作者: admin

  • Meta is earning a fortune on a deluge of fraudulent ads, internal documents show

    Meta is earning a fortune on a deluge of fraudulent ads, internal documents show

    Internal documents from Meta, reviewed by Reuters, reveal that the tech giant projected 10% of its 2024 revenue—approximately $16 billion—would come from advertisements promoting scams and banned goods. These documents, spanning from 2021 to 2025, highlight Meta’s struggle to curb a flood of fraudulent ads on its platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Despite internal warnings, Meta’s automated systems only banned advertisers if they were 95% likely to be fraudulent, while charging higher rates for those deemed suspicious but not conclusively fraudulent. This approach has allowed Meta to profit significantly from scam ads, with users exposed to an estimated 15 billion high-risk advertisements daily, generating $7 billion annually. The company’s ad-personalization system further exacerbates the issue by showing users more scam ads based on their interests. Meta’s internal assessment acknowledges the scale of abuse on its platforms but reveals a reluctance to implement stricter measures that could harm its revenue. Regulatory bodies worldwide, including the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and UK authorities, are pressuring Meta to address the issue. Meta has pledged to reduce scam ads by 50% in certain markets by 2025 and has already removed over 134 million pieces of scam content in 2025. However, internal documents suggest that Meta’s leadership has prioritized business interests over aggressive enforcement, with concerns that abrupt reductions in scam ad revenue could impact financial projections. The company anticipates regulatory fines of up to $1 billion but continues to earn billions from scam ads, far exceeding potential penalties. Meta’s strategy includes charging suspected fraudsters higher ad rates to deter them, though this approach has had mixed financial results. Critics argue that Meta’s efforts remain insufficient, with user reports of scams often ignored or dismissed. The revelations come as Meta invests heavily in artificial intelligence and other technologies, raising questions about its commitment to user safety and regulatory compliance.

  • China’s factory-gate deflation eases in October, consumer prices rise

    China’s factory-gate deflation eases in October, consumer prices rise

    China’s economic landscape in October 2025 presented a nuanced picture as factory-gate deflation showed signs of easing while consumer prices returned to positive territory. According to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the Producer Price Index (PPI) fell by 2.1% year-on-year, marking a moderation from the 2.3% decline in September. This marks the 37th consecutive month of deflation in producer prices, though the rate of decline has slowed. Meanwhile, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 0.2% year-on-year, reversing a two-month downward trend and surpassing market expectations of no change. Core inflation, excluding volatile food and energy prices, accelerated to 1.2%, the highest in 20 months. Food prices, however, continued to decline, dropping 2.9% year-on-year. The data suggests that government efforts to manage overcapacity and stabilize supply-demand dynamics are yielding results, but weak domestic demand and geopolitical uncertainties continue to weigh on the economy. Analysts caution that deflationary pressures persist, and further policy measures may be required to stimulate growth. Policymakers have maintained a cautious stance, refraining from aggressive stimulus measures, with the central bank keeping interest rates steady for five months. Despite these challenges, China remains on track to achieve its annual growth target of around 5%.

