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UBS's latest report shows a record increase in billionaires worldwide, reaching 2,919 with collective wealth of $15.8 trillion. Women are outpacing men in wealth growth for four consecutive years, and inheritance continues to drive the rise, especially in the US and Europe. The billionaire class is diversifying and expanding rapidly.
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The IMF plans to merge its climate, development, inclusion, and gender units into its macro-financial division, signaling a shift away from its previous focus on climate change and gender issues. The move follows criticism from US critics and internal debates about the organization's priorities. The change will be formalized at October's fall meetings.
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The Swiss government proposes a $26 billion capital increase for UBS to bolster crisis resilience, prompting the bank to consider relocating its headquarters to the US. UBS opposes the requirement, citing competitiveness concerns, and is lobbying through the legislative process while exploring strategic options including US expansion.
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Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, Iceland, and the Netherlands threaten to boycott Eurovision 2026 if Israel participates, citing political tensions. The European Broadcasting Union will decide in December whether Israel can take part amid ongoing conflict in Gaza. The controversy highlights tensions between cultural unity and political disputes.
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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 research shows California's Sierra Nevada glaciers are melting rapidly, projected to disappear entirely by the next century, marking an unprecedented loss in human history. Meanwhile, Swiss glaciers have declined by a quarter over the past decade due to low snowfall and heat waves, impacting water resources and landscape stability across Europe.
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Greta Thunberg and dozens of activists attempting to deliver aid to Gaza were intercepted and deported by Israeli forces. Over 340 activists have been expelled, with allegations of mistreatment during detention. The flotilla aimed to highlight Gaza's humanitarian crisis amid ongoing conflict.
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Illegal gold mining in Peru's Amazon has surged since COVID-19, contaminating rivers with mercury. Scientific tests show high mercury levels in fish and residents, risking health and food security. Authorities face pressure to enforce laws amid rising gold prices and violence against environmental defenders.
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Recent updates to the Henley Passport Index show notable declines for the US, UK, Pakistan, and India, while China and several Asian countries have improved their rankings. The US has fallen out of the top 10 for the first time in 20 years, reflecting changing global mobility and diplomatic shifts.
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A glacier collapse in Switzerland's Lötschental Valley destroyed the village of Blatten, killing one person and displacing residents. Authorities plan to rebuild the village by 2030 amid ongoing glacier melting caused by climate change. The disaster highlights the increasing risks of climate-related natural hazards in high-altitude regions.
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Switzerland is requesting UNESCO recognition for yodeling as an intangible cultural heritage. The effort highlights yodeling's evolution from mountain communication to a versatile musical art, with a decision expected in mid-December. The initiative aims to preserve and promote this unique Swiss tradition globally.
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The UN World Food Programme warns that 318 million people will face crisis-level hunger or worse in 2026, more than double 2019 figures. Funding shortfalls threaten aid efforts, with only half of the $13 billion needed likely to be received. Conflict, climate shocks, and economic instability drive the crisis, with famine declared in Gaza and Sudan.
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Turkish Cypriot leader Tufan Erhurman and Greek Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides will meet at the UN peacekeeping envoy's residence to discuss reunification efforts. Erhurman, elected in October, aims to revive stalled negotiations, while Turkey's Erdogan advocates a two-state solution, complicating prospects for reunification.
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Switzerland and the US have agreed to reduce tariffs from 39% to 15%, aligning US duties with the EU. The non-binding framework aims to ease trade tensions, boost Swiss exports, and encourage US manufacturing investments, with implementation expected soon. The deal follows months of negotiations and high-level lobbying.
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Scotland secured a historic 4-2 victory over Denmark in Glasgow, overturning a 2-2 draw in stoppage time to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. The match featured dramatic goals, including a bicycle kick from Scott McTominay and a long-range shot from Kieran Tierney, ending Scotland's 27-year absence from the tournament.
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U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, are engaging in Geneva talks to negotiate a peace plan for Ukraine, which involves Ukraine ceding territory and limiting its military. Kyiv seeks modifications, and European allies call for further work. The plan's future remains uncertain as Russia's stance is cautious.
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Western officials, including EU and US representatives, have expressed skepticism about a US-led peace plan for Ukraine. They emphasize the need for Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and European integration, while highlighting major flaws in the proposed agreement. The plan's future remains uncertain.
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High-profile UK billionaires and entrepreneurs are relocating abroad due to recent tax reforms, including inheritance and non-domicile rules. The departure of figures like Lakshmi Mittal and others highlights concerns over a growing brain drain and economic impact ahead of the upcoming Labour budget.
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Swiss voters are deciding on a referendum that would expand national service to all citizens, including women and foreigners. Supporters argue it will strengthen social cohesion and crisis resilience, while opponents cite cost and gender equality concerns. Recent polls suggest the initiative is likely to fail today.
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Ludwig Minelli, founder of Swiss right-to-die organization Dignitas, died on Saturday at age 92. He championed assisted dying, helping over 4,000 people end their lives, and planned a seamless succession for the organization. His death marks the end of a significant figure in the global debate on self-determination at life's end.