Britain’s inflation rate is projected to hit 4% in September, marking the highest level among the world’s major affluent economies and doubling the Bank of England’s (BoE) 2% target. This surge, though significantly lower than the 11.1% peak in 2022 following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, continues to burden households and suggests that borrowing costs will remain elevated compared to other nations, at least in the short term. The persistent price growth adds pressure on Finance Minister Rachel Reeves, who has pledged to alleviate cost-of-living pressures and accelerate economic growth but may resort to raising taxes in her upcoming budget, potentially exacerbating inflationary trends. The UK’s inflation rate in August stood at 3.8%, notably higher than the eurozone’s 2.0%. Key drivers include rapid wage growth, fueled by post-pandemic labor shortages, increases in the minimum wage, and higher employer taxes. Additionally, government-influenced prices, such as sewerage charges, bus fares, and vehicle excise duties, have contributed to the sharp rise. Barclays’ Chief UK Economist, Jack Meaning, estimated that excluding tax increases and administered prices, August’s inflation rate would have been around 2.9%. While regulated energy prices are expected to stabilize, food prices are likely to continue climbing, driven by factors such as packaging taxes, global price hikes, and increased employer contributions. The BoE warns that higher food prices could entrench inflation expectations, further embedding price pressures into the economy. The impact of high inflation is profound: British households have seen minimal growth in living standards since 2010, wage growth barely outpaces inflation, and government debt is strained due to inflation-indexed bonds. Moreover, sustained inflation could deter long-term economic growth by encouraging households to save more and discouraging businesses from making future investments. The BoE forecasts that inflation will peak in September but will only return to the 2% target by mid-2027, with the timing of potential interest rate cuts remaining uncertain.
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MERED and Herzog & de Meuron unveil architectural masterpiece on Abu Dhabi’s waterfront
In a groundbreaking collaboration, MERED, the internationally acclaimed developer, has joined forces with Pritzker Prize-winning architects Herzog & de Meuron to unveil Riviera Residences, a landmark waterfront development on Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi. This project marks a fusion of innovative design and cultural heritage, set to redefine luxury living in the region. Scheduled for launch in November 2025, Riviera Residences promises to be a testament to architectural excellence and thoughtful urban planning. The development will feature over 400 meticulously designed apartments, 12 exclusive villas, and a penthouse, all inspired by Abu Dhabi’s pearl-diving legacy. The shimmering mother-of-pearl façades, designed to capture natural light, pay homage to the city’s coastal heritage while offering a contemporary aesthetic. Herzog & de Meuron, renowned for iconic projects like the Tate Modern in London and the Beijing National Stadium, have brought their signature precision and sustainability to this venture. The interiors and amenities, crafted with elegance and functionality, include landscaped gardens, four swimming pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center, wellness spaces, and a luxurious promenade lined with cafés and boutiques. Olga Bolshanina, Partner at Herzog & de Meuron, emphasized the project’s ambition to create a vertical neighborhood that balances individuality and collective life. Michael Belton, CEO of MERED, highlighted the development’s ability to blend heritage with bold architectural design, offering residents a unique waterfront living experience. Al Reem Island, part of the Abu Dhabi Global Market, continues to attract investors, with off-plan property prices rising by 38% year-on-year in Q2 2025. Riviera Residences is poised to set a new standard for luxury living in the capital, combining innovative architecture with a vibrant community spirit.
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Watch: UAE wadis overflow, roads turn into rivers as heavy rains hit mountains
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) experienced another day of intense rainfall on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, as a persistent low-pressure system continued to affect the region. The relentless downpour transformed mountain roads and wadis into rushing rivers, with videos circulating online showcasing the dramatic scenes. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) had earlier forecasted increased cloud cover and rainfall in the eastern and southeastern parts of the country, with the low-pressure system expected to bring cooler temperatures months before the official start of winter. The heavy rains caused water to cascade off cliffs and rocks, forming pools and mini waterfalls, while also raising concerns about potential rockfalls. Authorities have repeatedly warned motorists and pedestrians to avoid mountainous areas during such unstable weather conditions, emphasizing the risks of property damage, injuries, and even fatalities. The UAE’s mountainous regions, typically arid, have been significantly impacted by the unseasonal weather, highlighting the need for caution and preparedness.
