India and the United States are on the brink of finalizing a groundbreaking trade agreement that could elevate bilateral commerce to $500 billion by 2030, more than doubling the current trade value of $191 billion. This long-awaited deal, which has been in negotiation since February 2025, aims to address trade imbalances, reduce punitive tariffs, and expand market access across goods, services, digital trade, and clean-energy technology.
作者： admin
-
India defies tariff turbulence, set to outpace major economies with 6.6pc growth: IMF
India is poised to maintain its status as the world’s fastest-growing major economy, with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) projecting a robust growth rate of 6.6% for the fiscal year 2025–26. This upward revision, from the previous forecast of 6.5%, highlights India’s economic resilience in the face of global trade uncertainties and rising protectionism. The IMF’s latest Regional Economic Outlook for Asia attributes this momentum to strong second-quarter performance and the successful implementation of GST 2.0 reforms, which have enhanced tax compliance, formalisation, and fiscal efficiency. Despite challenges posed by higher US tariffs, India’s diversified growth base—driven by services exports, infrastructure investment, digital transformation, and domestic consumption—is expected to cushion the impact. In contrast, China’s GDP growth is projected to moderate to 4.8% in 2025, weighed down by structural property-sector issues and weak domestic demand. The broader Asia-Pacific region is forecast to expand by 4.5%, contributing nearly 60% of global output growth. The IMF cautioned that Asia’s economic momentum could soften due to the ripple effects of US tariff hikes, which are already prompting exporters to front-load shipments. However, India’s reforms, including GST 2.0, improved logistics, and fiscal prudence, are expected to sustain medium-term expansion. The IMF also emphasised the need for Asian policymakers to deepen regional integration, reduce trade barriers, and improve productivity through better capital allocation. By 2026, India is projected to account for over 18% of Asia’s GDP expansion and nearly a fifth of global incremental growth, solidifying its role as a key pillar of stability and optimism in the region.
-
Founder Connects to host ‘Spotlight’ networking event at Paramount Hotel Midtown
Dubai’s dynamic innovation landscape will take center stage on October 30 as Founder Connects hosts its premier networking event, ‘Spotlight,’ at the Paramount Hotel Midtown. Known for its cinematic elegance and creative atmosphere, the hotel’s Melrose Bar & Lounge will be transformed into a vibrant hub where innovation and conversation converge. The event will bring together founders, investors, and creative minds in a Hollywood-inspired setting, fostering meaningful connections and collaboration. Pascal Eggerstedt, Director of Paramount Hotel Midtown, emphasized the event’s alignment with the hotel’s vision to create immersive spaces where creativity thrives and genuine connections flourish. ‘Spotlight’ aims to redefine professional networking by blending storytelling, innovation, and authentic engagement. Strategically located in Business Bay, near key commercial hubs like the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the hotel provides an ideal backdrop for the region’s boldest entrepreneurial voices. Dubai’s growing reputation as a global events hub further amplifies the significance of the occasion. The city has hosted major international gatherings, including GITEX Global 2025, which attracted over 6,800 exhibitors, 2,000 startups, and 1,200 investors from 180 countries. ‘Spotlight’ will offer a hybrid experience, starting with curated virtual one-on-one sessions in the morning and transitioning to in-person networking at the Melrose Bar & Lounge in the evening. The event’s cinematic ambiance is designed to encourage deeper dialogue and lasting partnerships, moving beyond traditional networking to foster authentic conversations and collaborative energy. As Dubai solidifies its position as a global capital for entrepreneurship and innovation, events like ‘Spotlight’ underscore the city’s commitment to nurturing talent and bridging ideas with capital. With its unique blend of glamour, strategy, and purpose, ‘Spotlight’ is set to become a standout fixture in the region’s business calendar.
