Global Pulse

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  • Study finds Earth’s deep water reservoirs

    Study finds Earth’s deep water reservoirs

    A groundbreaking scientific study has revealed the existence of massive primordial water reservoirs located thousands of kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface, fundamentally reshaping our understanding of the planet’s evolutionary journey. Published in the prestigious journal Science, this research provides unprecedented insights into how water became permanently embedded within the Earth’s geological structure during its formative years.

    The international research team, led by Professor Du Zhixue from the Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, conducted sophisticated simulations replicating the extreme conditions found 660 kilometers underground. Their experiments demonstrated that bridgmanite—the Earth’s most abundant mantle mineral—possesses remarkable water-retention capabilities even at temperatures reaching 4,100°C, far exceeding previous estimates.

    This discovery challenges conventional scientific wisdom regarding water distribution deep within our planet. The research indicates that early-retained water played a crucial role in transforming Earth from a molten inferno into the habitable world we know today. During the planet’s fiery youth 4.6 billion years ago, when frequent celestial impacts maintained surface temperatures too extreme for liquid water, substantial amounts of water became captured deep within the mantle as molten rock cooled and crystallized.

    The team employed innovative methodologies including laser-generated heat simulations, high-temperature imaging, and atom probe tomography—techniques comparable to providing the microscopic world with ultra high-resolution chemical CT scans. These advanced approaches enabled researchers to visualize water distribution within tiny mineral samples and confirm that water molecules were indeed carried within bridgmanite’s crystalline structure.

    According to the findings, the amount of water retained in the early solid mantle may have reached volumes equivalent to 0.08 to 1 times that of all modern oceans combined. This deeply sequestered water acts not as a static reservoir but as a geological lubricant, reducing the melting point and viscosity of molten rock to promote the slow circulation that drives tectonic plate movement and sustains the planet’s evolutionary vitality.

    Over immense geological timescales, this deeply embedded water gradually migrated back to the surface through magma movement, contributing to the formation of primordial atmosphere and oceans. The research received support from multiple Chinese scientific institutions including the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the National Natural Science Foundation of China, and the Ministry of Science and Technology.

  • UAE banks power ahead in Q3, outpacing regional peers

    UAE banks power ahead in Q3, outpacing regional peers

    The United Arab Emirates banking industry has demonstrated exceptional financial performance during the third quarter of 2025, significantly outpacing regional competitors through a combination of strategic initiatives and favorable economic conditions. According to the latest UAE Banking Pulse report from global consulting firm Alvarez & Marsal, the sector’s remarkable growth trajectory has been fueled by expanding loan portfolios, resilient profit margins, and substantial digital transformation investments.

    Macroeconomic foundations have strengthened considerably, with the International Monetary Fund revising upward the UAE’s real GDP growth forecast to 4.8% for fiscal year 2025. This optimistic economic backdrop has facilitated substantial banking sector expansion, evidenced by a 6.5% quarter-on-quarter increase in aggregate net loans and advances alongside a 4.3% growth in deposits. The loan-to-deposit ratio climbed to 77.8%, indicating vigorous credit demand relative to funding growth.

    Despite two interest rate reductions implemented by the US Federal Reserve and the Central Bank of the UAE, financial institutions successfully maintained margin stability through disciplined asset repricing strategies. Net interest margin improved marginally to 2.45% from 2.43% in the previous quarter, while net interest income surged 5% quarter-on-quarter to AED 26.5 billion. Fee and commission income accelerated by 7.3%, highlighting effective revenue diversification across the sector.

    Operational income reached AED 41.9 billion, representing a 3% quarterly increase, though moderating from the 5% growth recorded in Q2. Net income demonstrated robust health with a 4.3% quarterly improvement to AED 23.6 billion, supported by reduced impairment charges and tax expenses. Emirates NBD emerged as a particularly strong performer, delivering 7% growth in net interest income and 6.9% expansion in fee income.

    Performance metrics showed notable improvement with return on equity climbing 25 basis points to 19.6% while return on assets remained stable at 2.1%. Capital adequacy ratios strengthened to 16.6%, providing enhanced buffers against potential market volatility.

    Credit expansion displayed broad-based strength across segments. Corporate and wholesale lending, representing 57.5% of total portfolios, expanded 7.5% quarter-on-quarter. Retail loans grew 4.4%, while government lending rebounded dramatically with 8.1% growth. Emirates NBD led sector lending with a 10.7% increase in net loans, driven by exceptional corporate banking performance.

    Funding dynamics shifted toward time deposits, which surged 9.6% quarter-on-quarter as depositors sought to lock in higher rates, even as current and savings account balances experienced slight contraction. RAKBANK achieved the highest deposit growth at 7.4%, with Dubai Islamic Bank contributing significantly through a 6.4% increase.

