Global Pulse

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  • China: Huge pit visible in Shanghai after viral sinkhole video

    China: Huge pit visible in Shanghai after viral sinkhole video

    A significant sinkhole emerged at a Shanghai metro construction site on Friday, drawing widespread attention after dramatic footage of the ground collapse circulated on social media platforms. The incident occurred in an outer district of the Chinese metropolis where a new subway line is currently under development.

    From adjacent shopping complexes, observers could clearly discern the edges of a substantial crater matching the location featured in viral videos. Authorities have cordoned off surrounding road sections, with police presence and construction vehicles deployed around the perimeter. Official sources have confirmed that no casualties resulted from the geological event.

    The circulating footage, which remains unverified by AFP through standard authentication tools, depicts the ground abruptly giving way and consuming temporary structures in an expanding cavity. Some digital forensic analysis suggests potential artificial intelligence enhancement or manipulation of the visual materials.

    Local merchants reported the incident occurred during Thursday morning’s peak commute hours. The state-owned enterprise responsible for the construction project had previously identified a leak at the site and implemented emergency protocols on Wednesday, according to their official statement.

    Chinese officials indicated that the definitive cause will be communicated through established government channels. While sinkholes represent a known geological phenomenon in China, this event recalls previous tragedies, including a 2020 incident in northwest China where a similar collapse resulted in nine fatalities after engulfing a bus and pedestrians.

  • A US shipment of medicines and medical supplies to Venezuela signals a new era of cooperation

    A US shipment of medicines and medical supplies to Venezuela signals a new era of cooperation

    In a significant diplomatic development, the United States has delivered its first shipment of medical aid to Venezuela following a notable shift in bilateral relations. The 6-metric-ton consignment of essential medicines and medical supplies arrived at Maiquetía Airport outside Caracas on Friday, marking a new chapter in previously strained interactions between the two nations.

    The delivery comes weeks after the dramatic capture of former President Nicolás Maduro and signals a potential normalization of relations. Senior diplomats from both countries personally oversaw the arrival of the humanitarian aid, with U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Laura Dogu and Venezuelan diplomat Félix Plasencia jointly receiving the shipment at the airport.

    Ms. Dogu emphasized the critical nature of the assistance, stating, “This contribution is vital for stabilizing Venezuela’s healthcare infrastructure.” She further revealed that this initial delivery represents “the first of numerous planned donations” with additional shipments expected in the immediate future.

    Venezuela’s healthcare system has experienced catastrophic decline throughout its prolonged economic and political crisis, now entering its second decade. Medical facilities face severe equipment shortages, frequently requiring patients to provide basic medical necessities ranging from syringes to surgical hardware.

    Mr. Plasencia characterized the American donation as representing “a message of cooperation between two sovereign nations acting in the best interests of their citizens.” The collaborative reception of aid suggests both governments are pursuing pragmatic diplomacy despite historical tensions, potentially foreshadowing broader cooperation in addressing Venezuela’s humanitarian challenges.

  • Dubai hosts UF AWARDS MEA 2026, honouring top fintech innovators

    Dubai hosts UF AWARDS MEA 2026, honouring top fintech innovators

    Dubai’s World Trade Center served as the prestigious venue for the UF AWARDS MEA 2026 ceremony on February 13, 2026, where the financial technology sector’s most innovative brands received recognition for their exceptional contributions. The awards program, orchestrated by Ultimate Fintech, celebrated outstanding achievement across the Middle East and Africa’s dynamic financial services landscape.

    The distinguished honor roll featured industry leaders across multiple categories. ATFX claimed the coveted Best Broker – MEA award, while FXTM was celebrated as Most Trusted Broker. Exness received accolades for Best Trading Conditions, and CFI was recognized as Most Transparent Broker. Additional category winners included FXCM (Best CFD Broker), DERIV (Best Trade Execution), and PU PRIME (Best Mobile Trading App).

    In the B2B sector, X OPEN HUB earned distinction as Most Trusted Liquidity Provider, with ARIZET LABS receiving recognition for Most Advanced Prop Trading Technology. CTRADER secured the Best Trading Platform award, while 5PAY was honored as Best Payment Gateway solution.

    Established in 2021, the UF AWARDS program has rapidly evolved into a benchmark for excellence within global financial services. The selection process incorporates an open nomination system followed by comprehensive industry voting, concluded on February 4, 2026. This inclusive methodology engages diverse stakeholders including brokers, affiliates, retail traders, and partners, ensuring transparent and representative outcomes.

    The awards ceremony not only celebrated current achievement but also highlighted the region’s growing influence in financial technology innovation. Winning organizations demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing trading solutions, client support services, and technological infrastructure within an intensely competitive market environment.

