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In October 2024, China's housing market has seen a significant rebound, with major cities reporting a surge in transactions. This follows recent government measures aimed at stabilizing the sector, including increased funding and reduced mortgage rates. Analysts remain cautious about the long-term effectiveness of these policies.
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Recent reports indicate a significant rise in scams globally, with Citizens Advice revealing that nine million people in the UK have fallen victim. Authorities are urging vigilance as scammers employ increasingly sophisticated tactics, including impersonation and urgency, to exploit vulnerable populations. Awareness campaigns are underway to combat these deceptive practices.
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Taiwan is experiencing heightened military tensions as China conducts live-fire drills near Niushan Island, following a series of aggressive military exercises. Taiwan's government downplays the significance of these drills, while U.S. naval operations in the region continue to assert freedom of navigation. The situation reflects ongoing geopolitical tensions between Taiwan and China.
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North Korea has sent approximately 10,000 troops to Russia, with many stationed in the Kursk region. This deployment raises concerns about the escalation of the Ukraine conflict and the potential impact on regional security dynamics as Russia seeks to reclaim territory lost to Ukraine.
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A 21-year-old former student, dissatisfied with his exam results and internship pay, went on a stabbing spree at Wuxi Vocational College, killing eight and injuring 17. This incident follows a deadly car attack in Zhuhai, raising concerns about mental health and societal pressures among Chinese youth.
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China has filed a lawsuit with the WTO against the EU's newly imposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, which can reach up to 35.3%. The tariffs, seen as protectionist measures, have raised concerns about escalating trade tensions and potential retaliatory actions from China.
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A sophisticated hacking operation linked to Chinese state-affiliated hackers has targeted phones of U.S. political figures, including Donald Trump and his campaign staff. The FBI is investigating the breach, which raises significant national security concerns as the election approaches.
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The US has confirmed a $2 billion arms sale to Taiwan, including advanced missile systems. This marks a significant enhancement of Taiwan's defense capabilities amid rising tensions with China, which has condemned the sale and threatened military countermeasures. The deal includes the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS), marking their first delivery to Taiwan.
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Myanmar's military is increasingly on the defensive as ethnic armed groups gain territory following the launch of Operation 1027. The military's reliance on airstrikes has led to a significant rise in civilian casualties, raising international concern over human rights violations amid ongoing conflict.
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China's declining birth rates and marriage registrations pose significant challenges to its economy and social structure. With only 9 million births in 2023, the lowest since 1949, the government is implementing measures to encourage marriage and childbirth amid an ageing population and economic stagnation.
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Recent incidents involving fireworks in India have led to tragic outcomes, including the death of a man in Bengaluru and violent confrontations in Faridabad. These events highlight ongoing public safety concerns during festive celebrations, prompting police investigations and arrests.
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China's National People's Congress has approved a 10 trillion yuan fiscal package to address local government debt, including 6 trillion yuan for refinancing hidden debts. This comes amid economic challenges and expectations of further measures following Donald Trump's election victory in the US.
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China will allow foreign investors with at least $50 million in proprietary assets to make strategic investments in A-share firms starting December 2. This change aims to attract more foreign capital and stimulate the stock market, which has seen significant gains recently.
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North Korea has reportedly sent up to 12,000 troops to Russia's Kursk region to support its military efforts in Ukraine. This deployment raises concerns about escalating tensions in Northeast Asia and implications for regional security, particularly for South Korea and the US. NATO warns of increased missile technology exchanges between Russia and North Korea.
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As Singles' Day 2024 unfolds, major Chinese e-commerce platforms report mixed results amid a backdrop of economic uncertainty. While some sales figures show growth, consumer skepticism about discounts and spending habits indicate a cautious approach to shopping, reflecting broader economic challenges in China.
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Recent studies highlight significant advancements in cancer treatment and HIV therapy. A new three-drug combination shows promise for breast cancer, while a therapeutic vaccine for HIV demonstrates safety and efficacy in early trials. These developments could transform patient outcomes and offer hope for more effective treatments.
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Colombia's economy grew 2% in Q3 2024, below expectations, prompting President Gustavo Petro to advocate for deeper interest rate cuts. This follows a trend of mixed economic performance across various countries, including Malaysia's robust growth and concerns over trade tensions under a potential Trump administration.
