Global Pulse

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  • Indian rupee hits record low, RBI steps in to avert fall past 92 per dollar

    Indian rupee hits record low, RBI steps in to avert fall past 92 per dollar

    The Indian rupee plunged to an unprecedented low against the US dollar on Thursday, January 29, 2026, driven by substantial dollar demand from corporate hedging activities and the maturation of non-deliverable forward positions. The currency closed at 91.9550 per dollar, marking a 0.2% decline from its previous session, after briefly touching 91.9850 during trading hours.

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) executed strategic interventions to prevent the rupee from breaching the psychologically critical threshold of 92 per dollar, according to market traders. This defensive action created a complex policy dilemma for the central bank, as its foreign exchange market operations effectively counteract its simultaneous efforts to enhance banking system liquidity.

    The currency’s weakness has generated ripple effects across India’s financial markets. Government bonds experienced downward pressure, while interest rate swaps markets showed significant strain. Overnight index swap rates have climbed to levels that anticipate monetary tightening, despite macroeconomic indicators suggesting no fundamental justification for such policy moves.

    This currency depreciation presents a puzzling contrast to India’s robust economic performance. Official government projections indicate growth between 6.8%-7.2% for the upcoming fiscal year beginning in April, representing only a modest deceleration from the current year’s 7.4% expansion. The government’s annual economic survey noted that the rupee’s valuation fails to accurately reflect the nation’s strong economic fundamentals, while acknowledging that currency depreciation could partially mitigate the impact of elevated US tariffs.

    Foreign investor apprehension continues to weigh heavily on Indian markets. January has witnessed net foreign equity outflows exceeding $4 billion, compounding the record $19 billion withdrawn throughout 2025. Market analysts attribute this capital flight to geopolitical uncertainties and diminished investor confidence. DBS Bank India projects further rupee weakness to 93-94 levels this year as inbound investment flows continue to diminish.

    Financial experts emphasize that a comprehensive trade agreement with the United States would significantly improve market sentiment toward Indian assets. However, the current geopolitical landscape complicates long-term growth projections for Asia’s third-largest economy.

  • Iran army adds 1,000 new drones, vows ‘crushing response’ to any invasion

    Iran army adds 1,000 new drones, vows ‘crushing response’ to any invasion

    In a significant military escalation, Iran’s armed forces have integrated 1,000 advanced drones into their combat regiments, according to state television reports from Thursday, January 29, 2026. This strategic enhancement coincides with mounting geopolitical tensions as United States naval forces position themselves in regional waters.

    Army Commander Amir Hatami declared the deployment aligns with Iran’s defensive doctrine against emerging threats, emphasizing preparedness for “rapid combat and a crushing response to any invasion.” The military expansion represents Tehran’s most visible demonstration of defensive capabilities since the latest phase of nuclear negotiations reached an impasse.

    Diplomatic channels remain active despite military posturing. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi articulated Iran’s conditional openness to nuclear negotiations through social media platform X, stating: “Iran has always welcomed a mutually beneficial, fair and equitable NUCLEAR DEAL—on equal footing, and free from coercion, threats, and intimidation.” He reiterated Iran’s longstanding position that its nuclear program serves exclusively peaceful purposes and research development.

    The diplomatic overture contrasts sharply with warnings from Ali Shamkani, senior adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who characterized any military action as “the start of war” promising “immediate, all-out and unprecedented” retaliation targeting Tel Aviv and allied nations.

    This complex landscape emerges against President Donald Trump’s declaration that time is diminishing for diplomatic resolution, while simultaneously acknowledging potential for revised nuclear agreements. Trump referenced a “massive armada” of naval vessels positioned for rapid response capabilities, though specifics regarding deployment locations remained undisclosed.

    The geopolitical standoff represents one of the most critical tests of nuclear diplomacy since the original Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), with military assets mobilizing as diplomatic communications continue through unconventional channels.

