作者: admin

  • US stocks slide as Wall Street’s AI jitters persist

    US stocks slide as Wall Street’s AI jitters persist

    The US stock market experienced a significant downturn on Thursday, with major indexes reversing gains from an early morning rally. Despite positive business news, including strong sales from AI leader Nvidia and retail giant Walmart, better-than-expected hiring data, and a rise in home sales, investor anxiety remained high. The S&P 500 fell by 1.6%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 0.8%, and the Nasdaq closed down over 2%. Nvidia, which had initially surged, saw its shares decline by more than 3%. James Stanley, a senior analyst at StoneX, noted the unusual market reaction, stating, ‘The reaction is noteworthy because what should have happened, didn’t happen.’ Bitcoin also fell below $90,000, its lowest since April, partly due to concerns over AI valuations. Despite Nvidia’s robust earnings and CEO Jensen Huang’s dismissal of overvaluation fears, Wall Street remains wary of an AI bubble. Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai recently warned of ‘irrationality’ in the AI boom, while Oxford Economics analysts described the tech sector’s decline as a ‘healthy correction.’ Investors are also uneasy about the Federal Reserve’s interest rate decisions, awaiting delayed inflation data that could influence future rate cuts. The S&P 500 is on track for its worst month since March, with investors grappling with economic uncertainty and potential inflation risks. Eric Teal, CIO at Comerica Bank, highlighted the mixed September jobs report, which added 119,000 jobs but saw unemployment rise to 4.4%, leaving questions about the Fed’s next moves. Teal emphasized that continued AI adoption and lower interest rates are crucial for sustaining market growth, but growing fears of an AI bubble and inflation could increase market volatility.

  • Almost half of UK would consider ending a friendship over Israel-Palestine, poll finds

    Almost half of UK would consider ending a friendship over Israel-Palestine, poll finds

    A recent survey conducted by More In Common UK has uncovered a startling trend: nearly half of the UK population would consider ending a friendship over differing views on the Israel-Palestine conflict. The poll, which involved 2,000 participants, revealed that 43% of pro-Palestine respondents and 46% of pro-Israel respondents would sever ties with friends who held opposing stances. Additionally, 75% of respondents expressed discomfort discussing the issue on social media, while approximately 30% felt uneasy discussing it with friends. The ongoing war in Gaza has exacerbated tensions across the UK, sparking widespread pro-Palestine demonstrations and counter-calls from Israel supporters for bans on such protests. The government’s proscription of the pro-Palestine group Palestine Action, following their vandalism of British planes at RAF Brize Norton in June, has led to the arrest of at least 2,094 individuals opposing the ban. Luke Tryl, director of More In Common UK, highlighted the ‘divisive’ impact of the conflict, noting that individuals with strong views often retreat to their own information sources online, making it difficult to have conversations based on shared facts. He also pointed out the tendency to attribute bad faith to those on the opposing side, such as assuming pro-Israel supporters are anti-Muslim or pro-Palestine supporters are antisemitic. Middle East Eye continues to provide independent coverage and analysis of the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond, offering insights into the complexities of this contentious issue.

  • Dubai: Emirates Islamic Bank to close 5 branches amid rationalising network

    Dubai: Emirates Islamic Bank to close 5 branches amid rationalising network

    Emirates Islamic Bank, a subsidiary of Emirates NBD, has announced the closure of five branches as part of its strategy to optimize its network in response to the growing trend of online banking in the UAE. Mohammed Kamran Wajid, Deputy CEO of Emirates Islamic, emphasized that the move is driven by technological advancements but assured that the bank remains committed to maintaining a physical presence. He stated, ‘We are rationalizing our branches as technology takes over, but we are not eliminating physical locations. We may reinvest the savings into further technological development to enhance customer service.’ The bank, which previously operated 45 branches, plans to complete the closures by the end of the year. Wajid also confirmed that the closures would not result in job losses, highlighting the bank’s focus on talent retention. Emirates Islamic employs over 30,000 people and is the largest financial services employer in the region. The bank reported a record Dh3.2 billion profit before tax for the first nine months of 2025, with total income rising 9% year-on-year to Dh4.5 billion. The UAE’s Islamic banking market, valued at $221 billion in 2024, is projected to grow to $352 billion by 2029, driven by the country’s role as a global financial hub. Wajid noted that the closures involve legacy branches located near Emirates NBD branches, allowing for better resource allocation and customer acquisition. The bank, which boasts a capital adequacy ratio of 18.8%, remains highly liquid and plans to focus on digitization and AI integration to strengthen its competitive edge in the corporate banking sector.

  • Trump expands tariff relief on coffee, fruit and beef from Brazil

    Trump expands tariff relief on coffee, fruit and beef from Brazil

    In a strategic move to alleviate consumer expenses for Americans, President Donald Trump has announced a further reduction in tariffs on Brazilian imports, including key products such as coffee, fruit, and beef. The decision, unveiled on Thursday, aligns with Trump’s broader initiative to roll back certain global tariffs initially imposed in April. Notably, this adjustment ensures that neither the April tariffs nor the punitive levies enacted in July—targeted at Brazil for its prosecution of Trump’s political ally, former President Jair Bolsonaro—will apply to these specific goods. The White House confirmed the move as part of ongoing trade negotiations between Trump and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, signaling potential for further tariff reductions in the future. This development marks a significant step in harmonizing U.S.-Brazil trade relations while addressing domestic economic concerns.

