把四十分鐘的演說濃縮成五百字，只談：「Cure」為何物。 根據字源學，Cure源自拉丁文Cura，意指「關懷」（Care），直至中世紀英語才採納Cure這詞，當年意思是「恢復健康」（Restore health to normal state），但要知道中世紀人類並未知道癌症為何物，所謂「Cancer Cure」（癌症治癒）的現代概念，是後來醫學發展的產物。 在病人眼中，Cure往往被簡化為：治療後所有的掃描與驗血都找不到腫瘤。然而，這是最普遍、也最易被誤解的定義。任何一位腫瘤科醫生都清楚知道，現今科技尚無法偵測肉眼看不見的微量癌細胞，掃描結果「一切正常」並不等同於治癒，因為這定義缺乏了「時間性」。若要包括時間維度，便惟有靠統計學，一般會採用Kaplan-Meier Survival Curve（存活曲綫）來估算復發機率。當曲綫在多年後開始平走時，復發風險降至極低，醫學上才勉強被定義為Cure或Statistical Cure。 故此，最本事的醫生也不能給予百份百的保證，只能說統計學上很大機會不復發，既無絕對，也不必強求絕對，只求最高水平的治療及最大程度的關懷，便能得到最高機會。 反正，Cure本身就是關懷！ Source link
1 April 2026
1 April 2026
Expert advocates preventive health, lifestyle changes to curb rising disease burden
Health A health advocate, Mr Lorenz Mba, has called for nationwide shift from reactive to preventive healthcare through simple lifestyle changes and early screening to reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases. He made the call an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria NAN on Wednesday in Lagos during a road work to commemorate the sixth edition of the “Let’s Waka with Q-Life and HEI”. The road walk organised by Waka Community International Foundation in collaboration with Q-Life Family Clinic and Health Emergency Initiative HEI is to honour Dr Ade Alakija, a renowned medical expert. Mba said many life-threatening conditions such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer and glaucoma often showed no early symptoms, making regular medical checks critical. He noted that late detection of such illnesses continued to increase mortality rates and treatment costs, pushing many families into financial hardship. According to him, preventive health practices including daily walking, proper nutrition, hydration and adequate sleep remain the most cost-effective way to stay healthy. Mba also highlighted the need to address gaps in men’s health awareness, noting that many men ignored early warning signs due to stigma or lack of information. “Men’s health issues are not getting the attention they deserve, yet
1 April 2026
1 April 2026
Expert advocates preventive health, lifestyle
A health advocate, Lorenz Mba, has called for a nationwide shift from reactive to preventive healthcare through simple lifestyle changes and early screening to reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases. He made the call on Wednesday in Lagos during a road walk to commemorate the sixth edition of the ‘Let’s Waka with Q-Life and HEI’. The road walk organised by the Waka Community International Foundation in collaboration with Q-Life Family Clinic and Health Emergency Initiative is to honour Ade Alakija, a renowned medical expert. Mr Mba said many life-threatening conditions, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer and glaucoma often showed no early symptoms, making regular medical checks critical. He noted that late detection of such illnesses continued to increase mortality rates and treatment costs, pushing many families into financial hardship. According to him, preventive health practices, including daily walking, proper nutrition, hydration and adequate sleep, remain the most cost-effective way to stay healthy. Mr Mba also highlighted the need to address gaps in men’s health awareness, noting that many men ignored early warning signs due to stigma or lack of information. “Men’s health issues are not getting the attention they deserve, yet they have wider implications for families and society.
1 April 2026
1 April 2026
World Health Day 2026: Silent lifestyle diseases in young adults, early signs you should never ignore
#FitIndiaHitIndia: Silent lifestyle diseases are rising in young adults. Know early warning signs of diabetes, hypertension, PCOS, and fatty liver to take timely action. Written by Muskan Gupta |Published : April 1, 2026 9:43 AM IST When we talk about lifestyle diseases, they are no longer limited to older adults. Young people in their 20s and 30s are being diagnosed with conditions that develop quietly over time, often without obvious symptoms. Because these diseases are “silent”, they can advance without showing clear symptoms until they result in severe health complications. In an exclusive conversation with TheHealthSite.com, Dr Prabhat Ranjan Sinha, Physician, Internal Medicine, Aakash Healthcare, explained, “It’s becoming increasingly common for young adults to develop ‘silent’ lifestyle conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and fatty liver without apparent symptoms. These conditions are often diagnosed at such an early stage, ignoring its early signs and symptoms like unexplained weight gain, extreme fatigue or irregular periods in women, headaches and abdominal bloating.” Why are young adults at risk? According to the World Health Organisation, sitting too much, excessive screen time, unhealthy nutrition, stress and sedentary lifestyle play an important role. Well, the answer to
1 April 2026
1 April 2026
Combat veteran and lifestyle medicine physician is helping shape digital health
As a physician, veteran and lifestyle medicine leader, Regan A. Stiegmann, DO, MPH, has built a career defined by service. In 2011, Dr. Stiegmann commissioned into the U.S. Air Force (USAF) as a Health Profession Scholarship Program (HPSP) awardee during her second year of medical school at Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine (RVUCOM). After graduating, Dr. Stiegmann completed residency in preventive medicine and lifestyle medicine. Following residency, she has combined her osteopathic medical training with her military experience to champion whole-person health, advance lifestyle medicine and help shape emerging digital health solutions for the next generation of physicians and patients. Currently, Dr. Stiegmann is the chief medical officer of LPM LAB, a digital health lifestyle and performance medicine platform. She also teaches medical students at RVUCOM as the director of the COM’s digital health track and is the director of lifestyle and performance medicine at the HCA HealthONE family medicine residency program in Aurora, Colorado. She also volunteers with several professional medical associations, including serving on the AOiA’s Digital Health Innovation Steering Committee. Her multifaceted career reflects her diverse commitment to service. Below is an edited Q&A. What was your path to osteopathic medicine? As a proud Colorado
31 March 2026
31 March 2026
Dissertation: Lifestyle affecting cardiac health already in eight-year-olds | News
“Atherosclerosis is important because the main diseases many middle-aged and older people fear, such as heart attack and stroke, are based on atherosclerotic changes,” said Juta Kraav, a clinical evaluator at the State Agency of Medicines and a recent doctoral graduate of University of Tartu. At the same time, autopsy studies from the 1990s have already shown that processes indicating the disease begin much earlier. Those studies revealed that even very young children can have fatty deposits and fibrous plaques in their blood vessel walls that point to atherosclerosis. “This has raised interest in how extensive these vascular changes are at a younger age and what factors might influence these processes,” Kraav noted. She also sought answers to these questions in her recently defended doctoral thesis. To do so, Kraav analyzed data from long-term follow-up studies of children in Estonia and Finland. Although the two studies differed in design, she and her colleagues examined changes in the health indicators of participating children over an eight-year period. More specifically, Kraav was interested in how vascular health is related to other indicators: physical activity, physical fitness, body composition and skeletal development. “We were most interested in how all of these factors work
31 March 2026
31 March 2026
Millie Bobby Brown’s Olympics Netflix Movie Canceled, Reason Revealed
Millie Bobby Brown’s Olympics movie that was supposed to come out on Netflix has been canceled. Brown is best known for playing Eleven/Jane Hopper in Netflix’s Stranger Things show. She also stars as the titular character in the Enola Holmes movies and played Madison Russell in both 2019’s Godzilla: King of the Monsters and 2021’s Godzilla vs. Kong. Additionally, Brown has been in Netflix movies Damsel, which was released in 2024, and 2025’s The Electric State. Why has Millie Bobby Brown’s Olympics Netflix movie been canceled? Per Deadline, Brown was previously attached to play Olympic gymnast Kerri Strug in a Netflix sports drama movie called Perfect; however, the project is now being scrapped. The reason for the cancellation is because Brown left the project due to “creative differences” with producers. Further details beyond that are not available at this time. Originally announced last fall, Perfect would have been directed by Gia Coppola and Ronnie Sandahl. Deadline’s article states, “The film was set to follow Brown as Strug, A member of the 1996 USA gymnastics team dubbed ‘the Magnificent Seven,’ Strug played a huge role in clinching the gold after performing the vault on a badly injured ankle. The image of
10 April 2026
Phoebe Dynevor’s New Shark Movie Out Today on Netflix
Netflix subscribers can now watch Bridgerton breakout Phoebe Dynevor in a brand new shark thriller movie from Violent Night director Tommy Wirkola. As of today, Dynevor’s survival thriller film Thrash is finally available to stream on Netflix. This marks the British star’s latest movie with the streamer after 2023’s erotic thriller Fair Play. What do we know about Phoebe Dynevor’s Thrash movie? “Amidst a catastrophic hurricane, a coastal town battles nature’s wrath and an onslaught of sharks,” reads the official synopsis. “Braving torrential rain, debris, and darkness, they unite to survive the deadly predators and make it through the storm.” Thrash was written and directed by Wirkola. The Norwegian filmmaker is best known for his work on the satire horror franchise Dead Snow, Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters, and Violent Night. Joining Dynevor are Djimon Hounsou, Whitney Peak, Matt Nable, Costa D’Angelo, Alyla Browne, Stacy Clausen, Elijah Ungvary, Andrew Lees, Amy Mathews, Gemma Dart, Dante Ubaldi, Jon Prasida, and more. The movie was produced by Adam McKay and Kevin J. Messick, with D. Scott Lumpkin serving as an executive producer. The creative team consisted of cinematographer Matthew Weston, editors Jim Page and Martin Stoltz, production designer David Ingram, costume designer
10 April 2026
All Seasons of Bryan Cranston’s Gritty Crime Series To Exit Netflix
All seasons of Bryan Cranston’s legal drama series will be making their way out of Netflix’s content library next month. It follows a judge who tries to save his son after he gets involved in a hit-and-run accident. Your Honor leaves Netflix in May Netflix subscribers won’t be able to stream Your Honor Seasons 1-2 on the platform from Sunday, May 31, 2026. The series is the official adaptation of the 2017 Israeli TV series titled Kvodo, which is the Hebrew translation of Your Honor. Meanwhile, Peter Moffat developed the English remake for the Showtime network. He is known for creating the popular British series, Criminal Justice, which was later adapted into HBO’s critically acclaimed mini-series, The Night Of. The story centers on Michael Desiato, a respected judge in New Orleans. His life spirals out of control when his son, Adam, kills a person in a hit-and-run. To make things worse, the victim turns out to be the son of a dangerous crime boss, Jimmy Baxter. When Michael learns who the victim was, he panics and decides to cover up the crime to protect his Adam. In Your Honor Season 2, the story deepens as Michael teams up with authorities
10 April 2026
Euphoria Season 3 Release Date, Time, Where to Watch
The Euphoria Season 3 Episode 1 release date and time are right around the corner. Following a four-year hiatus, the popular drama series finally returns with its third and possibly final installment. The upcoming season picks up five years after the events of Season 2, following familiar faces from East Highland High such as Jules, Nate, Cassie, and Maddy. The series centers on the characters as they navigate adulthood and life beyond graduation. Season 3 will continue to explore themes of addiction, identity, and relationships, featuring eight episodes in total. Euphoria Season 3 returns with the original cast led by Zendaya, Sydney Sweeney, and Jacob Elordi. The show also stars Hunter Schafer, Alexa Demie, Maude Apatow, Chloe Cherry, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, and the late Eric Dane. So, here’s everything you need to know about the release date of Euphoria’s new season. When is the Euphoria Season 3 Episode 1 release date & time? The episode’s release date is Sunday, April 12, and its release time is 6:00 p.m. PT and 9:00 p.m. ET. Check out its release times in the U.S. below: Timezone Release Date Release Time Eastern Time April 12, 2026 9:00 p.m. Pacific Time April 12, 2026 6:00 p.m.
10 April 2026
Sequel to Cult Slasher Horror in Works 2 Decades Later With Returning Cast
A sequel to Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon is now moving forward nearly 20 years after the original horror movie earned a dedicated cult following. The project will continue the narrative of the serial killer, while also reuniting key actors from the original film. Behind the Mask II: The Return of Leslie Vernon is in development After nearly two decades, a sequel to Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon is officially in progress. Variety has confirmed that Behind the Mask II: The Return of Leslie Vernon is now in development. The upcoming movie will revisit the story of Leslie Vernon, continuing the story of the aspiring serial killer whose journey helped the original film gain a lasting cult following. The project sees the return of its original creative team, with Scott Glosserman back as director and David J. Stieve once again penning the script. The sequel will also reunite its principal cast, including Nathan Baesel returning as Leslie Vernon, Angela Goethals reprising her role as Taylor Gentry, and Robert Englund back as Doc Halloran. According to Glosserman, sustained audience interest over the years played a major role in bringing the sequel to this stage. He
10 April 2026
OBAA’s Chase Infiniti Lists ‘3 Things’ She Learned From Leonardo DiCaprio
Chase Infiniti spoke about her experience working on One Battle After Another, and she explained what she carried forward into her next project. She discussed her role in The Testaments and also shared what she learned from Leonardo DiCaprio during OBAA’s filming. Chase Infiniti talks about what she learned from Leonardo DiCaprio In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Chase Infiniti shared how working alongside Leonardo DiCaprio on One Battle After Another shaped her approach. She later used those lessons while taking a central role in The Testaments. The shift in responsibility brought more focus on how she handled the set. She explained one of the key things she noticed about DiCaprio, and it stayed consistent. Infiniti said, “I think the thing I learned the most from Leo is he’s just such an incredible, gentle leader, and I really admired that. And also his level of professionalism that he has.” She also pointed out his behavior toward others, and that stood out clearly. She said his “kindness” made an impact, especially given his level of experience. Infiniti described how he treated everyone with respect, and how that influenced her directly. She said, “Somebody at that level in their career [would] really
10 April 2026
The Pitt Star Joins David Harbour on Horror Movie From Robert Downey Jr.
Casting continues to heat up for the upcoming psychological horror adaptation A Head Full of Ghosts. The project, which counts Robert Downey Jr. among its big-name producers, has just added another familiar face from The Pitt to its growing cast. Fiona Dourif cast in A Head Full of Ghosts Fiona Dourif, who currently stars as Dr. Cassie McKay in the hit Max medical drama The Pitt, has officially joined the cast of A Head Full of Ghosts, Variety reported. The actress will appear opposite a strong lineup that includes Stranger Things star David Harbour, Rebecca Hall, and Esmé Creed-Miles. The film, based on Paul Tremblay’s acclaimed book, tells the chilling story of a suburban family torn apart when their teenage daughter’s apparent descent into madness becomes the subject of an exploitative reality television show. The arc shifts between the horrific events of the past and a present-day reckoning 15 years later, as the surviving sister confronts a journalist about the true nature of the evil that destroyed her home. Dourif and Harbour step into the roles of the parents caught in this media-fueled nightmare. Bodhi Rae Breathnach plays Marjorie, the older teenage sister whose erratic behavior sets the tragedy in
10 April 2026
81歲李家鼎悲痛暴瘦至120磅 遺憾未見前妻最後一面 回顧17年婚姻半生緣 | UHK 港生活
痛失摯愛夜夜垂淚 暴瘦僅剩120磅 據悉，由於大仔李泳漢早前行使監護令，阻撓鼎爺與幼子李泳豪探望施明，令至親錯失了與施明訣別的機會。81歲的鼎爺坦承，收到前妻離世的噩耗後大受打擊，幾乎每晚以淚洗面，在極度悲哀下體重急跌至僅剩120磅。雖然兩人早已離婚，但鼎爺多年來一直肩負起施明的生活開支，可見情深義重。他受訪時更深情表示：「佢知我好愛錫佢。」 回首半生緣：因英雄救美結緣 抱憾未能復合 回顧鼎爺與施明昔日的17年婚姻與半生緣，當年施明遇上交通意外並遭惡漢恐嚇，鼎爺挺身而出「一打六」為女方解圍，成功抱得美人歸。兩人相戀四年後正式結婚，並育有一對雙胞胎兒子李泳漢、李泳豪。 無奈這段婚姻最終敵不過性格不合。施明曾透露，當年雙方因為鼎爺堅持外出教授騎馬而爆發激烈口角，成為她單方面斬斷情絲、帶同兩子遠走美國的導火線。雖然長年累月的摩擦令女方心灰意冷，但鼎爺直言，自己多年來在心底裡一直期盼著能與施明破鏡重圓。 Source link
10 April 2026
Has The Miniature Wife Season 2 Been Canceled or Renewed?
Fans are wondering whether Season 2 of The Miniature Wife has been renewed or canceled. This captivating sci-fi comedy-drama showcases the seemingly flawless marriage of a high-powered executive and his successful wife. Their lives take a strange twist when a mysterious accident causes her to shrink to a tiny size. Viewers are increasingly curious, and many are asking if the story will carry on. So, is Season 2 happening? Here’s all the information you need about what’s next for The Miniature Wife. Is The Miniature Wife canceled or renewed for Season 2? As of now, The Miniature Wife has neither been renewed nor canceled for Season 2 by Peacock. The fate of The Miniature Wife Season 2 is still up in the air, as the series has not yet been officially renewed or canceled. Given that the show has just premiered, the network might not have had sufficient time to assess its overall performance. This scenario is quite typical for newly launched series, particularly those in their inaugural season. The first season debuted on April 9, 2026, on Peacock. The platform is likely in the process of collecting crucial data such as viewership statistics, audience interaction, and critical feedback before
10 April 2026
Man of Tomorrow Should Cast Adria Arjona as DCU’s Maxima, Here’s Why
If all the pieces fall properly into place, Adria Arjona could be the perfect Maxima in the upcoming Man of Tomorrow movie. DC Studios and Warner Bros. Pictures’ Man of Tomorrow is scheduled to be released in United States theaters next year. A follow-up to 2025’s Superman, the movie is once again being written and directed by James Gunn. Nicholas Hoult and David Corenswet are reprising their respective DCU roles as Lex Luthor and Clark Kent/Superman. A flood of Man of Tomorrow casting news hit the internet yesterday, as Deadline initially reported that Marisa Abela, Adria Arjona, and Ella Purnell had already begun screen testing for the movie’s potential Maxima role. Gunn very quickly threw cold water on this report and called the outlet out for “shoddy & incorrect” journalism. While Gunn wouldn’t confirm whether or not Maxima is actually in the movie at this time, The Hollywood Reporter then said the four names who are being considered for the role are Arjona, Eva De Dominici, Sydney Chandler, and Grace Van Patten. Deadline first edited their article to only say that Arjona was being considered, though they then added the other three names later. Why should Adria Arjona play Maxima
10 April 2026
Hilarious Netflix TV Show Returns for Surprise Season 3
Netflix and the BBC are bringing back a hilarious TV series for a surprise third season, with an entirely new premise. What Netflix TV show is back for a surprise Season 3? According to Variety, Netflix and the BBC are bringing back the character of Philomena Cunk for a third season. The character, who was created by comedian Diane Morgan and Charlie Brooker, and played by Morgan, is best known for her deadpan style as the host of several satirical documentaries. The third season of the show, titled Cunk on Cinema, will see the three-part series air on the BBC in the U.K. and Ireland, and globally on Netflix. The new show is described as the “most glamorous series to date,” and will see the fictional character examining the world of movies and people’s love for them. “Cunk will attempt to demystify it all while sitting in lumpy seats with stale popcorn, asking herself where did cinema come from? And why? What does it want? And why can’t it tell us?” reads the synopsis of the series. “Cinema has given the world some of the most profound, memorable and moving visual moments in its unswerving depiction of the human condition: the shower scene
9 April 2026
Legendary Konami Video Game Getting Movie From Final Destination Bloodlines Directors
One of the most legendary video game franchises ever is once again being planned for a potential movie, with the Final Destination Bloodlines directors attached to it. What Konami video game is getting the movie treatment? According to a new report from THR, a Metal Gear Solid movie is officially in the works, with directing duo Zach Lipovsky and Adam B. Stein now attached to the adaptation of the project. According to the report, the duo’s commitment to Metal Gear Solid comes as a part of a first-look deal the duo has signed with Sony Pictures, which covers all of the studio’s film labels. The Metal Gear Solid franchise was originally created by legendary creator, designer, writer, and director Hideo Kojima, and this would be the first time a movie adaptation has been made. Previously, one was reported to be in the works from director Jordan Vogt-Roberts, who seems to no likely be connected to the project. The franchise spans a litany of games, and follows the transgenerational story of Snake, a special forces operative tasked with finding the superweapon known as Metal Gear. Speaking on the game franchise, the duo called the franchise “nothing short of a groundbreaking cinematic
9 April 2026
Connections Help, Hints & Clues for Today, April 10
Stuck on the April 10, 2026 (#1034) edition of NYT Connections? Check out these clues and hints below to guide you through today’s puzzle as well as the final answers. Connection by The New York Times is a popular daily word game that fans can play online for free. The puzzle presents a set of 16 different words that may look unrelated but are actually linked by some hidden themes. To solve it, players need to identify these connections and sort the words into groups of four accordingly. However, the game allows only four mistakes, which further adds to the difficulty. The groups are color-coded based on their level of difficulty. For instance, yellow typically features the most obvious theme, while purple is the trickiest to figure out. Moreover, the game also sends a “one away…” pop-up as a hint. Check out the hints and answers for the April 10 Connections puzzle below. Connections hints for April 10 Here are some hints for each group: Yellow Group: The foods in this group are extremely spicy. Green Group: This collection features objects that have one attribute in common. Blue Group: This set includes words related to a popular type of cheese.