    Asset quality metrics showed substantial improvement as the non-performing loan ratio declined to 2.6% from 2.9% in Q2. Coverage improved to 115.2% while the cost of risk eased to 0.45%, supported by a 6.9% reduction in impairment charges. Stage 3 loans decreased 5.9% quarter-on-quarter, reflecting disciplined credit underwriting and enhanced risk management practices.

    Strategic digital initiatives accelerated across the sector. Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank announced over 150 artificial intelligence use cases targeting AED 4 billion in value creation. Dubai Islamic Bank established a partnership with HCLTech to develop Shariah-compliant technological innovations. Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank launched industry-first real-time cross-border transfers to 11 billion global endpoints, while Emirates NBD expanded its near real-time payment network to 40 countries and acquired a 60% stake in India’s RBL Bank for $3 billion.

    Regulatory developments included new financial legislation extending oversight to fintech and digital assets, reinforcing governance and compliance standards across the banking ecosystem.

    Investor sentiment reflected operational strength as UAE banking stocks gained approximately 30% over the past year, positioning the sector among global top performers. Attractive valuations persisted with banks trading at an average price-to-earnings ratio of 8.5x and price-to-book of 1.67x, supported by high-teens returns and robust capital positions.

    The outlook for 2026 remains broadly positive, with analysts anticipating continued balance sheet expansion driven by strong non-hydrocarbon growth and sustained credit demand. While margin pressure may persist amid potential further rate cuts, banks are positioned to offset compression through fee income growth, digital innovation, and cost efficiencies from AI implementation. Asset quality is expected to remain stable supported by prudent risk management and substantial provisioning. With capital buffers at healthy levels and investor confidence sustained by attractive valuations, the sector is poised to maintain its regional outperformer status, though global liquidity trends and geopolitical risks warrant ongoing monitoring.

  • Ruijie Reyee concludes strategic MEA partner connect 2025 in Dubai

    Ruijie Reyee concludes strategic MEA partner connect 2025 in Dubai

    Dubai served as the strategic hub for Ruijie Networks’ MEA Partner Connect 2025, where the global networking solutions pioneer convened 150 key stakeholders from across the Middle East and Africa region. The December 11 gathering brought together value-added distributors, authorized deployment partners, and tiered channel allies to explore emerging opportunities within the Ruijie Reyee ecosystem.

    Amid accelerating digital transformation initiatives throughout MEA, the event spotlighted escalating demand for reliable and simplified networking infrastructure. Ruijie Reyee demonstrated its enhanced partner ecosystem capabilities, showcasing specialized solutions tailored to diverse market requirements. The company unveiled its newly launched cloud platforms—Cloud Pro for enterprise networks and Cloud ISP for small-to-medium service providers—providing partners with hands-on experience and technical insights.

    Ryan Liu, General Manager for Ruijie’s MEA region, emphasized the brand’s regional penetration: ‘Our presence across 50 MEA countries stands as testament to our partners’ dedication. This forum enabled us to share industry trends, demonstrate our latest cloud, SD-WAN, and intelligent networking solutions, while recognizing our partners’ achievements.’

    The strategic conclave offered exclusive access to Ruijie’s regional leadership and technical experts, reinforcing collaborative pathways to capitalize on the region’s expanding market. Designed to fortify strategic alliances, the event underscored Ruijie Reyee’s leadership in innovative networking solutions while delivering actionable business expansion insights.

    Backed by 23 years of industry expertise and eight R&D innovation centers, Ruijie Networks operates through 20,000+ channel partners across 100+ countries. The Reyee sub-brand focuses exclusively on SMB and SME markets, delivering comprehensive networking solutions including wireless access points, switches, security appliances, and Gartner-recognized AI cloud management platforms.

  • India rejects allegations of territory being used for anti-Bangladesh activities

    India rejects allegations of territory being used for anti-Bangladesh activities

    In a significant diplomatic development, India has formally rejected allegations from Bangladesh’s interim government regarding the use of Indian territory for activities detrimental to Bangladeshi interests. The sharp exchange occurred on Sunday amid heightened tensions between the neighboring nations.

    The Indian Ministry of External Affairs issued a comprehensive statement minutes after Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry summoned the Indian High Commissioner to express concerns about statements made by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Dhaka authorities accused Hasina of orchestrating violence from abroad and sought her extradition along with former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal.

    Reaffirming its consistent position, India emphasized its commitment to Bangladesh’s democratic processes. “We have consistently reiterated our position in favour of free, fair, inclusive and credible elections being held in Bangladesh in a peaceful atmosphere,” the official statement declared.

