-
As of late October 2025, major financial institutions including the Bank of England and IMF warn that soaring valuations in AI-driven tech stocks resemble the 2000 dotcom bubble peak. The S&P 500 is heavily concentrated in a few AI-focused firms, raising risks of a sharp market correction. Despite this, industry leaders emphasize AI's transformative potential and ongoing infrastructure investments.
-
As of late October 2025, rugby union is navigating significant transitions: Eddie Jones reflects on his England coaching tenure and Japan role; Australia dominates England in rugby league; the Rugby Championship tightens with South Africa leading; and a breakaway league, R360, backed by Middle Eastern investors, threatens rugby's traditional global structure.
-
As of October 22, 2025, the US government shutdown has entered its third week, with President Trump authorizing the Pentagon to use $6.5 billion from military research funds to pay active-duty troops, bypassing congressional approval. This unilateral move aims to prevent military pay delays but has drawn criticism from lawmakers. The shutdown continues amid stalled negotiations over healthcare subsidies and federal funding.
-
Bolivia's presidential runoff resulted in a victory for centrist Rodrigo Paz, ending two decades of left-wing MAS rule. Paz's win comes amid economic crisis, inflation, fuel shortages, and a shift towards market-friendly policies. The new government faces urgent economic reforms and regional challenges.
-
Recent articles highlight US efforts to address health issues through lifestyle prescriptions, including outdoor activity and metabolic health, amid ongoing economic concerns such as high grocery and energy prices. The stories also cover US-Argentina economic ties and their impact on domestic markets, with political implications for President Trump.
-
The US has extended financial support to Argentina, including a $20 billion currency swap, to stabilize the peso ahead of midterm elections. Support is linked to policy performance, with US backing contingent on continued good governance by President Milei amid currency fluctuations and political pressure.
-
Argentina is deploying a new strategy involving stablecoins to exploit the country's exchange rate gap. By buying dollars at the official rate and converting them into stablecoins, traders can then exchange these for pesos at a cheaper market rate, potentially earning up to 4% profit per transaction. The move aligns with Argentina's broader efforts to stabilize its economy amid currency volatility, supported by a US-Argentina swap agreement announced in October. The central bank aims to expand its monetary tools and reserves through these measures, amid ongoing political and economic challenges.
-
Recent efforts highlight ongoing wildlife conservation challenges. Emirates Park Zoo in Abu Dhabi has welcomed new endangered species through breeding and bio banking. Meanwhile, Argentina's Lujan Zoo's big cats are being rescued and transferred to sanctuaries after years of neglect. New animal exchanges involve Chinese monkeys in Europe, raising questions about welfare and diplomacy.
-
Rising borrowing costs and aid cuts are worsening debt crises in the global south, with countries like Ethiopia, Zambia, and South Sudan struggling to restructure debt. Meanwhile, France faces a political deadlock over its budget, raising concerns about its economic stability. Both stories highlight urgent need for reform and international cooperation.
-
Brazilian farmers are increasing soybean planting due to the US-China trade dispute, which has cut US exports to China. Brazil now supplies over 70% of China's soybean imports, while US shipments decline. Argentina's export policies also influence global prices, impacting US farmers' strategies today.
-
Morocco's U-20 team won their first-ever FIFA World Cup, defeating Argentina 2-0 in Chile. The victory marks a historic achievement for Arab and African football, with Morocco also hosting a refugee women's team supported by FIFA amid ongoing restrictions in Afghanistan.
-
Markets worldwide gained amid easing trade tensions after the US confirmed a meeting with China’s Xi. Major indices in Asia and the US approached record highs, boosted by positive economic data and hopes for a potential trade deal, despite ongoing uncertainties.
-
On October 26, 2025, Argentina's President Javier Milei's party, La Libertad Avanza (LLA), won approximately 41% of the vote in midterm elections, securing the largest bloc in the Chamber of Deputies and tripling Senate seats. This victory strengthens Milei's position to push his agenda of state downsizing and economic deregulation, with support from US President Donald Trump and a $40 billion bailout package.
-
Ticket sales for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are progressing, with a domestic exclusivity phase for US, Canada, and Mexico residents running until Friday. Over 1 million tickets have already been sold globally, amid questions about visa requirements and ticket pricing, including dynamic pricing for the first time.
