China’s annual online shopping extravaganza, Singles’ Day, traditionally held on November 11, has seen an early launch this year as retailers strive to stimulate spending in a sluggish market. The event, originally created by Alibaba, has grown into a global shopping phenomenon, comparable to Amazon’s Prime Day or Black Friday. However, this year’s extended sales period, beginning in mid-October, reflects the broader economic challenges facing Chinese consumers. Issues such as rising youth unemployment, a prolonged property crisis, escalating government debt, and ongoing trade tensions with the US have led to a more cautious approach to spending. Despite government efforts to boost consumption through subsidies, wage increases, and discounts, retail sales growth continues to fall short of expectations. E-commerce giants like Taobao, JD.com, and Douyin are aggressively promoting the event, offering deep discounts and vouchers to entice shoppers. Alibaba has also integrated artificial intelligence into its platforms to enhance the shopping experience, making it easier for consumers to find relevant products. The cautious spending trend, which began during the Covid-19 pandemic, has persisted as China grapples with deflation. High-end retailers, including luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Burberry, have been particularly affected, with sales declining in recent months. However, there are signs of optimism in the market, as shares of luxury brands such as LVMH and Moncler have risen, buoyed by indications of improved demand in the region.
作者： admin
-
Former boxing world champion Ricky Hatton found hanged at home
The boxing world is in mourning following the tragic death of former world champion Ricky Hatton, who was found hanged at his home in Greater Manchester. The 46-year-old, affectionately known as the ‘Hitman,’ was discovered unresponsive on September 14 by his manager, Paul Speak. An inquest into his death was opened at Manchester South Coroner’s Court, where the provisional cause of death was confirmed as hanging. Hatton, a two-time world champion in the light-welterweight and welterweight divisions, was last seen by his family on September 12, appearing to be in good spirits. However, he failed to attend a scheduled event the following day, prompting his manager to check on him. Hatton was set to travel to Dubai for a professional bout in December, marking his return to the ring. The inquest has been adjourned until March 20, 2026. Hatton’s funeral last week drew thousands of mourners, including prominent figures from sports and entertainment such as Liam Gallagher, Wayne Rooney, and Tyson Fury. Hatton had been open about his struggles with mental health, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts following his retirement in 2012. His untimely death has left the boxing community and fans worldwide in shock.
-
Trump authorises CIA covert operations in Venezuela, as he weighs direct attack
In a significant escalation of U.S. involvement in Venezuela, President Donald Trump has authorized the CIA to conduct covert operations aimed at destabilizing the government of leftist President Nicolas Maduro. This move, reminiscent of Cold War-era shadow wars, includes paramilitary actions, economic warfare, and media manipulation. Trump justified the decision by accusing Maduro of facilitating drug trafficking and directing Venezuelan prisoners into the U.S. Meanwhile, the U.S. has amassed a substantial military presence in the Caribbean, deploying guided-missile destroyers, F-35 jet fighters, MQ-9 Reaper drones, and special operations vessels. This buildup, the largest since the 1989 invasion of Panama, includes at least 10,000 troops and vessels capable of launching Tomahawk Cruise missiles. The U.S. has also conducted air strikes off Venezuela’s coast, targeting alleged drug-smuggling ships, which Maduro’s government denies, calling it a pretext for regime change. Trump hinted at potential land-based military action, stating, ‘We’ve almost totally stopped it by sea. Now we’ll stop it by land.’ When questioned about authorizing the CIA to ‘take out’ Maduro, Trump dismissed the query as ‘ridiculous.’ Despite running as a non-interventionist candidate, Trump has shown a willingness to deploy military force, with limited congressional opposition. The administration has invoked wartime powers, labeling Venezuelan drug cartels as ‘terrorist organizations’ and justifying strikes as self-defense. This latest intervention echoes U.S. Cold War tactics in Latin America, including coups in Guatemala and Chile and support for Contra fighters in Nicaragua. Maduro, who has governed since 2013, has ordered military exercises among civilians in anticipation of a potential invasion, vowing to resist U.S.-backed regime change.
-
Death penalty sought for Bangladesh’s ex-leader Sheikh Hasina
Bangladesh’s prosecutors have called for the execution of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in exile in India, over her alleged role in the violent suppression of student-led protests in 2024. The unrest, which lasted for weeks, resulted in the deaths of up to 1,400 people and ultimately ended Hasina’s 15-year tenure as the country’s leader. This marked the deadliest episode of violence in Bangladesh since its 1971 independence war. Hasina is now on trial for crimes against humanity, with prosecutors accusing her of ordering security forces to use lethal force against demonstrators. A leaked audio recording allegedly captures her issuing the directive, though she denies the charges. Chief prosecutor Tajul Islam argued in court that Hasina’s actions were driven by a desire to maintain power indefinitely for herself and her family, describing her as a “hardened criminal” who shows no remorse. The protests initially began in July 2024 over civil service job quotas for relatives of 1971 war veterans but quickly escalated into a broader movement demanding her ouster. One of the bloodiest incidents occurred on August 5, when police killed at least 52 people in a Dhaka neighborhood, marking one of the worst cases of police violence in the country’s history. Hasina fled by helicopter that day as crowds stormed her residence. She is being tried alongside her former interior minister, Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, and ex-police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, with prosecutors also seeking the death penalty for Kamal. Chowdhury has pleaded guilty but awaits sentencing. Hasina has already been sentenced to six months for contempt of court and faces separate corruption charges. With Bangladesh’s next elections scheduled for February 2025, Hasina’s party, the Awami League, has been barred from participating, leaving her rival, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), as the frontrunner.