    With the MEA edition concluded, industry attention now shifts to Mexico City, where the next UF AWARDS ceremony will coincide with the iFX EXPO LATAM event, continuing the tradition of recognizing excellence across global financial markets.

  • Ramadan fitness in UAE: Why ‘golden hour’ before iftar is busiest time for workouts

    Ramadan fitness in UAE: Why ‘golden hour’ before iftar is busiest time for workouts

    Across Abu Dhabi’s fitness landscape, a distinctive pattern emerges during Ramadan as tracks and gyms experience their peak activity during the twilight hours preceding iftar. This two-hour window before sunset has earned the designation ‘golden hour’ among the UAE’s athletic community, becoming the preferred training period for fasting individuals seeking to balance physical conditioning with religious observance.

    Fitness professionals identify compelling physiological advantages to pre-iftar workouts. Marcin Kiermasz, endurance athlete and General Manager of Hybrid Studio Abu Dhabi, explains the metabolic benefits: ‘During fasting, insulin levels remain low and glycogen stores become depleted, prompting the body to utilize fat reserves more efficiently. This creates optimal conditions for endurance training and weight management.’

    Running communities have systematically adapted their schedules to accommodate this trend. Rohit Kumar, Captain of adidas Runners Abu Dhabi, notes that their community implemented structured Ramadan scheduling in 2022, with this year featuring more deliberate programming. ‘Our two-hour window provides flexibility—fasting members can complete sessions from 5-6 PM and return home for iftar, while others may join later sessions,’ Kumar explains.

    The terminology ‘golden hour’ originates from the strategic combination of controlled physical exertion followed by immediate nutritional replenishment. This timing minimizes muscle catabolism while providing psychological relief during the final stretch of the daily fast. Group running sessions now regularly attract 40-50 participants during these pre-iftar hours, significantly outperforming post-iftar training attendance.

    Training methodologies vary between pre-and-post iftar sessions. Pre-iftar programming typically emphasizes aerobic conditioning, technique refinement, and foundational fitness development, while post-iftar sessions focus on strength training and performance enhancement. Running coach Fares Al Sawi advises: ‘I prescribe only easy runs of 30-45 minutes before iftar—this approach maximizes fat utilization while accommodating fasting constraints.’

    While some athletes experiment with dawn workouts following suhoor, coaches generally caution against intensive morning training due to potential energy depletion throughout the day. The consensus among fitness professionals emphasizes that the golden hour’s popularity stems not from ease of execution but from strategic efficiency—offering fasting athletes the most physiologically sound approach to maintaining fitness during Ramadan.

  • Low-altitude vehicle adds futuristic flair to flower market in Guangzhou

    Low-altitude vehicle adds futuristic flair to flower market in Guangzhou

    Guangzhou’s ancient Spring Festival flower market tradition received a futuristic upgrade on Friday as crowds witnessed the debut of a low-altitude flying vehicle alongside traditional blossoms and tangerine trees. The Tianhe Sports Center market, among several opening across Guangdong’s capital, integrated cutting-edge mobility technology with centuries-old Lunar New Year customs, creating a striking juxtaposition of past and future celebrations.

    The aerial vehicle, developed by Xpeng Motors’ subsidiary Aridge, hovered above the vibrant market where generations of Chinese families have gathered to select festive flora symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. This technological showcase represented a deliberate fusion of cultural heritage and innovation during China’s most important holiday period.

    Aridge founder Zhao Deli explained the symbolic significance: “The integration of flying technology with traditional flower markets embodies the spirit of welcoming innovation while honoring tradition—a perfect metaphor for transitioning from the old to the new year.” The demonstration attracted substantial attention from both holiday shoppers and technology enthusiasts, creating unexpected synergy between cultural preservation and technological advancement.

    The event marks growing commercial applications of low-altitude mobility technology in China, particularly during high-visibility public gatherings. Guangzhou’s municipal authorities supported this innovative approach to enhancing traditional cultural experiences, suggesting potential future integrations of technology with public festivities.

  • Six possible effects of Trump’s climate policy change

    Six possible effects of Trump’s climate policy change

    In a sweeping environmental policy reversal, the Trump administration has formally rescinded the Obama-era “endangerment finding,” a foundational scientific determination that has guided U.S. climate regulation for over a decade. This pivotal 2009 ruling, mandated by a Supreme Court decision, classified six greenhouse gases—including carbon dioxide and methane—as pollutants threatening public health, thereby compelling the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to regulate them under the Clean Air Act.