9 April 2026
Wednesday Season 3 Adds Game of Thrones Star & More to Jenna Ortega TV Show
Wednesday Season 3 has added three big stars to the cast of the Jenna Ortega Netflix show. Created by Alfred Gough and Miles Millar, Wednesday is the supernatural mystery comedy show centered around Wednesday Addams, the Addams Family character who was created by Charles Addams. The first season premiered in 2022, while Season 2 then arrived last year. In July 2025, the show was renewed for a third season. Who has joined the cast of Wednesday Season 3? Per The Hollywood Reporter, it has now been announced that Lena Headey, Andrew McCarthy, and James Lance have joined the cast of Wednesday Season 3. Character details are not available at this time. It was previously announced that the Wednesday Session 3 cast will also include Eva Green, Winona Ryder, Chris Sarandon, Noah Taylor, Oscar Morgan, and Kennedy Moyer. Others who are returning from previous seasons include Ortega, Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia Addams, Luis Guzmán as Gomez Addams, Emma Myers as Enid Sinclair, Hunter Doohan as Tyler Galpin, Joy Sunday as Bianca Barclay, Moosa Mostafa as Eugene Ottinger, Georgie Farmer as Ajax Petropolus, Isaac Ordonez as Pugsley Addams, Billie Piper as Isadora Capri, Luyanda Unati Lewis-Nyawo as Sheriff Ritchie Santiago, Victor Dorobantu
9 April 2026
Chicago Med Boss & Oliver Platt Explain if Dr. Charles Dies
Questions surrounding whether Dr. Charles dies in Chicago Med have been addressed by Oliver Platt and showrunner Allen MacDonald. They discussed the aftermath of Dr. Charles’ medical emergency. As speculation builds, their comments provide clarity on whether the character survives. Dr. Charles fate answered by Chicago Med team The latest episode of Chicago Med delivers a clear update on the condition of Dr. Daniel Charles, confirming his fate after the medical emergency that closed out the previous episode. The episode follows the immediate aftermath of his stroke, with the hospital team stepping in to stabilize him, while also exploring his internal experience during the crisis. The episode begins with Sharon Goodwin, played by S. Epatha Merkerson, discovering Charles and starting an emergency response. He is rushed into surgery, where Steven Weber’s Dean Archer and Brennan Brown’s Dr. Abrams carry out a high-risk procedure. During the operation, Charles flatlines at one point, raising the stakes. However, the team is ultimately able to complete the surgery successfully. His survival is confirmed at the end of the episode when he regains consciousness, with Sharon by his side. Actor Oliver Platt explained that the episode was designed to reveal more about Charles through the
9 April 2026
Daredevil, The Boys & Invincible Fans Are All Saying the Same Thing
A rare midweek streaming clash delivered a punch fans didn’t expect. With Daredevil, The Boys, and Invincible all dropping episodes within hours, viewers flooded social media with the same reaction: peak superhero television just happened. Superhero fans loved watching Daredevil, The Boys and Invincible back to back For many viewers worldwide, all three shows landed almost together on Wednesday, even though Daredevil technically premiered Tuesday night in the U.S. The short six-hour gap meant fans got four back-to-back episodes of intense, TV-MA superhero storytelling in one sitting. It wasn’t planned as a crossover event, but it sure felt like one. Social media lit up instantly. Fans didn’t hold back their excitement, with one popular take reading, “Every single one of them cooked this week.” Another post summed up the mood perfectly: “From Invincible to Daredevil to The Boys, what a Wednesday man.” The reactions weren’t just hype, and they reflected how each show delivered strong episodes at the same time. Some viewers even shared memes to capture the moment. One viral post read, “Peak Daredevil Peak Invincible Peak Boys all within the same night,” paired with a satisfied anime reaction. Another simply called it, “Peak Television.” A different fan joked
9 April 2026
Michael J. Fox Responds to Tribute Video Triggering Death Scare
Actor Michael J. Fox reacted to a recent CNN mishap in which the outlet’s video suggested that the Back to the Future star had died. Following the publication, fans of the actor were worried and expressed concern. But Fox was quick to shut down the rumors. Michael J. Fox assures he’s ‘ok’ after tribute video sparks death speculation On Wednesday, April 8, 2026, CNN reportedly posted a video celebrating the veteran actor’s career (via TMZ). However, the post titled “Remembering the life of actor Michael J. Fox” appeared to suggest that the actor had passed away. The post immediately went viral, causing frenzy among fans. The Family Ties actor then responded to the claim, assuring fans that he was very much alive with a little bit of humor. On April 9, the actor posted his response on Threads. “How do you react when you turn on the TV and CNN is reporting your death?” he wrote in the post. “Do you…A) switch to MNSBC, or whatever they are calling themselves these days, (B) Pour scolding hot water on your lap, if it hurts your fine, (C) Call your wife, hopefully she’s concerned but reassuring, (D) Relax, they do this once
9 April 2026
One Ok Rock突發宣佈香港兩場演唱會取消 「無法預見且不可抗力之因素」 | UHK 港生活
One Ok Rock 香港場宣佈取消 演唱會主辦單位和演出單位One Ok Rock今日發出聲明表示因發生藝人與主辦方均無法預見且不可抗力的因素，令演出無法如期舉行，宣佈取消兩場演出。同時公開門票退款的具體詳情及程序，經Cityline、Trip.com或大麥購票平台購買的門票將自動全數退款。 聲明如下︰ 「我們遺憾地宣布，原定於 2026 年 5 月 2 日及 3 日舉行的 ONE OK ROCK DETOX Asia Tour 2026 in Hong Kong 宣告取消。 鑒於發生藝人與主辦方均無法預見且不可抗力之因素，儘管我們已盡最大努力多方協調，遺憾相關問題仍超出了可控制範圍，導致演出無法如期舉行。對此次突發取消，我們深表遺憾，並向所有期盼已久的樂迷致以最誠摯的歉意。 有關門票退款的具體詳情及程序，請參閱下方說明，或前往 Live Nation HK 官方網站查詢。 對此遺憾結果，我們深感抱歉，亦感謝各位的理解與包容。」 退款安排如下︰ 歌迷洗版式炮轟宣洩不滿 不少期待已久的歌迷在帖文下洗版式炮轟宣洩不滿，質疑何為不可抗力的因素，更指出整個亞洲巡迴只有上海和香港場宣佈取消，懷疑與中國的「限日令」有關，要求主辦方給予更詳盡的解釋「上次小犬颱風今次係咩？」、「咩係不可抗力？」、「明知會取消你就咪X搞啦」、「點解台灣無呢d問題？」和「又要蝕手續費？？」。 來源︰IG@oneokrockofficial, @livenationhk Source link
9 April 2026
Tom Holland Talks Matt Damon’s ‘Words of Wisdom’ on The Odyssey Set
Tom Holland shared details from his time on The Odyssey. He also talked about working closely with Matt Damon. The veteran actor gave him advice on set, and it clearly stayed with him. Tom Holland talks about the advice he got from Matt Damon Tom Holland discussed his upcoming projects in an interview with GQ. He spoke about working with Matt Damon, and how their interaction developed over time on set. Holland plays Telemachus in the film. He appears as the son of Damon’s Odysseus, and that dynamic carried into production. The two spent long hours together, and that allowed him to observe closely. He described Damon’s work ethic in clear terms, and the details remained consistent. Holland said, “I mean, we spent so much time together, and what I’m really grateful for with Matt is that he is exactly what I would have hoped he would be like. He was a leader.” He continued, “This was a very tough movie and no one worked harder than Matt did. And he always came to set with a smile on his face and he was gracious and he was so kind to the crew. And I think he really set the
9 April 2026
Paradise Season 3 Gets Amazing Release Date Update
Dan Fogelman knows better than to keep audiences waiting, and a new Paradise update proves Season 3 is no exception. The creator just made headlines with a move that signals Paradise has more surprises in store, on or off the screen. Paradise Season 3 filming update is good news for its release date Hulu’s hit post-apocalyptic thriller Paradise is wasting no time. Creator Dan Fogelman confirmed Season 3 is officially in production on April 7, just eight days after the Season 2 finale aired on March 30. The official Paradise account on X announced: “Almost like we never left. PARADISE Season 3 is officially in production.” Fogelman posted a director’s monitor grab on Instagram, captioning it “S3. Let’s go.” The image showed Sterling K. Brown’s Xavier and Enuka Okuma’s Teri, whose character was presumed dead in Season 1. Okuma was upgraded to a series regular for Season 2. The unfamiliar set suggests the story is heading somewhere new in Season 3. The rapid production turnaround strongly suggests a 2027 release, likely in the first half of the year. Season 1 began filming in February 2024 and premiered on January 26, 2025. Season 2 started filming in March 2025 and premiered on February 23, 2026,
9 April 2026
Scrubs Star Explains Dr. Cox’s Shocking Return & Health Crisis
John C. McGinley has addressed one of the Scrubs revival’s most anticipated developments ahead of the season finale. The actor broke down what Dr. Cox‘s unexpected return to Sacred Heart means for the character’s future. John C. McGinley breaks down Dr. Cox’s shocking diagnosis John C. McGinley has opened up about Dr. Cox’s surprise diagnosis in the Scrubs revival. In the April 8 episode, the character faints in the hallway at Sacred Heart after spending suspicious amounts of time at the hospital. J.D. (Zach Braff) subsequently takes over as his primary caregiver, despite Cox’s reluctance. McGinley described Cox’s illness as essential jeopardy for the show’s protagonist. “The protagonist needs a threat,” he told The Hollywood Reporter. “There has to be jeopardy. And right now, the threat is his interns not learning the way they should. But he also needs personal threat.” The episode also features a heartfelt scene between Cox and Dr. Elliot Reid (Sarah Chalke). Cox apologizes and admits he could have scared her away from medicine. McGinley told Variety the diagnosis prompts Cox to reconcile past relationships. When asked whether the diagnosis humbles Cox, McGinley was direct. “I wouldn’t bet on humbled,” he told Variety. He also called the episode “one of the best half
9 April 2026
Why Critics Hate Euphoria Season 3 Despite Zendaya & Sydney Sweeney
The first reviews for Euphoria Season 3 are coming in, and critics aren’t loving the return of the HBO show with Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney. The third season of Euphoria premieres on HBO Max this Sunday. Created by Sam Levinson, the show stars Zendaya as Rue Bennett, Sweeney as Cassie Howard, Hunter Schafer as Jules Vaughn, Jacob Elordi as Nate Jacobs, Colman Domingo as Ali Muhammed, Alexa Demie as Maddy Perez, and Maude Apatow as Lexi Howard. “A group of childhood friends wrestle with the virtue of faith, the possibility of redemption, and the problem of evil,” reads the official logline. What are critics saying about Euphoria Season 3? At the time of this article’s publication, the Rotten Tomatoes‘ Tomatometer score for Euphoria Season 3 is 53 percent with 19 reviews. This means that nearly half the critics who have seen episodes of Euphoria Season 3 dislike the way the show continues. Some of the big criticisms are that the show now feels spiritually hollow, it has an inconsistent narrative, and it’s unsure what to do with its characters now that they’re all outside of high school. Ben Travers wrote for IndieWire, “Most characters aren’t changing, nor are their motivations
9 April 2026
Iconic Disney Movie Gets 4K Release Date for New Remaster
One of Disney‘s most iconic movies of all time is getting a brand new 4K remaster, with the release date revealed. What iconic Disney movie is getting a 4K remaster? The iconic 1951 film Alice in Wonderland returns this year with a brand new 4K restoration, and is set to release on 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray on May 5, 2026. The new release sees the film having been meticulously restored and remastered in 4K Ultra HD by the Walt Disney Film Restoration team. According to Disney, the restoration took place over the course of nine months, and saw artists complete a digital scan of the original nitrate Successive Exposure negatives of the film, complete with a clean-up of the film. The team also worked closely with Walt Disney Animation Studios veteran Michael Giaimo to review every shot of the film. The release of the remaster also includes a litany of bonus features, including rare behind-the-scenes and archival material, including reference footage with commentary by Alice herself, voiced by Kathryn Beaumont, and companion shorts for the movie, including Thru the Mirror starring Mickey Mouse, Alice’s Wonderland, various other deleted scenes, and two music videos for “Beware the Jabberwock” and “If
9 April 2026
Hobby Lobby’s $15 Pop-Up Pet Crate Makes Traveling with Pets Stress-Free
There’s this moment every pet owner hits, the one where you realize traveling with your furry co-pilot isn’t quite as carefree as the cute Instagram posts made it seem. It’s not the long car rides or the pit stops that trip you up. It’s the in-between moments: figuring out where they’ll sit, how to keep them safe without stressing them out, and what to do when the carefully packed backseat turns into a minor chaos zone. 🐶SIGN UP to get “pawsitivity” delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾 That’s where Hobby Lobby’s Black Pop-Up Pet Crate quietly steals the show. It doesn’t look like much at first glance—just a simple, foldable crate, but it’s one of those pieces of gear that make you stop mid-trip and think, Oh, this actually makes sense. The Spring Shop Black Pop-Up Pet Crate, $14.99 at Hobby Lobby Hobby Lobby (Hobby Lobby) The setup is the definition of easy. It pops open in seconds into a soft, structured space that feels both sturdy and lightweight. Your pet gets a little home base that doesn’t feel like a cage, thanks to the breathable mesh panels on every
10 April 2026
Air NZ plans to expand digital ID trials to Australia flights after successful Hong Kong pilot
Instead of requiring passports to be repeatedly presented, cameras for facial scanning were installed at the checkpoints, where passengers’ biometric scans would be matched to the passport image shared from their digital wallet or app. Security, privacy and consent were prioritised through the trial, Air New Zealand said, ensuring participants were fully aware of when, how and with whom their information was shared. The first trial for digital IDs was completed on Air New Zealand’s Auckland-Hong Kong route in March, with the airline saying it was a success. Photo / Air New Zealand Currently, passengers have to present their passports at various points during check-in, boarding, transit and arrival. The airline said the technology would be used to simplify airport journeys and reduce the “time-consuming and fragmented” approach currently undertaken by processing teams, where separate checks are conducted by airlines, airports, border agencies and partner airlines. “Our ambition is to make travel easier from start to finish. That means fewer document checks, less time queueing and a smoother experience overall,” chief customer and digital officer Jeremy O’Brien said. “This trial shows how digital identity could help create a more seamless journey, while also improving security through encrypted data and customer-controlled
10 April 2026
Hong Kong unveils HK$1.66 billion tourism revival plan focused on premium and MICE travel
The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) on 9 April published a sweeping ‘Tourism Revival Blueprint 2026’ that commits HK$1.66 billion (US$212 million) to attract high-value visitors and rebuild the city’s meetings-and-events pipeline. The strategy, first reported by Travel and Tour World, places special emphasis on business travellers, mainland weekenders and long-haul premium segments whose spending per capita far exceeds mass-market package tourists. Key pillars include an expanded ‘Hong Kong Goodies’ digital pass bundling airport-express tickets with dining credits, subsidies that cover up to 50 per cent of venue rental for international conventions, and a year-round events calendar anchored by Art Basel, the Rugby Sevens and a relaunched Wine & Dine Festival. HKTB chair Pang Yiu-kai said the goal is to “move beyond recovery into repositioning Hong Kong as Asia’s most vibrant, connected gateway for culture and commerce.” For visitors inspired by these initiatives and needing clarity on entry requirements, VisaHQ provides a streamlined online service that helps travellers and event delegates obtain the correct Hong Kong visas quickly and securely. Its dedicated portal (https://www.visahq.com/hong-kong/) lets users check the latest rules, complete applications and track approvals in one place—saving organisers and business travellers precious time as they plan trips under the
10 April 2026
Hong Kong and Macau open talks on quarantine-free border travel
Officials from Hong Kong and the Macao SAR will meet on 10 April to draft a roadmap for the full resumption of cross-border commuting after Hong Kong recorded 12 consecutive days with no untraceable local Covid-19 infections. Macao’s Health Bureau stated that if the SAR maintains a clean epidemiological record for 14 days, the two sides could reinstate quarantine-free travel for vaccinated passengers as early as late April. Before the pandemic the Hong Kong–Macao corridor handled more than 46 million passenger movements a year, underpinning sizeable gaming, MICE and high-end retail revenue on both sides of the Pearl River Delta. Since 2020, however, sporadic outbreaks have kept onerous testing and isolation rules in place, cutting traffic to a trickle and complicating same-day business trips. The proposed framework would initially recognise each side’s digital vaccination certificates and allow daily quotas for residents and business travellers, with PCR testing to be phased out in a second stage. Travellers preparing for the long-awaited reopening can streamline paperwork well in advance. VisaHQ, a global visa and passport facilitation platform, provides up-to-date guidance on Hong Kong and Macao entry rules and can help with vaccination certificate uploads, health declarations and any required travel permits through
10 April 2026
Hong Kong International Airport named the best in the world for 2026
The Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has officially been crowned the best airport in the world at the Global Travel Awards 2026. The result comes from a vote where 2.5 million travellers from more than 150 countries across the globe had their say. After years of playing catch-up with top-tier airports in Asia, the Middle East, and other regions, the people have spoken – and they’ve put Hong Kong at the top. What seems to have impressed voters is the airport’s consistently high performance in areas including security processing, aviation infrastructure, passenger services, and continuous enhancement of passenger facilities. The journey through the terminals has become a notably smoother experience, thanks to some snazzy tech upgrades like its facial recognition technology, which now powers fully automated security gates, immigration channels, and boarding gates. Photograph: Cara Hung The airport is also in the middle of a major overhaul of its security screening process, where traditional X-ray channels are being replaced by CT-driven screening. This will also be available at the upcoming Terminal 2 – set to fully open next month – alongside other upgrades of passenger facilities. The Global Travel Awards win was not the only achievement added to the wall this
10 April 2026
Electronic Travel Authorisation Fee Jumps to £20, Adding Extra Cost for Short-Term Visitors
Just six weeks after electronic travel authorisation (ETA) became mandatory for all non-visa-exempt visitors, the UK Government has applied a 25 % price increase. From 8 April 2026 the digital permission now costs £20, up from £16. For those unsure how to navigate the new digital permit, VisaHQ’s online portal (https://www.visahq.com/united-kingdom/) can submit the ETA on your behalf, monitor its approval in real time and alert you to any issues, streamlining the process for individual travellers, corporate bookers and HR teams alike. The Home Office argues that the new price better reflects development and carrier-integration costs as the scheme moves from pilot to full enforcement. For travellers from the United States, Canada, Australia and the EU—who previously enjoyed fee-free entry—the increase means an additional upfront payment every two years (the ETA remains valid for multiple trips within that period). Although modest in absolute terms, airlines fear the optics of a rapid post-launch hike and worry it could deter price-sensitive leisure traffic in the shoulder season. The effect on Indian nationals and other visa-required citizens is sharper. They must already pay for a visit visa (£135) and now need an ETA as well for any trip that involves passing UK border
10 April 2026
Dozens of Flights Disrupted at Vancouver International Airport
Vancouver International Airport is experiencing a fresh wave of disruption on April 9, with publicly available data indicating more than 50 delayed flights and at least seven cancellations affecting major routes to Toronto, Hong Kong, San Francisco, Frankfurt, Munich and other destinations served by Air Canada, WestJet, Lufthansa, American Airlines and additional carriers. Get the latest news straight to your inbox! Broad Disruptions Across Key Domestic and International Routes Operational data for April 9 shows that Vancouver International Airport has entered another day of strained schedules, with a high concentration of delayed departures and arrivals across both domestic and long haul international services. Monitoring platforms that track on time performance list over 50 flights running behind schedule and multiple services cancelled outright, creating a ripple effect across Canada, the United States, Europe and Asia. Flights between Vancouver and Toronto appear among the most consistently affected, reflecting the importance of this corridor as a trunk route for both point to point travellers and those connecting onward to Europe, the United States and Asia. Even modest departure delays on this sector can trigger missed connections at hubs such as Toronto Pearson, leaving passengers rebooked onto later services or rerouted through alternative cities.