  • Dubai RTA sets rules for installing parking shades in residential areas

    Dubai RTA sets rules for installing parking shades in residential areas

    Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has established a comprehensive regulatory framework governing the installation of parking shades throughout residential areas, responding directly to community needs while maintaining the city’s architectural integrity. The newly implemented permit system introduces seven specific technical criteria that residents must follow when installing canopies over designated parking spaces.

    The regulations mandate that installations must not impede pedestrian pathways, compromise road safety, obstruct traffic signage, or interfere with subsurface utility infrastructure. All structures must adhere to RTA-approved specifications regarding design, materials, and color schemes. Specifically, canopy covers must feature desert-inspired tones, while supporting structures require construction from mild steel, aluminum, or light beige powder-coated materials to ensure both structural durability and aesthetic harmony with Dubai’s urban landscape.

    Notably, all installations must maintain a temporary character with foundation depths not exceeding 0.7 meters, ensuring stability during weather variations while allowing for eventual removal. The RTA retains the right to request shade removal for development projects, maintenance operations, or emergency situations. This initiative emerged from extensive community feedback gathered through customer councils and field visits, particularly addressing concerns regarding rising summer temperatures and increasing vehicle ownership in residential communities.

    The permit system will be administered through authorized contracting companies, applying exclusively to properly designated and reserved parking spaces. This balanced approach aims to enhance quality of life by providing protection from extreme heat while preserving Dubai’s distinctive visual identity and ensuring public safety.

  • Ex-Nigerian oil minister did not take bribes from industry insiders, court told

    Ex-Nigerian oil minister did not take bribes from industry insiders, court told

    In a dramatic turn at Southwark Crown Court, the defense team for former Nigerian Oil Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke presented a comprehensive rebuttal against corruption allegations that have spanned nearly a decade. Jonathan Laidlaw KC, representing Alison-Madueke, articulated that the substantial expenditures on UK properties and luxury items attributed to her were fully reimbursed through legitimate channels in Nigeria.

    The court heard how Nigeria’s banking regulations prohibit ministers from maintaining overseas accounts, creating circumstances where third parties necessarily facilitated transactions that were subsequently settled domestically. Laidlaw emphasized: “Those who paid the bills were paid back, in Nigeria. She did not request or receive any financial advantage from these individuals.”

    Alison-Madueke, who served as Nigeria’s petroleum resources minister from 2010 to 2015—a position described as second only to the presidency in ministerial hierarchy—faces five counts of bribery acceptance and one count of conspiracy to commit bribery. The defense highlighted significant procedural concerns, including an eight-year gap between her 2015 arrest during cancer treatment in London and the 2023 formal charges.

    The defense argued this delay has fundamentally compromised the trial’s fairness, noting that critical financial records in Abuja have disappeared and that the businessmen allegedly involved in the purported bribery scheme remain at liberty worldwide without facing extradition attempts. “Through no fault of her own,” Laidlaw stated, “she doesn’t have available to her the material that supports her defense.”

    Co-defendants include oil executive Olatimbo Ayinde, who denies separate bribery charges, and Alison-Madueke’s brother, former bishop Doye Agama, who contests conspiracy allegations. The trial continues as the court examines one of Nigeria’s most high-profile corruption cases.

  • Jebel Jais to reopen on January 31 after rain-related closures

    Jebel Jais to reopen on January 31 after rain-related closures

    RAS AL KHAIMAH — Jebel Jais, the UAE’s premier mountain destination, has confirmed its comprehensive reopening strategy following extensive safety assessments and maintenance triggered by adverse weather conditions in December 2025. The iconic attraction will commence operations on Saturday, January 31, 2026, implementing a carefully structured phased approach to ensure visitor safety.

    Authorities revealed that persistent rainfall between December 17-19, 2025, resulted in significant water accumulation across various sections of the mountain terrain, necessitating targeted remediation efforts. Specialist teams conducted thorough inspections and implemented essential maintenance protocols, including temporary road closures, to address safety concerns arising from shifting rocks and slippery pathways.

    The reopening schedule features staggered operational resumptions for individual attractions: The renowned Jais Flight zip line will resume operations on January 31, while the Jais Sky Tour experience is scheduled to recommence on February 7. The 1484 by Puro restaurant will welcome guests from January 31, though Red Rock attractions will remain temporarily closed. Notably, the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp has already resumed operations after a brief weather-related closure.