-
Five takeaways from the Mamdani-Cuomo NYC mayoral debate
The New York City mayoral debate, held at Rockefeller Center in Manhattan, brought together the three leading candidates—Zohran Mamdani, Andrew Cuomo, and Curtis Sliwa—to present their visions for America’s largest city. With early voting set to begin next week, the stakes are high, as the outcome could have significant political implications beyond New York, especially with President Donald Trump’s looming influence. Mamdani, the progressive frontrunner with a 46% lead in recent polls, faced scrutiny over his past statements on Israel and Palestine, while Cuomo, running as an independent, positioned himself as the experienced candidate capable of navigating Trump’s policies. Sliwa, the Republican candidate, emphasized public safety and affordability, key issues resonating with New Yorkers. The debate also highlighted the city’s affordability crisis, with candidates proposing solutions ranging from rent freezes to income limits on rent-stabilized apartments. Cuomo’s controversial tenure as governor, including allegations of sexual harassment and undercounting nursing home deaths during COVID-19, was a focal point of criticism from his opponents. The debate underscored the deep divisions and high stakes in the race to lead New York City.
-
Grocery bills, Trump and Gaza – How NYC mayoral debate unfolded
The first mayoral debate of New York City’s general election saw a dynamic exchange among candidates Zohran Mamdani, Andrew Cuomo, and Curtis Sliwa. The discussion spanned a range of pressing issues, from the rising cost of groceries to the political legacy of former President Donald Trump and the ongoing crisis in Gaza. Each candidate presented their vision for addressing these challenges, highlighting their policy priorities and leadership styles. Mamdani emphasized economic relief for struggling families, while Cuomo focused on restoring trust in government. Sliwa, known for his grassroots activism, advocated for community-driven solutions. The debate underscored the diverse concerns of NYC residents and set the stage for a competitive election season.
-
Putin-Trump call a curveball for Zelensky ahead of White House meeting
In a surprising turn of events, U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have agreed to hold an in-person summit in Hungary, following a two-and-a-half-hour phone call on Thursday. The announcement comes as Ukraine faces relentless attacks from Russia, including missile strikes and drone assaults targeting civilian infrastructure and the gas supply network, exacerbating the country’s already dire situation. The timing of the call, which occurred while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was en route to Washington, has raised concerns in Kyiv, as it appears to overshadow Zelensky’s efforts to secure critical military aid. Zelensky had hoped to persuade Trump to approve the sale of long-range Tomahawk missiles, which could significantly enhance Ukraine’s ability to strike deep into Russian territory. However, Trump’s willingness to provide such weapons remains uncertain, especially after his recent remarks questioning the wisdom of deploying Tomahawks against Russia. The summit announcement has been interpreted by some analysts as a strategic move by Putin to de-escalate tensions while maintaining his position. Meanwhile, Zelensky remains resolute, meeting with U.S. defense representatives to advocate for advanced weaponry. As Ukraine braces for its fourth winter of war, the prospect of a Trump-Putin summit offers little reassurance to a nation weary of conflict and skeptical of diplomatic breakthroughs.
-
Trump threatens to ‘go in and kill’ Hamas if Gaza killings continue
Former US President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Hamas on Thursday, threatening military intervention if the group continues to target civilians in Gaza. Speaking on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump emphasized that such actions violate the terms of a prior ceasefire agreement with Israel. ‘If Hamas persists in killing people in Gaza, which was not part of the Deal, we will have no choice but to go in and eliminate them,’ he declared. This statement comes amid escalating tensions in the region following recent attacks on Palestinian civilians. Trump’s remarks underscore his hardline stance on foreign policy and his willingness to employ military force to address perceived threats. The situation has drawn global attention, with many nations closely monitoring developments in the volatile Gaza Strip.
-
Sheikh Mohammed’s vision: Dubai to host world’s largest tech and AI event in 2026
Dubai is poised to make history by hosting the world’s largest technology and artificial intelligence event in 2026. Named ‘Gitex TechCation 2026,’ the event will take place from December 7 to 11 at Expo City Dubai, as announced by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai. The initiative is part of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai’s vision to position Dubai as a global leader in technology and innovation. The event will transcend traditional convention halls, leveraging Dubai’s tourism and cultural networks to create immersive, citywide experiences. A strategic partnership between the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has been established to curate programs and campaigns that integrate technology with the city’s vibrant cultural landscape. This approach aims to extend visitor stays and enhance Dubai’s appeal as a premier destination for tourism, investment, and innovation. Dubai’s global standing as a top travel destination has been reinforced by its three consecutive wins in Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards (2022-2024) and its burgeoning culinary scene, which boasts 119 Michelin-recognized restaurants, including 19 with Michelin Stars. Gitex TechCation aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which seeks to rank Dubai among the world’s top three global cities by 2033. The event will further solidify Dubai’s reputation as a hub for talent, foreign direct investment, and commerce, building on its record of attracting Greenfield FDI projects and its top ranking in Savills’ Executive Nomad Index.
-
Trump says to meet Putin in Hungary
US President Donald Trump revealed on Thursday that he will hold a face-to-face meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Budapest, Hungary. The announcement followed a phone conversation between the two leaders, which Trump described as “very productive.” The primary focus of their discussion was the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, with both leaders aiming to explore pathways toward resolution. Additionally, they delved into the potential for future trade relations between the United States and Russia once the conflict subsides. Trump expressed optimism about the progress made during their call, stating, “I believe great progress was made with today’s telephone conversation.” The upcoming meeting in Budapest is expected to further solidify diplomatic efforts to address the crisis and potentially pave the way for economic collaboration.