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Global markets gained as investors anticipate the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates this month. Asian stocks hit new highs, while Wall Street remains near record levels amid signs of slowing inflation and expectations of monetary easing. Economic data continues to influence investor sentiment today, Thursday, 18 September 2025.
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On October 14-15, 2025, US and UK authorities charged Chen Zhi, head of Cambodia's Prince Group, with wire fraud and money laundering tied to forced-labor "pig butchering" scams. The operation used trafficked workers in compounds to defraud victims globally, seizing 127,271 bitcoin worth $15 billion and freezing UK properties. Chen remains at large, facing up to 40 years in prison.
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Myanmar's military launched operations against KK Park, a major cybercrime compound near the Thai border, detaining over 2,000 people and seizing Starlink equipment. Thousands of scam workers fled into Thailand amid ongoing civil conflict and regional pressure to curb cross-border cybercrime. The operation highlights Myanmar's role in transnational online scams.
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British Airways and other carriers are expanding in-flight Wi-Fi using Starlink satellites. BA will equip over 500 aircraft with low-lag internet, enhancing passenger experience. The move is part of a broader industry shift towards long-haul narrowbody flights and premium cabins, with industry-wide adoption expected to grow.
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On November 14, 2025, Chinese astronauts Chen Dong, Chen Zhongrui, and Wang Jie safely returned to Earth after a nine-day delay caused by space debris damage to their original Shenzhou-20 return capsule. They landed in the Gobi Desert aboard the newer Shenzhou-21 spacecraft. The incident highlights growing risks from orbital debris amid China's expanding space ambitions.
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Ukraine is deploying advanced terrestrial and naval drones to counter Russian advances and improve battlefield resilience. Recent tests in Greece highlight NATO's push for indigenous drone technology amid ongoing conflict, while fog conditions in Ukraine challenge drone surveillance and Russian ground pushes in Pokrovsk intensify.
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Severe flooding in Indonesia, caused by cyclone and heavy rains, has resulted in at least 442 deaths and displaced nearly 291,000 people. Rescue efforts are ongoing amid infrastructure damage, blocked roads, and limited communication. Aid is being delivered via helicopters, navy ships, and satellite internet, with looting reported in affected areas.
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South Africa has revised its policies to allow foreign companies to meet affirmative action requirements through 'equity equivalent' programs, such as skills training. This move follows criticism of its ownership laws, notably from Elon Musk, who accused the country of racial discrimination. The US has also criticized South Africa's policies and excluded it from upcoming G20 events.