    Visitor guidelines have been enhanced, with authorities mandating advanced bookings for activities and dining experiences. Alternatively, guests may purchase viewing deck park tickets priced at Dh10 for access to hiking trails, cycling paths, and leisure areas. Officials continue to advise against wadi camping during unsettled weather patterns and urge extreme caution when navigating affected routes.

    This systematic reopening demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to maintaining world-class safety standards at its natural attractions while ensuring minimal disruption to visitor experiences following exceptional weather events.

  • Ted Lasso Season 4: Jason Sudeikis returns as the beloved coach in summer 2026

    Ted Lasso Season 4: Jason Sudeikis returns as the beloved coach in summer 2026

    Apple TV+ has officially announced the summer 2026 premiere of the highly anticipated fourth season of its Emmy-winning comedy series ‘Ted Lasso,’ with star and executive producer Jason Sudeikis returning as the beloved American football coach. The streaming platform released exclusive first-look images revealing the new narrative direction for the acclaimed series.

    The upcoming season will follow Ted Lasso’s return to Richmond, where he faces his most challenging coaching assignment yet: leading a second-division women’s football team. Production images showcase Sudeikis alongside returning cast member Brendan Hunt as Coach Beard, joined by new addition Tanya Reynolds as a fresh-faced assistant coach.

    Significant casting changes include Grant Feely assuming the role of Ted’s son Henry, following a recasting decision prior to production. Authentic scenes captured at Mae Green’s iconic Crown & Anchor pub in London depict heartfelt moments between father and son.

    Narrative continuity will bridge the geographical divide between Kansas, where Season 3 concluded with Ted’s homecoming, and his subsequent return to London accompanied by Henry. Initial filming commenced in July throughout Kansas City, Sudeikis’ hometown, adding authentic Midwestern backdrop to the series’ signature transatlantic charm.

    The series continues to blend heartfelt storytelling with comedic excellence, maintaining its reputation for character-driven narratives that explore themes of personal growth, cultural adaptation, and the universal language of sportsmanship.

  • Skoda recalls some cars in UAE, Saudi Arabia due to faulty airbags

    Skoda recalls some cars in UAE, Saudi Arabia due to faulty airbags

    Skoda Auto has initiated a critical safety recall for multiple vehicle models across the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, addressing potentially lethal defects in driver-side airbags supplied by Takata Corporation. The voluntary recall campaign follows global concerns that these airbag inflators could deteriorate over time, particularly in high-temperature climates, and deploy dangerously during collisions.

    The defective components contain gas generators that may become unstable with age due to environmental factors including heat and humidity. In the event of an accident, these compromised inflators pose dual threats: they might rupture their metal housing, propelling sharp fragments throughout the vehicle cabin, or fail to provide adequate protective force during deployment, increasing injury risks.

    Saudi Arabia’s consumer protection authorities formally announced the recall on January 22nd, identifying 256 affected vehicles including Octavia (2013-2020), Rapid (2012-2017), Fabia (2018-2021), Superb (2015-2017), and Kodiaq (2016-2021) models. Skoda representatives confirmed that all vehicles manufactured before 2018 potentially contain the faulty equipment.

    The Czech automaker has established complimentary replacement procedures at authorized service centers, with repairs requiring approximately two hours to complete. Vehicle owners can verify their car’s status through Skoda’s regional websites by entering their 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), typically located on windshield markings or registration documents.

    This recall expands upon ongoing global safety initiatives addressing Takata airbag concerns, which represent one of the largest automotive safety campaigns in history. Skoda urges affected customers to promptly contact authorized dealerships in both countries to schedule free replacements, emphasizing that immediate action is crucial for occupant safety.

  • Watch: Toddler flings new iPhone into water feature at Louvre Abu Dhabi in viral video

    Watch: Toddler flings new iPhone into water feature at Louvre Abu Dhabi in viral video

    A moment of parental composure amidst toddler-induced chaos has captivated the internet, originating from the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi. A widely circulated video, amassing over 30 million views, documents a young child’s swift action that sent a brand-new iPhone plunging into the museum’s water feature.

