Global Pulse

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  • Singapore’s Carro raises $60 million to promote Japanese cars in Asia

    Singapore’s Carro raises $60 million to promote Japanese cars in Asia

    Southeast Asia’s leading online used-car marketplace, Carro, has successfully raised $60 million in a recent funding round spearheaded by Japan’s sovereign wealth fund, Cool Japan Fund. Announced on Wednesday, the investment is earmarked for promoting Japanese vehicles, particularly plug-in hybrid electric models, across the Asia-Pacific region. Carro expressed confidence in its ability to significantly enhance the market presence of these vehicles in the area.

    Carro, which operates in multiple markets including Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, is also eyeing expansion into Australia. CEO Aaron Tan recently hinted at the company’s plans for a dual listing, with sources indicating a potential U.S. initial public offering (IPO) that could value the company at over $3 billion. This would mark the largest Southeast Asian listing in the U.S. since SEA’s $989.3 million debut in 2017 and the first major automotive tech and commerce startup from Singapore to go public in the United States.

    Backed by prominent investors such as Temasek and SoftBank Group, Carro’s digital platform facilitates vehicle transactions between consumers and dealers, while also offering insurance, financing, and after-sales services. Cool Japan Fund, a government-backed private fund, aims to bolster Japan’s economy by increasing international demand for its products and services.

    This strategic investment underscores Carro’s ambitious growth trajectory and its commitment to transforming the automotive market in the Asia-Pacific region.

  • US tennis star sorry for ‘offensive’ comments on Chinese food

    US tennis star sorry for ‘offensive’ comments on Chinese food

    American tennis star Taylor Townsend has issued a public apology following widespread criticism over her remarks about Chinese cuisine during her stay in Shenzhen for the Billie Jean King Cup Finals. The 29-year-old, currently the world’s top-ranked doubles player, sparked a social media uproar after sharing videos on Instagram expressing her disbelief over dishes featuring frogs, turtles, and sea cucumber. In her posts, she described the meals as ‘crazy’ and ‘wild,’ even joking about needing to ‘talk to HR.’ Her comments quickly drew backlash on both English and Chinese social media platforms. In a subsequent video posted on Wednesday, Townsend expressed remorse, stating, ‘There’s no excuse, there’s no words, and, for me, I will be better.’ She emphasized her privilege as a professional athlete to experience diverse cultures and acknowledged the ‘most amazing experience’ at the tournament. Earlier, Townsend had shared her reactions to traditional Chinese delicacies like braised soft-shell turtle with fish maw and dry pot bullfrog, questioning their safety and giving the dishes a low rating. Her teammate Hailey Baptiste also appeared in a video mocking a sea cucumber dish. The backlash intensified as Chinese social media users condemned her remarks, with hashtags like ‘American tennis player publicly insults Chinese food’ trending. Many called for greater cultural sensitivity, urging respect for local customs. This incident follows a recent confrontation between Townsend and Latvian player Jelena Ostapenko, who accused her of lacking ‘class’ and ‘education.’ Townsend and her team are set to face Kazakhstan in the quarterfinals on Thursday.

  • Fed’s expected rates cut could reshape global markets

    Fed’s expected rates cut could reshape global markets

    The US labor market’s recent data reveals a structural weakening, compelling the Federal Reserve to consider initiating a cycle of interest rate cuts. This pivotal decision marks the end of the post-pandemic tightening era and holds significant implications for global markets, influencing gold prices, equity valuations, and global capital flows. The August 2025 employment report highlighted a mere 22,000 jobs added, with the unemployment rate rising to 4.3%, the highest in nearly four years. Wage growth has also declined, reflecting the lagged effects of the Fed’s tightening policies and ongoing trade tensions. Businesses, particularly in manufacturing and logistics, are scaling back hiring and investments, forcing the Fed to address the labor market’s weakness. The Fed, operating under a dual mandate of controlling inflation and maximizing employment, now faces a dilemma: prioritize economic growth despite inflation slightly above the 2% target. The decision to cut rates is a preemptive measure to avert a full-blown recession, drawing lessons from past crises like 2008. This shift from ‘fighting inflation’ to ‘preventing recession’ will reshape the investment landscape. Gold is expected to benefit significantly from lower interest rates, as reduced opportunity costs and a weaker US dollar enhance its appeal. Conversely, global equities face a complex scenario: while lower rates may boost stock prices in the short term, medium-term risks of declining corporate earnings could lead to a ‘bull trap.’ Emerging markets are likely to attract capital flows as US bond yields lose their appeal, potentially leading to currency appreciation and stock market booms. Three scenarios emerge for the Fed’s actions: a gradual cut leading to a soft landing, an emergency cut signaling panic, or a hawkish pause causing market shocks. This new era for investors emphasizes the need to reallocate portfolios towards assets benefiting from a weaker dollar and lower interest rates, such as gold, commodities, and select emerging markets. Complacency remains the greatest risk in this evolving economic landscape.

