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This week features the release of Babak Anvari's thriller "Hallow Road," debuting Friday, alongside the final episodes of "Only Murders in the Building" season five, streaming simultaneously in the UK and US. Notable film releases include "The Mastermind" starring Josh O’Connor, Kathryn Bigelow’s 1995 cult film "Strange Days," and Ben Stiller’s documentary tribute "Stiller & Meara" on Apple TV+. Streaming debuts also include Eva Victor’s "Sorry, Baby" on HBO Max and "Ballad of a Small Player" on Netflix.
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PayPal partners with OpenAI to enable instant AI-driven payments within ChatGPT, while Visa and Mastercard introduce AI-powered shopping and secure payment systems in the UAE. Meanwhile, US courts challenge Texas laws requiring age verification for app downloads, citing First Amendment issues. These developments highlight rapid innovation and regulation in digital payments.
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A former retail space in Taipei is now valued at less than half its previous worth, with Blackstone negotiating loan terms. Meanwhile, renewable energy investments and potential property sales are shaping financial and energy sectors amid geopolitical tensions and climate security concerns.
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As of late October 2025, Target announced plans to cut about 8% of its global corporate workforce, roughly 1,800 jobs, mainly at its Minneapolis headquarters. The restructuring aims to simplify management layers and accelerate decision-making amid stagnant sales and competitive pressures. The cuts exclude store employees and come as Target prepares for a leadership transition in February 2026.
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European governments are increasingly restricting Chinese investments in strategic sectors amid US-led tensions with Beijing. The Netherlands seized a Chinese-owned chipmaker, Nexperia, citing national security concerns, reflecting broader efforts to safeguard critical assets amid rising geopolitical rivalry and recent US and Chinese export restrictions.
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In late 2025, President Donald Trump began demolishing the historic East Wing of the White House to build a $300 million, 90,000-square-foot ballroom funded by corporate donors. The project has sparked bipartisan criticism over the destruction of a century-old building, displacement of the First Lady's office, and concerns about donor influence amid a government shutdown.
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The Bank of England's upcoming rate decision is highly uncertain, with analysts split on whether to cut or hold at 4.0%. Recent data shows inflation easing, but external factors and political signals complicate the decision. The outcome will influence borrowing costs and economic outlook.
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Stock markets declined on Tuesday amid fears of overvaluation, especially in AI stocks like Palantir, which fell despite strong earnings. Major banks forecast a possible 10-20% correction within the next year, but some investors see recent dips as healthy pullbacks in a long-term bull trend.
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The UK government faces mounting pressure to support its science and technology sectors. Reports highlight risks of losing investment and talent to the US and other countries, with calls for policy reforms to boost innovation, attract global talent, and lead in quantum and AI development.
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Zohran Mamdani has been elected as New York's first Indian-American Muslim mayor, with his wife Rama Duwaji, an artist and activist, supporting him. The articles highlight her background, political activism, and the couple's marriage, amid online criticism and support for their political and cultural identities.
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Two popular Chinese gay dating apps, Blued and Finka, have been removed from app stores in China following orders from authorities. The move raises concerns about increased restrictions on LGBT online spaces, despite homosexuality being legal in China. The apps remain accessible via their websites, but the removal signals a tightening of social controls.
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Apple has introduced a digital passport feature for iPhone and Apple Watch users, allowing them to store and present their U.S. passports at over 250 domestic airports. The feature is limited to domestic travel and does not replace physical passports for international crossings. Setup involves scanning the passport and verifying identity through selfies and head movements.
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Apple has launched a limited-edition iPhone accessory in collaboration with Issey Miyake, inspired by the designer's 'A Piece of Cloth' project. The knit pouch, available in multiple colors, reflects a blend of fashion and technology, echoing the minimalist style associated with Steve Jobs. The product emphasizes creative self-expression and continues the brands' shared design philosophy.
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The European Commission is moving to delay and relax key digital regulations, including AI and data privacy laws, citing the need to boost competitiveness. Critics warn this marks a retreat from Europe's leadership in digital rights, amid US and Chinese competition. The changes aim to simplify rules for businesses, especially startups, but raise concerns over privacy and innovation.
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The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched investigations into eight companies, including ticket sites, gyms, and retailers, over suspected breaches of consumer law related to misleading pricing, fees, and sales tactics. This marks the first use of new consumer protection powers.
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Russian authorities have expanded restrictions on messaging apps, citing their use for terrorism and fraud. Snapchat, FaceTime, WhatsApp, and Roblox face bans or limitations amid ongoing internet controls aimed at curbing Ukrainian drone attacks and increasing surveillance. Disruptions impact daily life and privacy.
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Recent AI-generated songs have caused controversy, with artists like Jorja Smith and Blanco Brown affected by voice cloning and copyright issues. The industry faces calls for clearer regulation and artist rights amid rapid technological advances.
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India's Department of Telecommunications has ordered smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app on all new devices within 90 days, with no option for users to disable it. The app aims to combat mobile fraud and theft but faces privacy concerns and potential pushback from Apple.
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Russian authorities have announced bans on Snapchat and Apple’s FaceTime, accusing both of facilitating terrorist activities, recruitment, and crimes. The moves follow a series of restrictions on social media and messaging platforms since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, intensifying government control over online communication.
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Rivian unveils new AI-driven autonomous hardware and software plans, aiming for full self-driving capabilities by 2026. Meanwhile, Waymo expands its driverless taxi service across multiple US cities, facing safety incidents involving animals and regulatory scrutiny. The industry pushes toward broader adoption amid safety and environmental debates.
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Former President Trump announced a new program allowing foreigners and companies to pay large fees for expedited U.S. permanent residency, featuring a 'Trump Gold Card' with a portrait of Trump. The program aims to generate revenue and prioritize immigrants who benefit the U.S.