Global Pulse

标签： North America

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  • Fertiglobe earnings top $1b in 2025, reflecting 57 per cent y-o-y growth

    Fertiglobe earnings top $1b in 2025, reflecting 57 per cent y-o-y growth

    Fertiglobe, recognized as the world’s premier seaborne exporter of urea and ammonia products, has announced exceptional financial results for the fourth quarter and full year of 2025. The company, which serves as the exclusive ammonia platform for Adnoc and XRG, demonstrated remarkable growth with Q4 revenues surging 73% year-over-year to $808 million.

    The full-year performance proved even more impressive, with annual revenues climbing 41% to $2.8 billion. Adjusted EBITDA reached $1.02 billion, representing a substantial 57% increase compared to 2024 figures. Net profit attributable to shareholders saw extraordinary growth, escalating by 87% to $325 million for the year.

    Reflecting this robust financial performance, Fertiglobe’s Board has recommended second-half 2025 dividends of $135 million (6.1 fils per share), bringing total dividends for the year to $260 million. Combined with $74 million in share buybacks executed to date, the company has returned $334 million to shareholders in 2025 alone. This capital return strategy demonstrates Fertiglobe’s commitment to delivering competitive shareholder yields exceeding 5%.

    Since its initial public offering, Fertiglobe has paid or committed to pay $2.9 billion in capital returns to shareholders. The company’s ongoing share repurchase program, targeting 2.5% of outstanding shares, has already resulted in the buyback of 111 million shares worth $74 million as of February 10, 2026.

    The company’s financial position remains strong with a net debt of $1,006 million as of December 31, 2025, representing a conservative net debt to EBITDA ratio of 1.0x. This solid balance sheet provides Fertiglobe with ample flexibility to pursue strategic growth investments while maintaining attractive shareholder distributions.

    CEO Ahmed El-Hoshy attributed this success to disciplined execution of the Grow 2030 strategy, noting that ‘we have already activated more than 40% of our 2030 growth target.’ The strategy has focused on operational efficiency improvements, record production levels at facilities in Algeria and EFC-2, significant cost reductions, and strategic portfolio expansion.

    Under Adnoc’s majority ownership, Fertiglobe has strengthened both its industrial and financial foundations, implementing 99% of cost optimization targets and advancing manufacturing improvement plans that have delivered 46% of planned reliability and energy efficiency gains. Strategic acquisitions, including Wengfu Australia, have expanded Fertiglobe’s global footprint while production scale-up of Diesel Exhaust Fluid and Automotive Grade Urea in Egypt and the UAE has created more resilient, higher-margin revenue streams.

    The company remains well-positioned to capitalize on tight urea and ammonia markets, with current prices exceeding $500/t for Egypt FOB urea and $670/t for NW Europe ammonia. Fertiglobe’s outstanding safety performance in 2025 further underscores the comprehensive transformation underway across all operational aspects as the company progresses toward its zero-incident safety目标.

  • Watch: How the Tumbler Ridge school shooting unfolded

    Watch: How the Tumbler Ridge school shooting unfolded

    A devastating school shooting unfolded at Tumbler Ridge Educational Institution, resulting in one of Canada’s most tragic campus security incidents in recent years. The violent episode claimed nine lives and left at least 25 individuals with injuries, some in critical condition.

    Eyewitness accounts describe scenes of chaos and terror as students and faculty implemented emergency protocols. One student survivor recounted barricading themselves within a classroom for approximately two hours during the active shooter situation, fearing for their life while law enforcement worked to secure the premises.

    The incident has triggered comprehensive responses from multiple agencies including local law enforcement, emergency medical services, and crisis intervention teams. Investigators are currently working to establish the shooter’s motives and the sequence of events that led to this tragedy.

    Community leaders have initiated grief counseling services while educational authorities nationwide are reviewing security protocols. The shooting has reignited critical discussions about school safety measures and mental health support systems within educational environments across the country.

  • Casey Wasserman to stay as chair of LA 2028 Olympics after Epstein files fallout

    Casey Wasserman to stay as chair of LA 2028 Olympics after Epstein files fallout

    The Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games organizing committee has confirmed Casey Wasserman will remain as chairman following an extensive review of his connections to Jeffrey Epstein’s associates revealed in recently unsealed court documents.

    The LA28 executive committee issued a formal statement asserting Wasserman ‘should continue to lead LA28 and deliver a safe and successful Games’ after external counsel examined his limited interactions with Epstein’s network. The investigation concluded his involvement didn’t extend beyond previously documented instances.

    Court records show Wasserman traveled on Epstein’s private aircraft in 2003 during a humanitarian mission to Africa organized by the Clinton Foundation, marking his sole encounter with the convicted sex offender. He additionally exchanged emails with Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s accomplice currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for sex trafficking minors.

    Wasserman expressed profound regret over his decades-old correspondence with Maxwell, emphasizing he ‘never had a personal or business relationship with Jeffrey Epstein’ and was unaware of their criminal activities at the time.

    Despite clearing him of misconduct allegations, the controversy has triggered significant professional consequences. High-profile clients including singer Chappell Roan and soccer legend Abby Wambach have severed ties with Wasserman’s talent agency, citing ethical concerns and organizational accountability.

    The decision has drawn criticism from Los Angeles city officials, with Councilmember Monica Rodriguez stating residents ‘deserve leadership that understands the gravity of these revelations.’ The LA28 board, comprising prominent entertainment, political, and business figures including Dreamworks CEO Jeffrey Katzenberg, maintains confidence in Wasserman’s leadership capabilities.

