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As of December 2025, UK and US retailers report mixed financial results amid subdued consumer confidence and economic uncertainty. Watches of Switzerland sees robust US demand and tariff relief, while Frasers Group faces UK sales declines despite international growth. Walmart raises forecasts on strong e-commerce and affluent shoppers. Target and home improvement chains report sales challenges, prompting investments and cautious outlooks.
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A recent report from the UK’s National Energy System Operator warns of a potential gas supply shortfall by 2030-31 if key infrastructure fails, highlighting vulnerabilities in undersea pipelines and the need for mitigation measures amid ongoing energy transition challenges.
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The latest ‘Demon Slayer’ film, part of a trilogy, debuted with $70 million in North America, setting a new record for anime openings. It contributed to a global total of nearly $178 million, highlighting anime's expanding international appeal amid strong box office performances for other films this weekend.
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On September 25, 2025, Starbucks announced layoffs of approximately 900 staff and the closure of about 1% of its North American stores, including its flagship Seattle roastery. CEO Brian Niccol aims to restore the coffeehouse experience amid six quarters of declining US sales. The cuts mainly affect support and corporate roles, while the company plans to invest in store improvements and technology.
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President Trump plans to impose 100% tariffs on pharmaceuticals and continues trade tensions with China, impacting US farmers. Nike reports a slow but ongoing recovery, while critics like Ken Griffin oppose tariffs favoring large corporations. The stories highlight economic strains and political debates in the US, with implications for global trade.
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On October 7, 2025, the first of three supermoons this year, known as the Harvest Moon, appeared. It was the largest and brightest full moon of 2025 so far, appearing up to 14% larger and 30% brighter due to its close orbit to Earth. Meanwhile, two comets, Lemmon and SWAN, are making close passes to Earth this month, visible with binoculars or the naked eye under dark skies. Comet Lemmon will be closest on October 21, and both comets may be seen through the end of October. The UAE and other regions are hosting viewing events for these celestial phenomena.
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PepsiCo announced plans to eliminate artificial colors and flavors from its products, including Doritos and Mountain Dew, over several years. The move aligns with FDA efforts to ban synthetic dyes like Red 40 and Yellow 5, amid concerns over health impacts. Initial product changes are expected later this year and early next year.
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Vancouver's TransLink has recovered about 90% of pre-pandemic ridership, driven by strategic policies like frequent service and dense land use. Experts highlight Vancouver's approach as a model for North American cities, contrasting with slower recoveries elsewhere.
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Fast Retailing's stock hit its highest level since January, rising up to 7.7% in Tokyo trading. The company's strong performance in North America and international markets, despite challenges in China, contributed to the rally. The firm also reported double-digit growth in North American revenue and profit for FY2025.
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Recent fossil analysis confirms Nanotyrannus is a distinct species, challenging previous views that it was a juvenile T. rex. The discovery, based on a well-preserved skeleton found in Montana, suggests greater dinosaur diversity before the mass extinction. The findings, published in Nature, reshape understanding of late Cretaceous ecosystems.
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Daylight saving time ends this weekend in many regions, with clocks set back an hour. New Stanford research supports adopting permanent standard time, citing health benefits linked to circadian rhythm alignment. The change impacts sleep, health, and international coordination, especially between Europe, North America, and Israel.
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Chipotle, Cava, and Sweetgreen report declining visits from 25-35-year-olds due to economic pressures, leading to lower sales and stock drops. Chains plan promotions and menu innovations to counteract reduced spending amid broader industry challenges.
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Multiple solar coronal mass ejections (CMEs) have caused geomagnetic storms across the US, UK, and parts of Canada, leading to spectacular aurora displays. The storms have disrupted satellite and communication systems and are expected to continue into Thursday, with visibility affected by weather conditions.