SAMANA Developers, a renowned Dubai-based real estate firm, has announced the launch of its latest residential project, SAMANA Hills South 3. This new development, located in the rapidly growing Dubai South district, will offer 147 high-quality units, catering to international investors seeking secure assets near one of Dubai’s key economic zones. The project follows the successful sellout of its predecessors, SAMANA Hills South 1 & 2, solidifying the developer’s reputation as a leading off-plan developer in the region. Spanning 95,195.92 square feet, the development features a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, with starting prices from Dh639,000. The estimated handover is set for October 2028, providing a clear timeline for capital appreciation. Imran Farooq, CEO of SAMANA Developers, highlighted Dubai’s robust real estate market, citing Dh54.3 billion in sales last month. He emphasized the strategic location of SAMANA Hills South 3, which benefits from the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport and nearby business hubs. The project is designed as a resort-style sanctuary, offering over 30 luxury amenities, including an Aqua Gym and Spa, Wellness Lounge, swimming pool, and Outdoor Cinema. With its investor-friendly payment plans and prime location, SAMANA Hills South 3 is poised to attract significant interest from both local and international buyers.
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Judge seeks assurances that Abrego Garcia won’t be deported to Liberia in violation of court order
In a recent court hearing in Maryland, U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis sought assurances from the government that Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran national, would not be deported to Liberia before she lifts an injunction preventing his removal. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) had announced plans to deport Abrego Garcia to Liberia as early as Friday, marking the latest in a series of African countries considered for his deportation. Abrego Garcia, who has lived in Maryland for years with his American wife and child, initially entered the U.S. illegally as a teenager. In 2019, an immigration judge granted him protection from deportation to El Salvador, where he faces a credible threat of gang violence. Earlier this year, his mistaken deportation to El Salvador, where he was detained in a notorious prison despite having no criminal record, sparked public outrage and led to his return to the U.S. in June. During the hearing, Judge Xinis questioned why the government is not deporting Abrego Garcia to Costa Rica, a country he is willing to go to, rather than Liberia. She noted the significant resources being expended in the legal battle over his deportation. Government attorneys did not provide a clear answer but indicated that details might be included in an upcoming court filing. Abrego Garcia’s attorney, Simon Sandoval-Moshenberg, expressed concerns about the assurances provided by the Liberian government, hinting that they might only agree to host him temporarily. The case highlights ongoing controversies over the Trump administration’s deportation agreements with third countries, which advocacy groups argue violate due process rights. Meanwhile, Abrego Garcia has applied for asylum in the U.S. and faces separate charges of human smuggling in Tennessee, which he denies.
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ADCB posts strong Q3 earnings, launches AI transformation to drive future growth
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB) has announced impressive financial results for the third quarter of 2025, with a net profit of Dh3.09 billion, reflecting a 29% year-on-year increase. The bank’s profit before tax also rose by 18% to Dh3.17 billion. Over the nine-month period, ADCB achieved a net profit of Dh8.1 billion, an 18% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This strong performance was driven by a 25% year-on-year growth in operating income, which reached Dh5.88 billion for Q3. Non-interest income surged by 32% to Dh2.07 billion, while net interest income grew by 21% to Dh3.81 billion. The bank’s cost-to-income ratio improved significantly to 27.6%, attributed to digital automation and operational efficiencies. ADCB’s balance sheet remained robust, with total assets increasing by 17% to Dh744 billion. Net loans grew by 17% to Dh401 billion, and customer deposits rose by 19% to Dh482 billion, supported by a 27% increase in current and savings account (CASA) deposits. The bank’s capital adequacy ratio stood at 16%, with a Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio of 12.7%. The non-performing loan (NPL) ratio improved to a record low of 1.86%, while provision coverage increased to 187.3%. In a strategic move to bolster future growth, ADCB launched an AI transformation program aimed at unlocking Dh4 billion in financial value through enhanced revenue, cost efficiencies, and risk management. The initiative will also improve customer experience, fraud detection, and cybersecurity. ADCB’s retail and corporate banking divisions continued to perform strongly, with retail banking adding over 80,000 new customers in Q3, 67% of whom were acquired digitally. CASA deposits in retail rose by Dh18 billion year-on-year, while Islamic financing accounted for 59% of new loan acquisitions. Corporate and investment banking expanded its international footprint, with loans outside the UAE rising by 35% year-to-date. ADCB also announced a rights issue to raise up to Dh6.1 billion, with Mubadala Investment Company PJSC, the bank’s majority shareholder, confirming full participation. ADCB Egypt contributed significantly to the group’s performance, posting a net profit of EGP 3.86 billion for the first nine months of 2025, a 31% year-on-year increase, with loan growth of 50%. The bank’s commitment to sustainability and national priorities was highlighted in its 2025 Green Bond Report, which showed a 19% increase in its Eligible Green Loan Portfolio. ADCB also received the Nafis Diamond Award for its Emiratisation efforts, with UAE nationals comprising 40% of its workforce and 98% of branch managers. Looking ahead, ADCB remains focused on its five-year strategy to double net profit to Dh20 billion, targeting a return on equity of around 15% for the full year. With continued investment in digital and AI capabilities, the bank is positioning itself as a data-led institution ready to deliver long-term value for shareholders and contribute to the UAE’s dynamic economy.