-
On November 3, 2025, Argentina's President Javier Milei's party, La Libertad Avanza (LLA), secured a decisive victory in midterm congressional elections, buoyed by a $40bn US bailout led by Donald Trump. Despite deep austerity measures, inflation reduction, and rising poverty, Milei's coalition strengthened its congressional presence, enabling him to advance free-market reforms amid ongoing economic and social challenges.
-
The US and China have agreed on a one-year trade truce during a summit in South Korea, involving tariffs, agricultural purchases, and critical mineral exports. The deal aims to de-escalate tensions, though key issues like technology and AI remain unaddressed. The agreement is seen as a cautious step forward amid ongoing disputes.
-
Angelo Agrizzi, a key witness in South Africa’s corruption inquiry, was sentenced to 40 years but will serve less due to cooperation. His testimony revealed widespread graft under former President Zuma, involving bribes and government contracts. The Zondo Commission's findings highlight ongoing issues with accountability.
-
Cuba is conducting a closed-door trial of former deputy prime minister Gil, accused of corruption, espionage, and embezzlement. The case is the most significant since 1989, with charges stemming from a nearly two-year investigation. Gil's whereabouts were unknown until his recent detention.
-
Hungary's Prime Minister Orbán announced plans to challenge EU sanctions on Russian energy, claiming they violate European law. He secured a one-year US exemption and a financial shield from the US, amid strained relations with the EU and economic challenges. The story highlights geopolitical tensions and energy dependencies.
-
The Biden administration is set to announce exemptions on tariffs for certain food imports, including beef, citrus, coffee, and bananas, aiming to reduce consumer prices amid political pressure and recent election results highlighting affordability concerns. The move signals a shift from previous tariff policies.
-
President Trump has retroactively exempted key food imports, including beef, coffee, and bananas, from tariffs imposed earlier this year. The move aims to address rising grocery prices amid political pressure following recent elections where affordability was a key issue. The exemptions reflect a shift in trade policy and negotiations with trading partners.
-
Marjorie Taylor Greene announced her resignation from Congress, citing her desire to avoid a Trump-backed primary and potential impeachment battles. The move follows her feud with Trump and reflects ongoing political shifts within the Republican Party ahead of next year's elections.
-
On December 5, 2025, the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw took place at Washington's Kennedy Center, attended by US President Donald Trump. The expanded 48-team tournament, hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, will feature 12 groups of four teams. Scotland, having qualified after 28 years, awaits its group opponents. The event included celebrity hosts and performances, with final playoff teams to be decided in March 2026.
-
On December 5, 2025, FIFA President Gianni Infantino awarded US President Donald Trump the first-ever FIFA Peace Prize during the 2026 World Cup draw ceremony in Washington DC. The prize recognizes Trump's efforts in brokering peace deals, including a Gaza ceasefire, despite criticism over his administration's military actions and human rights record. The event highlighted Infantino's close ties with Trump amid global controversy.
-
Iraq secured a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup after winning their Asian playoff. The tournament will expand to 48 teams, with qualifiers from six continents. The draw is scheduled for December 5 in Washington, D.C., with the final tournament beginning in June 2026 across the US, Canada, and Mexico.
-
On December 8, 2025, a Boston federal judge ruled that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) unlawfully terminated Turkish PhD student Rümeysa Öztürk's SEVIS record after her visa was revoked amid a crackdown on pro-Palestinian activism. Arrested in March and detained for 45 days, Öztürk can now resume teaching and research at Tufts University, though legal challenges continue.
-
The UN has started the process to select its next secretary-general, with nominations open until mid-2026. Candidates include Rafael Grossi, Michelle Bachelet, and Rebeca Grynspan. The process emphasizes regional diversity and gender equality, with the final appointment expected in early 2027.
-
Recent data shows a surge in home sales in US metros like Kansas City and Texas cities, driven by affordability and demand from retirees. Meanwhile, wealthy New Yorkers are increasingly interested in Miami properties amid political and tax concerns, fueling a luxury real estate boom.