    The immediate consequence of this repeal dismantles the legal framework that has restricted industrial greenhouse gas emissions, particularly targeting the automotive sector. The White House projects significant economic benefits, asserting that eliminating these regulations will reduce manufacturing costs by approximately $2,400 per vehicle. Industry representatives, including Ford and the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, have welcomed the change, citing improved alignment between regulatory standards and consumer preferences.

    However, environmental organizations warn of severe repercussions. The Environmental Defense Fund estimates this policy shift could result in 7.5-18 billion additional tonnes of greenhouse emissions by 2055—equivalent to three times America’s current annual output—potentially causing tens of thousands of premature deaths and millions of asthma attacks. Legal experts anticipate a resurgence of “public nuisance” lawsuits against polluting corporations, as the repeal invalidates a 2011 Supreme Court ruling that centralized emissions regulation with the EPA.

    The decision has ignited concerns about America’s competitive standing in renewable technology. Former EPA official Margo Oge cautioned that while global markets accelerate toward electric vehicles, U.S. automakers risk isolation with obsolete technology. This perspective echoes former Secretary of State John Kerry’s observations regarding China’s dominance in renewable energy deployment.

    EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin defended the reversal as “the single largest deregulatory action in U.S. history,” claiming $1.3 trillion in taxpayer savings. The administration maintains that previous regulations drove manufacturing overseas to countries with weaker environmental standards, ultimately increasing global emissions. The policy is expected to face immediate legal challenges from environmental groups.

  • Top Goldman Sachs lawyer who called Epstein ‘Uncle Jeffrey’ resigns

    Top Goldman Sachs lawyer who called Epstein ‘Uncle Jeffrey’ resigns

    Kathryn Ruemmler, Goldman Sachs’ Chief Legal Officer, has announced her resignation effective June 30th following mounting scrutiny over her previously undisclosed relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The departure comes after months of internal pressure at the Wall Street giant, where Ruemmler chaired the reputational risk committee.

    Recently disclosed Justice Department documents reveal extensive communications between Ruemmler and Epstein spanning 2014-2019, during which she referred to the financier as “Uncle Jeffrey” in personal correspondence. The emails detail how Epstein bestowed luxury gifts upon Ruemmler, including a Hermès handbag, designer boots, an Apple Watch, and $10,000 in Bergdorf Goodman gift cards.

    In one particularly revealing 2015 message, Ruemmler wrote to an undisclosed recipient: “I adore him. It’s like having another older brother!” This communication followed Epstein’s offer to purchase her a first-class ticket to Europe.

    The documents further show that Ruemmler provided Epstein with strategic media advice in March 2019, four months prior to his arrest on sex trafficking charges. She counseled him on countering allegations that his 2008 plea deal for soliciting prostitution from a minor was overly lenient, suggesting he frame the narrative around perceived persecution due to his wealth.

    Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon acknowledged Ruemmler’s departure in a formal statement: “Throughout her tenure, Kathy has been an extraordinary general counsel, and we are grateful for her contributions. She has also been a mentor and friend to many of our people.”

    Ruemmler, who previously served as White House Counsel under President Barack Obama, maintained in a recent Reuters statement: “I got to know him as a lawyer and that was the foundation of my relationship. I had no knowledge of any ongoing criminal conduct on his part.”

    This resignation marks the latest corporate fallout from the ongoing Epstein document disclosures, following last week’s departure of Paul Weiss Chairman Brad Karp over similar revelations.

  • Surnames tell the cross-Strait story

    Surnames tell the cross-Strait story

    The profound historical and cultural connections between mainland China and Taiwan are powerfully illustrated through the study of family names, according to Li Gaoxiong, a Taiwanese compatriot currently residing in Fujian province. He emphasizes that regardless of how one traces Taiwanese surnames, their origins invariably lead back to the Chinese mainland.

    Mr. Li’s personal history serves as a compelling example. His surname, Li, can be directly traced to Quanzhou in Fujian province, demonstrating the migration patterns across the strait. Furthermore, his given name, Gaoxiong, was deliberately chosen to honor Kaohsiung, the major city in southern Taiwan where his family maintains connections. This naming tradition reflects the enduring bidirectional cultural exchange between the two regions.

    This phenomenon extends beyond individual cases to represent a broader pattern of shared heritage. Extensive genealogical research continues to reveal how family lineages have been maintained across the strait despite geographical separation. The preservation of these naming conventions and ancestral tracking methods highlights the deep-rooted connections that have persisted through generations.

    Academic institutions on both sides have increasingly collaborated on genealogical studies that systematically document these connections. Their research consistently confirms that the overwhelming majority of Taiwanese surnames can be traced to specific regions in mainland China, particularly Fujian and Guangdong provinces. These findings provide tangible evidence of the cross-strait familial bonds that have historically existed and continue to influence personal identities today.