  • Watch: Chadwick Boseman posthumously honoured with Hollywood star

    Watch: Chadwick Boseman posthumously honoured with Hollywood star

    In a poignant ceremony, the late Chadwick Boseman, renowned for his iconic portrayal of Marvel’s Black Panther, was posthumously awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Boseman, who tragically succumbed to cancer in 2020 after a private struggle, was celebrated for his profound impact on the film industry and his enduring legacy as a cultural icon. The event, attended by family, friends, and colleagues, highlighted his contributions to cinema and his role in breaking barriers for Black representation in Hollywood. Speakers at the ceremony praised Boseman’s dedication, humility, and the inspiration he continues to provide to audiences worldwide. His star, now a permanent fixture on Hollywood Boulevard, serves as a testament to his remarkable career and the indelible mark he left on the entertainment world.

  • Saudi bus fire, Air India crash: 7 sole survivors of recent tragic incidents

    Saudi bus fire, Air India crash: 7 sole survivors of recent tragic incidents

    In the face of devastating accidents, stories of sole survivors emerge as powerful testaments to human resilience and the unpredictability of fate. Here, we revisit some of the most harrowing incidents from recent years where only one individual defied the odds to survive.

  • India debunks false claims of Tejas Mk1 ‘oil leak’ at Dubai Airshow 2025

    India debunks false claims of Tejas Mk1 ‘oil leak’ at Dubai Airshow 2025

    The Indian government has firmly dismissed social media allegations that the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1 experienced an oil leak during its display at the Dubai Airshow 2025. The Press Information Bureau’s (PIB) Fact Check unit labeled these claims as ‘false’ and ‘propaganda-driven,’ emphasizing that the viral videos circulating online depict a routine procedure rather than a technical malfunction. The footage in question shows the standard draining of condensed water from the aircraft’s Environmental Control System (ECS) and On-Board Oxygen Generating System (OBOGS), a common practice in humid environments like Dubai. The PIB reiterated that the Tejas Mk1 has a proven performance record and has successfully participated in numerous international airshows. The Indian Air Force contingent arrived at Al Maktoum Airbase for the Dubai Airshow, which ran from November 17 to 21, showcasing the aircraft’s capabilities. Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari, Vice Chief of Air Staff, expressed optimism about foreign interest in the Tejas, highlighting the growing defense cooperation between India and the UAE. The Indian Air Force also performed high-maneuver displays with the Tejas, drawing significant attention from the audience. The PIB urged the public to verify facts before sharing unverified claims, reinforcing the aircraft’s reliability and technical integrity.

  • Egyptian explorer Omar Samra on how mountaineering helped him rediscover himself

    Egyptian explorer Omar Samra on how mountaineering helped him rediscover himself

    Egyptian explorer Omar Samra’s journey is one of resilience, self-discovery, and transformation. Known as the first Egyptian to summit Mount Everest and complete the Explorer’s Grand Slam, Samra’s life has been marked by both extraordinary achievements and profound personal loss. His story is a testament to how adventure and mountaineering became tools for healing and rediscovery.

  • UAE: Visitors now get free 10GB SIM at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport

    UAE: Visitors now get free 10GB SIM at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport

    In a move to enhance the travel experience for international visitors, Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport has partnered with telecom giant e& to provide free 10GB SIM cards to arriving passengers. This initiative, announced on November 20, 2025, offers travellers instant connectivity with 10GB of data valid for 24 hours, enabling seamless access to essential online services such as maps, ride-hailing apps, payment platforms, messaging services, and destination guides like the Abu Dhabi Pass. The collaboration aims to simplify the arrival process and ensure visitors feel welcomed and connected from the moment they land. Zayed International Airport, one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation hubs, serves over 100 destinations through a network of more than 30 airlines. As of September 30, 2025, the airport’s new terminal has welcomed 23.9 million passengers, marking its 18th consecutive quarter of double-digit growth. Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, emphasized the organization’s commitment to shaping the future of airport experiences. Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, CEO of e& UAE, highlighted the partnership’s focus on delivering a fast, digital-first experience that makes visitors feel at home in Abu Dhabi.

  • Trump calls Democrats message to troops ‘seditious behavior, punishable by death’

    Trump calls Democrats message to troops ‘seditious behavior, punishable by death’

    Former President Donald Trump has sparked controversy by accusing six Democratic lawmakers of ‘seditious behavior, punishable by death.’ The accusation came after the lawmakers released a video urging U.S. service members to refuse unlawful commands. Trump took to social media to express his outrage, labeling the lawmakers as ‘traitors’ and calling for their arrest and trial. The six lawmakers, all of whom have military or intelligence backgrounds, responded by stating that Trump’s remarks were dangerous and amounted to threats against elected officials. They emphasized their commitment to upholding the Constitution, regardless of threats or intimidation. The video, shared by Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin, features Arizona Senator Mark Kelly and Representatives Chris DeLuzio, Maggie Goodlander, Chrissy Houlahan, and Jason Crow. In the video, the lawmakers stress that military personnel have the right to refuse illegal orders and warn that the current administration is pitting the military and intelligence community against American citizens. Trump’s response, posted on TruthSocial, included calls for severe punishment and even referenced historical figures like George Washington in his rhetoric. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt defended Trump’s comments, accusing the lawmakers of encouraging defiance of lawful orders. The incident has heightened concerns about politically motivated violence in the U.S., with recent polls indicating that a majority of Americans believe such violence is on the rise. The U.S. House of Representatives is working with Capitol Police to ensure the safety of the lawmakers and their families. This exchange occurs amidst a backdrop of increasing political tensions and high-profile incidents of violence, including the assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk and the arson attack on Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s home. Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene has also reported an increase in threats since opposing Trump on certain policies. The situation underscores the growing polarization and the potential for further escalation in political discourse.