  • Trump’s birthday call to Modi amid US-India trade talks

    Trump’s birthday call to Modi amid US-India trade talks

    In a gesture signaling a potential easing of recent tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump reached out to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to extend birthday wishes ahead of his 75th birthday. The phone call, made on Wednesday, comes after weeks of strained relations due to U.S. tariffs imposed on India for its purchase of Russian oil and weapons. Trump described the tariffs as partially punitive, while India defended its actions as necessary for domestic energy security, labeling the tariffs as unjust. The call followed recent discussions between U.S. trade negotiator Brendan Lynch and Indian commerce officials, aimed at resolving trade disputes and advancing a bilateral trade agreement. Both sides have described these talks as positive, though negotiations remain ongoing. Trump later praised Modi on social media, acknowledging his efforts in global diplomacy, particularly regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Modi reciprocated by referring to Trump as a friend and reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. Despite the recent friction, both leaders expressed optimism about the future of U.S.-India trade relations, with Modi highlighting their shared vision as natural partners. The call marks a notable step toward mending ties, even as Trump continues to advocate for higher tariffs on China and India to pressure Russia over the Ukraine war.

  • ‘The hungry can’t stay silent’ – behind deadly protests in oil-rich Angola

    ‘The hungry can’t stay silent’ – behind deadly protests in oil-rich Angola

    In July, Angola witnessed one of its most significant waves of protests since the end of its civil war in 2002. What began as a demonstration by taxi drivers against rising fuel prices quickly escalated into widespread unrest, leaving at least 30 dead and thousands arrested. The protests, which paralyzed parts of Luanda and spread to other provinces, highlighted deep-seated issues of poverty, inequality, and youth unemployment in the oil-rich nation. Despite Angola’s gleaming skyscrapers, millions struggle to make ends meet in the informal sector, with youth unemployment reaching a staggering 54%. The unrest exposed the government’s failure to address systemic issues, even as President João Lourenço promised reforms. Critics argue that his administration has fallen short in tackling corruption, diversifying the economy, and creating jobs. The protests, though violent, were seen by many as a necessary outcry against a system that has long ignored the plight of the marginalized. As Angola approaches its 50th independence anniversary, the demonstrations serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for meaningful change.

  • Canadian writer Robert Munsch approved for assisted dying

    Canadian writer Robert Munsch approved for assisted dying

    Celebrated Canadian children’s author Robert Munsch, known for timeless classics such as *The Paper Bag Princess* and *Love You Forever*, has been approved for medically assisted dying in Canada. The 80-year-old writer, who has sold over 80 million copies of his books in North America alone, was diagnosed with dementia in 2021 and also suffers from Parkinson’s disease. In a candid interview with *The New York Times Magazine*, Munsch revealed that while he has not set a specific date for his death, he plans to proceed when his ability to communicate significantly deteriorates. ‘When I start having real trouble talking and communicating, then I’ll know,’ he stated. Canada first legalized euthanasia in 2016 for individuals with terminal illnesses, and in 2021, the law was expanded to include those with severe and chronic physical conditions, even if not immediately life-threatening. Munsch’s decision was influenced by witnessing his brother’s prolonged suffering from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. ‘They kept him alive through all these interventions. I thought, let him die,’ Munsch recalled. To qualify for assisted dying in Canada, individuals must meet stringent criteria, including having a ‘serious and incurable illness,’ making a voluntary request free from external pressure, and being in an ‘advanced state of irreversible decline in capability.’ Two independent medical practitioners must assess and confirm eligibility. Munsch’s publisher, Scholastic, praised his decision to speak openly about medically assisted dying, stating it ‘reminds us, once again, why Robert’s work continues to touch many generations.’ His daughter, Julie, clarified that her father is not in immediate danger but emphasized his long-standing resolve to pursue this option. Under Canadian law, individuals must actively consent on the day of their death. ‘I have to pick the moment when I can still ask for it,’ Munsch explained. In 2023, medically assisted dying accounted for 4.7% of deaths in Canada, with 96% of cases involving severe conditions like cancer.