-
Dubai tenants turn to ownership, boosting demand for affordable luxury homes
Dubai’s real estate market is witnessing a significant transformation as rising rental costs drive long-term tenants toward homeownership, particularly in the mid-market, affordable luxury segment. Developers are capitalizing on this trend by launching projects that combine design, functionality, and value, especially in emerging communities like Liwan, Arjan, and Dubai South. Symbolic Developments, the real estate arm of Speedex Group, recently unveiled its fourth residential project, Symbolic Altus, in Liwan. Valued at Dh150 million, the development features 108 fully furnished apartments, including 1 BHK Elite and 2.5 BHK Panorama units, starting at Dh999,000. Scheduled for handover in Q3 2027, the project emphasizes ‘elevated living’ with all amenities located on the rooftop. This launch follows the success of Symbolic Alpha, the developer’s first project in Liwan, which saw over 30 per cent appreciation and higher-than-average rental yields. Murtaza Moiz, Vice Chairman of Symbolic Developments, highlighted the potential of emerging micro-markets like Liwan, which are attracting both end-users and investors. Dubai’s residential market has experienced a notable shift, with apartment prices rising 20.5 per cent year-on-year and average rents increasing 22.1 per cent as of mid-2025, according to CBRE. This has prompted residents to view affordable luxury developments—those priced under Dh2 million—as smart investments. Symbolic Altus aims to meet this demand with a low-density, design-led approach, strategically located just 500 meters from the upcoming Dubai Metro Blue Line. The developer’s focus on community-building is evident in its integration of amenities like rooftop communal spaces and proximity to Liwan Park, which features facilities for all age groups. With more projects planned for early next year, Symbolic Developments is committed to filling the gap in the mid-market segment, offering luxury at an affordable price.
-
Sudan’s RSF says takes full control of Darfur’s El-Fasher
In a significant development in Sudan’s ongoing conflict, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) announced on Sunday, October 26, 2025, that it has seized full control of El-Fasher, the last major urban center in western Darfur previously outside its dominion. The RSF, in an official statement, declared it had ‘liberated the city of El-Fasher from the clutches of mercenaries and militias,’ a reference to the Sudanese army, which has been its adversary since April 2023. The capture of El-Fasher marks a pivotal moment in the protracted struggle for dominance in the region. However, the claim remains unverified, as AFP could not independently confirm the development, and the Sudanese army and its allies have yet to issue any response. The RSF’s assertion underscores the escalating tensions and shifting dynamics in Sudan’s civil unrest, with Darfur remaining a critical battleground. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, as the conflict threatens to further destabilize the region and exacerbate humanitarian crises.
-
Xinjiang’s Tacheng secures 10bn yuan boost for modern industrial projects
In a significant move to bolster industrial development in Xinjiang’s border regions, a 10-billion-yuan ($1.4 billion) industrial fund was officially launched in Beijing on Sunday. The initiative, unveiled during the Conference on Financial Support for High-Quality Industrial Development in Xinjiang’s Border Areas, aims to accelerate the modernization of industries in Tacheng prefecture, a strategically important area in northwest China. The Tacheng High-Quality Industrial Investment Fund, with an initial commitment of one billion yuan, is a collaborative effort between Beijing Hangke Junfu Private Fund Management Center (LLP) and New China Asset Management Co., Ltd. The fund will operate under a parent-subsidiary structure, with seven sub-funds designed to support enterprises at various stages of growth, from startups to established companies. This financial injection is expected to enhance Tacheng’s economic resilience, attract investment, and foster innovation in key sectors such as manufacturing, technology, and agriculture. The initiative underscores China’s broader strategy to promote balanced regional development and strengthen the economic foundations of its border areas.
-
Tom Aspinall vs Ciryl Gane: Abu Dhabi fans furious after UFC 321 Main Event ends in No Contest
The highly anticipated UFC 321 main event between Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane at Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena ended in frustration and controversy. The fight, which drew over 13,000 fans, was abruptly halted in the first round due to an accidental eye poke from Gane, leaving Aspinall unable to continue. Referee Jason Herzog declared the bout a no contest, sparking boos and disappointment from the crowd. Aspinall, visibly distressed, was immediately attended to by medical staff and later sent to the hospital for further evaluation. UFC President Dana White expressed his disappointment but confirmed plans for an immediate rematch. The incident has reignited discussions about fighter safety and the rules surrounding accidental fouls in MMA. With the heavyweight division in flux following Jon Jones’ retirement, the rematch between Aspinall and Gane is now one of the most anticipated fights in the sport.
