The United States is bracing for significant disruptions in air travel as the federal government shutdown continues to impact critical services. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy issued a stark warning on Sunday, predicting that air travel could ‘slow to a trickle’ in the coming weeks, particularly as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches. Speaking to Fox News, Duffy emphasized the potential for widespread chaos, with thousands of flights already canceled or delayed. He highlighted the critical role of air traffic controllers, many of whom are expected to stay home due to the shutdown, leading to severe operational challenges. ‘We’re going to see very few air traffic controllers coming to work, which means only a limited number of flights will be able to take off and land,’ Duffy explained. This situation is likely to result in massive disruptions and leave countless Americans frustrated during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. The shutdown has already caused significant strain on various sectors, and the aviation industry is now feeling the brunt of its impact. As families prepare to reunite for Thanksgiving, the prospect of travel chaos looms large, raising concerns about the broader economic and social consequences of the ongoing government impasse.
分类： business
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Dubai powers ahead as global startup hub: Over 580 digital firms backed in 2025
Dubai is solidifying its position as a leading global hub for digital innovation, with the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy supporting the establishment and expansion of 582 digital startups in the first nine months of 2025. This remarkable growth underscores the emirate’s rising influence in technology entrepreneurship and its strategic efforts to attract the next generation of global digital pioneers. Notably, 70% of these startups are international companies, reflecting Dubai’s growing appeal as a gateway to Middle Eastern, African, and Asian markets. Artificial intelligence (AI) leads the charge, accounting for 21% of supported firms, while HealthTech, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), and FinTech collectively represent another 17%. This momentum aligns with Dubai’s D33 Economic Agenda, which aims to double the emirate’s economy by 2033 and position it among the world’s top three cities for business and innovation. Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, emphasized Dubai’s commitment to fostering a dynamic business environment that enables digital companies to scale globally. Nearly half of the supported firms benefited from establishment assistance, accelerator programs, and incubator services, while 32% utilized the chamber’s “Business in Dubai” platform, a one-stop service model connecting startups with investors and regulatory support. Beyond direct assistance, the chamber has invested in knowledge creation and global outreach, releasing four research reports and organizing 15 sector-specific events and 16 international roadshows across 17 cities in 10 countries. These efforts have positioned Dubai as a “launchpad city” for global startups, bridging East and West with its policy support, funding access, and fast-moving regulatory environment. The UAE’s progressive visa reforms and digital infrastructure have further attracted record levels of talent, with digital startups now contributing over 11% of the UAE’s non-oil GDP. As 2025 progresses, Dubai’s innovation engine shows no signs of slowing, redefining what it means to build, scale, and succeed on a global stage.
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Adnoc sets sights on global trading dominance with expansion drive
Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc) is embarking on a transformative journey to solidify its position as a global leader in energy trading. The company’s trading division is set to increase its handling of oil and refined products by nearly two-thirds in the coming years, marking a pivotal phase in its growth trajectory. This ambitious expansion is part of a broader strategy to enhance the UAE’s role in global energy markets and maximize value creation across the energy supply chain. Since its inception in 2018, Adnoc Global Trading has rapidly expanded its footprint, establishing offices in Singapore and Geneva, with plans to open a new hub in Houston by 2027. This global presence enables Adnoc to capture greater value from its production and respond effectively to shifting market dynamics. Adnoc’s trading operations are divided into two complementary arms: Adnoc Trading, focused on crude oil, and Adnoc Global Trading (AGT), a joint venture with Eni and OMV, specializing in refined products like diesel, jet fuel, and gasoline. This dual structure allows the company to operate across the entire value chain, from upstream production to downstream sales, enhancing profitability and flexibility. Market analysts highlight the strategic timing of this expansion, as global energy markets undergo significant transformation due to volatile prices, evolving trade flows, and the energy transition. By scaling its trading operations, Adnoc aims to hedge against price fluctuations and capture downstream value traditionally earned by intermediaries. The planned 60–70% increase in trading volumes will position Adnoc among the elite national oil company traders, such as Saudi Aramco Trading, Equinor, and Shell. The addition of a Houston office is particularly strategic, given the US Gulf Coast’s prominence as a global energy trading and refining hub. This move will provide Adnoc with access to critical market intelligence and trading opportunities in North and Latin America. Adnoc’s expansion aligns with its broader efforts to diversify its energy portfolio, invest in low-carbon solutions, and strengthen partnerships with global energy majors. The company is also transforming its Ruwais Industrial Complex into a world-class refining and chemicals hub, while listing subsidiaries on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange to attract foreign investment. Industry experts view Adnoc’s trading expansion as a logical step in its evolution, enabling the UAE to reinforce its status as a global energy hub. As Adnoc scales its operations and embeds itself in key global markets, it is redefining the role of a 21st-century oil producer — agile, globally connected, and commercially driven.
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Romain Gerardin-Fresse receives the “Top 50 UAE Personality” distinction
The Khatoon Entrepreneurs Summit & Awards 2025, held in the UAE, celebrated visionary leaders who are reshaping innovation and leadership across the Emirates. Among the notable honorees was Romain Gerardin-Fresse, an internationally acclaimed lawyer and strategic advisor, who was awarded the prestigious ‘Top 50 UAE Personality’ distinction. He also received the Lawyer of Influence & Corporate Legal Visionary Award, presented by Sheikha Aisha Humaid Al Mulla. The event, themed ‘Innovation, Leadership, and Legacy,’ highlighted the UAE’s commitment to fostering excellence and entrepreneurship. Attendees included prominent figures such as Sheikh Zayed Bin Jamal Al Qassimi, Sheikha Aysha Bint Saud Al Qasimi, and Aarefa Al Fahali, among other royal dignitaries and business leaders. Gerardin-Fresse’s recognition underscores his unique blend of legal expertise and strategic entrepreneurship, which has significantly contributed to global partnerships and cross-border corporate transformations. His work exemplifies the values of integrity, foresight, and excellence that drive the UAE’s entrepreneurial spirit. The award not only honors his professional achievements but also acknowledges his holistic approach to leadership, where legal acumen serves as a catalyst for innovation and sustainable growth.
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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.
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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%.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.