  • Musk’s $1 trillion pay package creates a split screen on wealth in America

    Musk’s $1 trillion pay package creates a split screen on wealth in America

    Tesla shareholders have approved a groundbreaking $1 trillion pay package for CEO Elon Musk, setting the stage for him to potentially become the world’s first trillionaire. The ambitious 12-step plan requires Musk to elevate Tesla’s market valuation from $1.4 trillion to $8.5 trillion while achieving other significant milestones, such as selling 1 million humanoid robots and 10 million subscriptions to Tesla’s self-driving software. This decision comes just days after New Yorkers elected Zohran Mamdani, a progressive candidate advocating for higher taxes on the wealthy to fund social programs, highlighting the stark contrast in perspectives on wealth distribution in America. Musk’s supporters, including President Donald Trump, view his financial success as a model to emulate, while critics argue that such concentrated wealth exacerbates economic inequality. The Florida State Board of Administration defended the plan, citing Tesla’s transformation from near bankruptcy to a global leader in electric vehicles and clean energy. However, public pension fund officials in New York and California opposed the package, warning of excessive corporate power. Musk, who owns 15% of Tesla’s stock, could see his control grow to nearly 29% if he meets the plan’s targets. Meanwhile, Norway’s sovereign wealth fund voted against the proposal, citing concerns about dilution and key person risk. The approval of Musk’s pay package underscores the deepening divide in American business and politics, with progressives like Mamdani pushing for wealth redistribution and billionaires like Musk championing unfettered capitalism. The plan also reignites debates about executive compensation and corporate governance, as Tesla’s board insists it is designed to drive innovation and growth.

  • Ecuador prison riot leaves 4 inmates dead and dozens injured

    Ecuador prison riot leaves 4 inmates dead and dozens injured

    A violent riot erupted at a prison in Machala, Ecuador, on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of four inmates and injuries to over 30 others, according to the country’s corrections officials. The unrest was triggered by the planned relocation of prisoners to a new maximum-security facility in a different province, as stated by Ecuador’s prison oversight agency. The situation escalated rapidly, with one police officer also sustaining injuries before authorities managed to restore order. The conditions of the injured remain unclear as of Sunday. This incident marks the second deadly outbreak of violence at the same prison in less than two months, following a gang-related dispute in April that claimed 14 lives. Ecuador’s prison system has become one of the most dangerous in Latin America, plagued by severe overcrowding, rampant corruption, and insufficient state control. These conditions have allowed drug-trafficking gangs linked to Colombia and Mexico to thrive, with many inmates heavily armed and continuing to orchestrate criminal activities from within the prisons. Since 2021, more than 500 people have died in prison riots, including a series of coordinated uprisings last year that saw 150 prison guards taken hostage.

  • UAE launches hotline for reporting drug crimes with rewards for informants

    UAE launches hotline for reporting drug crimes with rewards for informants

    The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has ramped up its efforts to combat drug-related crimes through a series of strategic initiatives, including the launch of a confidential hotline for reporting drug offenses. During the UAE Government Annual Meetings 2025, Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad Al Nahyan, Chairman of the National Anti-Narcotics Authority (Nana), announced the hotline, which offers financial rewards to informants whose tips lead to the apprehension of traffickers and the prevention of smuggling attempts. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to unify national efforts against narcotics and involve all government entities and the community in this critical fight. Additionally, the UAE has identified and blocked 2,297 websites and social media accounts promoting drugs and mind-altering substances, targeting the digital platforms often exploited by traffickers. To further strengthen drug prevention, the UAE plans to introduce a new school subject, ‘Security and Safety,’ into primary and secondary curricula. This subject will educate students on avoiding harmful behaviors, with a particular focus on the dangers of drugs in secondary schools. The country is also enhancing international cooperation, collaborating with 24 nations to seize large quantities of narcotics abroad. These efforts aim to build an integrated ecosystem for prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation, safeguarding society from the pervasive threat of drugs.