-
PKK says withdrawing all forces from Turkey to northern Iraq
The Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) declared on Sunday its decision to withdraw its fighters from Turkey to northern Iraq, emphasizing the need for Ankara to implement legal measures to safeguard the ongoing peace process. This move follows the PKK’s announcement in May to end its armed struggle, heeding a call from its imprisoned leader, Abdullah Ocalan, to resolve the decades-long conflict that has resulted in over 40,000 casualties. In a symbolic act in July, the PKK destroyed a portion of its weapons, underscoring its commitment to peace. During a ceremony in its Qandil Mountains stronghold in northern Iraq, the group formally announced its complete withdrawal from Turkey, expressing its aspiration to establish a “free, democratic, and fraternal” future. The PKK framed this decision as a step toward disarmament and integration, urging the Turkish government to enact legislation facilitating its transition into legitimate political participation. PKK spokesperson Zagros Hiwa highlighted that the withdrawal aligns with Ocalan’s peace plan and stressed the necessity for Turkey to introduce political reforms to support the process. Omer Celik, spokesperson for Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s ruling AK Party, lauded the PKK’s decision as a significant milestone in achieving a “terror-free Turkey.” He noted that it would contribute to a “positive framework” for a parliamentary commission tasked with addressing the legal dimensions of the peace process. The PKK, which has primarily operated from bases in northern Iraq after being driven out of southeastern Turkey, has faced persistent Turkish military strikes and the establishment of Turkish outposts. A resolution to the protracted conflict between Turkey and the PKK could have far-reaching regional implications, particularly in Syria, where the US supports Kurdish forces that Ankara associates with the PKK.
-
Dubai’s new art museum floats on water: All you need to know about Duma
Dubai has once again pushed the boundaries of architectural innovation with the unveiling of the Dubai Museum of Art (DUMA), a stunning cultural landmark that appears to float on water. Inspired by the sea and the pearl — two enduring symbols of Dubai’s heritage — the museum is designed to reflect the city’s spirit of unity, discovery, and forward-thinking. Developed by the Al-Futtaim Group and masterminded by the globally acclaimed Japanese architect Tadao Ando, DUMA is set to become a beacon of modern art and cultural exchange. Located on an island in Dubai Creek, the museum’s design features a curved shell that encloses a circular exhibition hall, with a central cylindrical opening allowing natural light to cascade through, evoking the soft shimmer of a pearl. Rising five storeys above the water, DUMA seamlessly blends local culture with contemporary architectural sensibilities. Inside, visitors can explore exhibition galleries across the first and second floors, a restaurant and VIP lounge on the third floor, and support spaces on the ground and basement levels. Beyond its exhibitions, DUMA will host artist talks, panel discussions, educational programmes, and art fairs, supported by purpose-built event spaces. The museum will showcase modern and contemporary art, reflecting Dubai’s diversity and creative energy, while serving as a global hub for artists to collaborate and innovate. Designed by Tadao Ando, a 1995 Pritzker Architecture Prize laureate, DUMA embodies his philosophy of harmonising architecture with natural elements. This ambitious project underscores Dubai’s aspiration to be recognised as a global capital of culture, creativity, and innovation, enriching its artistic landscape and solidifying its position on the world stage of modern art.
-
Netanyahu says Israel needs no approval to strike targets in Gaza, Lebanon
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared on Sunday that Israel would not seek external approval to conduct military strikes in Gaza or Lebanon, despite ongoing efforts by high-ranking U.S. officials to solidify a ceasefire in the region. Speaking at a government ministers’ meeting, Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s sovereignty, stating, ‘Israel is an independent state. We will defend ourselves by our own means and continue to determine our fate.’ He further asserted, ‘We do not seek anyone’s approval for this. We control our security.’ This statement follows a week of diplomatic engagements by top U.S. officials aimed at reinforcing the fragile ceasefire in Gaza. Netanyahu’s remarks underscore Israel’s firm stance on maintaining autonomy in its security decisions, even as international efforts persist to de-escalate tensions in the volatile region.