10 April 2026
Japan and South Korea scrap pandemic-era flight caps on Hong Kong routes
Hong Kong’s aviation sector received a major boost on 9 April when officials confirmed that both Japan and South Korea will abolish the special limits that have, since late 2024, capped the number of passenger flights airlines could operate from the city. Under the rules imposed at the height of the post-pandemic recovery, Hong Kong carriers were restricted to specific airports—Narita, Haneda, Kansai and Chitose in Japan, and Incheon in South Korea—and faced tight weekly slot quotas. The two governments have now told the Hong Kong SAR that the caps will be fully lifted with immediate effect for Japan and from 1 March for South Korea. Cathay Pacific says it will ramp up services to 83 weekly flights to Japan in April and 94 in May—up from 72 in March—while HK Express has indicated that it will review its summer schedule “based on demand and regulatory conditions.” The Airport Authority expects overall seat capacity on Japan and Korea routes to climb by at least 20 per cent this quarter, restoring two of Hong Kong’s busiest short-haul business and leisure markets to near-2019 frequencies. Whether you’re a corporate traveller racing to a last-minute meeting in Seoul or a holiday-maker planning hanami
10 April 2026
Hong Kong logs 6.27 million cross-border passenger trips over Easter–Qingming ‘super break’
Hong Kong’s boundary control points were pushed to near-pre-pandemic volumes during the rare five-day Easter–Qingming holiday that ran from April 3-7. According to official Immigration Department tallies reported by China Daily, a combined 6.27 million inbound and outbound passenger movements were recorded–28 percent higher than the four-day Easter period in 2025. Behind the headline number lies an important mobility trend for corporates and travel managers: Hong Kong residents are embracing the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link (XRL) as a substitute for constrained air capacity, while the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) continues to break daily records for north- and southbound private cars. Lo Wu, Lok Ma Chau Spur Line and West Kowloon high-speed rail station were the three busiest checkpoints, confirming that land and rail corridors have fully normalised. The statistics also show a re-balancing of flows. Amid this uptick in cross-border activity, VisaHQ (https://www.visahq.com/hong-kong/) can take the administrative sting out of travel by letting corporates and individual passengers check entry rules for Hong Kong, Mainland China and more than 200 other destinations, file visa applications online and track approvals in real time—ensuring paperwork keeps pace with surging demand. Of the 6.27 million trips, 2.37 million were Hong Kong residents departing
10 April 2026
Vietnam confirms top leader’s China visit in mid-April
Vietnam confirmed on Thursday that top leader To Lam will visit China next week at the invitation of counterpart Xi Jinping, his first foreign trip since becoming president. To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, takes an oath as Vietnam’s president during a National Assembly’s session in Hanoi on April 7, 2026, capping his bid to centralise authority in a nation where senior cadres have traditionally governed collectively. Photo: Dang Anh/AFP. The Communist Party boss was elected president — the number two position in Vietnamese politics — by the National Assembly on Tuesday, unifying leadership of the party and state as Xi did in China. Lam and his spouse “will lead a high-level delegation on a State visit to China from April 14-17, 2026,” Vietnam’s foreign ministry said in a statement. An official briefed on Lam’s travel plans previously told AFP the trip would begin April 15, saying the Vietnamese leader would meet with Xi. See also: Vietnam’s new leader To Lam meets China’s Xi Jinping in Beijing on first overseas trip Despite rival territorial claims in the South China Sea, the two socialist states have sought to deepen already close economic ties to guard against global
10 April 2026
Overlapping holidays see travel surge between Shenzhen, Hong Kong
The overlapping Qingming Festival and public holiday in China’s Hong Kong from April 3 to 7 brought a surge in cross-border traveling between the special administrative region and neighboring Shenzhen City in the southern Guangdong Province on the mainland. Data released by Shenzhen’s rail authorities showed that from April 3 to 7, the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link saw 642,000 cross-border passenger trips, up 22.5 percent year on year. And on April 3, 86,000 mainland-bound passenger trips were made from Hong Kong via the rail link, a new single-day record. During the five-day holiday period, Shenzhen government rolled out a wide range of cultural programs for tourists, including a Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area flower show and special performances such as stand-up comedies and classical music concerts. Hong Kong tourists enjoyed seamlessly connected experiences — they can watch the performances right after border inspections, then begin shopping in Shenzhen’s commercial areas soon after the shows, thanks to the “one-hour living circle” of the Greater Bay Area facilitated by convenient transportation, customs clearances and cross-border payments. Overlapping holidays see travel surge between Shenzhen, Hong Kong Cheng Li-wun, chairwoman of the Chinese Kuomintang (KMT) party, on Thursday warned against “needless contradictions and
10 April 2026
‘All’ UK holidaymakers warned to check before flying abroad – full A-Z list
UK holidaymakers are being urged to follow guidance before jetting off abroad Fiona Callingham Lifestyle writer 15:57, 09 Apr 2026 Brits are urged to do one thing before going on holiday abroad(Image: Getty) Brits planning foreign holidays are being advised to follow important guidance before departure. According to experts, the advice applies to “all” travellers. In information published on the Travel Health Pro website, holidaymakers were urged to thoroughly investigate their destinations prior to travel. This encompasses reviewing Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advice concerning your intended country. Following this guidance, which covers potential health and security issues, will assist you to “stay safe”. Travel Health Pro stated: “Most travellers have a safe, enjoyable trip without any problems, but basic precautions should be taken to help maintain personal safety. “The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) recommend all travellers from the United Kingdom (UK) prepare well and research their destinations before they go.” It added: “FCDO travel advice provides country-specific safety and security advice, along with information about local laws and customs. “Researching destinations before departure (ideally before booking a trip) and following FCDO advice helps you stay safe.” When the FCDO considers the travel risk to be “unacceptably
9 April 2026
American Travelers Must Now Pay Double To Visit A Top Tourist Destination
The United Kingdom consistently ranks as a top tourist destination among American travelers. But tourism industry experts fear this might change after the U.K. officially increased its mandatory Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) fee as of the deadline on Wednesday, April 8. Americans, who are no longer exempt from getting an ETA for short-term visits up to six months, must now pay double the original cost since its launch over two years ago. The price hike comes a year after the U.K. government already increased its ETA fee by 60% in 2025, which drew concerns among international travelers and local tourism leaders. Here’s everything American travelers should know about the new U.K. ETA costs, how it could impact U.S. visits that currently lead U.K. inbound tourism, as well as the cheapest and easiest way to get an ETA. Why Americans Must Now Pay Double For An ETA To Enter The U.K. Border passport control entrance gates at Heathrow Airport , London, UK.Credit: Shutterstock The U.K. government has now increased its ETA fee from £16 ($22) to £20 ($27), officially doubling its price from £10 ($13) upon its launch in October 2023. Initially, the U.K. government announced the price increase without releasing an
9 April 2026
UK Electronic Travel Authorisation Fee Jumps 25 % From Today, Adding Cost for Indian Visitors
Indian holiday-makers and business travellers heading to the United Kingdom will pay more from 8 April: the fee for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) rises from £16 to £20—about ₹2,463 at today’s rates—only seven weeks after the digital permit became mandatory for travellers from 85 visa-exempt nations. Although Indian citizens still need a separate visit visa, they now face a two-step entry process: first securing the standard six-month visit visa (currently £135) and then applying for an ETA if transiting through a British port en route to another destination or if their carrier requires the permit at check-in. For those who’d rather not juggle multiple government portals, VisaHQ can manage the paperwork end-to-end. Through its India page (https://www.visahq.com/india/), the service lets travellers upload documents once, tracks ETA and visa applications simultaneously, and alerts you the moment a decision is made—helping to avoid last-minute airport surprises. Airlines have warned that passengers lacking an approved ETA risk being denied boarding. The Home Office says the increase reflects “operational costs” of scaling the ETA system nationwide. Frequent travellers, including senior executives who transit London hubs, should expect higher annual mobility budgets. Immigration advisers recommend building at least 96 hours into travel schedules
9 April 2026
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Fee Hiked 25 % to £20
The cost of the UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) has leapt from £16 to £20 with effect from 8 April 2026—the first increase since the digital permission launched 18 months ago. The Home Office confirmed the change in an updated factsheet and fee table published overnight and carriers were instructed to apply the higher charge from 00:01 BST. For travellers looking to simplify the ETA process, visa specialists VisaHQ can handle the application end-to-end, double-checking that passport data is entered correctly and that the newest £20 fee is paid to avoid airport surprises. Their UK portal (https://www.visahq.com/united-kingdom/) offers live status tracking and secure document upload, making it easier for both leisure visitors and corporate travel managers to keep on top of the new rules. Although £4 may sound minor, the rise adds £16 to the bill for a family of four and comes on top of wider visa-fee inflation. Travellers from 85 visa-exempt countries—including the United States, Canada and all EU states—must now hold an ETA before boarding transport to the UK, even for connecting flights that require clearing passport control. Indian nationals, who already need a visitor visa, will in most cases also have to obtain an ETA
9 April 2026
Record 29,800 vehicles cross Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge in single day
The Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge (HZMB) set a new traffic record on 6 April, handling 29,800 vehicles in 24 hours, Zhuhai’s immigration police reported the next day. Of those, 22,800 were Hong Kong- or Macao-plated passenger cars, underscoring the popularity of the ‘Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Cars’ scheme that allows private motorists to drive into Guangdong without intermediary permits. For businesses and individual travellers looking to navigate the evolving permit and visa requirements around the Greater Bay Area, VisaHQ provides streamlined China visa and document-processing services through its online platform (https://www.visahq.com/china/). By outsourcing the paperwork to VisaHQ, corporates can focus on adjusting mobility policies while drivers receive up-to-date guidance on compliant cross-border travel. During the Qingming long weekend, more than 77,400 vehicles used the HZMB highway port, 72.8 % of them single-plate cars. Border officers activated contingency rosters and real-time data sharing with Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao police forces to keep waits below 20 minutes at peak. For corporate mobility managers, the figures illustrate how self-drive travel is reshaping cross-boundary commuting patterns within the Greater Bay Area. Companies that run facilities on both sides of the Pearl River Delta may find that staff increasingly prefer personal vehicles over shuttle
9 April 2026
HK fire safety contractor admits no site visits despite shutdown notices
A fire contractor that notified the government about deactivating Wang Fuk Court‘s fire safety systems did so despite never conducting inspections at the estate, the firm’s director has said. Wang Fuk Court residential buildings after the fire. Photo: Kyle Lam/HKFP. Hearings into the deadly Tai Po blaze in November continued on Wednesday with testimony from Leung Ping-kay, a director of China Status Development and Engineering, one of the two fire safety contractors at the estate. Leung appeared at City Gallery, where the hearings held by an independent committee tasked with investigating the fire are taking place. He answered questions from lawyers about his firm’s involvement in overseeing fire safety at Wang Fuk Court. He said the company was tasked by Prestige Construction & Engineering, the main contractor for the large-scale renovation project at the estate, to apply to the Fire Services Department (FSD) to shut down the fire hydrant and hose reel system so that water tank maintenance could be carried out. China Status applied for shutdown notices for Wang Fuk Court’s eight blocks between April and September last year, filing for a total of 85 extensions as each shutdown lasts a maximum of 14 days under FSD rules. Wang
8 April 2026
Pets reshape travel trends in India
Pet ownership is increasingly influencing travel decisions among Indian travellers, with demand rising for pet-friendly accommodation and flexible itineraries. Booking.com data highlights how pets are shaping destination choices, travel modes, and experiences, signalling a shift towards more personalised and inclusive travel planning. Booking.com has revealed that nearly 15 million global searches for pet-friendly accommodation were recorded in 2025, making it one of the top filters on the platform. The data indicates that pets will continue to play a central role in shaping travel behaviour in 2026, particularly among Indian travellers. The findings show a growing preference for flexible and pet-inclusive travel, with 93% of Indian travellers favouring spontaneous road trips. This trend is supported by a lower inclination to fly with pets, with only 56% opting for air travel. The shift points towards increased demand for self-drive and short-haul journeys. Accommodation and itinerary preferences evolve Indian travellers travelling with pets are prioritising accommodation that offers space and flexibility. The data indicates a preference for vacation rentals and apartments, reflecting the need for pet-friendly amenities and comfort during longer stays. Pets are also influencing itinerary planning. According to the research, 64% of travellers visited dog-friendly beaches or swimming areas, while an
8 April 2026
What It Means For International Travellers
London, UK | Image credit: chan lee/Unsplash Overview The UK has increased its ETA fee from GBP 16 (USD 21.47) to GBP 20 (USD 26.83), applicable from April 8. British and Irish citizens, including dual nationals, don’t need an ETA presently. But, they must present a British passport or a Certificate of Entitlement. Your next trip to the UK just got more expensive. The UK’s Home Office recently published its latest round of immigration, nationality, and passport fee hikes. Under this, the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) fee – a mandatory digital travel permit required for visa-exempt travellers visiting or transiting the UK – is set to increase by 25 percent, from GBP 16 (USD 21.47) to GBP 20 (USD 26.83). Planning to visit? Elevate your itinerary with our guide to the most beautiful places to visit in the UK. Travellers, take note: Currently, an ETA is not required for international visitors passing through Heathrow and Manchester airports without going through UK Passport Control. What travellers must know about the UK’s ETA fee hike Tower Bridge, London, United Kingdom | Image credit: Charles Postiaux/Unsplash For the uninitiated, travellers visiting the UK originally required either a visa or an ETA, depending on
8 April 2026
WTTC report outlines steps for Hong Kong to rebuild international tourism
Hong Kong can strengthen its position as an international tourism destination by expanding into new source markets and higher-value segments, according to a report by the WTTC. The report, Travel & Tourism in Hong Kong SAR, China: Recovery, Gaps, and the Road Ahead, highlights the need to diversify beyond China and increase engagement with markets in South-east Asia, the Middle East and India, as well as cities beyond Guangdong. Hong Kong is working to diversify visitor markets and strengthen longhaul travel as its tourism sector recovers International arrivals are projected to reach 50.3 million in 2025, still 22.9 per cent below the 2018 peak of 65.3 million. Visitors from China are expected to account for 76 per cent of arrivals, with international travellers making up 24 per cent. The sector contributes an estimated US$56.4 billion to Hong Kong’s GDP and supports about 587,000 jobs in 2025. Overall recovery has reached 98.5 per cent of 2018 levels, supported by domestic demand, although international visitor spending remains 15 per cent below pre-pandemic figures. The report outlines several priorities, including rebuilding longhaul demand, strengthening business travel, and repositioning Hong Kong as a destination for dining, heritage and events. It also calls for measures
8 April 2026
London music festival canceled after UK bars Ye’s entry
London’s Wireless Festival has been canceled after the British government denied entry to Ye, the rapper formerly known as Kanye West, following mounting pressure from Jewish groups over his history of antisemitic remarks. The organizers of the popular three-day festival confirmed its cancellation in a statement to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency, writing that the British government had withdrawn the artist’s electronic travel authorization, denying him entry into the United Kingdom. “Multiple stakeholders were consulted in advance of booking YE, and no concerns were highlighted at the time,” said the festival, which had earlier defended its booking by saying Ye “had the legal right to perform” in the United Kingdom. “Antisemitism in all its forms is abhorrent, and we recognize the real and personal impact these issues have had,” the statement continued. “As YE said today, he acknowledges that words alone are not enough, and in spite of this still hopes to be given the opportunity to begin a conversation with the Jewish community in the UK.” While Ye had previously been granted permission to enter the country, his electronic travel authorization was later withdrawn on the grounds that his presence in the UK would not be “conducive to the public
8 April 2026
Kanye West Banned by U.K., Wireless Festival Canceled
London’s Wireless Festival has been canceled following news that Ye’s (formerly known as Kanye West) entry into the U.K. was blocked by the Home Office on Tuesday (April 7). Earlier in the day, the government confirmed to the BBC that Ye would be unable to enter the U.K. on an Electronic Travel Authorization visitor visa. The Home Office cited Ye’s past antisemitic and pro-Nazi comments, and said that his “presence would not be conducive to the public good.” Ye had previously been announced as the headliner for all three nights of the annual London festival, due to take place July 10-12 in Finsbury Park. Now, Festival Republic has issued a statement saying that Wireless Festival’s 2026 edition will no longer go ahead and refunds will be issued. The first passes to the event went on sale last week as part of a pre-sale; general sale was due to commence this Friday. In a statement sent to Billboard, Festival Republic said, “The Home Office has withdrawn Ye’s ETA, denying him entry into the United Kingdom. As a result, Wireless Festival is canceled and refunds will be issued to all ticket holders.” The promoter continued, “As with every Wireless Festival, multiple stakeholders
7 April 2026
Kanye West blocked from traveling to U.K. for a music festival
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7 April 2026
EpicQuest Education Group International Ltd- 詳細介紹、公司背景、業務範圍、財務數據以及市場表現
EpicQuest Education Group International Limited is a holding company. The Company provides comprehensive education solutions for domestic and international students seeking university and college degrees in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. It owns and operates EduGlobal University, based in British Columbia, Canada, which focuses on English proficiency educational programming for students pursuing academic degrees. It operates and is a 70% owner of Davis University, a career training University located in Toledo, Ohio. In addition, it has a recruiting relationship with the Miami University Regional campuses, where it maintains residential facilities, a full-service cafeteria, recreational facilities, shuttle buses and an office for the regional campuses that provides study abroad and post-study services for its students. It is also a recruiting agent for the University of the West of Scotland (through The Education Group (London) Ltd) and Coventry University. 公司代碼EEIQ 公司名稱EpicQuest Education Group International Ltd 上市日期Mar 25, 2021 CEOZhang (Jianbo) 員工數量43 證券類型Ordinary Share 年結日Mar 25 公司地址1209 N. University Blvd. 城市MIDDLETOWN 上市交易所NASDAQ OMX – NASDAQ BASIC 國家United States of America 郵編45042 電話15138355394 網址https://www.epicquesteducation.com/ 公司代碼EEIQ 上市日期Mar 25, 2021 CEOZhang (Jianbo) 近5年累計派現 0.00 美元 暫無數據 Source link
9 April 2026
Forensic scientist Henry Chang-Yu Lee dies at 87 in Nevada, US
發佈日期: 2026-03-28 22:32 TVB News 粵 已複製連結 Forensic scientist Henry Chang-Yu Lee, also known as the “Chinese-American Sherlock Holmes,” has died at his home in Nevada in the U.S. on Friday. He was 87. Lee earned international acclaim through his involvement in a list of high-profile cases like the shooting of former Taiwanese leader Chen Shui-bian and the O.J. Simpson murder trial. The shooting of Chen Shui-bian took place on March 19th, 2004, on the eve of Taiwan’s general election. A bullet grazed Chen’s abdomen and another injured then-vice president Annette Lu during a campaign parade in the city of Tainan. Dr. Henry Lee was asked to view evidence on the shattered car windshield, the bullets’ trajectory and the crime scene. Lee’s team determined Chen had gunshot injury after examining, but said it cannot be further conjectured as the wound started to heal. They also deduced that the suspect probably fired from afar, reporting that no gunpowder residue was found on Chen’s clothing. In 2005, Lee said in an interview that the case was still mystery-riddled. This as Chen Yi-hsiung, who was named to be the shooter, died by an allegedly suicide shortly after the incident and was cremated immediately.