    The Indian government categorically denied allegations that its territory was being used for activities against Bangladesh’s interests. “India has never allowed its territory to be used for activities inimical to the interests of the friendly people of Bangladesh,” the ministry asserted, adding that it expects Bangladesh’s interim government to maintain law and order essential for peaceful elections.

    Bangladesh’s foreign ministry had drawn attention to what it described as anti-Bangladesh activities by fugitive Awami League members currently residing in India. These allegations include planning, organizing, and facilitating terrorist acts within Bangladesh to disrupt the electoral process. Additionally, Dhaka requested India’s cooperation in preventing the escape of suspects connected to the recent attempted assassination of Bangladeshi political leader Sharif Osman Hadi.

    The Indian High Commissioner responded by emphasizing India’s anticipation of peaceful elections in Bangladesh and expressed readiness to extend all necessary cooperation in this regard. This diplomatic exchange occurs against the backdrop of ongoing political tensions in Bangladesh and the approaching electoral period.

  • Petro urges Colombians to celebrate Christmas season despite ELN rebels’ forced strike

    Petro urges Colombians to celebrate Christmas season despite ELN rebels’ forced strike

    BOGOTA, Colombia — Colombian President Gustavo Petro has issued a resolute call for citizens to celebrate the Christmas season without intimidation, following the National Liberation Army (ELN) rebel group’s declaration of an armed strike across multiple regions. The left-wing insurgents announced restrictive measures effective from Sunday through Wednesday morning, demanding civilian confinement to homes and suspension of commercial and transportation activities.

    The ELN justified their coercive actions as retaliation against what they termed a ‘counterinsurgency plan’ by the government and ‘imperialist aggression’ in reference to U.S. military operations in the region. The rebel directive specifically warned residents in Bogota, Medellin, Cali, Popayan and Barrancabermeja to avoid proximity to police and military installations.

    President Petro characterized the ELN’s pronouncements as direct threats against Colombian sovereignty rather than merely against U.S. interests. He has authorized security forces to engage the rebel group while encouraging public defiance of their intimidation tactics. ‘Fear paralyzes us, and we will not allow ourselves to be threatened either by foreign powers or by drug traffickers dressed up as revolutionaries,’ Petro asserted.

    The escalating tension occurs against the backdrop of increased U.S. military presence in the region, with American forces reporting over 80 casualties in anti-narcotics operations since September. These strikes initially targeted vessels off Venezuela’s Caribbean coast before expanding to the eastern Pacific Ocean. The Petro administration has condemned these operations as disproportionate use of force, with the president characterizing them as ‘murders.’

    This confrontation represents another deterioration in government-rebel relations since Petro suspended peace negotiations with the ELN in January following rebel attacks that killed approximately 80 people in the Catatumbo region.

  • Geminid meteor shower seen across China

    Geminid meteor shower seen across China

    Stargazers across China were treated to one of nature’s most dazzling celestial displays on Sunday, December 14, 2025, as the annual Geminid meteor shower reached its spectacular peak. The astronomical phenomenon, renowned for its brightness and frequency, painted night skies with streaks of light from the northeastern province of Heilongjiang to various observation points nationwide.

    In Yabuli town of Shangzhi city, Heilongjiang province, photographers captured stunning images of the meteor shower against a crisp winter backdrop. The clear atmospheric conditions in many regions provided optimal viewing opportunities for both amateur astronomers and professional observers alike.

    The Geminids, unique among meteor showers for originating from asteroid 3200 Phaethon rather than a comet, typically produce up to 120 meteors per hour during peak activity. This year’s display maintained its reputation as one of the most reliable and visually impressive meteor showers of the annual astronomical calendar.

    Chinese astronomy enthusiasts and night sky photographers had been anticipating the event for weeks, with many traveling to dark-sky locations away from urban light pollution to witness the phenomenon in its full glory. Social media platforms across China filled with user-shared photographs and videos documenting the celestial spectacle.

    The meteor shower’s visibility across much of China demonstrates the country’s growing public interest in astronomical events and the increasing accessibility of stargazing as a popular recreational activity. Local astronomy clubs and educational institutions had organized viewing events to capitalize on the scientific and educational opportunity presented by the natural light show.

  • UAE condemns attack on US-Syria forces near Palmyra

    UAE condemns attack on US-Syria forces near Palmyra

    The United Arab Emirates has issued a formal condemnation of a deadly terrorist assault targeting a combined US and Syrian security patrol in central Syria. The attack occurred in the vicinity of the historic city of Palmyra, resulting in significant casualties among American military personnel and injuries to members of the Syrian security forces.

    In an official statement released by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), the Emirati government articulated its vehement denunciation of the violent incident, characterizing it as an act of terrorism that fundamentally contradicts international peace and security objectives. The Ministry reaffirmed the nation’s unwavering stance against all manifestations of violence and terrorism that seek to destabilize regional security architectures.

