India’s start-up ecosystem is witnessing an unprecedented surge in initial public offerings (IPOs), marking a significant shift from rapid growth to strategic sustainability. This week, eyewear solutions firm Lenskart, valued at $821 million, saw its IPO sold out within hours, despite its shaky market debut. This follows the successful listing of Groww, the country’s largest retail brokerage backed by Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, which garnered 17 times more demand than available shares. Fintech unicorn Pine Labs is also set to list later this week.
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Security becomes top issue for Chileans ahead of presidential elections
Chileans are set to cast their votes in a highly polarized presidential election this Sunday, with security emerging as the dominant issue. The race has narrowed down to two front-runners: Communist candidate Jeannette Jara and far-right contender José Antonio Kast. Both candidates have centered their campaigns on addressing Chile’s escalating security challenges, proposing measures such as bolstering police forces, expanding prison capacity, and modernizing security infrastructure.
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UAE: 91-year-old Kerala expat becomes oldest author at Sharjah book fair
At 91, Al Haj N. Jamaluddin, a UAE-based Indian educationist and poet, is set to become the oldest author to host a book signing session at the Sharjah International Book Fair. On November 15, Jamaluddin will meet readers at the Sharjah Expo Centre, where he will sign copies of ‘Zamzam,’ the Arabic translation of his Malayalam poetry collection. The book, first launched at the fair in 2023, has now reached Arabic-speaking audiences, fulfilling Jamaluddin’s long-held dream of transcending linguistic barriers. Joining him will be Karima El Azizi, Secretary to the CEO’s Office at the Sharjah Book Authority, who will also be signing her latest work.
Jamaluddin describes ‘Zamzam’ as a cultural bridge between his two homes: Kerala, where he was born, and the UAE, where he has lived since 1965. The poetry collection delves into his life experiences, Kerala’s rich cultural heritage, and Islamic history, including the early arrival of Islam in southern India. ‘The UAE and my homeland, Kerala, share a bond that goes back centuries,’ he said. ‘Being able to share our stories in Arabic means a lot to me.’
Before his literary pursuits, Jamaluddin dedicated decades to education. He is the founder and chairman of Crescent English High School in Dubai, established in 1984 to provide affordable quality education to low- and middle-income families. Even at 91, he continues to visit the school daily, finding inspiration in the children. ‘When I’m with the children, I forget everything,’ he once told Khaleej Times. ‘They make me feel alive. As long as I can, I’ll keep going.’
Born in Kollakadavu, Kerala, Jamaluddin’s life parallels the UAE’s transformation. Arriving in Dubai in the mid-1960s, he worked with the Bank of Oman (now Mashreq Bank) until 1983 and played a pivotal role in establishing the Indian Relief Committee, which later facilitated consular services for Indian expats and direct flights between Kerala and Dubai. Despite lucrative job offers, he chose to focus on education and literature, believing that ‘books and schools are what endure.’
Jamaluddin’s curiosity remains undiminished. He writes regularly, reads daily, and stays connected with former students worldwide. When asked about his motivation, he said, ‘As long as I can learn, I’ll keep writing. Age is not an obstacle, but a reminder that time is precious.’
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Sharjah Book Fair takes ‘blind date’ route to lure buyers
The Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) has introduced an innovative approach to engage readers with its ‘Blind Date with a Book’ initiative. At the Little Puffin Publishing House stand, visitors are enticed by a stack of brown paper-wrapped books tied with twine, challenging them to purchase a book without knowing its title or cover. This concept encourages readers to break free from the habit of judging books by their covers and instead embrace the unknown. Hanes Medanceli, the booth sales manager, emphasized that the initiative aims to help indecisive customers choose books spontaneously, free from the influence of social media trends. The books, which are standalone and span various genres like romance, mystery, thriller, crime, and fantasy, are available in two formats: soft paperback for Dh35 and hardbacks for Dh45. Medanceli reported that the concept has been a hit, with 50% of the batch sold by Monday, and similar success at the Riyadh International Book Fair, where the entire stack was sold out within three days. The ‘Blind Date with a Book’ idea, while not new, has been well-received by visitors who appreciate the opportunity to discover hidden literary gems. The books are carefully curated by the staff, considering both old and new releases suitable for a wide range of readers. The initiative has garnered positive feedback, with many praising the quality of the stories inside, despite the unassuming covers.