3 April 2026
Melania Trump shares spotlight with humanoid robot at White House summit
發佈日期: 2026-03-26 23:30 TVB News 粵 已複製連結 Dozens of first spouses from around the world attended a technology-focused summit at the White House. A human-shaped robot “Figure 3” manufactured in America joined US First Lady Melania Trump in the East Room. The robot said: “It is an honour to be at Fostering the Future Together’s Global Coalition inaugural meeting. I’m Figure 3, a humanoid built in the United States of America. I am grateful to be part of this historic movement to empower children with technology and education. Welcome.” Melania Trump said: “We must balance our tech optimism with caution. The safety of our next generation is always paramount. Knowledge is the foundation of civilization, but although academia is interesting, business is compelling. For real growth in technology and education, I encourage you to bring the private and public sector worlds together.” Melania Trump urged greater use of artificial intelligence in education during her address. She ramped up her call on countries to hold regional meetings, conduct research studies, and start new partnerships with other nations to “cultivate the skills young people need to be successful in this rapidly evolving world.” Source link
27 March 2026
DOJ files lawsuit against Harvard for not addressing antisemitism
發佈日期: 2026-03-21 20:49 TVB News 粵 已複製連結 The U.S. Justice Department (DOJ) is filing a new lawsuit against Harvard University saying its leadership failed to address antisemitism on campus creating grounds for the government to freeze existing grants and seek repayment for grants already paid. The DOJ wrote in the lawsuit that “The United States cannot and will not tolerate these failures and brings this action to compel Harvard to comply with federal civil rights law.” The lawsuit comes after negotiations appear to have bogged down in the months-long battle with the Trump administration that has tested the boundaries of the government’s authority over American’s universities. What began as an investigation into campus antisemitism escalated into the Trump administration slashing more than 2.6 billion dollars in research funding. Source link
21 March 2026
NYCU Students Win Global Championship at JAXA’s Kibo-RPC Space Robotics Programming Challenge
(中央社訊息服務20260311 16:48:03)Students from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) have captured first place at the Kibo Robot Programming Challenge (Kibo-RPC) global final, hosted by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), marking the third time Taiwan has won the international competition. The final round took place on Feb. 28 at the Tsukuba Space Center in Japan, where the Taiwanese representative team “iTron,” composed of NYCU Department of Mechanical Engineering students Lin Ying-Pei, Wu Dian-Mou, Zheng Li-Qi, and Chen Chang-Jun, outperformed teams from 13 countries and organizations to claim the championship. (Photo credit: Taiwan Space Agency) Organized by JAXA and open to members of the Asia-Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum (APRSAF), the Kibo-RPC is an international educational competition that engages students in real-world space robotics challenges. Participants develop programs for Astrobee, a free-flying robotic system aboard the International Space Station (ISS), helping astronauts complete tasks while sharpening their skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The sixth Kibo-RPC competition began accepting registrations in early 2025 and attracted 738 teams worldwide. Taiwan’s preliminary round was organized by the Taiwan Space Agency (TASA) and hosted by the Department of Mechanical Engineering at National Cheng Kung University, drawing 307 students across 77 teams.
11 March 2026
電視|Hong Kong Connection |Returning to academia
您喜歡這個節目嗎? In May 2025, Harvard University in the United States was barred by the government from admitting foreign students from around the world and was instructed to transfer its currently enrolled foreign students to other institutions, an incident that attracted widespread international attention. For a long time, prestigious universities in the United Kingdom and the United States have been the top study destinations pursued by students worldwide. Overseas education consultants note that, as traditional elite universities face political and economic uncertainties, Hong Kong has emerged as another highly regarded study hotspot. Child Home Alone In recent years, a number of incidents involving children left unattended have resulted in accidents, drawing public concern. At present, Hong Kong has no legislation that explicitly prohibits leaving children at home alone. Are the existing laws sufficient to safeguard children? What expectations do members of the public have regarding government and community support? The Lost Classroom According to the latest figures provided by the Education Bureau, in 2025, there are currently over 5,000 absenteeism cases across Hong Kong, the highest in nine years. However, children who attend school only one or two days a week, or even just a few hours, are not included
9 March 2026
台北市英僑商務協會宣布吳禹萱Vicki Wu升任執行長 持續深化英台商務合作 – 生活新聞
BCCTaipei CEO 吳禹萱 Vicki Wu (左)、英國在台辦事處代表Ruth Bradley-Jones (右)產業中心/綜合報導 British Chamber of Commerce in Taipei（台北市英僑商務協會，BCCT）今宣布，原執行總監 Vicki Wu（吳禹萱）即日起升任執行長（Chief Executive Officer），展現董事會對其領導能力與長期貢獻的高度肯定。 吳禹萱Vicki Wu自擔任執行總監以來，在強化商會營運制度、財務重整、會員互動及整體策略定位方面表現卓越。其任內，英僑商務協會不僅維持穩健營運，更成功提升多項核心活動、政策倡議及會員服務的品質與影響力。 此次人事任命經董事會一致通過，以表彰吳禹萱Vicki Wu展現出的專業領導力、卓越執行力，以及對商會使命與英國社群的深度投入。 英僑商務協會主席、TutorABC 執行長 Samuel Yang 表示，在吳禹萱Vicki Wu的帶領下，商會多項核心活動皆創下歷史新高，包括「優良企業獎（Better Business Awards）」、「聖安德魯舞會（St Andrew’s Ball）」、「聖誕慈善拍賣（Christmas Charity Auction）」及「Women in Business」等活動，不論是出席人數、贊助參與度或公益募款金額皆顯著成長。 他指出，這些成果不僅來自優秀的執行能力，更展現吳禹萱Vicki Wu凝聚人心、建立信任，並為會員與更廣泛社群創造實質影響的關鍵角色。 此外，吳禹萱Vicki Wu亦在推動英僑商務協會董事會與 British Office Taipei 共同的核心策略目標上扮演重要推手，即「整合所有在台英國資源」。此策略涵蓋商務、貿易、教育、文化、英國大學校友等網絡及專業社群，強化英國社群及組織機構在台灣與各個領域的跨步合作與整體影響力。 英國在台辦事處代表 Ruth Bradley-Jones 表示，吳禹萱Vicki Wu是一位值得信賴且極具效率的合作夥伴，其領導力不僅為在台英國社群帶來實質改變，也深化了與台灣產、官、學界在地夥伴的互動關係。 升任執行長後，吳禹萱Vicki Wu將持續負責商會日常營運，並與董事會及英國在台辦事處密切合作，共同推動英台交流、深化雙邊連結，為會員與合作夥伴創造更高價值。 吳禹萱Vicki Wu執行長表示，能夠接任執行長一職深感榮幸，感謝董事會的信任以及與英國在台辦事處的緊密合作，未來將持續服務會員，為打造更團結、前瞻且具影響力的在台英國社群貢獻心力。 英僑商務協會強調，未來將持續致力於促進英國與台灣之間的雙邊貿易、投資與多元合作，並在吳禹萱Vicki Wu的領導下，迎接商會發展的新篇章。 關於台北市英僑商務協會（BCCT） 英僑商務協會為台灣主要的國際商會之一，代表眾多英國及國際企業，橫跨多元產業領域，透過政策倡議、交流平台與思想領導，協助會員發展，並深化英台經貿關係。Website：https://www.bcctaipei.com/ British Chamber of Commerce in Taipei Appoints Vicki Wu as Chief Executive Officer The British Chamber of Commerce in Taipei (BCCT) is pleased to announce the promotion of Vicki Wu from Executive Director to Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Vicki Wu has served as Executive Director of BCCT with distinction, playing a pivotal role in strengthening the Chamber’s operations, financial discipline, member engagement, and strategic positioning. Under her leadership, BCCT has maintained operational stability while expanding the quality and impact of its flagship events, policy engagement, and member services. The Board unanimously approved the promotion in recognition of Vicki’s leadership, professionalism, and deep commitment to the Chamber’s mission and community. “Under Vicki’s leadership, the Chamber has achieved record results across our flagship activities,” said Samuel Yang, Chairman of BCCT and CEO of TutorABC. “We have seen the highest-ever attendance, sponsorship participation, and charitable
2 March 2026
US sentiment remains dim, with consumers facing higher prices and weaker incomes
US consumer sentiment deteriorated slightly in November as Americans fretted about high prices, weaker incomes, and mounting layoffs, nearing record lows. That’s according to the University of Michigan’s final reading of its survey of consumers. Preliminary data released earlier this month showed plunging sentiment for November, with overall sentiment hitting 50.3 amid concerns about the effect of the government shutdown on the economy. Sentiment improved a bit after the shutdown ended Nov. 12, reaching a level of 51 — lower than October’s 53.6 and down 29% from one year ago. Read more: What is consumer confidence, and why does it matter? Still, that didn’t totally quiet consumers’ anxiety. For one, the government’s funding agreement only lasts until the end of January. In the meantime, Americans are facing the prospect of spiking health insurance premiums, an unemployment rate that’s above where it was a year ago, and stubborn inflation. What’s more, 69% of consumers now expect unemployment to rise in the year ahead, more than double the rate from this time last year. The perceived probability of losing one’s job is also worse this month and at its highest level since 2020, according to Joanne Hsu, the director of the survey
24 February 2026
Insider Confidence Drives Growth In December 2025
As the U.S. market navigates a complex landscape marked by rising unemployment and mixed performances across major indices, investor attention is increasingly drawn to companies where insider confidence remains robust. In this environment, high insider ownership can be a compelling indicator of potential growth, suggesting that those who know the company best are committed to its future success. Name Insider Ownership Earnings Growth Super Micro Computer (SMCI) 13.9% 50.7% StubHub Holdings (STUB) 14.2% 73.9% SES AI (SES) 12% 68.9% Niu Technologies (NIU) 37.2% 93.7% Karman Holdings (KRMN) 17.3% 78.5% Credo Technology Group Holding (CRDO) 10.4% 30.7% Corcept Therapeutics (CORT) 11.4% 52.7% Atour Lifestyle Holdings (ATAT) 18% 24.4% Astera Labs (ALAB) 11.7% 29.0% AppLovin (APP) 27.4% 27.1% Click here to see the full list of 206 stocks from our Fast Growing US Companies With High Insider Ownership screener. We’re going to check out a few of the best picks from our screener tool. Simply Wall St Growth Rating: ★★★★★☆ Overview: Prenetics Global Limited is a health sciences company dedicated to advancing consumer health in Hong Kong, the United States, and internationally, with a market cap of $268.92 million. Operations: Prenetics Global Limited generates revenue through its health sciences operations, focusing on
24 February 2026
‘Massive’ untapped oil and gas reserves discovered beneath the Permian. What will it take to tap it?
The USGS said Wednesday it found 28.3 trillion cubic feet of gas and 1.6 billion barrels of oil in the Woodford and Barnett areas of the larger Permian Basin, which straddles West Texas and New Mexico. (USGS) The U.S. Geological Survey, the federal government’s earth sciences arm, discovered new oil and gas reserves in the Permian Basin – enough to supply the United States for 10 months. The USGS said Wednesday it found 28.3 trillion cubic feet of gas and 1.6 billion barrels of oil in the Woodford and Barnett shale formations, part of the larger Permian Basin, which straddles West Texas and New Mexico. The USGS began assessing available petroleum reserves 50 years ago after the Arab oil embargo sent the U.S. into a supply crisis. Domestic oil supplies have exploded since then, especially after fracking ushered in the shale boom in the early 2000s, turning the U.S. into an oil-producing powerhouse. OIL: Trump threatens to freeze Exxon out of Venezuela for ‘playing too cute.’ Here’s why But whether the U.S. will have enough oil and gas to meet growing demand in the decades to come has been increasingly in question. Declining availability of shale reserves has begun challenging
24 February 2026
Governor Lamont and U.S. Senator Blumenthal Join University of Bridgeport to Showcase Robotics Competitions and STEM Pathways
FTC DECODE Qualifier and FRC REBUILT Kickoff brought hands-on STEM competition to Bridgeport, highlighting new pathways into engineering and technology careers BRIDGEPORT, Conn., Jan. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal joined University of Bridgeport (UB) leaders, Bridgeport Mayor Joseph Ganim, and regional educators on January 10 as the University hosted two major FIRST Robotics competitions, bringing hundreds of middle and high school students to campus for hands-on STEM challenges and a first look at the University’s new robotics space. University of Bridgeport’s Mohammed Aljamal, President Danielle Wilken, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont, Connecticut State Senator Herron Gaston, Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim, and Goodwin University President Mark Scheinberg pose together during FIRST Robotics events hosted on campus on January 10, 2026. The event included: FTC DECODE — FIRST Tech Challenge Bridgeport Qualifier (presented by RTX), where teams in grades 7–12 designed, built, and programmed classroom-scale robots to compete in fast-paced alliance matches. FRC REBUILT — FIRST Robotics Competition Kickoff (presented by Haas), as part of the New England FIRST kickoff celebration for the 2026 season. The contests marked the first major event held in UB’s new robotics hub — a new space developed in partnership
24 February 2026
Indiana State University Partners with InScribe to Strengthen Online Student Success
As online enrollment grows, the university is scaling peer-to-peer support using InScribe’s digital communities to improve student success and retention. DENVER and TERRE HAUTE, Ind., Feb. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — InScribe Education, a provider of digital communities for higher education, today announced a partnership with Indiana State University to support online student success through scalable, peer-to-peer engagement. The partnership brings InScribe’s digital community platform to Indiana State’s online programs as the university continues to expand access and enrollment. Indiana State University and InScribe logos. Indiana State University is a public four-year institution serving a rapidly growing population of fully online learners, with enrollment approaching 2,000 students. As their online programs scale, university leaders want to ensure that student support, connection, and engagement also continue to grow. Through InScribe, Indiana State has launched Sycamore Grove, the university’s InScribe-powered digital community for online learners. Sycamore Grove serves as a centralized virtual student lounge where students can connect with peers, ask questions, share experiences, and access guidance throughout their academic journey. The community is designed to reinforce belonging and engagement beyond traditional course interactions. Sycamore Grove complements Indiana State’s learning management system, Canvas, by providing a space intentionally designed for student success. Learners
24 February 2026
Cambridge Judge Business School Executive Education launches the Chief Revenue Officer Programme in collaboration with Emeritus
This 9- to 12-month programme equips current and aspiring revenue leaders to integrate cross‑functional strategy, analytics and AI to drive sustainable growth. CAMBRIDGE, United Kingdom, Feb. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Cambridge Judge Business School Executive Education announces the launch of the Chief Revenue Officer Programme , a 9- to 12-month programme that equips current and aspiring chief revenue officers (CROs) to successfully integrate revenue-impacting functions and become transformational growth drivers. Launched in collaboration with Emeritus, a global leader in making high-quality education accessible and affordable, the programme begins in March 2026. CJ logo (PRNewsfoto/Emeritus) As customer expectations evolve and digital‑first buying journeys reshape markets, organisations need leaders who can combine strategic vision, an innovative mindset, analytical prowess and AI to deliver measurable revenue impact. The Chief Revenue Officer Programme positions revenue leaders as key drivers of organisational value by integrating marketing, product, pricing and data functions to uncover new revenue streams and strengthen resilience. Participants will explore data-driven frameworks and emerging technologies, including AI, alongside innovative approaches to align traditionally siloed functions. Through a blend of curated learning content delivered through live online sessions, peer learning, applied exercises, success coaching, and an in-person capstone module in Cambridge, UK, participants will
23 February 2026
Fake Fee Requests Con Parents Out of Thousands at UK Private Schools, says New IRIS Education Research
– Every UK private school has been targeted by a fee payment scam or attempted fraud in the past five years according to IRIS Education research– On average, parents lose £3,200 per successful scam, with one in five cases involving losses of up to £10,000– More than a third of schools lack confidence in the security of their fee collection processes as threat levels rise LONDON, Jan. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Parents at fee-paying schools are losing thousands of pounds each year to sophisticated fee payment scams, with independent schools in the UK experiencing at least one scam or attempted fraud over the past five years, according to new research from IRIS Education*. IRIS Software Group Logo (PRNewsfoto/IRIS Software Group) The research, which surveyed 100 bursars at UK private schools, found that scammers are routinely impersonating schools and sending fake fee payment requests to parents. All bursars polled said their school community had been targeted at least once, with the average bursar reporting five separate scam incidents over the period – equating to roughly one event per school, per year. When scams succeed, the financial impact on families can be severe. Bursars polled by IRIS estimate that parents have lost an average
17 February 2026
SAUDI ARABIA LAUNCHES THE HUMAN CAPABILITY INITIATIVE CONFERENCE 2026 THEMED “THE HUMAN CODE,” UNITED KINGDOM NAMED COUNTRY OF HONOR
The Human Capability Initiative Conference will return to Riyadh from 03–04 May, convening more than 15,000 global leaders to drive future human capability development under the theme “The Human Code.” The United Kingdom has been named Country of Honor, reflecting the strategic partnership between Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom in education, workforce development, and economic cooperation. RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Saudi Arabia’s Human Capability Development Program (HCDP) today announced the third edition of the Human Capability Initiative (HCI) Conference, to be held on 03–04 May 2026 in Riyadh, bringing together global leaders to drive the future of human capability development under the theme “The Human Code.” The launch of the third edition of HCI 2026, with the United Kingdom as Country of Honor, coincides with Prince William’s visit to Saudi Arabia. Held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia and Chairman of the HCDP Committee, HCI 2026 will feature the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland as the Country of Honor, underscoring the strategic partnership between Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom in education, workforce development, and
17 February 2026
深耕英國教育與台英交流 英國教育界領袖Rich Smith獲英王查爾斯三世新年授勳OBE – 生活新聞
英僑商務協會長期領袖斯瑞奇 Rich Smith產業中心/綜合報導 英國在台灣教育界的重要推手、英僑商務協會長期領袖斯瑞奇 Rich Smith，榮獲英王查爾斯三世（King Charles III）頒授2026新年「大英帝國官佐勳章」（Officer of the Order of the British Empire, OBE），表彰他多年來對英國教育產業以及在台英國僑民社群的卓越貢獻。此項殊榮名列英國 2026 年新年授勳名單（2026 New Year’s Honours List），為英國最高國家級榮譽之一。 英國新年授勳制度旨在表揚對國家及民眾福祉作出傑出貢獻的人士。對於非政府體系、且長期服務於台灣的英國民間領袖而言，獲此皇家榮譽實屬罕見，也使斯瑞奇的獲獎在台灣英國僑民社群中格外具有代表性與指標性意義。 在斯瑞奇之前，在台灣有數位與台灣淵源深厚，於台英關係、教育、科技及公共事務領域具重要影響力的人士名列英國授勳人士之列， 在台灣籍獲獎者方面，包括： 張忠謀（Morris Chang）CBE（2013），台積電創辦人，因促進英台商業合作及對全球科技產業的貢獻，獲頒榮譽大英帝國司令勳章。 王文洋（Winston Wen-Yang Wong）OBE（2016），因透過教育與科學研究促進英台關係而獲獎，為倫敦帝國學院校友，長期支持英國學術機構。 Lynn Li MBE（2009），前英國在台辦事處員工，因推動英台重大基礎建設合作而獲表揚。 英國籍獲獎者則包括： Ruth Bradley-Jones MBE（2023），英國駐台代表，因推動性別平權與多元共融而獲獎。 Wayne Ive MBE（2024），英國駐台副代表，因其在多邊與外交事務上的領導表現獲得肯定。 John Nixon MBE（2007），台北歐洲學校執行長，因對教育及在台英國社群的貢獻獲獎。 這樣的背景更突顯 Rich Smith 此次名列 2026 年新年授勳名單的非凡意義。 Rich Smith 於 1993 年共同創辦英國教育顧問服務機構 UK Education Advisory Services（UKEAS，後更名為 Intake Education），並擔任董事長長達三十年。他所建立的「免費、高品質留學諮詢服務」模式，為國際教育顧問產業帶來革命性改變，讓來自不同經濟背景的優秀學生，都能獲得專業且公正的升學指引，進入世界級的英國高等教育體系。 三十多年來，Rich Smith 所領導的機構直接協助超過 10 萬名國際學生赴英深造，為英國高等教育與相關產業創造約 35 億英鎊的學費、生活與住宿經濟效益。 其中，無數台灣學生在他的協助下前往英國求學，並於完成學業後，活躍於商業、政府、學術、醫療及公民社會等領域，成為各行各業的中堅力量。更重要的是，Rich Smith 的長期投入，不僅培育全球化人才，也深化了英國教育在台灣的影響力，為台英關係奠定穩固的人才與價值基礎。 作為國際教育產業的先驅，UKEAS 透過與超過 100 所英國大學的合作夥伴關係，建立由大學支持的營運模式，確保學生能在不受財務條件限制的情況下，獲得專業且中立的升學建議，深刻改變整體產業生態。 除了教育領域的卓越貢獻，Rich Smith 自 2009 年加入台北市英僑商務協會British Chamber of Commerce in Taipei, BCCT）董事會以來，曾擔任董事、監事及財務長等多項要職，近二十年來持續投入商會治理與社群發展。 在其領導與個人承諾下，BCCT 的企業社會責任（CSR）計畫已為台灣公益團體募得超過新台幣 3,000 萬元，支持青少年服務、教育計畫、無家者援助，以及弱勢學生的長期獎學金機制，對台灣社會產生深遠而實質的正面影響。 台北市英僑商務協會主席、TutorABC 執行長 Samuel Yang 表示：「Rich Smith 在英王新年授勳名單中獲頒 OBE，是對其一生奉獻於教育、服務與社群領導的高度肯定。他對英國教育在全球，尤其是台灣的貢獻，無可比擬。多個世代的台灣學生因他的努力而與英國建立深厚連結，進一步強化英台關係。他對在台英國社群及公益事業的長期投入，已留下深具意義的永續典範。這是屬於 Rich、與他的家人，以及整個在台英國社群的榮耀時刻。」 Rich Smith OBE 則表示：「能夠獲得英王查爾斯三世的肯定，我感到無比榮幸與謙卑。我始終相信，教育是一股能創造機會並帶來正向改變的力量。多年來能與如此多敬業的同仁、大學夥伴，以及台灣的英國社群攜手合作，是我最大的福氣，這份榮耀屬於所有與我同行的人。」 台北市英僑商務協會對 Rich Smith 獲頒此項皇家榮譽與有榮焉，並高度肯定他透過教育、商業與社群服務，持續深化英台關係的長遠貢獻。 英國王室授勳制度旨在表揚在公共生活中具卓越成就，並長期致力於服務英國與社會的個人。更多關於 2026 年新年授勳名單的資訊，可至英國政府官方網站 GOV.UK 查詢。 British Education Leader in Taiwan Rich Smith Awarded OBE in King Charles III’s 2026 New Year’s Honours List The British Chamber of Commerce in Taipei (BCCT) is pleased to announce that Rich Smith has been awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in His Majesty King Charles III’s 2026 New Year’s Honours List. He is being recognised for his outstanding services to the UK education industry and the British community in Taiwan. The New Year’s Honours List represents one of the highest forms of national
