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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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Recent weeks have seen multiple aviation incidents, including turbulence injuries on a Delta flight, toxic cabin fumes linked to engine oil leaks, and ongoing French air traffic controller strikes. These events highlight persistent safety concerns and labor disputes affecting the industry globally.
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Multiple statues depicting Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein have appeared on the National Mall, sparking debate. The artworks portray the two men holding hands, with plaques referencing alleged friendship and controversial letters. The statues were removed after failing to comply with permits, amid ongoing scrutiny of Trump's past associations and handling of Epstein files.
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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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Rivian announced a 4.5% workforce reduction, affecting over 600 employees, as it prepares to launch its affordable R2 SUV. The layoffs follow recent restructuring and are linked to market pressures, including the end of US EV tax credits and production plans for mass-market vehicles.
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President Trump announced plans to lower tariffs on Chinese goods, including fentanyl-related imports, amid ongoing negotiations with China. He aims to address the fentanyl crisis by encouraging China to curb exports, with a potential tariff reduction from 20% to 10%. The meeting with Xi Jinping is scheduled for Thursday at the APEC summit in South Korea.
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As of December 2025, the UK government is expanding its Electric Car Grant by £1.3bn and adding £200m for charging infrastructure to support EV adoption. This comes amid stalled EV demand due to high upfront costs and plans for a new pay-per-mile tax on EVs from 2028, sparking industry concerns about potential market slowdown.
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On December 8, 2025, Paramount Skydance launched a hostile $108 billion all-cash bid to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), challenging Netflix's $83 billion deal announced the previous week. Paramount's offer includes WBD's cable assets like CNN, unlike Netflix's bid. The Ellison family, backed by Middle Eastern sovereign wealth funds and Jared Kushner's private equity, finances Paramount's bid. President Trump has expressed intent to involve himself in regulatory approval, citing competition concerns.
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The Biden administration announced a $12 billion aid package for farmers affected by trade disputes, inflation, and market disruptions. The aid aims to provide market certainty, especially for soybean and sorghum producers impacted by tariffs and trade wars with China. The announcement follows recent divestments by officials to avoid conflicts of interest.
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Rivian unveils new AI-driven autonomous hardware and software plans, aiming for full self-driving capabilities by 2026. Meanwhile, Waymo expands its driverless taxi service across multiple US cities, facing safety incidents involving animals and regulatory scrutiny. The industry pushes toward broader adoption amid safety and environmental debates.