  • At least 2 killed as Super Typhoon Fung-wong nears landfall in Philippines

    At least 2 killed as Super Typhoon Fung-wong nears landfall in Philippines

    Super Typhoon Fung-wong has unleashed devastation across the Philippines, claiming at least two lives and prompting the evacuation of over a million residents from vulnerable areas. The typhoon, with sustained winds of 185 kph (115 mph) and gusts reaching 230 kph (140 mph), is expected to make landfall in Aurora province as early as Sunday night. Authorities have issued the highest storm warnings for Luzon, the country’s most populous island, while Metro Manila and surrounding provinces remain under level 3 alerts. The storm has already caused widespread power outages in the Bicol region and forced the closure of several airports, including Bicol International Airport and Sangley in Metro Manila. Tragically, one person drowned in Catanduanes, and a woman was found dead under the debris of a collapsed home in Catbalogan City. Fung-wong, locally named Uwan, is the 21st storm to hit the Philippines this year, exacerbating the strain on disaster response efforts still recovering from Typhoon Kalmaegi, which claimed 224 lives in the Philippines and five in Vietnam. The typhoon is projected to move northwest by Monday, maintaining its intensity before weakening as it approaches the Taiwan Strait on Wednesday. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro has urged residents to comply with evacuation orders, emphasizing the dangers of non-compliance. The military has redirected 2,000 troops to focus on humanitarian aid and disaster response. In Isabela, northern Luzon, families have sought refuge in evacuation centers, with many expressing fear of the storm’s destructive potential. Christopher Sanchez, a 50-year-old evacuee, shared his concerns, recalling past storms that brought floodwaters above human height. Authorities remain hopeful that proactive measures will minimize casualties.

  • UAE app economy shifts to profitability as finance installs surge 700%

    UAE app economy shifts to profitability as finance installs surge 700%

    The UAE’s app economy is undergoing a transformative shift, moving from user acquisition to profitability, driven by loyalty, retention, and innovative engagement strategies. According to recent data from AppsFlyer, presented at the MAMA Dubai event, finance app installs have surged by an astonishing 700% between 2021 and 2024, while ad fraud on Android has dropped by 50%. These trends underscore the market’s growing sophistication and trust in digital ecosystems. Sarah Maina, Regional Manager for France and the Middle East at AppsFlyer, highlighted that the UAE is setting a global benchmark for sustainable app growth, emphasizing the importance of data integrity, user trust, and creative innovation. The finance sector’s remarkable growth is attributed to the UAE’s push toward a cashless economy and the rapid digital transformation of traditional banks. Shopping apps are also thriving, supported by hybrid retail models and buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) solutions. Meanwhile, gaming apps, once dominant, have plateaued, prompting developers to focus on hybrid monetization and immersive experiences. Maina stressed that the focus has shifted from downloads to loyalty and retention, with user acquisition spending increasing by 32% on Android and 36% on iOS. The decline in ad fraud, down 50% on Android and 25% on iOS, reflects improved education and technology. Super apps, which integrate shopping, travel, and payments, are gaining traction as brands leverage data and AI to personalize user experiences. With UAE users spending an average of 4.6 hours daily on their phones, the app economy’s future lies in trust, loyalty, and innovation.

  • Kiara Jewellery named best luxury jewellery brand 2025

    Kiara Jewellery named best luxury jewellery brand 2025

    Kiara Jewellery has been honored with the title of Best Luxury Jewellery Brand 2025 at the esteemed Khatoon Entrepreneur Summit and Luxury Awards in Dubai. This accolade was bestowed following a rigorous evaluation process by the summit’s jury, which meticulously assessed candidates across various industries. Organized by Khatoon Luxury Events Organising LLC, the summit is renowned as a leading business platform in Dubai, celebrating groundbreaking innovations and bringing together accomplished entrepreneurs, investors, and senior professionals from sectors such as fashion, real estate, and hospitality. The awards recognize brands that excel in highly competitive fields. Kiara Jewellery’s recognition stems from its exceptional collections, which showcase advanced artistry and a seamless operational process from design to production. The brand’s co-founder, Ada Panday, also moderated the Wealth and Lifestyle panel, highlighting Kiara’s active role in Dubai’s thriving luxury market. With plans for further expansion, Kiara Jewellery continues to solidify its position as a leader in the luxury jewellery industry.

  • POWERCHINA hosts Hamdan Bin Zayed School visit to Abu Dhabi

    POWERCHINA hosts Hamdan Bin Zayed School visit to Abu Dhabi

    POWERCHINA, in collaboration with Hamdan Bin Zayed School, a flagship institution under the UAE’s “Hundred Schools Project,” recently hosted an educational open day at the Abu Dhabi PV3 Al Ajban 1.5GW Photovoltaic Project (PV3 Project). The event, themed “PV as a Bridge, Jointly Exploring a Green Future,” provided students and teachers with an immersive experience into the world of renewable energy and its role in advancing the UAE’s sustainable development goals.