9 February 2026
India’s Top Educational Institute partners with Durham University to expand research & innovation across UK & Europe
CHENNAI, India, Feb. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — India’s No: 1 Ranked institution, Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras), has established a new entity, IIT Madras Global Research Foundation (IITM Global) which was launched by Dr. S. Jaishankar, Hon’ble Minister of External Affairs, Government of India, on 2nd January 2026. Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar (3rd L) releases a book on ‘India’s Innovation Ecosystem Going Global’ on 2 Jan at IITM, India At the event, a key strategic partnership with Durham University to establish an ‘IITM Global’ Centre at Durham was announced. It will serve as a gateway for the institute’s academic, research and innovation outreach across the United Kingdom and Europe. IITM Global as a charter to transform the institute into the world’s first multinational university and position it as a globally networked hub for education, research, innovation and entrepreneurship. The collaboration will focus on joint research, startup exchange and high-impact academic and skilling programs, leveraging the complementary strengths of both institutions to co-create globally scalable models of innovation and education. Addressing the IITM Global launch event at IIT Madras Campus on 2nd Jan 2026, Dr. S. Jaishankar said, “An IIT Madras Campus in Tanzania is a way
9 February 2026
Doral College and UNINETTUNO International Telematic University Announce Italy-USA Dual Degree Program
A new international pathway connecting Miami and Italy through innovative higher education MIAMI, Feb. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Doral College and UNINETTUNO International Telematic University announced the launch of their Italy–USA Dual Degree Program, an international academic partnership that expands global learning opportunities for students in the United States and Europe. Judith Marty, President of Doral College, and Prof. Maria Amata Garito, Rector of UNINETTUNO University The Dual Degree Program allows students to earn two accredited bachelor’s degrees—one awarded in the United States and one in Italy—through an integrated academic pathway. The collaboration brings together Doral College’s Bachelor of Business Administration and UNINETTUNO’s Bachelor in Economics and Business Management, aligned through a formal Learning Agreement between the institutions. Through a clearly defined credit-transfer framework that bridges U.S. credits and the European ECTS system, students complete coursework across both institutions using advanced online learning platforms. Doral College students may pursue the Italian degree by completing approved coursework through UNINETTUNO’s digital university environment, while UNINETTUNO students may earn the U.S. credential through Doral College’s online campus based in Florida. “The launch of this Dual Degree Program reflects Doral College’s vision for higher education without borders,” said Judith Marty, President of Doral College. “By
5 February 2026
The Ralph Lauren Corporate Foundation to Open Fourth Center in the US with the University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center
UChicago Medicine Ralph Lauren Center to provide greater access to high-quality cancer care and preventative services for Chicago’s South Side and Southland communities NEW YORK, January 21, 2026–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The Ralph Lauren Corporate Foundation today announced it has awarded a grant to the University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center to establish the UChicago Medicine Ralph Lauren Center, building on the Foundation’s commitment to expand or open five cancer centers across the United States. The UChicago Medicine Ralph Lauren Center will enhance access to high-quality cancer screening, comprehensive cancer care and support services, serving a catchment area of more than 900,000 community members in Chicago’s South Side and Southland communities. The new UChicago Medicine Ralph Lauren Center – the fourth Ralph Lauren-named center in the U.S. and first in the Midwest – will comprise two locations. The first, located within the outpatient cancer facility at UChicago Medicine Ingalls Memorial Hospital in Harvey, Illinois, is expected to open in 2026. A second location will be inside UChicago Medicine’s new AbbVie Foundation Cancer Pavilion, which will be Illinois’ first freestanding cancer care and research facility when it opens in April 2027. The UChicago Medicine Ralph Lauren Center will also be supported by a
5 February 2026
Online learners benefit from ASU’s top-ranked business programs
US News & World Report rankings place W. P. Carey School of Business among the nation’s top 10 for online undergraduate, graduate, and MBA programs. TEMPE, Ariz., Jan. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Choosing the right online business program can shape a learner’s career for years to come, and the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings continue to point students and veterans toward the W. P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University. (PRNewsfoto/W. P. Carey School of Business ) In the U.S. News & World Report’s latest online program rankings, W. P. Carey earned top 10 recognition across its online undergraduate, graduate, and MBA programs. W. P. Carey’s online undergraduate business programs held steady at No. 2 in the nation, placing the school ahead of peer institutions such as Penn State World Campus and Indiana University Online. The school also earned a new No. 3 ranking for its online master’s in business for veterans — ahead of George Washington University, Syracuse University, and Indiana University Online — underscoring its growing impact and commitment to supporting military-connected learners as they advance their careers. At the graduate level, W. P. Carey ranked No. 4 overall for online graduate business programs,
5 February 2026
USA TODAY’s 38th Ad Meter Competition Opens
Presented by State Farm, Ad Meter provides the opportunity to rate Super Bowl LX commercials New York, NY, February 04, 2026–(BUSINESS WIRE)–USA TODAY, part of USA TODAY Co., Inc. (NYSE: TDAY), launched the 38th annual Ad Meter competition, the industry’s leading opinion tool for gauging public sentiment about Super Bowl commercials. Since its debut in 1989, USA TODAY Ad Meter has remained a leading authority on Super Bowl advertising, addressing how the brands and spots drive sentiment and conversations related to sports, pop culture and the world of entertainment. Presented by State Farm®, the 2026 Ad Meter program delivers interactive rating tools, exclusive video content, and deep-dive analysis on the Super Bowl’s most talked‑about commercials. Today through February 9 at 12 midnight EST, registered Ad Meter participants can log in, watch and rate this year’s Super Bowl commercials to determine fan favorites and the official Ad Meter winner. For a submission to be counted, each participant must rate all eligible Super Bowl advertisements on a scale of 1 to 5. The 2026 Super Bowl Ad Meter winner will be announced live on “NBC’s TODAY” and at admeter.usatoday.com the morning after the game. “USA TODAY’s Ad Meter has been the go-to
5 February 2026
NYCU and University of Arizona Launch Talent and Innovation Hub to Advance Semiconductor and AI Collaboration
(中央社訊息服務20260129 15:39:07)National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) and the University of Arizona (UA) have formally launched the Talent and Innovation Hub (TIH–NYCU–UA) following the signing of a memorandum of understanding on January 28, 2026. The agreement marks the official start of a long-term, high-impact partnership focused on talent cultivation, collaborative applied research, and industry engagement, with semiconductors and artificial intelligence identified as initial priority domains. The agreement establishing the TIH–NYCU–UA is signed by NYCU President Chi-Hung Lin (right) and University of Arizona President Suresh Garimella. The Talent and Innovation Hub (TIH) is designed as a joint, scalable platform that integrates graduate-level education, professional workforce development, and application-oriented research. Rather than operating as a single fixed program, TIH adopts a phased and expandable implementation model, allowing initiatives to grow in scope and depth as institutional capacity and industry needs evolve. “This partnership reflects NYCU’s long-term commitment to connecting education, research, and industry through concrete, executable platforms,” said Chi-Hung Lin, President of NYCU. “By working closely with the University of Arizona, we are not only cultivating next-generation talent in semiconductors and AI, but also establishing a mechanism that enables people, knowledge, and innovation to move seamlessly between Taiwan and the United
29 January 2026
Person of interest for Brown University shooting, released
發佈日期: 2025-12-15 21:09 TVB News 粵 已複製連結 The person of interest detained in connection with Saturday’s deadly shooting at Brown University has been released. The person of interest was taken into custody at a Hampton Inn hotel in Coventry, Rhode Island, about 20 miles from Providence, where police officers and FBI agents remained Sunday, blocking off a hallway with crime scene tape as they searched the area. With the release of the person of interest, law enforcement are left without any known suspect. Officials are pledging to redouble efforts in the investigation by canvassing for video surveillance that could help pinpoint the killer’s identity. The gun man killed two people and injured nine at the Brown University campus. Source link
15 December 2025
Kelly Ripa, Mark Consuelos cheer on son Joaquin’s Broadway debut
April 10, 2026, 4:00 p.m. ET Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos have met their fair share of celebrities, but there’s one superstar who takes the cake. The “Live with Kelly and Mark” hosts, cheered on their youngest child, 23-year-old Joaquin Consuelos, on Thursday, April 9, as he made his Broadway debut during the opening night performance of “Death of a Salesman.” Ripa and Consuelos, who’ve been married since 1996, are also parents to son Michael Consuelos, 28, and Lola Consuelos, 24. The couple shared their excitement for Joaquin’s performance on social media, with Ripa sharing photos of the show’s playbill on her Instagram stories. “Opening night vibes,” she wrote. Consuelos reposted a photo of himself and Joaquin hanging out after the show. The father-son duo was twinning in matching black blazers. Need a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more! Joaquin stars as “Young Biff” in “Death of a Salesman,” a revival of the Tony-winning play by Arthur Miller. The show, directed by Joe Mantello, also features Nathan Lane, Laurie Metcalf, Jonathan Cake and Christopher Abbott. Kelly Ripa opens up: Talk-show host confesses to ‘desperate’ cosmetic procedure Even before the production officially hit
10 April 2026
If this Keeps Up, Carney Could be Headed for a National Unity Government
By Don Newman April 10, 2026 Politicians who worry that the newest Conservative convert to Mark Carney’s Liberals will hold right-wing policy views that are incompatible with the government’s social policy positions have not yet recognized what’s going on. They rightly perceive that Sarnia Member of Parliament Marilyn Gladu has held views on abortion, same-sex marriage, vaccination mandates and other policies that are counter to what the Liberal Party has held, run on and won elections on for more that a decade. There is no doubt about that. Gladu has made no secret of her views in the decade she has been a member of Parliament, and in 2020 ran unsuccessfully for the leadership of the Conservative Party. And yet there Gladu was this week standing with the Prime Minister as he announced that she was joining the Liberal caucus — the fifth MP and fourth Conservative to leave the party they were elected with a year ago to join the Liberals. Questioned by reporters, Gladu said she will follow Liberal policy on any social policy votes in the House of Commons. Whether there are any in the near future is unlikely. Both same-sex marriage and abortion have been legal
10 April 2026
Trump’s latest tariffs face a new test in federal court
NEW YORK — The centerpiece of President Donald Trump’s economic policy — sweeping taxes on global imports — is under legal assault again. Subscribe to read this story ad-free Get unlimited access to ad-free articles and exclusive content. The U.S. Court of International Trade, a specialized court in New York, is hearing oral arguments Friday in an attempt to overturn the temporary tariffs Trump turned to after the Supreme Court in February struck down his preferred choice — even bigger, even more sweeping tariffs. In his first attempt to impose global tariffs, the president last year invoked the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), using the law to declare America’s longstanding trade deficit a national emergency and to impose double-digit worldwide taxes on imports to combat it. He interpreted the law broadly to justify tariffs of whatever size he wanted, whenever he wanted to impose them, on whatever country he wanted to target. The Supreme Court struck those tariffs down on Feb. 20, saying the law did not authorize the use of tariffs to counter national emergencies. But Trump had alternatives. The quickest option was Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, which allows the president to impose
10 April 2026
Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway Has Been Making Quiet Move That Has Investors Worried
Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway, a $1.1 trillion conglomerate spanning insurance, railroads, and major stock investments, has been making a quiet shift that is starting to raise concerns. Over the past two years, the company has built a massive cash reserve while stepping back from major stock purchases. At the same time, it has been selling more stocks than it buys. With uncertainty growing, investors are now paying closer attention to what this strategy could mean. Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway has been sitting on billions while quietly pulling back from stocks. Image credits: Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images For 22 months, Berkshire Hathaway has held onto a staggering cash pile of $400 million, enough to acquire roughly 480 companies in the S&P 500. At the same time, the company has been selling more stocks than it has been buying, a shift that hasn’t gone unnoticed by analysts or investors. This strategy has led many investors to question whether Berkshire sees stocks as overpriced and the broader market as vulnerable to a downturn. Image credits: USA International Trade Administration Image credits: tekujia420 Image credits: GrantAveryEcon Moreover, the timing has only added to the concern. Given the rising geopolitical tensions, including those involving Iran,
10 April 2026
DJ Chewy Takeover Celebrity Basketball Game returns, blending hoops, stars and community
With sports buzzing across Charlotte, another can’t-miss event is tipping off this weekend: the 2026 DJ Chewy Takeover Celebrity Basketball Game. The annual showcase brings celebrities, DJs and community partners together for a night of hoops, music and purpose. The game, led by Mathew “CHEWY” Torres, continues its focus on giving back through a partnership with My Brother’s Keeper, while honoring several Charlotte-area high schools for their leadership and impact. “This is bigger than basketball,” Torres said. “We’re celebrating our youth, our schools and what it means to show up for the community.” Fans can expect a star-studded lineup featuring athletes, Vernon Maxwell, Mario Chalmers and Xavier Leggett, entertainers and influencers, including reality TV star, model and entrepreneur Dutchess Lattimore. “It’s amazing to see the city come together like this,” Lattimore said. “You’ve got celebrities, families, kids — everybody in one place having fun and supporting something positive.” New this year is the Battle of the Carolina DJs, adding a competitive, high-energy soundtrack to the night. DJs from North and South Carolina will face off, bringing hometown pride and nonstop music to the court. “For families, this is a full experience,” Torres said. “It’s affordable, it’s energetic and it’s something
10 April 2026
John Travolta’s look-alike daughter Ella Bleu hits red carpet
April 10, 2026, 10:38 a.m. ET John Travolta is “so proud” of his daughter, budding actress Ella Bleu Travolta. Travolta gushed about his daughter, who appeared on the pink carpet of the Fashion Trust U.S. fourth annual awards ceremony on Tuesday, April 7, in Los Angeles, wearing a black long-sleeve Blumarine gown adorned with black flowers. “So proud of my baby girl @ella.bleu,” the “Grease” actor, 72, wrote on Instagram Wednesday. “Look out for Ella in my directorial debut, ‘Propeller One-Way Night Coach.’” Some of Travolta’s famous friends praised the young star in the comments, with Rita Wilson calling her “absolutely beautiful” and Sharon Stone remarking, “She looked so pretty and was even nicer.” Ella Bleu, 26, has starred with her father in the 2009 Disney film “Old Dogs” and the 2019 crime thriller “The Poison Rose.” Following a role in the indie drama fantasy “Get Lost,” released in March, she is set to appear in three upcoming films, including “Propeller” – adapted from Travolta’s 1997 book of the same name – set to debut at Cannes, before a late May release on Apple TV. The out-of-competition film is the first film he has directed and follows a young aviation
10 April 2026
China’s Xi talks peace with Taiwan’s opposition leader even as Beijing raises military pressure
BEIJING – At an unusual meeting Friday, Chinese leader Xi Jinping talked with Taiwan’s main opposition leader about shared culture and bloodlines, before declaring that unification of the island with the mainland is a “historical inevitability.” Subscribe to read this story ad-free Get unlimited access to ad-free articles and exclusive content. The meeting with Cheng Li-wun, chairwoman of the Nationalist Party, comes amid heightened tension in the Taiwan Strait over stepped-up military drills by China and Beijing’s disdain for American arms sales to the island. While it did not produce a grand announcement, the timing of the meeting, just weeks before President Donald Trump is expected to visit Beijing, suggests that Xi is seeking to show that China can wield political influence in Taiwan as well as flex its might. FORSUBSCRIBERS Taiwan’s opposition leader making high-stakes visit to China 02:41 At a news conference Friday, Cheng neither fully embraced nor rejected China’s long-held goal of reunifying with Taiwan, a self-governed island of 23 million people, where fears of a future Chinese military incursion have been a specter haunting life for decades. “We hope to consolidate a stable relationship,” Cheng told reporters. “This must be done step-by-step. General Secretary Xi and
10 April 2026
Elon Musk Just Weighed In on Peter Thiel’s Controversial Comment on “The Left” With 2 Words
Ever since Elon Musk bought Twitter, gearheads and tech investors have had exactly one question: how will his unfiltered opinions affect Tesla? A late-night post on X, the platform he now owns, just gave us our clearest answer yet. Early Friday morning, the Tesla CEO responded to a video clip of venture capitalist and early Facebook investor Peter Thiel. In the clip of Piers Morgan Uncensored, Thiel offered an opinion of his political opponents, stating, “Perhaps the shocking thing is how poorly this rhetoric translates or how, you know, how low testosterone the left actually is.” Musk’s simple, one-word reply to the post was “Not wrong.” Not wrong — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 10, 2026 Make no mistake, this is a move you would never see from the head of another major automaker. Imagine Jim Farley at Ford or Mary Barra at General Motors using their social media to endorse politically charged, biological commentary about half of their potential customer base. It’s unthinkable. The heads of the Detroit Big Three are laser-focused on moving metal, not wading into the muck of the ongoing American culture war. For years, Tesla managed to build a brand that appealed across the political spectrum.