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McIlroy, Penge share spotlight in final group as DP World Tour Championship tees off
The highly anticipated DP World Tour Championship, boasting a $10 million prize purse, commenced on Thursday, November 13, at the prestigious Earth Course in Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai. The tournament features a star-studded field of 52 players, including the top 50 available competitors from the season-long Race to Dubai, alongside Ryder Cup exemptions Shane Lowry (IRE) and Ludvig Aberg (SWE).
The spotlight was firmly on the final group, teeing off at 12:40 pm, where Race to Dubai leader Rory McIlroy (NI) and second-ranked Marco Penge (ENG) faced off in a thrilling duel to set the tone for the season finale. Earlier in the day, the opening pairing at 8:15 am saw Lowry and Aberg take to the course, though neither is eligible for Race to Dubai points.
Other notable pairings included Dubai-based Ewen Ferguson (SCO) paired with Johannes Veerman (USA) at 8:55 am, and the much-anticipated matchup between Tommy Fleetwood (ENG) and Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship winner Aaron Rai (ENG) at 12:00 pm. This duo had previously played together in the final group at Yas Links Abu Dhabi, adding an extra layer of intrigue to their pairing.
With dual PGA Tour cards on the line for the top 10 players in the Race to Dubai who do not already hold them, the stakes are higher than ever. The second-round draw, based on Thursday’s scores, will see leaders tee off last on Friday, with the schedule published on Thursday evening. For full round 1 tee times, visit www.europeantour.com.
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Heroes of Hope bring colour and creativity to Earth Lounge at DP World Tour Championship
The DP World Tour Championship at Jumeirah Golf Estates witnessed a heartwarming fusion of art and sport as young athletes from Heroes of Hope, a UAE-based non-profit sports academy for people of determination, collaborated with local abstract artist Rabab Tantawy to complete a stunning mural at the Earth Lounge. The vibrant artwork, located beside the 16th green, added a fresh and creative touch to the championship venue as it prepared to crown its 2025 champion from November 13–16. The mural, blending traditional oil paint with contemporary spray art techniques, symbolized the inclusive spirit of the event. The young participants, including Noah Evans, Thomas O’Brien, and Marwan Al Khaja, have been part of a golf coaching programme at the Tommy Fleetwood Academy, a partnership between the DP World Tour and Heroes of Hope. This initiative aims to provide people of determination with opportunities to engage with golf both on and off the course. The programme culminated with a final lesson from one of the tournament’s leading players, offering the young athletes a memorable experience of the championship atmosphere. Noah, a Year 7 student at Dubai Heights Academy, shared his passion for golf, which he has been playing for three years alongside his father. His father, Tom, highlighted how the sport has boosted Noah’s confidence, hand-eye coordination, and overall well-being. The family expressed gratitude to Heroes of Hope, DP World, the Tommy Fleetwood Academy, and the DP World Tour for their unwavering support, enabling Noah and his peers to participate in such enriching activities.
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Young UAE athletes secure 11 gold medals at Gymnastics Cup
The Gymnastika Solo Cup, a globally renowned gymnastics tournament, concluded with remarkable success for young athletes from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Held at the Al Nasr Sports Complex from October 22 to 27, 2025, the event attracted over 790 international participants, including Olympic medalists and world champions such as Liubou Charkashyna, Eva Brezalieva, and Carol Michelotti. This marked the first major championship hosted in the UAE since the establishment of the UAE Gymnastics Federation. The tournament witnessed 40 podium finishes, with UAE gymnasts securing an impressive 11 gold medals. Notably, the youngest local winner was just four years old, highlighting the nation’s burgeoning talent in gymnastics. The event received strong support from the Dubai Sports Council and the Sports for All Federation, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to advancing youth and women’s sports. Anastasiya Zakreuskaya, Founder & CEO of Gymnastika UAE, emphasized the rapid growth of rhythmic gymnastics in Dubai, from one club to approximately 60 in just five years. She highlighted the tournament’s role in building confidence and fostering international friendships among young athletes. Hessa Al Kous, Head of Women in Sports at the Dubai Sports Council, expressed pride in the establishment of the UAE Gymnastics Federation, aligning with the nation’s vision to empower youth and provide world-class hospitality. The event underscored the UAE’s dedication to fostering inclusive and community-focused sporting excellence.
