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As of early September 2025, Norway's $2 trillion sovereign wealth fund has divested from Caterpillar and five major Israeli banks over ethical concerns tied to Israeli military actions in Gaza and the West Bank. The fund cited violations of international humanitarian law linked to Caterpillar's bulldozers and the banks' financing of Israeli settlements. It is ending contracts with external Israeli asset managers and intensifying ethical reviews, while rejecting full divestment from all Israeli companies.
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The Trump administration has overhauled the $42 billion BEAD broadband program, prompting states to reduce fiber deployment and increase satellite use, notably Starlink. Louisiana and Vermont are preparing proposals that align with new priorities, raising questions about remaining funds and their future use amid political and industry disputes.
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As of September 9, 2025, the US has formally reduced tariffs on Japanese automobiles and parts from 27.5% to 15%, following a July agreement. Japan pledged $550 billion in US investments and agreed to increase imports of American agricultural products, including rice. Some tariff issues on pharmaceuticals and semiconductors remain unresolved, with ongoing administrative talks.
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On October 10, 2025, President Donald Trump announced a deal with AstraZeneca to lower drug prices for Medicaid patients by matching the lowest prices in developed countries. The agreement includes AstraZeneca's commitment to invest $50 billion in U.S. manufacturing by 2030 and participation in the upcoming TrumpRx website, which will sell discounted drugs directly to consumers starting in early 2026.
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On September 19, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing a $100,000 one-time fee on new H-1B visa applications, up from $215. The move aims to prioritize American workers and reduce visa abuse but has sparked confusion, legal challenges, and concerns over impacts on tech firms and foreign workers, especially from India, which received 71% of visas last year.
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U.S. Steel has announced it will continue supplying slabs to its Granite City plant after White House intervention using the 'golden share' authority. This move follows earlier plans to cease operations, amid ongoing negotiations and union opposition. The decision impacts employment and production strategies at the plant.
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On September 21, 2025, the US implemented a $100,000 one-time fee on new H-1B visa applications, sparking confusion and travel advisories among tech firms and visa holders. The fee applies only to new petitions, not renewals or current holders. The policy has caused anxiety among Chinese and Indian workers, disrupted personal plans, and prompted some to consider relocating to Europe.
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China is intensifying efforts to develop self-sufficient AI chips amid US restrictions. Huawei announced a breakthrough in domestic AI hardware, while Beijing is pushing to reduce reliance on US technology by building a comprehensive local supply chain. Meanwhile, US-China relations show signs of pragmatic cooperation despite ongoing strategic competition.
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Recent US government restrictions on H-1B visas, including a new $100,000 entry fee, have caused confusion and cancellations among travelers and companies. Passengers on Emirates flights and travel agencies in the UAE report disruptions, with many reconsidering US-bound travel plans amid uncertainty about re-entry rules and costs. The policy's impact is ongoing today.
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Recent US tariffs and trade negotiations are reshaping global supply chains. Europe and Southeast Asia face new barriers, while US allies like South Korea and Australia grapple with demands for large investment packages and tariffs on pharmaceuticals and semiconductors. The impact on regional economies is significant today, October 6, 2025.
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The US is exploring ways to reduce reliance on Taiwan for semiconductor manufacturing, aiming to bring more supply chain capacity home. Discussions involve Taiwan's investment and security guarantees, amid concerns over China's threats and global chip shortages. South Africa and Africa are also in talks for trade agreements.
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As of October 2025, OpenAI's valuation surged to $500 billion following a $6.6 billion secondary share sale by current and former employees to investors including SoftBank, Thrive Capital, and MGX. Despite not yet turning a profit, OpenAI has secured massive AI infrastructure deals with Oracle, Nvidia, and AMD, fueling rapid growth and complex partnerships across Silicon Valley's AI ecosystem.
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A US report warns that structural flaws in intelligence sharing, coalition planning, and arms sales hinder effective multinational cooperation against China. The findings highlight risks of miscoordination, which could enable China to dominate East Asia and threaten regional stability, especially amid rising tensions and military pressures on Taiwan.
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President Trump announced that Israel and Hamas have agreed to a peace plan, including hostage releases and troop withdrawals. The deal, praised by supporters and criticized by others, is seen as a significant step in Middle East diplomacy amid ongoing conflict. The announcement follows intense negotiations in Egypt and regional mediations.
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Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Corp. reported a record NT$452.3 billion ($14.8 billion) net profit in Q3, driven by strong demand for AI chips and data center investments. The company is expanding in the US and Japan, with a $100 billion U.S. investment plan, amid ongoing trade tensions and global chip demand growth.
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The US Chamber of Commerce has filed a lawsuit contesting President Trump's $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa applications, arguing it exceeds legal authority and disrupts the visa system. The fee aims to limit foreign workers but faces opposition from industry groups and legal challenges.
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President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping are set to meet in South Korea amid ongoing trade tensions, tariffs, and export restrictions. Both sides signal a tentative easing, with hopes for a short-term détente that could influence global markets and regional diplomacy. The meeting follows recent signals of cooperation and mutual interest.
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The US is increasing investments in rare earth mineral companies amid ongoing tensions with China over export restrictions. Central Asian nations are key to diversifying supply chains, with recent diplomatic efforts highlighting US interest in regional cooperation and resource development. President Trump’s administration emphasizes strengthening critical mineral and military capabilities.
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Italy's top pasta exporters face potential tariffs of over 100% from the US, threatening to raise prices and reduce exports. The US accuses Italian firms of dumping low-priced pasta, prompting investigations and diplomatic tensions. The move could impact Italy's $770 million annual pasta sales to the US.
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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.
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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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Leaders from the EU, US, and Africa gathered at a summit in Angola to discuss trade, security, and infrastructure. Key topics included mineral processing, regional stability, and strengthening multilateral cooperation amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. The summit aims to reshape Africa's role in global supply chains.
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The UK and US have agreed to keep import taxes on medicines at 0% for three years, aiming to boost investment, create jobs, and improve access to innovative treatments. The deal includes raising the NHS's upper threshold for new medicines by 25% and lowering drug repayment rates from 2026.