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In the wake of Donald Trump's election victory, major tech executives are proactively reaching out to him to rebuild relationships and mitigate potential backlash. This shift reflects lessons learned from Trump's first term, where corporate leaders faced punitive actions for perceived disloyalty. The outreach aims to secure favorable treatment in a potential second Trump administration.
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On November 13, 2024, American Airlines Flight 298 from Honolulu to Los Angeles was directed to perform an expedited climb after failing to make an assigned turn, putting it on a collision course with the Koʻolau mountains. The FAA is now investigating the incident, which ended safely with no injuries.
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As AI adoption accelerates, the legal and public relations sectors are undergoing significant transformations. Firms are leveraging AI for efficiency and client engagement, while companies like Golin aim to become fully AI-integrated by 2026. Meanwhile, China and Saudi Arabia are ramping up AI talent and infrastructure investments.
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Following Donald Trump's re-election, Taiwan's leadership expressed confidence in continued US support. However, concerns arise regarding Trump's transactional diplomacy and its implications for Taiwan amid rising tensions with China. The reactions highlight a mix of optimism and apprehension about future US foreign policy direction.
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Japan's Prime Minister Ishiba faces challenges in strengthening ties with President Trump amid escalating regional tensions. Analysts warn that Trump's transactional approach could disadvantage Japan, especially given Ishiba's weak political position following recent elections. The focus remains on military cooperation and addressing security threats from China and North Korea.
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Hong Kong's government plans to phase out subdivided homes, impacting 220,000 residents. Meanwhile, the redevelopment of the Choi Hung Estate raises concerns about community displacement and the future of affordable housing. The situation reflects broader issues of urban renewal and housing inequality in the city.
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Recent research confirms that China is developing a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, marking a significant step in its naval modernization. This development could enhance China's global maritime capabilities and challenge U.S. naval dominance. The findings were reported by the Middlebury Institute of International Studies, revealing a prototype reactor in Sichuan province.
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London Stansted Airport recorded over 107,000 passengers on 27 October, surpassing its previous record of 104,000. This surge reflects strong demand for travel to popular destinations like Turkey and Spain, with a 6.7% increase in annual passenger numbers. The airport plans to invest £1.1 billion to enhance services over the next five years.
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A car drove into pedestrians at a sports centre in Zhuhai, China, on Monday evening, resulting in 35 deaths and 43 injuries. A 62-year-old man, surnamed Fan, has been detained. Investigations are ongoing, with no clear motive established yet.
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Comac's rebranded C909 regional jet aims to compete with Embraer's E2 series, focusing on short to medium-haul flights. Despite securing some orders, Comac faces challenges in international markets, particularly in the US and Europe, where certification remains a hurdle.
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Chinese researchers have developed gene-edited tomatoes with up to 30% higher sugar content without compromising size or yield. This breakthrough could enhance the sweetness of commercially grown tomatoes, addressing consumer preferences and increasing economic value in processing.
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Jimmy Lai, the pro-democracy media mogul, began testifying in his collusion trial in Hong Kong, facing serious charges under the national security law. His case is emblematic of the ongoing crackdown on dissent in the city, which has seen numerous activists jailed and media outlets shut down since 2019.
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Former Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen is set to deliver a keynote address at the Halifax International Security Forum in Canada, emphasizing Taiwan's commitment to democracy and international collaboration. This follows her controversial European trip and comes amid heightened tensions with China over Taiwan's status.
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Luxury hotels in New York and London are significantly increasing their room rates, with the Four Seasons in New York now charging up to $80,000 per night for its penthouse. Meanwhile, The Peninsula London blends British and Asian influences, marking a new chapter for the hotel group.
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The Philippines is enhancing its defense cooperation with the US amid concerns over China's assertiveness in the South China Sea. Recent agreements, including the General Security of Military Information Agreement, aim to bolster military capabilities and intelligence sharing, ensuring a robust alliance as Donald Trump returns to the presidency.
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A series of violent incidents in China, including a car crash at a primary school in Changde and a stabbing at a vocational college, have raised public safety concerns. The attacks, driven by personal grievances, have resulted in multiple casualties and ignited discussions about societal issues amid economic challenges.