10 April 2026
Elon Musk Takes Swipe At Gavin Newsom, Says Boring Could Build LA-SF Tunnel At Less Than 5% Cost
Tesla Inc. CEO Elon Musk has touted that his tunneling startup, The Boring Company, can build a tunnel from Los Angeles to San Francisco that can exceed high-speed rail. On Wednesday, Musk took to the social media platform X to express his criticism of Governor Gavin Newsom‘s (D-CA) High Speed Rail project from Los Angeles to San Francisco. “The @BoringCompany could build a Hyperloop tunnel from downtown SF to downtown LA for <5% of this [$120 billion] cost,” Musk said, quoting a post that claimed the same money could be used to fund free flights between the cities for 200 years. Don’t Miss: He added that the Hyperloop tunnel dug by The Boring Co. would “be a technological marvel exceeding any high speed rail on Earth.” The @BoringCompany could build a Hyperloop tunnel from downtown SF to downtown LA for <5% of this cost and it would be a technological marvel exceeding any high speed rail on Earth https://t.co/2WwQuDVIAV — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 9, 2026 Musk had earlier alleged that the project was riddled with fraud, after California’s Transportation Secretary Adetokunbo “Toks” Omishakin shared that the undertaking would require additional funds of over $126 billion. “It’s all going to
10 April 2026
The Social Skinny: OpenAI requests Elon Musk probe; Uber taps Amazon for in-house chips
Traveling tech: Global news Joining Australia and Indonesia in banning social media for youth users, Greece announced a national social media ban for citizens younger than 15 on Wednesday. The legislation is predicted to pass this summer and take effect on January 1, 2027, according to a statement from Greece’s prime minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The ban does not include messaging apps. “I talk to a lot of parents who say roughly the same thing: that their children aren’t sleeping properly, get anxious easily and are on their phones a lot,” Mitsotakis explained in a social media post directed to youth social media users. “I also talk to a lot of you, who say you’re tired of comparisons, comments and of the constant pressure to be there all the time.” Roughly 1,500 miles north of Greece, TikTok is building its second data center in Finland, the Chinese ByteDance-owned app announced on Wednesday. TikTok plans to invest $1.16 billion into the Lahti facility, as part of its $14 billion data sovereignty initiative, according to Reuters. Speaking of tech and travel, self-driving vehicle company Waymo and GPS navigation platform Waze announced a data-sharing deal to track potholes on Thursday. Waymo taxis — which currently operate in 11 U.S. cities — will share detected
10 April 2026
Australian Celebrities Flock to Coachella Festival
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. › The annual Coachella festival draws a celebrity-filled crowd eager to showcase their wealth and party atmosphere.Coachella Today A number of high-profile Australian celebrities have traveled to California to attend the annual Coachella music festival at the Empire Polo Club in Indio. The festival, known for its lavish displays of wealth and celebrity, has attracted a significant contingent of talent from Down Under this year. Why it matters Coachella is one of the most prominent and influential music festivals in the world, drawing A-list celebrities from across the entertainment industry. The presence of Australian stars at the event highlights the growing global reach and popularity of Australian talent, as well as the festival’s continued status as a must-attend event for the global creative elite. The details While the specific Australian celebrities in attendance have not been named, the report indicates that the group includes at least one radio personality and one prominent socialite. The influx of Aussie talent is part of the larger annual migration of celebrities to the Coachella festival, which is known for its luxurious parties, high-profile performances, and over-the-top displays of wealth and status. The 2026 Coachella music festival is
10 April 2026
China’s Xi invokes ‘threat’ of Taiwan independence in first cross-strait opposition talks in a decade
Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Kuomintang party chair Cheng Li-wun in Beijing on Friday, the first encounter between Xi and a sitting Taiwanese opposition leader in nearly a decade. In a readout released by Chinese state media, Xi said Beijing “welcomes any proposals conducive to the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.” That’s according to a CNBC translation of the statement in Chinese. Xi also reiterated that “‘Taiwan independence’ is the primary threat undermining stability across the Taiwan Strait,” calling on party leaders on the mainland and Taiwan to oppose “separatism and foreign interference.” Cheng took the helm last October of the largest opposition party at a time of rising military and political tensions with the mainland. Her trip to Beijing came as the KMT seeks to position itself as a viable interlocutor with the mainland ahead of Taiwan’s 2028 presidential election. The tone of Beijing’s official readout marked a meaningful shift, said Zhiwei Zhang, president and chief economist at Pinpoint Asset Management. “The message reduces the risk of military conflict across the Taiwan Strait and is beneficial for both mainland China and Taiwan,” Zhang said, adding that it signaled Beijing’s preference for a peaceful approach to cross-strait relations. In
10 April 2026
Trump’s tax cuts benefit the middle class
Democrats keep attacking President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025 as a tax cut for the rich. But the data show that the average family gained roughly $2,000 on their lower tax bill for this year. Every Democrat in Congress voted no, even as they complain of a “middle-class affordability crisis.” Maybe that’s because to rich and famous limousine liberal Democrats, $2,000 is peanuts. But not for the rest of us. The goal of the Trump tax cut was simple: Strengthen the economy with lower tax rates, and let working and retired Americans keep more of what they earn. The early evidence confirms this is exactly what has happened. Initial IRS data show that almost half of filers have already taken advantage of the bill’s middle-income tax provisions. Income taxes have become such an ingrained part of American life that many workers barely notice how much is snatched from their paychecks: payroll taxes, federal income taxes, state income taxes, etc. We see the net amount and forget that the gross amount is what we actually earned. Because less is now taken out, the Trump tax cut functions like a pay raise. So who is getting a pay raise from the OBBBA? Three
10 April 2026
China’s Xi touts peace – and points to global conflicts – in rare meeting with Taiwan opposition leader
Chinese leader Xi Jinping invoked ongoing global conflicts and the need for peace during a landmark meeting with the leader of Taiwan’s opposition on Friday and reiterated Beijing’s opposition to the independence of the self-ruled island. The visit to Beijing by Cheng Li-wun, the leader of Taiwan’s Kuomintang (KMT), was the first such meeting in a decade and comes weeks before US President Donald Trump is set to visit China for talks with Xi where Taiwan is expected to be high on the agenda. “Today’s world is far from peaceful, and peace is all the more precious.” said Xi at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Beijing refuses to talk to the independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) which has governed Taiwan for the past decade. China claims the island as its own and has not ruled out using force to take it one day. In recent years it has ramped up pressure and military drills around Taiwan, raising concerns tensions could escalate into geopolitical conflict. “Compatriots on both sides of the strait are Chinese people and one family,” Xi said, adding Beijing was willing to work with political parties in Taiwan “on the common political basis of… opposing
10 April 2026
Xi tells Taiwan’s opposition leader he’s confident island will get together with China, stresses cooperation
Saadet Gokce 10 April 2026•Update: 10 April 2026 Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed confidence Friday that Taiwan will get together with the mainland as he hosted Taiwanese opposition leader Cheng Li-wun in Beijing and emphasized cooperation. “Compatriots on both sides are both Chinese, and we need peace, we need development, we need communication, and we need cooperation. This is a common wish,” Xi said, according to the South China Morning Post. Xi said the historical trend that “compatriots of both sides of the strait will get closer and get together will not change, this is a certainty of history, and we are fully confident.” The Kuomintang (KMT) party chairwoman visited Jiangsu province and Shanghai before traveling to the capital, according to the state-run news agency Xinhua. She vowed “reconciliation” and “unity” across the Taiwan Strait during her visit to the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum in Nanjing, the capital of China’s eastern Jiangsu province. The last KMT chief to meet with Xi was in 2015, when then-chairman Eric Chu met him in China. The visit is seen as an important step in dialogue and exchanges between the KMT and China’s Communist Party. Cheng was elected as chairwoman of the KMT in October
10 April 2026
China’s Xi hosts Taiwan’s opposition leader in 1st such meeting in over a decade
Saadet Gokce 10 April 2026•Update: 10 April 2026 Chinese President Xi Jinping hosted Taiwan’s opposition party leader Cheng Li-wun in Beijing on Friday, in the first such meeting in over a decade. The Kuomintang (KMT) party chairwoman visited Jiangsu province and Shanghai before traveling to the capital, according to the state-run news agency Xinhua. She vowed “reconciliation” and “unity” across the Taiwan Strait during her visit to the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum in Nanjing, the capital of China’s eastern Jiangsu province. The last KMT chief to meet with Xi was in 2015, when then-chairman Eric Chu met him in China. The visit is seen as an important step in dialogue and exchanges between the KMT and China’s Communist Party. Cheng was elected as chairwoman of the KMT in October 2025. China considers Taiwan its “breakaway province,” while Taipei has insisted on its independence since 1949. The visit has also assumed significance as Xi is set to host US President Donald Trump next month.
10 April 2026
Quote of the Day by Jeff Bezos: ‘I believe you have to be willing to be misunderstood if you’re going to innovate. How did he apply this idea while building Amazon?
Quote of the Day by Jeff Bezos: Amazon founder and billionaire Jeff Bezos revealed in an interview that part of the journey to becoming extraordinarily successful was standing firm in his convictions even when others doubted him. “One thing that I tell people is … if you’re going to do anything new or innovative, you have to be willing to be misunderstood,” says Bezos in an interview in 2018. “If you cannot afford to be misunderstood, then for goodness’ sake, don’t do anything new or innovative.” ALSO READ: BMW hiring: 19-year-old Indian without a degree lands dream role at auto giant, viral LinkedIn post sparks debate Meaning of Jeff Bezos’ quote The quote by tech CEO Jeff Bezos means that if you want to create something new and different, you should be ready for people not to understand you at first. People might always misunderstand you when you are trying to do something new. ALSO READ: Quote of the Day by global superstar Taylor SwiftJeff Bezos is saying that this misunderstanding is normal and in fact, it is part of the journey of innovation. If you are doing something truly unique, people will not always agree with you in the
10 April 2026
Chicago man charged with threatening to kill Trump, and “hunt” Secret Service agent investigating threat
A Chicago man has been charged with threatening to kill President Trump and his son, Barron, and then “hunt” a Secret Service agent and “shoot up” the office where he worked after the agent had gone to his home to investigate. Michael Kovco, 29, has been charged with one count of transmitting threats in interstate commerce. According to the charges, Kovco sent a message to the offical White House website on March 17, threatening to kill the president and his youngest son. The message stated it was from “Mr. I’m going to f***ing kill your child Kovco” and included Kovco’s telephone number and email address. “I’m going to take a serrated knife and saw Barron Trump’s head off after I successfully stake out the president of the united states with a high caliber sniper rifle permanently aimed at the White House Lawn from a local vantage point. I have absolutely every intent of plotting and carrying out an active assassination attempt against the President of the United States of America. This is a serious threat,” he allegedly wrote. After a Secret Service agent visited Kovco’s home on March 19, he sent another message to the White House website, threatening to
10 April 2026
CA Democrats urge officials to prep for Trump ballot seizures
(From left) Ranking Member Joe Morelle (NY-25), Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, Congressman Kevin MulIin (CA-15) and Congressman Mike Thompson (CA-04) hold a press conference following a “shadow hearing” on how House Democrats “will continue fighting to protect our democracy” with Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi inside the Baxter Appellate courtroom at UC Law San Francisco in San Francisco, California Thursday, April 9, 2026. Jessica Christian/S.F. Chronicle California House Democrats on Thursday said election officials across the country need to prepare for the possibility President Donald Trump and the federal government will intervene — or even seize ballots — during the midterm elections. The warning came while Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-San Francisco, and Rep. Joe Morelle, D-New York, led an unofficial House committee hearing at the UC College of the Law in San Francisco along with three other members of Congress. Morelle, the top Democrat on the House committee that oversees federal elections, hosted a similar session in Los Angeles and another in Nevada, with more scheduled across the country. Legal and election experts on Thursday bemoaned Trump’s actions ahead of the November midterm races, especially a contested proposed federal law they say would disenfranchise voters and make
10 April 2026
Beyoncé celebrates new Cécred collection with star-studded hair show
Beyoncé celebrates new Cécred collection with star-studded hair show U.S. Politics Sports Entertainment Life Money Travel Opinion Crossword ONLY AT USA TODAY: OUR PORTFOLIO: April 9, 2026, 8:05 p.m. ET Beyoncé celebrates the launch of her haircare line Cécred’s new Styling Collection with her mother, Tina Knowles, during a star-studded event in Los Angeles on April 7, 2026. Julian Dakdouk / Provided By Moyo Oyelola For Cécred Victoria Monet Virisa Yong For Cécred Victoria Monet and Jessie Reyez. Virisa Yong For Cécred Scott Evans Virisa Yong For Cécred Dancers perform at Cécred’s star-studded event celebrating the launch of the haircare brand’s new Styling Collection in Los Angeles on April 7. Virisa Yong For Cécred Cécred Virisa Yong For Cécred Cécred Virisa Yong For Cécred Cécred Virisa Yong For Cécred Cécred Virisa Yong For Cécred Cécred Virisa Yong For Cécred Cécred Virisa Yong For Cécred Cécred Virisa Yong For Cécred Cécred Virisa Yong For Cécred Cécred Virisa Yong For Cécred Cécred Virisa Yong For Cécred Cécred Virisa Yong For Cécred Cécred Virisa Yong For Cécred © 2026 USA TODAY, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network, LLC.
10 April 2026
The Costs of Trump’s Iran-War Folly
Instead of regime change, Trump has succeeded merely in swapping one Supreme Leader named Khamenei—the aging ayatollah whose killing Trump celebrated on the first day of the war—for another Supreme Leader named Khamenei, the ayatollah’s son, who appears to be even more of a hard-liner than his father was. As for the many, many other goals for the conflict that Trump had offered at various points, suffice it to say that he failed to achieve anything like the obliteration of Iran’s nuclear program, ballistic-missile arsenal, or proxy network of terrorist allies that might have constituted a positive outcome. (The reason, no doubt, that Israel kept firing away at Hezbollah in Lebanon even after the ceasefire was announced.) “Unconditional surrender” this was not. The costs of Trump’s folly include far more than the thousands of deaths or tens of billions of dollars the Pentagon has spent on the war—from billions of dollars in damage to U.S. military installations, oil-and-gas production facilities, and civilian infrastructure in Bahrain, Iraq, Israel, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, to the disruption of global supply chains and air-traffic routes and the depletion of hard-to-replace air-defense and munitions stockpiles. The longer-term and less
10 April 2026
Cheng Li-wen Leads KMT Delegation To China Ahead Of Planned ‘Cheng–Xi Meeting’
Kuomintang (KMT) Chairperson Cheng Li-wen led a delegation to China on Tuesday, April 7 and is scheduled to hold a “Cheng–Xi meeting” with Xi Jinping on the 10th. Taiwan’s Premier Cho Jung-tai stated that between the KMT and the CCP, it is not only the Wu Shi espionage case that has harmed the country; the so-called “Beiping model” at the time was a key factor that led the entire nation toward ultimate defeat. He said he does not believe anyone in Taiwan today would accept such a “lying flat” model. He also said that political party representatives or individuals with substantial political influence who engage with the Chinese Communist Party in an open manner must be subject to strict oversight, especially oversight by the public and the media. Cho Jung-tai: Taiwanese people do not accept surrender or ‘lying flat’ On April 7, Cheng Li-wen departed for China and is expected to meet CCP leader Xi Jinping on April 10 for the “Cheng–Xi meeting.” She said that in recent years, the Democratic Progressive Party’s crackdown on spies and mainland spouses has caused strong public resentment. In response, Premier Cho Jung-tai said in an interview with the media at the Legislative Yuan
9 April 2026
British premier says ‘fed up’ with economic consequences of actions by ‘Putin, Trump across the world’
Melike Pala 09 April 2026•Update: 09 April 2026 British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday said that he is “fed up” with the economic impact of global political decisions, accusing the actions of Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump of driving energy price volatility that is hurting UK households and businesses. Speaking to ITV News during a visit to the Middle East, Starmer highlighted growing frustration over fluctuating energy bills. “I’m fed up with the fact that families across the country see their bills go up and down on energy, businesses’ bills go up and down on energy because of the actions of Putin or Trump across the world,” he said. His comments come against the backdrop of ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting global energy markets, including developments involving Iran and the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Starmer also called for a halt to Israeli strikes on Lebanon amid a ceasefire with Iran, saying it “should stop” as a matter of principle.” “But let me be really clear about it. They’re wrong … That shouldn’t be happening. That should stop,” he said. Starmer added: “It’s hard to say that there is a breach when we haven’t all got access
9 April 2026
DJs Tye Turner and Sgamo to perform in Art Week Afterparty this March
Arts Month is undoubtedly one of Hong Kong’s most happening periods, with large-scale events such as Edible Art Fair and Art Basel, as well as niche gallery showings. To cap off a jam-packed month, don’t miss the Art Week Afterparty on March 27 — the big finale you won’t want to miss. Organised by Clockenflap and Umami Events, this Pier 1929 nightlife event brings together standout names from the international DJ scene: Perth’s jersey-club and baile-funk producer Tye Turner and Italy’s multi-genre selector Sgamo. Plus, catch New York-based EDM/house DJ Hansel, Berlin’s jungle and Afro-electronica artist Katagyal, and local drum-and-bass talent Just Bee as they take over the stage throughout the night. Along with pulsating tunes to keep the vibes high, the Art Week Afterparty also promises an immersive multi-sensory experience with semi-hologram projections, old-school TV installations, hypnotic VJ visuals, and mesmerising lighting to blur the lines between music and art. Additionally, attendees will get to sip on tipples created by some of Hong Kong’s hottest bars, including award-winning speakeasy The Old Man, inventive cocktail bar Dead Poets, and restobar-slash-DJ hotspot Aer as the night unfolds. Check out Umami’s Instagram page for more updates about Art Week Afterparty’s DJ lineup, and head to
2 April 2026
Tourism chief touts National Games success, eyes merchandising to boost future events
Hong Kong’s successful co-hosting of the 15th National Games has demonstrated the city’s capability to manage mega-events and has spurred a new strategic focus on developing event-related merchandise to enhance future cultural and sporting activities, according to the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Rosanna Law Shuk-pui. Law told a Legislative Council committee that the 15th National Games and the National Games for Persons with Disabilities were the largest sporting events in Hong Kong’s history. She explained that successfully holding numerous high-level competitions across different locations in a short period required extensive cross-border and inter-departmental coordination and showcased Hong Kong’s capacity for hosting major events. She also noted that visitor arrivals to the city saw a significant increase of approximately 17 to 19 percent during the games. In response to lawmaker Adrian Pedro Ho King-hong’s question about whether strong sales of licensed merchandise could help offset event costs, Law stated that officials were still finalizing the financial accounts. She clarified that while the National Games mascots were popular, the revenue generated from selling related products alone would not be sufficient to cover the substantial expenses of the events. However, Law highlighted the potential of such commercial ventures. She pointed to
30 March 2026
Tech powerhouse, China gateway, talent magnet: How Hong Kong is coming for the world’s best
Hong Kong is doubling down on efforts to attract global professionals as it continues to build on its success as an international hub for finance, shipping and trade, among others. The push comes even as the city made the leap to fourth from ninth place globally and nabbed the pole position in Asia in the IMD World Talent Ranking 2025. Building on the success, Hong Kong Talent Engage (HKTE), a dedicated office under the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, hosted the signature Global Talent Summit (GTS) Week in mid-March. The summit showcased two anchor events – the International Talent Forum and the CareerConnect Expo – on March 18 and 19, with nine satellite events that ran until March 29. The two-day summit attracted a total of 10,000 visits and 170,000 views from around the world. Over 30 speakers spanning across policymakers, businesses and academia, discussed topics centred around three key themes: technology, education and talent. Hong Kong chief executive John Lee, China’s vice-minister of Human Resources and Social Security Yu Jiadong and Hong Kong secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun at the International Talent Forum, Global Talent Summit Week 2026. PHOTO: HKTE Among those who graced
29 March 2026
Global Talent Summit Week flagship events conclude while reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as international talent hub (with photos)
Hong Kong Talent Engage (HKTE) announced today (March 19) that the flagship events of the Global Talent Summit Week (GTS Week), the International Talent Forum and the CareerConnect Expo, were held in two consecutive days and have concluded. Nine satellite events being held concurrently will continue until March 29. The GTS Week brought together experts from the political, business and academic sectors worldwide to share insights on the future integration of education, technology and talent, and worked with local and overseas partners to organise a series of activities, successfully showcasing Hong Kong’s role and strengths as an international talent hub and the country’s gateway for talent. The outline of the nation’s 15th Five-Year Plan explicitly supports Hong Kong in building an international hub for high-calibre talent. The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, remarked that talent is the core for developing new quality productive forces. As the nation’s international gateway and a “super connector”, Hong Kong plays an important role in connecting global minds and driving innovative development. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will proactively align with the strategy for building a talent hub under the 15th Five-Year Plan, and fully leverage Hong
25 March 2026
BEST FORTUNE. WORLD PARTY. Hong Kong Unveils a Spectacular Year of the Horse Celebration
Hong Kong is ready to welcome the Year of the Horse with one of the world’s most vibrant Chinese New Year celebrations. On 17 February, the first day of the Chinese New Year, the Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade will transform the city into a glittering carnival of light, music, global cultures and festive spirit. Celebrate a Chinese New Year like no other, with colorful blossoms in Lunar New Year Fairs, incense offerings for good luck in temples across Hong Kong, horse racing on Year of the Horse Raceday, and more. Start the First Day of the Year of the Horse with a Parade of Dazzling Floats and Enticing Performances from All Around the World Get ready for the first night of Chinese New Year with a pre-parade street party, leading up to the dazzling procession of floats and performances. The Parade will start from Hong Kong Cultural Centre and travel through major roads in Tsim Sha Tsui including Canton Road, Haiphong Road, and Nathan Road beginning at 8 PM on 17 February. With the theme “BEST FORTUNE. WORLD PARTY.”, the festivities celebrate the energetic spirit of the horse, a symbol of strength, vitality, progress, and success in Chinese culture.
