Mayoral frontrunner Zohran Mamdani stood firm on his progressive policies, including raising taxes on the wealthy, during a meeting with New York City's business leaders. Despite facing tough questions on his past remarks and policy stances, Mamdani remained composed and avoided major missteps. He aims to build partnerships as he pivots towards the general election.
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Saudi Arabia has opened its main stock market, Tadawul, to direct investment by GCC residents for the first time. The move expands access beyond previous limits and is part of wider reforms to attract regional and global investors. It aligns with Vision 2030 goals to diversify the economy, boost market liquidity, and strengthen the Kingdom’s financial leadership in the Gulf.
Satoshi Nakamoto, Bitcoin's enigmatic creator, is now reportedly the 11th richest person globally, holding an estimated $128.92 billion in BTC. Despite this immense wealth and numerous investigations, Nakamoto's true identity remains a mystery, fueling ongoing speculation and intrigue. The legacy of Bitcoin's innovation continues to inspire, symbolized by a statue in Budapest celebrating decentralization and anonymity.
Amid trade tensions with the US, the European Union is actively strengthening ties with global partners like Indonesia, signaling a shift towards a new trade landscape. Ursula von der Leyen emphasized collaboration amidst economic uncertainty, inviting nations jolted by US tariffs to rely on Europe.
White House economic advisor Kevin Hassett stated that President Trump believes current trade deal offers are insufficient and is prepared to implement threatened tariffs on Mexico, the EU, and other nations if improved agreements are not reached. Hassett indicated that discussions are still in progress, but the tariffs will be enacted if Trump deems the final deals inadequate.
The top military chiefs of South Korea, the United States and Japan met in Seoul Friday, as US President Donald Trump piles pressure on Washington's allies over defence spending and trade. Trump, who has also threatened Seoul with 25 percent tariffs unless they can negotiate a trade deal, said South Korea "should be paying for their military".
Joe Bennett, son of Craig and Lindsay Foreman, spoke about his parents' arrest in Iran. The couple were arrested on espionage charges. Bennett insists his parents are innocent tourists. He last spoke to them on January 3. The family received one letter from his mother. The UK government evacuated its embassy staff after bombing near Evin prison.
Iran's foreign minister stated the U.S. is attempting to restart nuclear talks, but Iran is in no hurry and considering its options for negotiations. This follows a previous collapse of talks after an Israeli attack on Iranian nuclear sites. Despite signals from the U.S., including Trump's openness to lifting sanctions, Iran seeks guarantees against future attacks if talks fail.
Devastating floods in central Texas have resulted in a tragic loss of life, prompting scrutiny of the nation's emergency response. Despite earlier proposals to reduce FEMA's role, the Trump administration is now emphasizing the agency's swift assistance to Texas, with the president approving a major disaster declaration.
Texas is grappling with renewed heavy rains and flash flooding, just days after a devastating natural disaster claimed over 120 lives. Kerr and Gillespie Counties faced life-threatening conditions, prompting evacuations and halted search operations for victims of the previous floods. Governor Abbott has expanded rescue operations to include multiple counties, as communities brace for further flooding and damaged infrastructure.
Amidst escalating tensions, Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif has dismissed nuclear exchange possibilities with India, asserting their nuclear program is for peace and defense. This follows alleged Pakistani "nuclear blackmails," which India vowed to counter bilaterally. Tensions rose further after India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, prompting Pakistan to threaten retaliation.