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Ivory Coast president, 83, secures fourth term after two rivals barred
Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara has clinched a fourth term in office, according to provisional election results released on Monday. The 83-year-old leader secured a staggering 89.8% of the vote, while his closest competitor, businessman Jeal-Louis Billon, trailed far behind with just 3.09%. The election was marred by controversy, as two prominent opposition figures—former President Laurent Gbagbo and ex-Credit Suisse CEO Tidjane Thiam—were barred from running and subsequently called for a boycott. Voter turnout was notably low at 50.1%, reflecting widespread discontent. The opposition coalition, led by Gbagbo and Thiam, has labeled the election a ‘civilian coup d’etat’ and vowed not to recognize Ouattara’s victory. Ouattara first came to power in 2011 after Gbagbo was arrested for refusing to concede defeat in the 2010 election. Despite a constitutional two-term limit, a 2016 amendment allowed Ouattara to run again in 2020, a move that also faced opposition boycotts. The final results will be confirmed by the Constitutional Council after reviewing any election petitions.
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Compatriots from both sides of Taiwan Strait oppose external interference
In a powerful display of unity, compatriots from both sides of the Taiwan Strait gathered in Beijing on October 27, 2025, to commemorate the establishment of the Commemoration Day of Taiwan’s Restoration. The event, organized by the All-China Federation of Taiwan Compatriots, featured historical lectures, personal testimonies, and celebratory performances, marking the 80th anniversary of Taiwan’s return to China. Attendees unanimously reaffirmed that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China, condemning any claims of an ‘undetermined status of Taiwan’ and opposing external interference in the region. Ji Bin, vice-chairman of the federation, emphasized the significance of the National People’s Congress’s decision to designate October 25 as the Commemoration Day of Taiwan’s Restoration, underscoring the unshakable historical and legal fact of Taiwan’s belonging to China. Wang Shushen, a prominent Taiwan studies scholar, highlighted the event’s role in promoting cross-Strait relations and stability, while Wu Jung-yuan, chairperson of Taiwan’s Labor Party, noted growing dissatisfaction in Taiwan with the Democratic Progressive Party’s ‘anti-mainland’ agenda. Youth representative Chiu Ping-ju called for concrete actions to foster mutual understanding and cooperation across the Strait, reinforcing the shared commitment to national unity.
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Ex-deputy GM of key state-owned enterprise expelled from CPC for corruption
Lu Wenjun, the former deputy general manager of China First Heavy Industries, has been expelled from the Communist Party of China (CPC) and dismissed from public office following a thorough investigation into his serious disciplinary and legal violations. The CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection and the National Supervisory Commission disclosed this decision on Monday, highlighting the gravity of his misconduct. The investigation revealed that Lu had breached the Party’s political, organizational, and integrity disciplines, engaged in duty-related offenses, and was implicated in bribery. He was found to have accepted banquets that could have influenced his official duties, failed to report personal matters truthfully, and manipulated official appointments for personal gain. Additionally, Lu illegally accepted gifts and money, participated in power-for-money transactions, and used his position to secure benefits in business contracting, commission payments, and job adjustments, amassing significant illicit wealth. Despite the CPC’s intensified anti-corruption efforts post the 18th CPC National Congress, Lu continued his misconduct, leading to severe consequences. His expulsion from the Party and dismissal from office were accompanied by the confiscation of his illegal gains, with his criminal offenses referred to the procuratorial authorities for prosecution. China First Heavy Industries, established in 1954, is a pivotal state-owned enterprise in the heavy machinery sector, underscoring the importance of maintaining integrity in such key institutions.
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Legislators push stronger protections for disabled
In a significant move to bolster support for individuals with disabilities, national legislators in China are pushing for comprehensive legal amendments. These changes aim to ensure that people with disabilities can access assistance more seamlessly, particularly in both urban and rural settings. The proposals were discussed during a review of draft revisions to the Organic Law of Villagers’ Committees and the Organic Law of Urban Residents’ Committees over the past weekend. The current draft amendments mandate that villagers’ committees and urban residents’ committees establish specialized divisions to cater to the needs of the elderly, women, and children. Zheng Weiping, a member of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, lauded the proposal but emphasized the necessity of addressing the unique challenges faced by people with disabilities. He advocated for clear legal definitions of the services provided to this group by village and community committees. Wang Tiemin, another member of the NPC Standing Committee, supported this view, stating that including specific provisions for people with disabilities would facilitate their better integration into society and enhance their quality of life and work experiences. Hong Tianyun, a member of the NPC’s Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, acknowledged the long-standing focus on the elderly, women, and children by village and community committees. He agreed with the proposal to establish specialized divisions but highlighted the importance of legislative protections for elderly people with disabilities in rural areas, noting that such measures would be beneficial for their future.