  • MCA expands Abu Dhabi presence with new office at Abu Dhabi Global Market

    MCA expands Abu Dhabi presence with new office at Abu Dhabi Global Market

    In a strategic move underscoring its commitment to the UAE market, MCA Management Consultants has inaugurated an expanded office facility at Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), one of the world’s premier international financial centers. The inauguration ceremony was presided over by Obaid Al Ameri, Executive Director for Corporate Affairs at ADGM, alongside MCA’s leadership team, valued clients, and distinguished guests.

    This expansion represents a significant milestone in MCA’s regional growth trajectory and demonstrates the firm’s dedication to enhancing client proximity within Abu Dhabi’s dynamic financial ecosystem. ADGM continues to attract an increasingly sophisticated network of financial institutions and professional services firms, creating fertile ground for MCA’s specialized service offerings.

    The consulting firm provides comprehensive professional services encompassing statutory audit, internal audit, financial advisory, risk management, governance frameworks, and regulatory compliance solutions. Their client portfolio spans multiple sectors including asset and fund management, brokerage services, digital assets, family offices, and diversified holding companies.

    Obaid Al Ameri welcomed MCA’s expanded presence, stating: “We welcome MCA to Abu Dhabi Global Market and look forward to seeing them contribute to the growing business ecosystem.”

    S Venkatesh, Founder and Managing Partner of MCA, commented: “This expanded office reflects MCA’s continued growth and our commitment to serving clients from one of the region’s leading financial hubs. ADGM offers an exceptional platform for innovation and collaboration.”

    Palani Alagappan, Partner at MCA’s ADGM office, emphasized the strategic advantages: “Deepening our presence at ADGM brings us closer to our clients and strengthens our ability to support businesses across the region with timely, high-impact advisory and assurance services.”

    The expansion reinforces MCA’s growing footprint across the GCC region and highlights its focus on delivering integrated professional services to organizations navigating complex regulatory environments, transformation initiatives, and sustained growth objectives.

  • France concerned about the risk of foreign interference ahead of elections

    France concerned about the risk of foreign interference ahead of elections

    President Emmanuel Macron has issued a resolute pledge to protect the integrity of France’s 2027 presidential election from foreign manipulation. In his New Year’s address, Macron identified Russia as the primary antagonist in an ongoing information war designed to destabilize both France and the broader European landscape. This declaration amplifies concerns he voiced two months prior about underestimating Russian disinformation campaigns.

    The French defense ministry’s digital vigilance unit, Viginum, has documented an alarming escalation in foreign interference, cataloging 25 distinct operations targeting recent legislative and European elections. These efforts, predominantly orchestrated by Russian and Chinese actors, have employed sophisticated tactics including social media manipulation and cyber intrusions. One notable case involved left-wing candidate Raphael Glucksmann, who was subjected to a pro-Chinese operation branding him as a CIA operative within Europe.

    Socialist Senator Rachid Temal, who authored a parliamentary inquiry into foreign meddling, warns that municipal elections present particularly vulnerable targets due to minimal oversight in smaller constituencies. “With sufficient funding,” Temal notes, “incumbent candidates can be systematically undermined through fear-based social media strategies that distort their political platforms.”

    Beyond the acknowledged threats from Moscow and Beijing, experts identify more covert dangers. Digital diplomacy specialist Rayna Stamboliyska highlights potential U.S. interference, particularly concerning the Trump administration’s alleged consideration of sanctions against French judiciary members overseeing Marine Le Pen’s corruption case. Such actions could compromise judicial independence and electoral integrity, potentially altering the 2027 political landscape by affecting Le Pen’s eligibility.

    The interference ecosystem extends to Middle Eastern powers pursuing their geopolitical agendas. The United Arab Emirates has emerged as a significant influence operator, allegedly providing financial lifelines to the National Rally party and orchestrating campaigns against the Muslim Brotherhood. CNRS researcher Vincent Geisser observes that the UAE and Israel appear to be collaborating to promote narratives about the ‘Islamisation of France,’ leveraging Islamophobia to influence political discourse.

    Israel’s involvement manifests through official endorsements of the National Rally and organized visits for French politicians. Sciences Po professor emeritus Bertrand Badie identifies Israel as one of three nations (alongside Russia and the U.S.) that most explicitly impact French sovereignty, employing multiple channels to shape public opinion and reward political alignment.

    The complex web of foreign influence has prompted legislative responses, including proposed resolutions to investigate lobbying groups like Elnet, which organizes trips for French parliamentarians to Israel and hosts conferences aligned with far-right perspectives. Despite these measures, the pervasive nature of contemporary foreign interference continues to challenge France’s democratic institutions as the nation prepares for crucial electoral contests.