    The incident involved Kazakh influencer K. Beklan and his family during a leisurely stroll down the museum’s renowned ramp. Surveillance footage captures the precise moment the toddler, being carried by his father, unexpectedly hurls the device belonging to his sister into the aquatic installation below.

    Contrary to the anticipated panic, the parents’ reaction was notably placid, a detail that drew significant praise from online spectators. The museum’s response team demonstrated equal poise, promptly arriving on the scene. Utilizing standard pool cleaning apparatus, staff members successfully retrieved the submerged smartphone, turning a potential disaster into a resolved incident.

    Social media commentary overwhelmingly commended the adults’ unflappable demeanor. One observer noted the admirable calmness, while another employed dry wit, quipping about the replaceability of the child compared to the moment itself. Although the phone’s operational fate post-immersion remains uncertain, the event concluded without further incident, highlighting effective public venue management and a viral example of serene parenting.

  • Japanese forward Kaito Taniguchi joins A-League battlers Central Coast Mariners

    Japanese forward Kaito Taniguchi joins A-League battlers Central Coast Mariners

    In a strategic move to strengthen their offensive lineup, A-League’s Central Coast Mariners have officially acquired Japanese striker Kaito Taniguchi from Albirex Niigata. The 30-year-old forward arrives during a period of significant transition for the club, which recently saw ownership changes after Mike Charlesworth was stripped of the club’s license.

    The signing process for Taniguchi was initiated prior to the recent administrative upheaval, with the Australian Professional Leagues—now overseeing club operations—honoring the previously arranged transfer agreement. Taniguchi brings valuable experience from Japan’s top division, where he previously played alongside Australian national team defender Jason Geria.

    This acquisition comes immediately following the departure of English attacker Ryan Edmondson, who played a pivotal role in the Mariners’ 2024 A-League grand final victory against Melbourne Victory. Edmondson has since transferred to Irish Premier Division club St Patrick’s Athletic.

    Taniguchi is anticipated to make his debut appearance for the Mariners in their upcoming Sunday match against Melbourne Victory at Polytec Stadium, potentially providing the offensive reinforcement needed for the currently struggling team.

  • Jewelry, art and toy train top list of priciest foreign gifts to Biden and other officials in 2024

    Jewelry, art and toy train top list of priciest foreign gifts to Biden and other officials in 2024

    The U.S. State Department’s latest disclosure reveals that foreign governments presented exceptionally valuable gifts to senior Biden administration officials during the 2024 calendar year. According to the Bureau of Protocol’s annual report published in the Federal Register, these diplomatic offerings included luxury items ranging from fine jewelry to substantial cash gifts.

    Former President Joe Biden received the most expensive documented gift: a $19,000 acrylic painting titled ‘Marimba’ by renowned Angolan artist Guizef Guilherme, bestowed by Angola’s president. Other notable presents to Biden included a sterling silver train set valued at $7,750 from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a road bicycle with dates worth $7,089 from the United Arab Emirates’ president.

    First Lady Jill Biden received particularly valuable items, including an 18-carat gold diamond necklace and premium perfume worth $11,165 collectively from Qatar’s emir and his spouse. She also accepted a Dior bracelet and Sèvres vase valued at $5,090 from French President Emmanuel Macron’s wife, Brigitte Macron.

    The report detailed that former Vice President Kamala Harris received various gifts including a rug, cooking utensils, and literature worth $2,633 from UAE officials. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was presented with a $3,700 bronze statue from his Indian counterpart, while CIA Director William Burns received a $3,000 horse saddle from Kazakh officials.

    Most remarkably, an unnamed CIA employee reported receiving $15,000 in cash from a foreign government representative. According to established protocol, federal regulations require officials to report foreign gifts exceeding $480 in value. Most items are subsequently transferred to the National Archives or General Services Administration rather than retained personally, unless recipients reimburse the Treasury Department or utilize them for official governmental purposes.