    Joe Helou, Executive Managing Director of the SPV, welcomed the attendees and lauded POWERCHINA for its initiative. He highlighted the PV3 Project as a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi’s clean energy strategy and emphasized the importance of such visits in inspiring young minds to delve into the science and innovation behind renewable energy.

    Hong Li, POWERCHINA’s Chief Representative in the UAE, showcased the company’s global and regional projects, underscoring its contributions to sustainable infrastructure and cross-cultural collaboration. Her presentation offered students a comprehensive understanding of POWERCHINA’s achievements in engineering, technological innovation, and social responsibility.

    During the solar knowledge session, POWERCHINA’s technical experts elucidated the principles of photovoltaic power generation, the mechanics of solar panels, and the challenges of constructing large-scale solar plants in desert environments. Through engaging videos, interactive discussions, and simplified explanations, students gained valuable insights into the transformation of sunlight into clean electricity.

    An interactive Q&A session followed, where students posed questions on topics ranging from the components of solar power plants to energy storage and dust mitigation techniques. Engineers from the PV3 Project shared their experiences, encouraging students to pursue careers in innovation and sustainability.

    In his closing remarks, Li Junqi, Vice President of POWERCHINA MENA Regional Headquarters, drew on Chinese proverbs to commend the students’ curiosity and urged them to become ambassadors of friendship and green development between China and the UAE.

    The visit concluded with a guided tour of the PV Sandbox area, where participants learned about the plant’s design, construction, and intelligent operation system. Many students expressed that the experience deepened their interest in science and clean technology.

    Launched in 2019 through a joint initiative by Chinese President Xi Jinping and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the “Hundred Schools Project” aims to introduce Chinese language education in approximately 100 Emirati public schools. Hamdan Bin Zayed School is a pioneer in this endeavor, offering Chinese courses and serving as a model for educational cooperation.

    This event marks a significant milestone in POWERCHINA’s Cross-Cultural Integration Program in the UAE, blending educational engagement with practical exposure to clean energy development. Moving forward, POWERCHINA will continue to foster mutual learning and cooperation in education, technology, and culture, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future under the Belt and Road Initiative.

  • ‘Incredible week’: Rybakina outguns Sabalenka to win WTA Finals

    ‘Incredible week’: Rybakina outguns Sabalenka to win WTA Finals

    In a stunning display of skill and determination, Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan emerged victorious at the WTA Finals in Riyadh, defeating world number one Aryna Sabalenka in a gripping final. The match, which ended 6-3, 7-6 (7/0), marked Rybakina’s most significant triumph since her Wimbledon victory in 2022. This win also etched her name in history as the first player from Kazakhstan and the first representing an Asian country to lift the WTA Finals singles trophy. Rybakina’s performance was a masterclass in serving and returning, showcasing her resilience despite battling a shoulder injury throughout the tournament. Her victory earned her a record $5.235 million and propelled her to a year-end ranking of number five. The match was a testament to the intense rivalry between Rybakina and Sabalenka, who have faced off 14 times since 2019. Despite Sabalenka’s formidable tiebreak record this season, Rybakina dominated the decisive moments, finishing the match with 36 winners and just 22 unforced errors. Sabalenka, though defeated, set a new WTA Tour record for the most prize money earned in a single season, surpassing Serena Williams’ 2013 earnings. The Belarusian graciously acknowledged Rybakina’s superior performance during the trophy ceremony, expressing pride in her team’s efforts throughout the year. Rybakina’s win not only cements her status as one of the top players in women’s tennis but also highlights her ability to rise to the occasion on the sport’s biggest stages.