作者: admin

  • GX Foundation opens its global headquarters in Hong Kong

    GX Foundation opens its global headquarters in Hong Kong

    The GX Foundation, a renowned Hong Kong-based international medical humanitarian organization, celebrated its 7th anniversary and inaugurated its global headquarters in Hong Kong on November 22, 2025. The event, held at the historic No. 4 Hospital Road in Mid-Levels West, was graced by prominent figures including Leung Chun-ying, Chairman of GX Foundation and Vice-Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, John Lee Ka-chiu, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), Zhou Ji, Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in HKSAR, and Li Yongsheng, Acting Commissioner of the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s office in HKSAR. The ceremony commenced with a performance by the Hong Kong Gaudeamus Dunhuang Ensemble, followed by video messages of congratulations from Chinese ambassadors worldwide. Over 100 distinguished guests, including government officials, overseas Chinese representatives, and diplomats from countries such as Cambodia, Laos, and Senegal, attended the event. In his speech, Leung highlighted the transformation of the century-old Grade II historic building, originally a shelter for street cleaners, into a hub for global humanitarian efforts. He emphasized the foundation’s commitment to advancing international medical cooperation and fostering ‘people-to-people connectivity.’ John Lee praised GX’s significant contributions, including over 25,000 free cataract surgeries and efforts to combat infectious diseases globally. Li Yongsheng underscored GX’s alignment with the Belt and Road Initiative’s principles of ‘extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits.’ The following day, GX opened its doors to the public, offering guided tours led by heritage conservation expert Caspar Yam Ming-ho. The foundation also launched its 2025-2026 Youth Ambassador Program, aimed at nurturing the next generation of humanitarian workers.

  • New shared bank account lets UAE families track spending, save together

    New shared bank account lets UAE families track spending, save together

    Wio Bank has unveiled Wio Family, the UAE’s first fully shared banking platform, designed to help households manage finances collectively. Launched ahead of the UAE’s Year of the Family, the service allows two primary account holders, termed ‘Family Leads,’ to open a shared account and invite family members, including children, teenagers, and relatives, to join. The platform offers tools for shared spending, saving, and budgeting, providing families with greater financial clarity and control. Virtual cards and permission settings enable Family Leads to set spending limits, track transactions, and manage access for each member through a single dashboard. For children aged 8 to 17, dedicated ‘Pockets’ with spending caps and saving features are available to teach money management. Families maintaining a minimum balance of Dh35,000 can access all benefits free of charge; otherwise, a monthly fee of Dh49 applies. Jayesh Patel, CEO of Wio Bank, emphasized the platform’s focus on treating money as a shared resource, offering families ‘clarity, flexibility, and control.’ CMO Amina Taher highlighted the platform’s role in helping families save for joint goals such as homes, education, or weddings, bringing everyone together for shared financial success.

  • Billionaire Lakshmi Mittal relocating to Dubai amid UK tax reforms, says report

    Billionaire Lakshmi Mittal relocating to Dubai amid UK tax reforms, says report

    Indian steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal, one of the world’s wealthiest individuals, is reportedly relocating from the UK to Dubai. This move comes as the UK’s Labour government introduces significant tax reforms targeting high-net-worth individuals. Mittal, who has been a long-term resident of London and ranks eighth on the UK rich list, is the latest in a growing trend of ultra-wealthy individuals seeking more favorable tax environments. According to The Sunday Times, Mittal’s decision is driven by concerns over inheritance tax and other fiscal changes. The billionaire, with a net worth of $20 billion as of October 2025, already owns a lavish mansion in Dubai and has recently acquired substantial properties on Naia Island, a new ultra-luxury development near Jumeirah. The UK’s recent tax adjustments, including increased capital gains tax and reduced relief for entrepreneurs, have raised alarms among the global elite. Meanwhile, Dubai’s zero income tax, capital gains tax, and inheritance tax policies, coupled with its political stability and cosmopolitan lifestyle, have solidified its status as a premier destination for the ultra-rich. The UAE’s Golden Visa program, offering long-term residency through real estate investment, further enhances its appeal. As Dubai’s luxury real estate market thrives, the city is emerging as a hub for intergenerational wealth creation and preservation.