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Agricultural expo wraps up successful Uzbekistan chapter
The Uzbekistan chapter of the 32nd China Yangling Agricultural High-Tech Fair successfully concluded in Tashkent on October 19, marking a significant milestone in agricultural collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative. The event, which showcased the agricultural synergy between China and Uzbekistan, featured five specialized sections and attracted over 130 Chinese enterprises. Local agricultural firms and nearly a thousand buyers and professionals from Uzbekistan and neighboring regions participated, resulting in several on-site cooperation agreements valued at an estimated 60 million yuan ($8.4 million). Chinese companies presented cutting-edge agricultural technologies, including smart greenhouses, integrated water-fertilizer systems, and agricultural IoT solutions. The expo also facilitated B2B matchmaking sessions, focusing on areas such as fig cultivation, viticulture, winemaking, primary agricultural processing, and trade logistics. This event underscored the growing agricultural ties and technological exchange between the two nations, reinforcing their commitment to mutual growth and development.
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US ranchers oppose Trump’s plan to import more Argentine beef and experts doubt it will lower prices
President Donald Trump’s proposal to lower record-high beef prices by increasing imports from Argentina has sparked significant opposition from U.S. ranchers and skepticism from agricultural economists. The plan, intended to make beef more affordable for American consumers, is being criticized by key industry groups, including the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Ranchers-Cattlemen Action Legal Fund United Stockgrowers of America, who argue it could harm domestic producers. Despite Trump’s ‘America First’ rhetoric, critics liken the move to past free trade policies that prioritized cheap global goods over domestic interests. Agricultural experts also question the plan’s effectiveness, noting that Argentine beef accounts for only 2% of U.S. imports, and doubling this figure would have minimal impact on prices. Meanwhile, U.S. beef prices remain high due to strong demand, a shrinking cattle herd, and reduced imports from Brazil and Mexico. Ranchers, who are finally experiencing profitable years after enduring droughts and low prices, fear the policy could destabilize the market and discourage investment in herd expansion. While Argentine producers welcome the opportunity to increase exports, economists warn that excessive exports could drive up domestic prices in Argentina. The administration has promised further details on the plan, emphasizing its commitment to supporting ranchers and reducing consumer costs, but many remain skeptical of its long-term viability.
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AreteUp opens its regional headquarters in Dubai Knowledge Park
AreteUp, a prominent global higher education and EdTech institution, has officially launched its regional headquarters in Dubai Knowledge Park, signaling a strategic move to strengthen its presence across the Middle East. The new office will act as AreteUp’s central hub for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), furthering its mission to connect working professionals with global education opportunities through partnerships with top-tier international universities. This expansion aligns with the UAE’s ambition to emerge as a global leader in innovation, talent development, and lifelong learning.
The inauguration ceremony brought together senior executives from AreteUp, deans from AACSB-accredited US business schools, and distinguished alumni from the Middle East. The event highlighted AreteUp’s significant role in delivering internationally recognized online MBA and DBA programs, enabling professionals to enhance their skills without geographical constraints.
Ms. Evelyn Zhang, CEO of AreteUp Education, emphasized during the event, ‘Dubai serves as a crucial bridge between East and West, and AreteUp is honored to support the UAE’s vision for innovation and lifelong learning. Our goal is to empower learners across the GCC with access to global business education that transforms careers and communities.’
By establishing its regional headquarters in Dubai, AreteUp aims to foster deeper collaborations with local and international universities, regulators, and industry partners. The new hub will serve as a platform to advance executive and postgraduate education, promote academic exchange, and drive digital transformation, in line with the UAE’s national vision for innovation and talent development.
AreteUp’s portfolio includes online MBA, DBA, and executive education programs offered in partnership with globally accredited institutions. These programs are designed to combine academic excellence with industry relevance, enabling learners to advance their careers while contributing to the region’s economic growth and knowledge economy.
As the demand for flexible, high-quality education continues to rise among GCC professionals, AreteUp’s expansion into Dubai represents a pivotal milestone in its global journey, bringing accessible, accredited, and impactful learning opportunities to the heart of the Middle East.
AreteUp, headquartered in Singapore, is an international EdTech institution offering globally accredited online MBA, DBA, and executive education programs in collaboration with leading universities from the US and Europe. With a presence in Sydney, Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Dubai, AreteUp is committed to empowering working professionals through transformative learning experiences and global academic partnerships.
