Singapore’s in the news as Kwon gets 15 years for crypto fraud; a reminder of its rising role in global finance and tech.
As of February 2026, two Nipah virus cases were confirmed in West Bengal, India, involving healthcare workers. Authorities traced 196 contacts, all testing negative. Bangladesh reported a fatal case linked to raw date palm sap. The virus, carried by fruit bats, has a high fatality rate (40-75%) and spreads via animal contact, contaminated food, or close human contact. Neighboring Asian countries have increased airport screenings. No vaccine or approved treatment exists yet.
At a major airshow, defense and civil aviation companies showcased advanced drone countermeasures, including laser systems, electromagnetic jammers, and drone wingman software. Rising drone incidents near military sites and public events highlight increasing threats, prompting new security powers and technological innovations.
Recent reports show a global decline in perceived corruption levels, with the US and UK slipping in rankings. While some countries improve, many democracies face setbacks due to weakened institutions, political influence, and funding cuts, raising concerns about governance and transparency worldwide.
The 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index shows a global decline, with the average score dropping to 42, the lowest in over ten years. Rwanda improved slightly, ranking 41st, while regions like Sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East continue to struggle with entrenched corruption. The US and Europe face rising risks.
DoorDash is pulling out of Japan, Uzbekistan, Qatar, and Singapore after a strategic review. The company aims to focus on markets with better growth potential, impacting around 85 jobs and closing some operations, including a Bengaluru engineering hub. The move follows increased competition and market challenges.
India faces energy supply disruptions due to Gulf region conflicts and sanctions. It is increasingly sourcing Russian oil, with recent shipments arriving in eastern India. The shift follows US sanctions easing and ongoing Middle East tensions disrupting traditional supply routes.
Recent articles highlight how men experience significant hormonal changes, such as low testosterone, which affect energy, libido, and weight. These issues are often misattributed to aging or stress, but targeted treatments like hormone therapy can improve quality of life. Experts emphasize addressing underlying health factors.
The US Trade Representative has launched investigations into over 60 countries, including China, the EU, and India, focusing on forced labor practices. The move aims to assess compliance and potentially impose tariffs, amid ongoing trade tensions and global economic pressures.
Israel has restricted outbound flights from Ben Gurion Airport to one per hour with 50 passengers, due to Iranian missile threats. Many international airlines have canceled or suspended flights, disrupting Passover travel plans. Israeli carriers are shifting some operations to neighboring airports in Egypt and Jordan.
The US is launching new investigations into 60 countries, including China and the EU, over unfair trade practices and forced labor, aiming to replace lost tariff revenue after a Supreme Court ruling. The process could lead to new import taxes before July 2026.
Rising oil prices due to the US-Israeli conflict on Iran have triggered a global fuel crisis. Countries like South Korea, the Philippines, Malaysia, and others are implementing emergency measures, including subsidies, fuel rationing, and seeking alternative supplies, to manage shortages and economic impacts.
China announced a zero-tariff policy on exports from 53 African countries, including Kenya, to boost trade and economic ties. The move was highlighted during a ceremony at Nairobi's SGR Terminus, with officials emphasizing increased market access and export growth. The policy aims to diversify trade and support economic development.
Australian Prime Minister Albanese is visiting Singapore to strengthen energy ties amid global fuel disruptions. The focus is on securing petrol and natural gas supplies as Middle East conflicts threaten supply chains. Discussions include increasing fuel imports and ensuring regional resilience.
Keith Newman, a British man, has been taken into custody after allegedly pushing an 18-year-old girl at Disney's Magic Kingdom in Orlando on February 20. Newman denies the shove, claiming she walked into his hand. He has pleaded not guilty and returned to the UK after bail. The victim's father condemns the act as inexcusable.