  • Companies tone down price hike talk as tariff fog clears

    Companies tone down price hike talk as tariff fog clears

    In a notable shift, global companies have significantly reduced their announcements of price hikes in the third quarter of 2025, as clarity on long-term tariff strategies begins to emerge. According to a Reuters analysis of corporate earnings calls and statements, only 28 companies explicitly mentioned raising prices, a sharp decline from 51 in the second quarter and nearly 90 in the first quarter. This trend reflects a cautious approach by businesses navigating the complexities of U.S. trade policies and consumer spending slowdowns. The reduction in tariff-related price hikes coincides with new trade deals that have alleviated some of the financial pressures caused by the Trump-era trade war, which had driven U.S. import tariffs to their highest levels since the 1930s. Market intelligence platform AlphaSense reported a 68% drop in mentions of tariff-related price increases between the first and third quarters. Companies like Walmart have shifted focus to price cuts and discounts to attract cash-strapped consumers, particularly as the holiday shopping season approaches. Retailers and fast-food chains, including Target, McDonald’s, and Yum Brands, have introduced cheaper meal bundles and limited-time offers to counter declining demand among lower-income households. Meanwhile, industrial and consumer sectors have led pricing actions, with many firms absorbing tariff costs or sharing the burden with suppliers. Companies such as Rockwell Automation and Fictiv emphasize the importance of understanding the long-term tariff strategy before making significant pricing adjustments. This cautious approach highlights the ongoing uncertainty in global trade and the delicate balance businesses must strike between maintaining competitiveness and managing costs.

  • Watch: Heavy rains hit parts of UAE as lowest temperature of 11.2ºC recorded

    Watch: Heavy rains hit parts of UAE as lowest temperature of 11.2ºC recorded

    The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially transitioned into its winter season, marked by significant weather changes including heavy rainfall and a notable drop in temperatures. On November 24, 2025, the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) issued orange and yellow alerts across most regions, warning residents of potential hazardous conditions. The lowest temperature recorded was 11.2°C in Al Ain’s Raknah area, while Sharjah’s Al Dhaid experienced a seasonal low of 7.8°C. Heavy rains were reported in Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, and the Dhafra region, causing road overflows and reduced visibility in some areas. Authorities have urged residents to exercise caution, especially during outdoor activities, and to adhere to safety guidelines. Motorists were advised to avoid unnecessary travel, use low-beam headlights, and stay updated with official weather forecasts. The region’s weather shift aligns with the traditional ‘Darbet Al Ahaymar’ phenomenon, signaling the onset of cooler days. Neighboring Saudi Arabia has also experienced similar weather patterns, with heavy rains affecting cities like Makkah, Madinah, and Riyadh.

  • Hub71 and UAE–India Cepa Council forge strategic partnership

    Hub71 and UAE–India Cepa Council forge strategic partnership

    In a landmark move to bolster innovation and economic collaboration, Hub71, Abu Dhabi’s premier global tech ecosystem, has entered into a strategic partnership with the UAE–India Cepa Council. This alliance, forged under the UAE–India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (Cepa), aims to accelerate trade, investment, and innovation between the two nations. The agreement was formalized during the Abu Dhabi Investment Forum (ADIF) in Mumbai, marking a significant step in operationalizing the innovation agenda of the Cepa.

    The partnership will facilitate a seamless pathway for high-potential Indian start-ups to enter, validate, and scale their operations in Abu Dhabi. As part of this initiative, Hub71 will support the UAE–India Cepa Council’s flagship Start-Up Series by offering structured market-entry assistance. Five winning start-ups from the Series, which culminates in New Delhi on November 25, 2025, will join Hub71’s Immersion Programme in 2026. This newly launched programme is designed to expedite market entry through a combination of virtual onboarding and in-person sessions in Abu Dhabi, complemented by curated knowledge sessions, mentorship, and access to Abu Dhabi’s tech ecosystem.

    Among the five start-ups, one will be selected to join Hub71’s Access programme, which provides tailored soft-landing support, enabling founders to explore market opportunities, engage with key stakeholders, and identify sustainable growth pathways across the region. The partnership underscores the shared ambition of the UAE and India to build a dynamic, interconnected start-up corridor that drives investment, technology exchange, and economic growth.

    Abdulnasser Alshaali, UAE Ambassador to India, emphasized the transformative potential of the Cepa, stating, ‘Innovation lies at the heart of this partnership, and the Start-Up Series showcases the depth of talent emerging from India. This collaboration with Hub71 strengthens our commitment to providing world-class platforms for founders to scale globally.’

    Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, highlighted the initiative’s role in bridging innovation hubs and high-growth markets, while Ahmed Aljneibi, Director of the UAE-India Cepa Council, emphasized the tangible benefits for Indian founders and the broader economic impact of this collaboration.

    Since its inception in June 2025, the UAE-India Start-Up Series has attracted over 10,000 applications, reflecting strong demand for UAE expansion. The alignment of applicants with Hub71’s priority sectors—FinTech, HealthTech, AgriTech, mobility, and advanced technologies—demonstrates the strategic synergy between India’s innovation strengths and Abu Dhabi’s sector-focused agenda. This partnership not only streamlines market entry but also unlocks new investment flows, fostering a robust innovation corridor between the two economies.

    The agreement also establishes a framework for cross-referring high-impact start-ups, enabling soft landings in both Abu Dhabi and India. Referred founders will receive comprehensive support, including company setup, regulatory facilitation, mentorship, and access to investors and partners. Eligible start-ups may also benefit from grants, incentive programmes, and scaling opportunities, further enhancing the UAE-India innovation ecosystem.