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Buybacks take backseat as AI drives record US capex spending
In a significant shift in corporate priorities, U.S. companies are increasingly diverting capital from traditional shareholder payouts like dividends and buybacks to fund artificial intelligence (AI) innovation. This trend reflects a growing recognition among investors that long-term growth, driven by AI, is more critical than immediate profits. Goldman Sachs has revised its forecast for U.S. share buyback growth down to 9% from 12%, anticipating that AI-driven investments will dominate corporate spending well into 2026.
Capital expenditure plans by S&P 500 companies have surged to a record $1.2 trillion in 2025, the highest since Trivariate Research began tracking the data in 1999. The top nine companies alone account for nearly 30% of this spending. Despite record shareholder returns of $1.65 trillion in the 12 months ending June 2025, including $653.86 billion in dividends and $997.82 billion in buybacks, investors are prioritizing companies with robust AI strategies.
Tech giants like Alphabet, Meta, Microsoft, and Oracle have seen double-digit stock price gains this year, outpacing broader market performance. In contrast, Apple, despite leading in capital returns, has lagged due to concerns over its AI innovation efforts. The AI investment wave is not limited to Silicon Valley, with sectors such as banking, healthcare, and consumer staples also embracing the technology. JPMorgan Chase, for instance, is investing $2 billion annually in AI development, while companies like Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin are integrating AI into defense systems.
While analysts remain cautious about labeling the current AI boom a bubble, many warn that the trend could face challenges as companies increasingly rely on debt and complex deal-making. Lisa Shalett, Chief Investment Officer at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, predicts that by the second half of 2026, investors may begin questioning whether the promise of AI is fully priced into the market.
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Amazon says India’s e-commerce exports top $20 billion, despite US tariffs
Amazon announced on Monday that Indian sellers on its platform have collectively surpassed $20 billion in e-commerce exports, including nearly $7 billion in 2025 alone. This milestone comes despite the imposition of new U.S. tariffs on certain Indian goods, which doubled to 50% in August. The tariffs, a response to India’s oil purchases from Russia, have posed short-term challenges for thousands of Indian artisans and small businesses. However, Amazon remains optimistic about long-term growth, setting an ambitious target of $80 billion in exports by 2030. The company’s Global Selling program, launched in 2015, has enabled over 200,000 Indian sellers across 200 cities to reach customers in 18 global markets, including the U.S., Britain, Germany, and Canada. Smaller cities like Panipat, Bhadohi, Karur, and Erode have emerged as significant contributors, with exports from these regions growing rapidly. Categories such as health, beauty, home, apparel, and toys have seen annual growth exceeding 35%. Amazon’s head of Global Selling India, Srinidhi Kalvapudi, emphasized the structural nature of this growth, stating that e-commerce exports are still in their early stages. India’s 2023 trade policy and simplified e-commerce export rules by the Reserve Bank of India have further supported this expansion, positioning Indian brands for global success.
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Hamas’s Hayya says factions agree on post-war Gaza governance framework
In a significant development, Khalil al-Hayya, the leader of Hamas’s Gaza branch, announced that the movement has reached a consensus with various Palestinian factions, including Fatah, on the structure for post-war governance in Gaza. Speaking to Al Jazeera on Sunday, Hayya revealed that Hamas has endorsed a proposal to form a committee comprising national figures without political affiliations to oversee Gaza’s administration. This committee would assume full control, including security responsibilities, and Hamas has pledged not to interfere in its operations, urging its swift establishment. The committee’s mandate would conclude upon the organization of general elections or the formation of a unified Palestinian government, with Hamas advocating for elections as a means to reunite the Palestinian people under a single leadership. However, Fatah, Hamas’s primary political adversary, has disputed the agreement, insisting that the committee should be led by a minister from the Palestinian Authority. Hayya also disclosed that Palestinian factions have consented to the deployment of an international force to secure Gaza’s borders, monitor the ceasefire, and prevent violations. He welcomed the participation of Arab and Muslim forces in this mission but emphasized that their role would be restricted to border security and ceasefire oversight, with no internal operations in Gaza. Additionally, Hayya called for a UN resolution to support the international force’s deployment and announced the establishment of an international body dedicated to reconstruction efforts, tasked with securing funding and supervising rebuilding projects. On the contentious issue of arms, Hayya reiterated that Hamas’s weapons are tied to the Israeli occupation, and they would be surrendered to the Palestinian state once the occupation ends. He acknowledged ongoing discussions with Palestinian factions and intermediaries on this matter. Regarding the ceasefire with Israel, Hayya noted that US officials’ statements suggest the war has concluded. However, he highlighted that Israel has repeatedly violated the ceasefire, resulting in over 93 deaths and continued restrictions on aid and the closure of the Rafah crossing. Israel has justified these actions by citing Hamas’s delayed return of Israeli captives’ bodies. Hayya explained that locating these bodies has been challenging due to extensive bombardment and the deaths of those who buried them, leaving 13 captives still buried in Gaza.