  • Trump clashes with Australian journalist over business deals in office

    Trump clashes with Australian journalist over business deals in office

    In a recent confrontation, former US President Donald Trump accused an Australian journalist of ‘hurting Australia’ during an interview. The incident occurred when John Lyons from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) questioned Trump about his financial gains since returning to the White House in January. Trump, evading the specifics, stated that his children manage the family businesses and criticized Lyons for damaging Australia’s interests. He hinted at discussing the matter with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during their upcoming meeting. The tension between Trump and Lyons escalated when Trump abruptly ended the conversation, signaling for silence before moving on. This exchange comes amidst strained US-Australia relations, particularly following the Trump administration’s review of the Aukus submarine deal and the imposition of tariffs on Australian exports. Lyons defended his line of questioning as legitimate and non-provocative, emphasizing the importance of journalistic integrity in maintaining the alliance between the two nations. The White House later commented on the incident through a social media post, labeling Lyons as a ‘rude foreign Fake News loser’.

  • Senegal intercepts pirogue carrying 112 migrants attempting Atlantic crossing

    Senegal intercepts pirogue carrying 112 migrants attempting Atlantic crossing

    In a dramatic intervention off the coast of Dakar, Senegalese authorities intercepted a wooden fishing boat carrying 112 migrants attempting to reach Europe via the treacherous Atlantic Ocean route. The vessel, a traditional pirogue, was discovered drifting without an engine after local fishermen raised the alarm. Abdoul Aziz Gueye, the mayor of Dakar’s Ouakam district, revealed that the fishermen provided a motor to help the boat approach the shore, where it was subsequently intercepted by the Senegalese marines. All individuals on board were identified as young men, and an investigation has been launched to determine the origins of the vessel and the circumstances surrounding its engine failure. One migrant, speaking to Reuters on Ouakam Beach, disclosed that the group hailed from Gambia and had been at sea for five days. This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of irregular migration from West Africa to Europe, particularly via the perilous Atlantic route to Spain’s Canary Islands. Despite increased collaboration between European and West African nations to curb such migration, deep-rooted issues like economic hardship, political instability, and climate change continue to drive individuals to undertake these dangerous journeys. Senegalese authorities have intensified patrols in recent years, yet migrants persist in attempting the crossing, often in overcrowded and ill-equipped vessels.

  • The Global Governance Initiative supports the fulfillment of the UN’s mission

    The Global Governance Initiative supports the fulfillment of the UN’s mission

    At the ‘Vision China’ event held at the United Nations headquarters in New York on September 15, Qu Yingpu, publisher and editor-in-chief of China Daily, emphasized the significance of the Global Governance Initiative. The event, themed ‘Standing United: Inheriting the UN Legacy, Advancing Global Governance,’ highlighted the initiative’s alignment with core principles such as sovereign equality, international rule of law, multilateralism, a people-centered approach, and tangible outcomes. Qu underscored that these principles provide Chinese wisdom and solutions to bolster global governance, particularly as unilateralism and power politics continue to undermine the UN and other multilateral institutions. The initiative aims to foster a more collaborative and effective global governance framework, addressing contemporary challenges while upholding the UN’s foundational values.

  • Read the text messages between Charlie Kirk accused and roommate

    Read the text messages between Charlie Kirk accused and roommate

    Tyler Robinson, the man accused of fatally shooting conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, appeared in court via video link as new details emerged from court documents. Prosecutors revealed that Robinson allegedly texted his roommate shortly after the shooting, discussing his motives and actions. The roommate, described as a biological male transitioning to female and in a romantic relationship with Robinson, provided investigators with a series of text messages exchanged on the day of the incident. The messages, which were presented in court, included Robinson’s admission to the crime and his plans to retrieve a rifle left at a drop point. Robinson also expressed concern about leaving evidence and his father’s reaction to losing the rifle. The shooting occurred last Wednesday at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, and has since sparked intense debate about the political divide in the United States. Authorities initially detained another individual before focusing on Robinson, who later indicated his intention to turn himself in. The case continues to unfold as investigators piece together the events leading up to the shooting.