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Popular Greek singer-songwriter Dionysis Savvopoulos has died at 80
ATHENS, Greece — The Greek music world mourns the loss of Dionysis Savvopoulos, a legendary singer-songwriter whose poetic and politically charged lyrics left an indelible mark on Greek culture. Savvopoulos, affectionately known as Nionios, passed away at the age of 80 after a prolonged battle with cancer. His family confirmed the news on his official social media account, stating that he had been hospitalized in recent days. Born on December 2, 1944, in Thessaloniki, Savvopoulos abandoned his law studies to pursue music, moving to Athens in 1963. His career took off in the 1960s, during which his subtly revolutionary songs became anthems of resistance against the 1967-1974 military dictatorship. His debut album, ‘Fortigo’ (1966), and subsequent works like ‘The Fool’s Garden’ (1969) and ‘The Dirty Bread’ (1972) cemented his status as a leading voice of artistic dissent. Savvopoulos’ music blended Greek folk, rock, and international influences, earning him widespread acclaim. Tributes poured in from across Greece, with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and President Konstantinos Tassoulas praising his contributions to art and culture. A gifted performer, Savvopoulos continued to enchant audiences until recently, performing at a summer festival earlier this year. He is survived by his wife, two sons, and two grandsons. Funeral arrangements will be announced later.
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Lebanese actor Darina Al Joundi on chaos, culture, and finding freedom through art
Lebanese actress, writer, and performer Darina Al Joundi reflects on her artistic journey, the interplay of chaos and culture in her life, and her relentless pursuit of inner freedom. Born in 1968, Al Joundi’s career has been shaped by her experiences of war and self-discovery, which she has transformed into compelling art across theatre, film, and literature. In a candid interview, she discusses her creative process, the influence of her family, and her upcoming projects. Al Joundi’s work often explores themes of exile, belonging, and freedom, particularly for women. She emphasizes the importance of carrying one’s home within oneself and finding freedom through artistic expression. Her recent roles in the series ‘Kabul’ and the short film ‘Original Sin’ have introduced her to new audiences, while her upcoming projects continue to push creative boundaries. Al Joundi’s dedication to her craft and her ability to weave personal experiences into her performances make her a unique voice in the world of art and entertainment.
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Ayoub Khan on Maccabi Tel Aviv ban: ‘False smears put my family in danger’
Independent MP Ayoub Khan has expressed grave concerns over the safety of his family following what he describes as false accusations by politicians regarding his support for a ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans. Khan, a key advocate for the West Midlands Police’s decision to bar fans of the Israeli club from attending a November 6 match against Aston Villa in Birmingham, has faced significant backlash from across the political spectrum. Despite a YouGov poll indicating substantial public support for the ban, Khan has been subjected to what he calls ‘vile’ and ‘upsetting’ attacks, particularly targeting his family. In the House of Commons, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy falsely claimed that the ban ‘chooses exclusion’ of Jews, a statement Khan vehemently denounced as a ‘deliberate, disingenuous move’ to conflate policing issues with religion. Khan emphasized that his stance is rooted in concerns over safety and equality, not in any form of discrimination. He pointed to the well-documented history of violence and racism among Maccabi Tel Aviv’s fan base as justification for the ban. Khan’s position has garnered support from various political figures, including Jeremy Corbyn and members of the Green Party and Scottish National Party. However, Muslim independent MPs have been particularly targeted with accusations of ‘sectarianism’ and antisemitism. Khan and his colleagues have called for more measured language and a focus on the safety concerns that prompted the ban. The controversy has sparked a broader debate about the role of political and media figures in shaping public discourse and the potential threats to democratic processes. Maccabi Tel Aviv has since announced it will not sell tickets to its fans for the Birmingham match, citing the ongoing safety concerns.
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Netflix blames tax dispute in Brazil for rare quarterly earnings letdown
Netflix’s latest quarterly earnings fell short of Wall Street expectations, marking the end of a six-quarter streak of surpassing analyst projections. The streaming giant attributed the $619 million earnings shortfall to an unforeseen tax dispute in Brazil. Despite the setback, Netflix highlighted its robust lineup of original TV series and films, which sustained audience engagement and drove a combination of subscription fees and ad revenue, matching analysts’ revenue forecasts of $11.5 billion. However, investors remained unconvinced, as Netflix’s shares dropped approximately 6% in extended trading.