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Tommy Fleetwood Academy expands to Abu Dhabi, elevating golf development in the UAE
In a significant stride for golf development in the UAE, the Tommy Fleetwood Academy (TFA) has officially opened its doors at Yas Links Abu Dhabi. This expansion marks a new chapter for the sport in the region, coinciding with the DP World Tour’s Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship. The academy’s launch follows a comprehensive upgrade of Yas Links’ training facilities, now operating fully under the TFA brand. This move strengthens the partnership between Viya Golf and Tommy Fleetwood, one of golf’s most respected figures, and cements Yas Links’ reputation as a hub for golf excellence in the Middle East.
Tommy Fleetwood, the academy’s founder, expressed his deep connection to the UAE, describing it as a ‘second home’ for him and his family. He emphasized the academy’s mission to give back to the region that has supported his career. ‘We’ve built something truly special in Dubai, and expanding to Abu Dhabi is a privilege. I’m proud of the community we’ve created and the opportunity to inspire more golfers,’ Fleetwood said.
The new facility boasts cutting-edge technology, including two swing studios with advanced simulators, an indoor putting studio, and world-class training systems like PLATFORM Golf, Trackman, Swing Catalyst, and Sam PuttLab. These resources, combined with TFA’s proven player-development philosophy, aim to elevate golf performance at all levels.
Karl Whitehead, Cluster Manager at Viya Golf, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, ‘Abu Dhabi continues to lead in growing the game, and TFA’s expertise and technology will further enhance this vision.’ Chris May, CEO of Viya Golf, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the academy’s alignment with Viya’s commitment to excellence and player development.
The launch aligns with rising golf participation in Abu Dhabi, supported by expanded junior and ladies’ programs and the club’s largest-ever team of PGA professionals. As the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship puts Yas Links on the global stage, the new academy underscores Viya’s mission to make golf more accessible, inclusive, and performance-driven across the Middle East.
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China needs its youth to spend but they are embracing frugality
China’s economic landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, marked by a growing trend of frugality among its younger generation. Despite the government’s efforts to stimulate domestic consumption, recent graduates and young professionals are increasingly cautious about spending. Youth unemployment remains stubbornly high at nearly 20%, and the ongoing property crisis has made homeownership seem like a distant dream for many, particularly in urban centers. This climate of uncertainty has led to a surge in minimalist lifestyles, with social media influencers like Zhang Small Grain of Rice promoting cost-saving strategies, from using basic soap for all cleaning needs to showcasing budget-friendly clothing and accessories. Others, such as Little Grass Floating In Beijing, focus on budget eating, preparing meals for as little as $1. These trends reflect a broader shift in consumer behavior, as young people prioritize saving over spending, driven by fears of job insecurity and economic instability. Economists warn that this reluctance to spend could have long-term implications for China’s economy, which has traditionally relied on investment and exports. The transition from a manufacturing-based economy to a high-tech one has further exacerbated the issue, as many new industries require fewer workers. Despite government incentives to boost consumption, such as subsidies for replacing old cars and appliances, these measures have had limited success. The cultural inclination towards frugality, deeply rooted in Chinese tradition, continues to shape consumer behavior, posing a significant challenge to policymakers aiming to rebalance the economy.
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How the Japan PM’s Taiwan remarks provoked the fury of China
Recent developments in East Asia have reignited tensions between Japan and China, centering on the contentious issue of Taiwan. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s remarks suggesting that Japan could deploy its self-defence forces in response to a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan have sparked a diplomatic row. This statement, made during a parliamentary session, has drawn sharp criticism from Beijing, with China’s foreign ministry labeling it as ‘egregious’ interference in its internal affairs. The situation escalated further when Xue Jian, China’s consul general in Osaka, made a provocative comment on social media, which was later removed but not before causing significant diplomatic friction. Both nations have lodged formal protests against each other, highlighting the deep-seated historical animosities and strategic ambiguities that continue to shape their relations. Takaichi, known for her hawkish stance on China and strong support for Taiwan, has defended her comments as consistent with Japan’s traditional position, though she has pledged to be more cautious in her future statements. This incident underscores the delicate balance of power in the region, with Japan’s alignment with the US and its increased defence spending raising alarms in Beijing. The longstanding policy of ‘strategic ambiguity’ maintained by both the US and Japan regarding Taiwan’s defence has been a cornerstone of regional stability, but Takaichi’s recent remarks suggest a potential shift in this approach. As both nations navigate this latest flare-up, the implications for regional security and diplomatic relations remain uncertain.