    The UAE government extended profound condolences and expressions of solidarity to the families of those killed in the assault, addressing both the United States and the Syrian Arab Republic. The communication further conveyed the nation’s sincere wishes for the prompt and complete recovery of all injured parties affected by what authorities described as a heinous security breach.

    This diplomatic response occurs against the backdrop of ongoing security challenges in the Syrian region, where various international forces maintain operational presence. The UAE’s condemnation aligns with its broader foreign policy objectives of promoting stability and countering extremist violence in the Middle East.

  • Watch: First peek behind the scenes of Dubai’s NYE performances reveals dances, massive props

    Watch: First peek behind the scenes of Dubai’s NYE performances reveals dances, massive props

    Dubai is orchestrating what promises to be its most ambitious New Year’s Eve spectacle to date, with newly released behind-the-scenes footage revealing extraordinary preparations underway. Captured and shared by Emaar founder Mohamed Alabbar via social media platform X on December 14, 2025, the exclusive video provides a fascinating glimpse into the intensive rehearsals transforming Downtown Dubai into a global celebration epicenter.

    The footage showcases an array of breathtaking elements: drummers creating powerful rhythmic foundations, contemporary dancers executing sweeping choreography, and performers maneuvering colossal props including an intricate camel and bird structure. One particularly striking moment features a dancer performing advanced acrobatics, spinning effortlessly while inverted on his head. These rehearsals, conducted in casual attire within brightly lit studios, hint at the grandeur awaiting audiences when enhanced by custom costumes, atmospheric lighting, and the iconic Burj Khalifa backdrop.

    This year’s celebrations mark a significant expansion from previous events, spanning an unprecedented eight-day festival from December 31 through January 7. While premium viewing areas requiring tickets offer front-row access to live performances and the renowned fireworks display, Emaar has confirmed that wider Downtown festivities will remain accessible to all visitors free of charge. The scale of preparations evident in the rehearsal footage suggests Dubai is poised to deliver a multicultural performance spectacle that will capture global attention and reinforce its status as a world-leading destination for landmark celebrations.

  • Eleven killed at Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach

    Eleven killed at Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s Bondi Beach

    A festive Hanukkah celebration at Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach was shattered by violence when two assailants opened fire on attendees, resulting in at least 11 fatalities and multiple injuries. The attack, which Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned as a deliberate act of terrorism and antisemitism, occurred on the first night of the Jewish festival of lights.

    New South Wales police confirmed emergency services transported at least 29 wounded individuals to area hospitals following the shooting. The assailants were confronted at the scene, with one perpetrator killed during the incident and the other sustaining critical injuries. Authorities later discovered improvised explosive devices within a vehicle connected to the deceased attacker near the beachfront location.

    Prime Minister Albanese addressed the nation, emphasizing the symbolic significance of targeting Jewish Australians during what should be a joyous religious observance. “This violent act strikes at the heart of our nation’s values,” Albanese stated. “An attack on Jewish Australians constitutes an attack on all Australians and our multicultural society.”

    The Bondi Beach area, typically crowded with summer tourists and locals during the southern hemisphere’s peak holiday season, was transformed into an active crime scene as police secured the perimeter. Initial emergency responses began at approximately 6:47 PM local time following reports of gunfire at the “Hanukkah by the Sea” community event.

    Authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the motivations behind the attack and potential connections to broader extremist networks. Security has been heightened at Jewish institutions nationwide as the community mourns the tragic loss of life.

  • Australia confirms Bondi Beach shooting a terrorist attack

    Australia confirms Bondi Beach shooting a terrorist attack

    Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has officially designated the deadly shooting at Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach as a terrorist attack. The confirmation came during a Sunday evening press conference where the leader characterized the violence as a calculated act targeting Jewish Australians.

    The assault occurred during the ‘Hanukkah by the Sea’ celebration, a festive gathering marking the first night of the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. Prime Minister Albanese emphasized the particular cruelty of timing, noting that the attack transformed what should have been “a day of joy, a celebration of faith” into a scene of tragedy.

    Authorities are investigating the incident as a deliberate act of antisemitic terrorism that has profoundly impacted the nation. The Prime Minister’s statement described the event as “an act of evil antisemitism, terrorism, that has struck the heart of our nation,” underscoring the targeted nature of the violence against the Jewish community during their religious observance.

    The confirmation follows an earlier report of a mass shooting at the popular beach destination, with investigations ongoing to determine the full scope of casualties and the specific motivations behind the attack. Security agencies have intensified efforts to address community safety concerns following this declaration of a terrorist incident.