-
Neymar returned from injury to score key goals for Santos, helping the club avoid relegation in Brazil's top league. He played 19 matches, scored eight goals, and is considering knee surgery. Neymar also remains in contention for Brazil's 2026 World Cup squad, with coach Carlo Ancelotti yet to confirm his selection.
-
The 2026 FIFA World Cup draw has been finalized, revealing group placements for 48 teams across North America. Key details include host country allocations, seedings, and match schedules, with the tournament set to begin on June 11, 2026, in Canada, Mexico, and the US. The draw determines group compositions and knockout matchups.
-
The US government has proposed requiring travelers from 42 countries to submit five years of social media data, email addresses, phone numbers, and family details before entry. The move, linked to upcoming events like the 2026 World Cup, faces criticism over privacy and potential impact on international visitors.
-
At the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington, FIFA awarded Donald Trump its inaugural peace prize, citing his diplomatic efforts. Trump praised his achievements, claimed to have ended eight wars, and participated in the draw alongside world leaders, amid controversy and political tension.
-
The expanded 48-team World Cup draw has been announced, highlighting potential upsets and tough groups. England faces Croatia first, while teams like Brazil, France, and Norway are positioned for strong runs. The format aims to reduce early eliminations, but unpredictability remains high.
-
Portugal's largest strike in over a decade is underway, with unions protesting proposed labour law changes they say threaten workers' rights. The government claims reforms will boost economic growth. Disruptions include transport, hospitals, and public services, with unions mobilizing widespread street protests.
-
Chile's presidential runoff resulted in a victory for Jose Antonio Kast, a far-right candidate promising tough-on-crime policies and immigration controls. Kast secured over 58% of the vote against leftist Jeannette Jara, amid concerns over rising crime, migration, and economic stability. The result signals a major political shift in the country.
-
The AFL-CIO, led by Liz Shuler, plans to challenge Trump’s policies in 2026, focusing on restoring union rights and fighting economic inequality. They are mobilizing workers and preparing for key legislative battles amid ongoing political tensions and economic concerns.
-
Farmers across France and Belgium are protesting against the EU-Mercosur trade deal, fearing it will flood Europe with cheaper South American goods and harm local agriculture. Protests include roadblocks, demonstrations, and clashes with police, coinciding with EU summit debates on trade and Ukraine support. The deal's approval is uncertain.
-
On January 9, 2026, EU member states approved the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement after 25 years of negotiation, despite opposition from France, Poland, and others. Italy's support was pivotal. The deal aims to create one of the world's largest free trade zones, boosting exports and reducing reliance on China, but faces protests from farmers and environmentalists concerned about agriculture and deforestation.
-
Pope Francis is expected to visit Madrid, Barcelona, and the Canary Islands in 2026, with discussions ongoing about the timing. The trip aims to mark the 100th anniversary of Gaudí's death and address migrant issues. The visit would be his first travel plans this year.
-
Irish farmers protested against the EU's trade agreement with Mercosur, which aims to create a large free-trade zone. Despite approval from EU ambassadors, opposition from Ireland and France persists due to fears of cheaper imports, especially beef, threatening local agriculture. The deal still requires European Parliament approval.
-
The EU and South America's Mercosur have agreed on a trade pact, boosting regional ties amid declining U.S. influence. The deal contrasts with U.S. actions, which include withdrawing from international organizations and pursuing aggressive foreign policies. The agreement reflects shifting global alliances and economic strategies as U.S. influence wanes.
-
FIFA reports high demand for World Cup tickets outside North America, with requests from Europe, South America, and others. Prices reach up to $8,680 per ticket, prompting criticism. FIFA plans to distribute some $60 tickets via national federations, with notifications due after Feb 5.
-
The EU and Mercosur have signed a landmark trade agreement, creating the world's largest free trade zone. The deal aims to lower tariffs, boost regional economies, and diversify trade away from U.S. and Chinese influence. Ratification by EU Parliament and Mercosur legislatures is pending.
-
Mercosur's first major trade agreement is set to be signed in Paraguay, with Brazil's Lula absent from the ceremony. Lula's decision to send his foreign minister instead signals possible disappointment over the deal's timing and terms. The pact aims to create one of the world's largest free trade zones, impacting regional and global trade dynamics.