Here is a roundup of the top stories from around the world.
WORLD
Global Tensions Rise Amidst Trade Disputes and Political Upheaval
The global political and economic landscape remains tense, with the US-China trade war escalating and political instability growing in several nations. The US has announced additional 100% tariffs on Chinese goods and plans for export curbs on tech, sparking fears of global trade disruption. Meanwhile, an attempted power grab is underway in Madagascar by an elite military unit. In Europe, the EU has begun a gradual rollout of a new digital entry-exit system to tighten border security. The World Health Summit also commenced in Berlin, with a focus on ‘Taking Responsibility for Health in a Fragmenting World’.
NATIONAL
India Navigates Economic Headwinds and Diplomatic Challenges
India is facing a complex set of domestic and international challenges. The country’s economic growth remains strong, but job creation is a growing concern, particularly in the face of an uncertain global trade environment. The US has imposed sanctions on Indian companies with alleged links to Iran’s energy trade, adding another layer of complexity to India-US relations. On the domestic front, India has notified its first legally binding emission targets for high-polluting industries, a major step towards achieving its climate goals.
BUSINESS
Global Economy Faces Uncertainty as AI Boom Raises Concerns
The global economy is showing signs of resilience, but underlying fragilities persist. The ongoing US-China trade dispute and political instability in various regions are weighing on business and household confidence. While the AI boom is fueling a rally in equity prices, there are growing concerns about a potential market correction. The IMF has warned that the global economy is facing multiple menaces and has urged policymakers to ‘buckle up’.
TECHNOLOGY
China Launches Antitrust Probe into Qualcomm’s Autotalks Deal
China has launched an antitrust investigation into US chipmaker Qualcomm’s acquisition of Autotalks, an Israeli auto-chip maker. The move comes amid escalating tech tensions between the US and China. Qualcomm allegedly completed the deal without notifying Chinese regulators, a claim the company has reportedly acknowledged. The probe adds another layer of uncertainty to the global semiconductor industry, which has become a key battleground in the US-China tech rivalry.
SPORTS
Messi and Haaland Shine in World Cup Qualifiers as Vacherot Makes Tennis History
In sports, Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland both scored for their respective national teams in World Cup qualifiers. Messi tallied two goals and an assist for Argentina, while Haaland scored a hat-trick for Norway. In tennis, Valentin Vacherot of Monaco made history by becoming the lowest-ranked player to ever win a Masters 1000 event, after defeating his cousin in the final of the Shanghai Masters.