25 March 2026
Discover a season of arts and sports mega events in Hong Kong
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 March 2026 – Etiqa Insurance Singaporeand AIA Singapore today announced a strategic distribution partnership to broaden access to Shariah-compliant, values-based Takaful solutions across Singapore. This collaboration marks an important milestone in advancing the Islamic insurance landscape locally and enabling more customers, both Muslim and non-Muslim alike, to benefit from ethical, transparent and socially responsible financial solutions. Under the partnership, Etiqa Insurance Singapore’s suite of Shariah-compliant Family Takaful products will be distributed through AIA Singapore and AIA Financial Advisers, the nation’s largest tied distribution channel comprising more than 6,300 highly professional, qualified AIA insurance representatives. This expanded reach significantly increases accessibility and choice for customers seeking principled and values-aligned protection and savings options. Growing Demand for Values-Based Financial Solutions Global demand for Takaful continues to rise as consumers increasingly prioritise financial solutions aligned with their personal values. The global Takaful market is projected to grow from US$36.5 billion in 2025 to US$63.6 billion by 2030, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.7%[1]. Since launching its Takaful offerings, Etiqa Insurance Singapore has seen strong and accelerating momentum, supported by rising consumer awareness and growing confidence in Shariah-compliant financial protection. Creating a Unified Takaful
24 March 2026
Discover a Season of Arts and Sports Mega Events in Hong Kong
Hong Kong, SAR–(Newsfile Corp. – March 23, 2026) – Hong Kong’s annual arts season moved into its peak last weekend with ComplexCon (21-22 March) returning for its third edition at AsiaWorld-Expo, bringing an eclectic blend of pop culture to the heart of Asia. It marks the start of a flurry of themed events at landmark venues across the city, including the acclaimed Art Basel Hong Kong (27-29 March) and Art Central (25-29 March). Speaking at the opening ceremony of ComplexCon, Rosanna Law, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government said, “We are celebrating Hong Kong’s unique status as the premier East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange. Since its Hong Kong debut in 2024, made possible by the support of our Mega Arts and Cultural Events (Mega ACE) Fund, ComplexCon has established itself as a vibrant and hugely popular cultural event as you can see already, an event of a true blend of pop culture, music, art, and technology, and so much more.” Attracting thousands of fans from near and far, the two-day programme included Complex Live! Stage, featuring a powerhouse line up headlined by global icons, together with a curated mix of regional
24 March 2026
Hong Kong Entertainment Expo 2026 Launches with Major International Events and Celebrations
Entertainment Expo Hong Kong 2026 Kick-off Ceremony held today The kick-off ceremony of the Entertainment Expo Hong Kong 2026 was held today (March 17) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), bringing together an array of major international entertainment events. TheChief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki; the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law; the Chairman of the Hong Kong Film Development Council (HKFDC), Dr Wilfred Wong, and representatives of the organisers of the events under the Expo officiated at the kick-off ceremony. Funded by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB) and the Film Development Fund (FDF), the Expo is spearheaded by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council. Click to Gallery The Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, speaks at the Hong Kong Night @ FILMART 2026 today (March 17). Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases This year’s Hong Kong International Film & TV Market has exhibitors coming from a wide range of countries and regions, including provinces and cities in Chinese Mainland, as well as major film organisations from overseas and leading film companies in Hong Kong. Photo shows the Under Secretary
23 March 2026
‘Sports and entertainment combine to boost economy’
Representatives from the sports sector are optimistic about Hong Kong’s growing sports scene, with many highlighting the potential of combining athletics with entertainment to boost the city’s global image and economic vitality. Kenneth Fok, vice-president of the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China, expressed hope for a stronger event economy, especially with new world-class venues like the Kai Tak Sports Park coming online. “Now that we have Kai Tak and all these world-class stadiums in our city. So how do we change?” he said. “Not just to make the competition better, but more importantly how to add in elements of entertainment and also culture and tourism into our existing infrastructure.” Fok also revealed plans to form a research group to gather input from across the sports sector, with the goal of feeding those insights into the city’s upcoming five-year plan. “This work will start as soon as possible, and I look forward to meeting with our sports counterparts and listening to their views and see how we could contribute positively, not just to sports development, but to the overall well-being of Hong Kong,” he said. During a panel discussion, Michael Cheng, president of the Hong Kong, China
20 March 2026
Eight LIV Golfers Stuck In Middle East Make It Safely To Hong Kong
The eight LIV Golf stars who were stranded in Dubai ahead of the upcoming event in Hong Kong are reportedly clear of the danger zone now. The group, which includes Lee Westwood, Laurie Canter, Thomas Detry, Sam Horsfield, Anirban Lahiri, Tom McKibbin, Adrian Meronk and Caleb Surratt, were practicing in the Middle East over the past week in preparation for the latest LIV Golf event. When the USA and Israel launched air strikes on Iran, multiple zones in the region were put on lockdown, with airport closures impacting many people in Dubai and other Middle Eastern countries. You may like Flushing It Golf was the first to report on the situation involving the LIV players on Tuesday afternoon, posting an update on Twitter/X. 8 players on the LIV Golf League are still in the Middle East and yet to make it to Hong Kong for the 3rd event of the season after flights were cancelled and airports closed due to the ongoing war.Those players are:Lee WestwoodLaurie CanterSam HorsfieldAdrian Meronk… pic.twitter.com/nVlC7oyLwpMarch 3, 2026 Surratt had confirmed to the Golf Channel on Tuesday that he was indeed stranded after heading to Dubai from Australia but that he was hoping a plan was
6 March 2026
13 arts and culture events in March: from Asia Coffee Music Festival to the Hong Kong debut of Stella Cole
When: March 10-12Where: Tea House Theatre, Xiqu Centre, Austin Road West, Tsim Sha TsuiWhat: Marking the close of WestK Cabaret Nights 2026 is a glittering three‑night finale that fuses jazz, nostalgia and stagecraft. On 10 March, Hong Kong musical‑theatre veteran Margaret Cheung joins award‑winning pianist Joyce Cheung for Technicolour Dreams, a programme of jazz and cinematic classics where light and sound mingle in vivid harmony. On 11 March, actor‑singer Crisel Consunji presents I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing, blending heartfelt storytelling with her signature warmth to celebrate community and creativity. Finally, on 12 March, singer‑songwriter Alex Lam performs Songs from a Legacy, Interrupted, inspired by his 2025 single Cassette Love. The evening reflects on memory, family and musical heritage—a tender conclusion to a season defined by artistry and soul. Source link
4 March 2026
Lunar New Year: Global celebrations welcome Year of the Fire Horse | Arts and Culture News
By AFP, AP, EPA and Reuters Published On 17 Feb 202617 Feb 2026 Click here to share on social media share2 Share plus2googleAdd Al Jazeera on Googleinfo People are celebrating the Lunar New Year with prayers, fireworks and street festivals to welcome the Year of the Fire Horse. Crowds thronged temples and festivals across Asia and beyond on Monday night, continuing into Tuesday. Devotees in Hong Kong lined up at midnight to light incense and offer their New Year wishes. Vietnam celebrated with musical countdown performances and spectacular fireworks during Tet festivities. In Taiwan, worshippers participated in the symbolic 108-bell rings and presented floral offerings. These vibrant celebrations mark the transition from the Year of the Snake to the Year of the Horse in the 12-animal Chinese zodiac cycle. The Lunar New Year represents China’s most significant holiday, with its importance extending throughout East Asia and diaspora communities worldwide. In Beijing, crowds descended on popular temples to burn incense and pray for happiness and success in the coming year. At the CCTV Spring Festival gala, a martial arts performance by children and robots also took place, where humanoids from Unitree Robotics showed different sequences and even brandished swords. At a
27 February 2026
Chinese New Year Flower Market 2026
Hong Kong’s Lunar New Year flower markets are in full swing, transforming parks and playgrounds across the city into colourful, bustling bazaars that capture the festive spirit like nothing else. From February 11 to 17, these 14 markets offer a mix of auspicious plants, festive decorations, toys, handicrafts, gadgets, and plenty of street food stalls. Victoria Park in Causeway Bay remains the biggest market with a total of 400 stalls this year, including a special ‘Red Hot Chef’ collaboration between HSBC and Korean star chef Anh Sung-jae featuring over 20 festive bites from top local restaurants. All markets vary in size with different opening hours each day, so pop over to our complete guide for the full rundown. Source link
25 February 2026
Wealth Planning, Structuring Forum – HK | Event
Wednesday, 28 October 2026, Hong Kong Henley & Partners is delighted to have been invited to participate in the Wealth Planning & Structuring Forum — Hong Kong 2026, organized by Hubbis, in October 2026. Overview: For high-net-worth families, the stakes are higher than ever, requiring sophisticated, forward-looking wealth and succession strategies. This event features a comprehensive program of six specialist presentations and four panel discussions, followed by partner-led workshops in the afternoon. It brings together senior management, product heads, and relationship managers from private banks, along with independent wealth managers, MFOs, SFOs, lawyers, tax advisors, and other licensed advisors to ultra-high-net-worth families. Attendees will benefit from insights shared by more than 25 renowned local and international speakers, with ample opportunities for networking over lunch, coffee, and refreshments. Topics: The future of wealth planning in Greater China in 2026 The intensification of compliance and transparency measures Rapidly evolving family office landscape in Hong Kong Insurance solutions such as universal life insurance and PPLI Register for the Wealth Planning and Structuring Forum — Hong Kong 2026 here. Source link
25 February 2026
New light festival show to attract more tourists
Hong Kong will host a new light festival-themed show to replace the decades-old daily light show, according to Financial Secretary Paul Chan. The move is among a raft of events announced in the latest budget aimed at further boosting Hong Kong’s appeal to tourists after chalking up 12 percent more visitor arrivals in 2025. Chan noted the success of the Immersive Light Show in Central featuring 3D light shows last year, saying that the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) will launch a brand new show across various locations at different times of the year to replace A Symphony of Lights that has been staged at Victoria Harbour every night since 2004. The board, he said, will get HK$1.66 billion for the coming year. “The HKTB will scale up its flagship events and promotion, introducing new elements and extending event duration, and organise more signature festive events to highlight Hong Kong’s East-meets-West uniqueness,” Chan added. High-end overnight visitors will be the city’s target, Chan said, and the city will lure them by stepping up promotions in potential markets, including mainland cities outside of Guangdong, as well as emerging markets such as Asean and the Middle East. “We will also proactively promote
25 February 2026
Discover the Central Yards Edible Art Fair HK
In November 2024, we all saw, marvelled, and questioned the famous “banana taped to the wall” artwork by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan when it sold for eye-watering millions. ‘Comedian’ has gone down in the annals of history as a commentary on the art world, while also prompting dialogue surrounding food as art and art as food. Well, why not both? At a new cultural event debuting in Hong Kong this Art Month, visual and edible creations are brought together for an immersive experience spotlighting art and food. Central Yards Edible Art Fair represents the intersection of art, food, culture, and experience, brought to life by events and catering company Feste Group and art consultancy Art-Partners. All of this is sponsored by Central Yards, a major mixed-use development that’s coming to Central Harbourfront as soon as next year. Henderson Land is building on prime real estate beside the Central Ferry Piers; once completed, this “groundscraper” will be home to office, retail, leisure, and event spaces. Photograph: Courtesy Central Yards Edible Art Fair From March 26 to April 5, the Central Yards Edible Art Fair will invite visitors to discover a range of unique exhibitions focused around the senses of taste, sight,
23 February 2026
Spring activities at the Danish Seamen’s Church in Hong Kong
Photo: The Danish Seamen’s Church Hong Kong The Danish Seamen’s Church in Hong Kong is preparing a series of community events in the coming weeks, offering both children and adults a chance to gather in a Danish setting. On Saturday, 28 February at 11:00, the church will host Danish language classes for children, followed by a playgroup at 12:00. The classes are adapted to different language levels and aim to help children strengthen their Danish skills while staying connected to the Danish community abroad. On Sunday, 1 March at 11:00, a church service will be followed by a talk by journalist Pia Elers titled “18 Missiles That Changed My World.” Beginning around 13:00, Elers will share her remarkable life journey — from years at Tvind and a decade in the merchant navy to becoming a correspondent in China. The afternoon will also include music and song. All events are open to members of the Danish community in Hong Kong. Source link
22 February 2026
Chinese New Year: What you can experience in China and the Nordic countries
Chinese New Year 2026 is marked with public celebrations in China and across the Nordic countries. Photo: VCG/Getty Images Chinese New Year 2026 begins on 17 February and marks the start of the Year of the Horse. Across China and in several Nordic cities, public events, themed dinners and cultural programmes invite residents and visitors to take part in the celebrations.From large-scale festivities in Shanghai and Hong Kong to smaller but growing events in Copenhagen, Stockholm, Oslo and Helsinki, there are different ways to experience the Lunar New Year. Beijing, China If you spend your days over Chinese New Year in Beijing, you step into a city shaped by ritual and celebration. You can join temple fairs in major parks with lion dances, drum performances and market stalls. Visit temples to witness incense rituals and New Year prayers. Explore historic hutongs and landmarks dressed in red lanterns and seasonal decorations. You can take part in cultural workshops such as calligraphy or paper cutting, attend festive concerts and stage performances, or book a traditional reunion dinner featuring dumplings and other symbolic dishes. As the days progress, lantern displays and light shows appear across the city, leading up to the Lantern Festival
16 February 2026
2026 Hong Kong Chinese New Year Night Parade: Your Ultimate Guide
Hong Kong’s biggest Lunar New Year celebration is making its spectacular return this month, commandeering the streets of Tsim Sha Tsui for a Year of the Horse extravaganza like no other! Organised by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade 2026 will take place on Tuesday, February 17 – the first day of Lunar New Year – featuring a programme of stunning floats and performances under the theme ‘Best Fortune World Party’. Here’s what to expect from the event: When and where is the Chinese New Year Night Parade? Mark your calendars – the Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade will happen on Tuesday, February 17, from 9pm to 9.45pm. Tsim Sha Tsui will be blocked off for the occasion to accommodate the route of the floats and performances. We anticipate onlookers will gather in Tsim Sha Tsui well before the event begins to secure a good, free-of-charge spot for viewing the Chinese New Year Night Parade, and luckily, there will be entertainment to keep them occupied – pre-parade performances start at 6pm to drum up excitement, and will include lion and dragon dances, magic, and acrobatic rope skipping. Photograph: Courtesy HKTB What kind of
13 February 2026
Toronto ETO celebrates Year of the Horse at joint reception with HKTB (with photos)
The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (Toronto) (Toronto ETO) welcomed over 150 guests and friends to a spring reception jointly hosted with the Hong Kong Tourism Board (Canada) (HKTB) on February 12 (Toronto time) in Toronto to celebrate the Year of the Horse. Guests from the business, cultural, academic and community sectors gathered to exchange views and learn about Hong Kong’s latest developments on the economic and cultural fronts. In his welcoming remarks, the Director of the Toronto ETO, Mr Bill Wong, said that Hong Kong achieved a series of encouraging results in 2025, reflecting the city’s continued momentum in economic development. He said that the “one country, two systems” principle continues to be the cornerstone of Hong Kong’s prosperity, with the robust rule of law and common law system internationally recognised. Over the past year, international confidence has been reflected in sustained capital inflows, expansion by multinational companies, a roughly 30 per cent rise in the Hang Seng Index in 2025, leading the world in initial public offering fundraising, and continued growth in asset and wealth management as well as bank deposits. Looking ahead to the Year of the Horse,
13 February 2026
HK ‘aceing it with players and as tennis destination’
Hong Kong is building itself into a distinctive international tennis destination through a deliberate, long-term strategy focused on both the hosting of events and player development, according to Michael Cheng, president of the Hong Kong, China Tennis Association. Speaking on RTHK’s Backchat programme on Wednesday, he said authorities were trying to create a profile for the city as a novel tennis international destination. “You’re building a bit of a brand, and it has to be sustainable, and creating that novelty around the Hong Kong tennis season [has] helped shape Hong Kong to be a mega-event capital through a sporting platform.” He pointed to the strategic growth of the event portfolio as key. “Everybody looks forward to coming to Hong Kong at the end of the season, and they kick off the season in Hong Kong with the men’s event,” Cheng said, adding that Hong Kong now hosted ATP, WTA and Ultimate Tennis Showdown events every year, similar to London. Cheng added that the sport was flourishing in Hong Kong with its pipeline of local talent. “If you get good players, that’s icing on the cake. Now, it also shows that it’s a testament that the strategy works,” he said. He
4 February 2026
Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Singapore are Coming to Taiwan’s Biggest Summer Event: 500 Japanese Tourists Arrive for the Stunning Penghu Fireworks Festival!
Home » TOURISM NEWS » Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Singapore are Coming to Taiwan’s Biggest Summer Event: 500 Japanese Tourists Arrive for the Stunning Penghu Fireworks Festival! Published on February 3, 2026 Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Singapore are coming to Taiwan’s biggest summer event, and it’s about to be a travel phenomenon you won’t want to miss. The 2026 Penghu International Fireworks Festival, an iconic celebration that’s become one of Taiwan’s most sought-after tourist attractions, is set to draw an unprecedented number of international visitors. With Japanese travel company Hankyu Travel International leading the charge by bringing 500 tourists from Japan alone, this year’s festival promises to shine brighter than ever. The stunning fireworks displays, coupled with synchronized drone shows, have already sparked a surge in travel bookings from neighboring countries. For airlines, this presents a golden opportunity to cater to the increased demand, with carriers ramping up their flights to Taiwan from top source markets. For the hospitality industry, it’s a chance to welcome guests to some of Taiwan’s most picturesque and culturally rich destinations. As the world recovers and tourism continues to bounce back, the Penghu Fireworks Festival is not just an event—it’s a
3 February 2026
Central Yards Edible Art Fair debuts in Hong Kong: Adding a brand new, first-of-its-kind event to the rich cultural calendar of Hong Kong this March
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 January 2026 – Central Yards Edible Art Fair was conceived by founder and creative director Arbiona Cadman, CEO of the renowned events and catering company Feste Group, with art curation by independent art consultancy firm Art-Partners, and proudly sponsored by Central Yards. This reimagined cultural event that blends art, taste and imagination, will take place from 26 March to 5 April 2026 at the Central Harbourfront Event Space in Hong Kong. Set to delight people of all ages, Central Yards Edible Art Fair is a journey of discovery and wonder that is sure to spark curiosity. Visitors are invited to walk through the 10-gallery experience at their own pace. Tickets are on sale from today, with early-bird offer available until 15 February at www.edibleartfair.com. Image Credit: Central Yards Edible Art Fair With a vision to reinvent Central and revitalise the city, the inaugural Central Yards Edible Art Fair brings a new sense of excitement, discovery and fun—creating ripples that extend from Hong Kong to the world. Arbiona Cadman, Founder and Managing Director of Central Yards Edible Art Fair,said: “Central Yards Edible Art Fair is about reimagining how we connect with art
29 January 2026
Explainer | Hong Kong is revamping its Covid-19 entry rules – here’s what you need to know
Hong Kong has streamlined its categorisation of places deemed Covid-19 risks, condensing a five-tier system into three risk levels – high, medium and low – and changed travel rules for overseas arrivals. Countries currently categorised as extremely or very high risk will be consolidated into a new top tier labelled as “high risk”, while those currently deemed high- and medium-risk will be merged into a new medium-risk tier that will include most countries. With the new measures kicking in next Monday, the Post unpacks what you need to know about the latest rules. In general, what rules have been relaxed or tightened? All arrivals must show a negative Covid-19 test taken 72 hours before their flight. In the past, some vaccinated travellers were exempted from the requirement. Under the new measures, only fully vaccinated Hong Kong residents can fly in from high-risk countries, such as Britain, the Philippines and Indonesia. 03:18 Mass Covid-19 testing under way across China amid rising infections fuelled by Delta variant Mass Covid-19 testing under way across China amid rising infections fuelled by Delta variant Fully vaccinated non-residents can enter the city from medium-risk countries, such as Singapore, Japan and the United States. Previously, only non-residents
28 May 2025
Explainer | Singapore trades Covid-Zero for ‘Covid Resilience’. How will it work?
Singapore will from September remove quarantine requirements for vaccinated travellers from Germany and Brunei, in a signal to the world it is cautiously reopening while managing the Covid-19 threat. By trading its previous Covid-Zero approach for a new policy of “Covid resilience”, the city state is setting itself apart from neighbours that are either still grappling with rising caseloads or are pressing on with an elimination strategy that comes with its own set of costs. Speaking to Bloomberg on Friday, Transport Minister S. Iswaran said the government’s thinking was that the sooner society learned to live with Covid-19, it could adjust “protocols … and processes to return to normalcy as much as possible”. “If we don’t do that and if we’re waiting for an eradication type of approach it might not be possible given the way the virus is mutating,” he said. But what exactly does “Covid resilience” entail? A near-empty street in the Chinatown area of Singapore on August 3, 2021. Photo: Bloomberg What’s life like now in Singapore? Source link
28 May 2025
Explainer | Why US probe into coronavirus origins may make health cooperation with China difficult
President Joe Biden in May tasked US intelligence agencies with reaching a “definitive conclusion” on the origins of the Covid-19 virus, including the possibility that it emerged from a lab accident, after a first American probe proved inconclusive. While the findings of the 90-day US investigation have yet to be released, the process itself has already drawn the ire of Beijing, which is opposed to inquiries that aim to study whether the coronavirus leaked from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, in the central Chinese city that reported the first major Covid-19 outbreak. This includes plans by the World Health Organization (WHO) to revisit the lab for a new investigation. How has China reacted to the US investigation? China is opposed to the US probe because it is being conducted by American intelligence agencies, not scientists from across the world working under the banner of the WHO. “Origin-tracing needs science, not intelligence,” Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said on Tuesday. 02:23 Covid-19 returns to China’s Wuhan as Delta variant spreads to 10 provinces Covid-19 returns to China’s Wuhan as Delta variant spreads to 10 provinces Lu Xiang, a senior researcher on US-China relations at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences,
28 May 2025
Explainer | Coronavirus: why a third vaccine shot is important for people who are immunocompromised
A number of countries including the United States and the United Kingdom are moving to make a third dose of a Covid-19 vaccine available to people who are immunocompromised. But why are people with weaker immune systems at the front of the queue for a third dose? As the global Covid-19 vaccine roll-out continues, emerging data is showing those who are immunocompromised are not necessarily as well protected by the first two doses. So for these people, a third dose, sooner rather than later, could be particularly beneficial. Who is ‘immunocompromised’? People who are immunocompromised have conditions called immunodeficiencies, where part of their immune system is missing or not functioning as well as it should. Around 2.8 per cent of adults in the US are immunocompromised, and the rate is expected to be similar in Australia and other countries. Immunodeficiencies are broadly divided into two categories: – primary immunodeficiencies are very rare, often inherited conditions caused by mutations in our DNA Source link
28 May 2025
Explainer | Coronavirus: Did the US fund risky research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology?