    This collaboration is part of Hub71’s broader mission to position Abu Dhabi as a global launchpad for start-ups, fostering cross-border initiatives that translate bilateral cooperation into measurable technological and economic outcomes.

  • Gueye sent off for striking team-mate – but Moyes ‘quite likes’ it

    Gueye sent off for striking team-mate – but Moyes ‘quite likes’ it

    In a dramatic Premier League encounter, 10-man Everton secured a surprising 1-0 victory against Manchester United at Old Trafford, despite Idrissa Gueye’s controversial red card for striking teammate Michael Keane. The incident occurred in the 13th minute when Gueye and Keane engaged in a heated argument, culminating in Gueye slapping Keane in the face. Referee Tony Harrington immediately showed Gueye a straight red card for violent conduct, a decision upheld by VAR. Everton manager David Moyes expressed a peculiar approval of the altercation, stating he ‘quite likes’ when his players show such intensity, attributing it to the team’s resilience. Gueye later apologized on social media, taking full responsibility for his actions and vowing to ensure such behavior never recurs. Despite being a man down, Everton clinched the win with Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s 29th-minute goal, marking Moyes’ first victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts. The match also reignited discussions about teammate conflicts in football, with pundits and fans debating the severity of Gueye’s punishment. This rare incident joins the likes of Lee Bowyer and Kieron Dyer’s infamous 2005 clash, highlighting the emotional volatility in high-stakes matches.

  • Video: Witnesses share final moments of Dubai Airshow jet crash to ‘aid investigation’

    Video: Witnesses share final moments of Dubai Airshow jet crash to ‘aid investigation’

    The Dubai Airshow, a global aviation spectacle, was marred by tragedy when a Tejas jet crashed during a display, resulting in the death of Wing Commander Namansh Syal, a highly skilled pilot from the Indian Air Force. Syal, a member of the No. 45 Squadron, the Flying Daggers, based at Sulur Air Base, was renowned for his exceptional flying skills, having captivated audiences at Aero India and numerous national airshows. The fatal incident occurred during an eight-minute aerial stunt when the jet nosedived, casting a somber shadow over the event and leading to a two-hour suspension of other displays. Witnesses have since shared videos of the final moments on social media, hoping to aid the investigation and pay tribute to the fallen pilot. Among them is Abdur Rahim, an ex-journalist turned plane videographer, who decided to post the footage publicly, believing it could assist in the inquiry. Dubai-based photographer Asif Ali also shared stunning images of the HAL Tejas LA-5026, highlighting the pilot’s incredible skill and confidence. The crash has left the aviation community in mourning, with many remembering Syal’s quiet confidence and professionalism. The incident underscores the inherent risks of aerial displays and the bravery of those who perform them.

  • Stablecoins could siphon off euro zone bank deposits, ECB warns

    Stablecoins could siphon off euro zone bank deposits, ECB warns

    The European Central Bank (ECB) has issued a stark warning about the growing influence of stablecoins, highlighting their potential to disrupt the financial stability of the euro zone. Stablecoins, digital assets designed to maintain a stable value, have surged in popularity, with their market value now exceeding $280 billion. While this figure remains relatively modest, the ECB emphasized that issuers of these coins have become significant buyers of U.S. Treasuries, raising concerns about their broader impact on global financial markets. In a recent Financial Stability Review article, the ECB noted that stablecoins are primarily used for trading crypto assets, accounting for approximately 80% of all transactions on centralized crypto trading platforms. The central bank warned that the rapid expansion of stablecoins could lead to significant outflows of retail deposits from euro zone banks, undermining a crucial funding source and increasing overall funding volatility. The ECB also highlighted the risk of investor runs on stablecoins, particularly given that the two largest stablecoins are among the top holders of U.S. Treasury bills. A sudden sell-off of these reserve assets could destabilize U.S. Treasury markets, with potential ripple effects on the euro zone. Additionally, the ECB cautioned that joint issuance of stablecoins by EU and non-EU entities could exacerbate redemption risks, as EU regulations are stricter and investors may prefer EU-issued tokens. This could leave EU issuers with insufficient reserve assets to meet combined redemption demands, amplifying financial instability within the region.

  • Philippines suspends classes on November 25 due to tropical depression Verbena

    Philippines suspends classes on November 25 due to tropical depression Verbena

    The Philippines has suspended classes across multiple regions on November 25 due to the impact of Tropical Depression Verbena, which made landfall in Bayabas, Surigao del Sur, at 1:30 PM local time on Monday. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) confirmed the storm’s arrival, prompting immediate precautionary measures. Regions affected include Bicol and Western Visayas, where educational institutions have either canceled classes or shifted to alternative learning modalities. Signal No. 1 has been raised in numerous areas across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, indicating potential risks from strong winds and heavy rainfall. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant as the storm continues its trajectory. This suspension aims to ensure the safety of students and staff amidst the adverse weather conditions.