A theory that the Covid-19 pandemic could have been sparked by the escape of a virus from a Chinese laboratory has amped up tensions between Washington and Beijing. It has also raised questions about US funding for bat coronavirus research at a lab at the heart of the controversy. Among those driving the questions is US Senator Rand Paul, who has repeatedly accused Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), of lying about US financing for gain of function research enhancing bat viruses at the Wuhan Institute of Virology, and suggested that Fauci is complicit in the start of the pandemic. Dr Anthony Fauci testifying at a US Senate hearing in Washington on July 20. Photo: AP There is no evidence linking the viruses studied at the institute to the outbreak, and Fauci has repudiated the accusations. Fauci has denied that his agency funded gain of function work at the lab and railed against the senator for what he contends is Paul’s misconstruing of the research and its implications. Even so, Paul, a Kentucky Republican, upped his claims last week following the release of documents from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) obtained through
28 May 2025
Why China’s lockdown protests pose an unprecedented challenge to Beijing
While local protests in China over environmental, labour and land disputes are not uncommon, the rare wave of blank-paper protests that spilled across China’s wealthiest cities – all targeting President Xi Jinping’s zero-Covid policy – represents a challenge of the type the country’s leaders have not faced for decades. The protests erupted last weekend after a fire at a residential block in Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang, claimed 10 lives. University students and angry citizens staged vigils on campuses and took to the streets in more than 10 cities – some holding blank sheets of paper to protest against censorship or shouting inflammatory slogans rejecting lockdowns and endless PCR tests, while some called for constitutional reform and regime change. Although things appear to have quietened down since last weekend – and some cities have started easing their controls – analysts said the size and scale of the protests meant Beijing should not underestimate their political implications and give a clear signal about how and when the zero-Covid policy would end. “Given how the party is centred on [Xi] now, this moment is a test of his leadership,” said Dali Yang, a political scientist at the University of Chicago. Xi, who
28 May 2025
Nasal spray Covid-19 vaccine co-developed by Hong Kong scientists approved for emergency use in mainland China in ‘historic breakthrough’
A nasal spray Covid-19 vaccine co-developed by Hong Kong microbiologist Professor Yuen Kwok-yung and his team with a mainland China university and pharmaceutical firm has been approved for emergency use by the national authorities. Yuen, from the University of Hong Kong (HKU), on Monday night said the development was a “historic breakthrough”. “The biggest meaning is that Hong Kong has made a vaccine itself for the first time and got an approval from the National Medical Products Administration for emergency use at the end,” Yuen said. The historic main building at the University of Hong Kong. Photo: Dickson Lee HKU, Xiamen University and Beijing Wantai Biological Pharmacy started clinical trials for the nasal spray vaccine on the mainland and in Hong Kong last March after central authorities gave the go-ahead. The drug company confirmed in an announcement on Monday that the nasal vaccine had obtained approval for emergency use on the mainland. Yuen said it would be a commercial decision for Wantai to decide it would apply for emergency use for the vaccine in the city. The company said the phase-three clinical trial for the new vaccine, which was carried out in South Africa, the Philippines, Colombia and Vietnam, was
28 May 2025
‘It’s like being in prison’: unvaccinated Hongkongers warn of social isolation, health struggles after 20,000 Covid jab exemptions voided
Alan* was barred from entering a Hong Kong restaurant where his family had gathered to commemorate his late wife after her funeral in April because he had not received a Covid-19 vaccine. “It was shameful. It was upsetting. It was my wife, a senior member of the family,” the 63-year-old owner of an IT company who suffers from strokes said. “For me not being able to host my wife’s lunch … It was very frustrating.” Desperate and helpless, he later found a doctor who issued him a vaccination exemption certificate after evaluating his health. Under the vaccine pass scheme, residents who are not inoculated cannot enter places such as restaurants, bars and gyms. Photo: Xiaomei Chen But in September, that doctor was among seven people arrested for allegedly issuing fraudulent documents. A total of 20,000 vaccine exemptions issued by the medical practitioners, including Alan’s, were annulled. Under Hong Kong’s vaccine pass scheme, which began in February, unvaccinated individuals cannot enter places such as restaurants, bars and gyms. Those who are medically unfit for the jabs are allowed to obtain a vaccination exemption certificate, which is valid for three to six months, after undergoing clinical assessments. But for patients such as
28 May 2025
Coronavirus: mainland China’s easing should spur Hong Kong to ask for border reopening, business leaders and health experts say
Beijing’s long-awaited easing of coronavirus precautions has sparked hopes that Hong Kong may soon be able to fully reopen its border with mainland China, as well as do away with traveller entry restrictions, the city’s business leaders and health experts have said. Commerce sector lawmaker Jeffrey Lam Kin-fung, also a member of the key decision-making body the Executive Council, appealed to the government on Wednesday to restart discussions on reopening the city’s border with the mainland, saying Beijing’s move had offered some light at the end of the tunnel. “It has to be a step-by-step procedure, so I don’t think we should expect a quarantine-free entry to the mainland like tomorrow. But if we do everything right, I hope we can see that maybe early next year,” he said. 03:27 China further eases pandemic restrictions in latest step towards reopening after zero-Covid China further eases pandemic restrictions in latest step towards reopening after zero-Covid Lam also asked the government to first talk to mainland authorities about increasing the quarantine hotel quota from 1,000 to 2,000 or more a day by the end of the year to make business and family visits easier. The mainland moved a step closer to reopening
28 May 2025
Coronavirus: 400 per cent jump in number of Hongkongers taking fourth jab after Omicron-targeted shots become available
The number of Hongkongers receiving their fourth coronavirus jab has risen more than fivefold in the past week, with about 81 per cent of them opting for the Omicron-specific vaccine available since last Thursday. The government announced on Wednesday that more residents would be eligible for the BioNTech bivalent shots, which contain components of the original coronavirus strain and Omicron one. The bivalent vaccine was made available last Thursday to uninfected adults as a fourth dose and recovered individuals as a third dose. The Chinese-made Sinovac shots are also being offered, along with the original doses made by Germany’s BioNTech. Official statistics show 47,742 people were given a fourth shot in the week up to Wednesday, compared with 9,232 seven days earlier. Among them, 38,654 received the bivalent vaccine. The number of residents who have received a fourth dose now stands at more than 632,000. Authorities have ordered 1.9 million shots of the BioNTech bivalent vaccine so far, with the first batch of 770,000 arriving in the city on November 25. Starting from Friday, adults can book appointments for the new vaccine as their third dose, or second shot if they were previously infected, after experts from the city’s scientific
28 May 2025
Coronavirus: Hong Kong further eases isolation rules but ongoing surge in cases keeps city from lifting social-distancing measures over holidays
This story has been made freely available as a public service to our readers. Please consider supporting SCMP’s journalism by subscribing. Hong Kong has further eased its quarantine and isolation measures following mainland China’s major shift away from its zero-Covid policy, but a continuing surge in daily infections is keeping the city from lifting social-distancing rules over the coming holiday season. From Friday, residents and arrivals infected with Covid-19 will be allowed to leave isolation on the fifth day, instead of the seventh, if they test negative for two days in a row by then. But health officials sparked disappointment in the restaurant and bar trade after saying current social-distancing measures would remain in place over Christmas, as they reported 14,373 new coronavirus cases, including 798 imported infections, on Thursday, the highest since March 19. Another 27 deaths were also recorded. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said the city had adjusted its policies with the “same scientific and precise principles” adopted by mainland authorities, which had announced their long-awaited easing of pandemic rules a day earlier. “I fully understand citizens’ expectations for the reopening of the [mainland] border,” Lee said during a reception. Source link
28 May 2025
‘Bigger than just Covid vaccines’: US drug giant Moderna wants to collaborate with Hong Kong scientists on mRNA technology with local branch
US pharmaceutical giant Moderna is looking to collaborate with Hong Kong scientists on vaccine development after setting up a local manufacturing branch, with a long-term goal to tap into the mainland Chinese market. In an interview with the Post, Patrick Bergstedt, Moderna senior vice-president and head of emerging markets, said the Hong Kong subsidiary would focus on introducing the mRNA technology to the city, with plans to engage local professionals and other stakeholders. “The most immediate opportunity is for us to do clinical research in Hong Kong … Because Hong Kong already has a very established network, excellent healthcare system, excellent academic system, excellent hospitals,” he said. Patrick Bergstedt, Moderna senior vice-president of commercial vaccines. Photo: Edmond So “In the short term, we want to look at how we can do clinical research for our respiratory vaccines, for latent viruses or some of our Moderna therapeutics.” Unlike other vaccines that introduce a weakened or inactivated virus into the bodies, mRNA or messenger RNA jabs use a molecule that teaches human cells how to make a protein, which triggers an immune response in the body by producing antibodies. Moderna also has Covid-19 vaccines but these are as yet not available for
28 May 2025
Hong Kong’s latest ‘0+0’ Covid policy a long-awaited change, but how soon can city bounce back and fix its economy?
Hong Kong residents, businesspeople and visitors all have high hopes that the long-awaited lifting of the city’s travel restrictions and the end of medical supervision rules for arrivals will help put the bounce back in the economy. But business leaders and economists said it could take more than a year for the city to recover its shine after the border with mainland China fully reopened. The introduction of the “0+0” arrangement was welcomed as a breath of fresh air for a city stifled by three years of strict coronavirus rules – some of the toughest in the world because of the zero Covid-19 policy imposed in line with the mainland. But, from Wednesday, the city will become one of the last places in the world to remove its travel restrictions for arrivals with the scrapping of the amber health code for people who test negative for Covid-19. It is the biggest relaxation made by the authorities to lessen the frustration of arrivals since the start of the pandemic. Passengers arrive at Hong Kong International Airport. Photo: Jelly Tse The city has gone from total closure, a maximum of 21 days quarantine down to seven days, to a further “3+4” and
28 May 2025
Singapore doctors expect more PCR testing as China eases Covid measures
Singapore healthcare providers are expecting a wave of travellers requiring pre-departure PCR coronavirus tests in the coming months as China eases its border measures. Unihealth handles around 100-150 swabs for such tests across its four clinics each week, and it expects these numbers to increase. Medical director and family doctor Xie Huizhuang said there had been a 15-20 per cent increase in demand for the tests since mid-November, with much of it coming from Chinese nationals returning home. Since mid-November, those going to China are required to take one PCR test within 48 hours of travelling, instead of the two previously required. China also loosened Covid curbs nationwide earlier this month, lifting restrictions on entry to public spaces and allowing those infected to isolate at home instead of being taken to a hospital. 01:59 Shanghai schools switch online as China braces for soaring number of Covid-19 cases Shanghai schools switch online as China braces for soaring number of Covid-19 cases Source link
28 May 2025
Coronavirus: close contacts of Covid patients at Hong Kong care homes will no longer be sent to quarantine centres to free up space
Close contacts of Covid-19 patients at care homes for the elderly in Hong Kong will no longer be sent to quarantine centres, while extra hospital beds and manpower will be added to cope with a potential influx of people at public health facilities, authorities have said. The government on Thursday announced the new measures in response to patients swarming public hospitals in recent weeks, with one health expert saying adjustments should have been made earlier. More than 1,600 residents from care homes for the elderly have been diagnosed with Covid-19 in the past week amid the recent surge of infections locally. Patients wait in the accident and emergency area of United Christian Hospital in Kwun Tong. Photo: May Tse The Social Welfare Department said close contacts at the homes would be allowed to stay at their residence instead of being sent to quarantine centres, as was the case under previous guidelines. Grace Li Fai, an executive council member of the Elderly Services Association of Hong Kong, welcomed the measures, saying it was pointless to move the elderly “back and forth” between facilities. “The new measure will allow more beds for infected elderly, as close contacts will no longer be occupying
28 May 2025
Private sector medicine pours cold water on prospects of demand for paid-for coronavirus vaccination in Hong Kong
Private hospitals and doctors in Hong Kong have cast doubts on the viability of them giving Covid-19 jabs for a fee, despite a government insistence that manufacturers were “striving” to offer vaccines to the sector. The private operators on Friday said they were sceptical about the scheme because free shots were easily available to residents and there were uncertainties on when and how many mainland China or non-resident patients would travel to pay for vaccination. Doctors and patients’ rights groups have already highlighted the need to maintain government-subsidised Covid-19 vaccinations in the long term because the coronavirus was likely to become endemic. Private hospitals and doctors say free shots are easily available to residents. Photo: AFP William Ho Shiu-wei, chairman of the Hong Kong Private Hospitals Association, told that Post that, without clear market demand, there was “little incentive” for the sector to acquire vaccines for sale to the public. Ho said demand among city residents for private vaccination was non-existent, not only because of the cost, but also because jabs given outside the government programme would not be covered by an indemnity fund set up to provide financial support to people who suffered serious vaccine-related complications. Medical sector lawmaker
27 May 2025
Apple Watch, protein powders are all the rage in China as Gen Zs rediscover the benefits of good health amid resurging Covid infections
A lot of people have been turning to wearable fitness devices to help them get into shape. The wearable devices market in China is expected to grow 20 per cent per year to reach a market size of over US$20 billion in 2025, a joint report by BDA and OC&C found. Wearable technology such as headsets and smartwatches can track performance during exercise and measure body functions like heart rate. George Yang, 22, said he bought his Apple Watch when Shanghai went into a strict lockdown in April. The university student said he had suffered chronic neck pain for over a year, which he believes was caused by too much time spent on his computer attending online courses. Yang said the smartwatch helps him stay on track with his fitness goals. He downloaded China’s most popular fitness app, Keep, and hopes to be able to run a full marathon next year. “Young, healthy people [in China] look for wearables that feature health monitoring as well as other functionalities such as entertainment and smart-home functions,” said Anthony Siu, partner and co-head of BDA Shanghai. Source link
27 May 2025
Coronavirus: Hong Kong drops on-arrival PCR tests and vaccine pass, city set to reopen its border with mainland China on January 10 at the earliest
This story has been made freely available as a public service to our readers. Please consider supporting SCMP’s journalism by subscribing. Hong Kong will drop almost all Covid-19 measures starting from Thursday, including mandatory polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests for arrivals, its vaccine pass scheme and quarantine requirements for close contacts, following similar action by mainland China. In a related development, the Post learned on Wednesday that Hong Kong is set to reopen its border with the mainland on January 10 at the earliest, with those travelling to the city for business and family needs to be given priority. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu reiterated on Wednesday his aim to fully resume cross-border travel progressively and in an orderly manner starting from mid-January. Travellers in Hong Kong wait to cross the border to enter mainland China. Photo: Sam Tsang From Thursday, the city will become one of the last places in the world to do away with pandemic restrictions. Confirming the Post’s earlier reports, the government announced that it would lift most of the Covid-19 measures imposed in the past three years, but a mandate requiring the wearing of masks would remain. Source link
27 May 2025
Exclusive | Hong Kong to host global central banks meeting next month as it steps up efforts to rebuild reputation as finance hub
Scores of central bankers from around the world will gather in Hong Kong next month for a meeting to be hosted by the Bank for International Settlements (BIS), marking the first major international financial event since the city fully reopened its border in December. The Hong Kong Monetary Authority is getting ready for the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision meeting to be held in March, Clara Chan, acting deputy chief of the de facto central bank, told lawmakers. “We have been preparing for the meeting of central bankers, international financial regulators and the global financial leaders. We encourage more international financial organisations to host events and seminars in Hong Kong,” Chan said during a monthly meeting of the financial affairs panel on Monday. “The HKMA will also work with the local financial sector to visit Southeast Asia and the Middle East to exchange views with the central banks and other financial leaders this year to enhance cross-border cooperation.” The authority is keen to use overseas roadshows to convince central banks and finance companies that it is “business as usual” in Hong Kong after three years of disruptions caused by the pandemic. The city’s reputation as a leading financial hub suffered
27 May 2025
Hey big spenders! China’s richest consumers will keep splashing out on luxury goods even as economy slumps, Bain says
China’s wealthiest consumers will continue to splurge on luxury items like designer bags and watches as the economy reopens, even as middle-class shoppers refrain from buying big-ticket items, unnerved by worries about their job prospects and wages, according to Bain & Company. The global consultancy said in its latest report on China’s luxury market that the top 2 per cent of mainland Chinese spenders, who account for more than 40 per cent of spending on luxury items, will be a key driver of market growth in 2023 after Covid-19 restrictions ended a five-year winning streak last year. “There’s no reason why the VIC [very important customers] should stop buying [luxury items] in 2023, because even during the downturn in 2022 they were spending,” said Bruno Lannes, a Shanghai-based senior partner with Bain. “We will see more spending by them in 2023.” Lockdown measures and standstill orders to guard against the spread of Covid-19 across the mainland in 2022 prevented millions of consumers from buying long-coveted personal care products or leather shoes. As shopping malls grappled with a decline in foot traffic, sales skewed toward very wealthy customers, with some high-end brands achieving VIC sales higher than 40 per cent, Bain
27 May 2025
Hong Kong’s favourite Covid news tweeter Tripperhead wins official recognition and says the tweets will go on
Hong Kong’s unofficial spokesperson for all things Covid has been recognised with an Australia Day Award, honouring his diligent and dogged determination to get the facts to people during a time of fear and uncertainty. Aaron Busch – better known by his Twitter handle Tripperhead – received the award at the residence of the Australian consul general to Hong Kong and Macau, Elizabeth Ward, in Repulse Bay last week. “Honoured to present the Australia Day Community Award 2023 to @tripperhead,” Ward tweeted. “Thank you for keeping the international community in #HK informed. A reminder of the power of citizen journalism.” Busch was modest about the recognition. “In that typical Aussie way, I don’t feel I deserve it, I was doing what I do. But you don’t say no to the consul general. It was incredibly nice to receive it and I will have it on the wall for the rest of my life.” Source link
27 May 2025
Coronavirus: Hong Kong’s Hospital Authority steps up efforts to ease burden on its facilities, says flu cases already past peak
Hong Kong’s Hospital Authority has stepped up efforts to ease the burden on its facilities from rising Covid-19 infections, but noted that flu cases had already peaked and were on the decline. The measures included opening another ward at an infection control centre, transferring stable patients to private hospitals, and adding manpower and beds as needed. “We noticed that for influenza, the number of cases has risen sharply in the past few weeks, but it seems over the past week it has already reached its peak,” said Simon Tang Yiu-hang, director of cluster services at the authority. “For Covid-19, we see the trend is still rising. It’s difficult to say whether it has reached its peak, we need to closely monitor the situation.” He said more than 6,000 people visited accident and emergency departments at public hospitals every day. More than 1,200 patients were hospitalised this week, up from 950 in the previous one. About a third of this week’s admissions were Covid-19 cases, he said, adding he expected the number of infections to remain high in the coming weeks. Dr Larry Lee Lap-yip, a chief manager at the authority, said the government would open another ward with about 140
27 May 2025
India poised for hospitality boom as hotel brands such as Hilton, Radisson race to meet surging demand from tourists
The country’s huge and increasingly prosperous population – it recently superseded China as the world’s most populous country – and an estimated threefold rise in foreign tourists in the next few years will ensure a race among hospitality providers to meet rapidly expanding demand for accommodation, analysts said. American hotel operators Hilton and Radisson Hotel Group (RHG) are rushing to capture a share of the growing Indian market. Hilton is planning to double its portfolio there every three to five years, according to Alan Watts, its Asia-Pacific president. RHG, meanwhile, aims to open its very first Radisson Collection hotel, in India in 2026. Global sporting events and political gatherings are helping prime the market for a near-term boom, guaranteeing vast waves of visitors from overseas. 02:36 India set to overtake China as the world’s most populous country in 2023, UN predicts India set to overtake China as the world’s most populous country in 2023, UN predicts The Cricket World Cup will be held in the last quarter of the year in the western coast city of Ahmedabad, and the biennial South Asian Football Federation championship will take place in June and July in Bangalore, the capital of southern Karnataka state.
27 May 2025