  • ASUS launches Zenbook DUO UX8407AA in the UAE with Intel Core Ultra X9

    ASUS launches Zenbook DUO UX8407AA in the UAE with Intel Core Ultra X9

    ASUS has unveiled its groundbreaking Zenbook DUO UX8407AA in the United Arab Emirates market, marking a significant advancement in dual-screen computing technology. The device represents a sophisticated fusion of cutting-edge performance and innovative design, specifically engineered for creative professionals and multitasking enthusiasts.

    Powered by Intel’s latest Core Ultra X9 Processor, the laptop delivers exceptional computational capabilities that streamline complex creative workflows and AI-enhanced productivity tasks. This processing power ensures seamless operation across demanding applications, whether users are working in stationary environments or navigating mobile scenarios.

    The centerpiece of this technological marvel is its dual 14-inch 3K ASUS Lumina Pro OLED displays, which boast remarkable 1,000 nits brightness and superior color accuracy. The significantly reduced bezel gap between screens creates an immersive, continuous digital workspace ideal for expanded timelines, comprehensive mood boards, and effortless multitasking.

    With a 144Hz refresh rate and ultra-responsive performance, the visual experience achieves unprecedented smoothness, particularly beneficial for designers and visual content creators. The device’s architecture incorporates a durable yet lightweight Ceraluminum™ chassis, balancing portability with structural integrity.

    The innovative hinge mechanism and integrated kickstand support multiple operational modes, transitioning seamlessly from traditional laptop configuration to extended workstation setup. This adaptability caters to the dynamic working styles of contemporary professionals.

    For the UAE market introduction, ASUS offers an exclusive bundle available through their official eShop, including the Marshmallow Mouse MD100 Lite and Marshmallow Keyboard KW100. These accessories complement the device’s minimalist aesthetic while enhancing its travel-ready functionality. Each purchase includes the ASUS Perfect Warranty, providing additional security for daily users.

    The Zenbook DUO features an impressive 99Wh dual-battery system that ensures extended operational duration, combined with advanced six-speaker audio technology for immersive sound quality. This launch establishes new benchmarks for what professionals can expect from mobile computing solutions in creative industries.

  • ‘The nation mourns’ – Canada leaders react to school shooting

    ‘The nation mourns’ – Canada leaders react to school shooting

    A profound sense of national grief has enveloped Canada following a devastating school shooting in the remote community of Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia. The tragic incident, which resulted in the deaths of nine individuals, has prompted an outpouring of condolences and solidarity from the highest levels of Canadian leadership. Prominent figures, including former Bank of England Governor Mark Carney and Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre, have publicly expressed their heartbreak and support for the victims’ families and the shattered community. The shooting represents one of the most severe acts of school violence in the country’s recent history, sending shockwaves far beyond the borders of the small town. Local authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack, while crisis support teams and mental health resources are being mobilized to assist survivors and first responders grappling with the trauma. The event has reignited a national conversation on community safety, gun control measures, and the protection of educational institutions, underscoring a collective resolve to prevent future tragedies of this magnitude.

  • Dawson’s Creek star James Van Der Beek dies aged 48

    Dawson’s Creek star James Van Der Beek dies aged 48

    The entertainment world mourns the loss of acclaimed actor James Van Der Beek, who passed away at age 48 following a courageous battle with colorectal cancer. Best known for his iconic portrayal of Dawson Leery in the seminal teen drama Dawson’s Creek, the performer’s family confirmed his peaceful passing in a heartfelt statement released through his social media channels.

    Van Der Beek’s cancer journey began with a diagnosis in late 2023, though he only disclosed his condition publicly in November 2024. The father of six initially noticed subtle changes in his bodily functions—common early indicators of bowel cancer—which prompted him to undergo medical screening. Diagnostic tests revealed the disease had progressed to stage three, indicating spread to adjacent lymph nodes.

    Throughout his treatment, the actor transformed his personal health struggle into an opportunity for public education. In candid interviews, he detailed both the physical challenges and emotional turmoil of confronting a life-threatening illness. “I had to rediscover my fundamental worth beyond the roles I cherished as a provider, husband, and father,” Van Der Beek reflected during his treatment period.

    Beyond his signature role in Dawson’s Creek (1998-2003), Van Der Beek’s career encompassed memorable performances in the sports drama Varsity Blues (1999), a self-parodying turn in Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23, and competitive dancing on Dancing with the Stars. His most recent work included a guest appearance in Prime Video’s college comedy Overcompensating earlier this year.

    Even during intensive treatment, Van Der Beek maintained his commitment to both his craft and philanthropy. His final public appearance occurred virtually at a September Dawson’s Creek reunion charity event benefiting F Cancer, where castmates including Katie Holmes and Michelle Williams paid moving tribute to their absent friend.

    Medical experts note that colorectal cancer originates from polyps in the colon’s lining and remains more prevalent among men. While screening advancements have improved early detection rates, concerning trends show rising incidence among younger demographics—a reality that Van Der Beek sought to address through his advocacy work.

    The actor is survived by his wife and six children, leaving behind a legacy that transcends his on-screen accomplishments to include his courageous cancer awareness advocacy.

  • UAE closes 230 social media accounts for unlicenced domestic worker hiring in 2025

    UAE closes 230 social media accounts for unlicenced domestic worker hiring in 2025

    In a significant enforcement action against illegal recruitment practices, the United Arab Emirates has terminated 230 social media accounts throughout 2025 for promoting unlicensed domestic worker hiring services. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) announced this crackdown on February 11, 2026, revealing that these accounts operated without official ministry licenses or affiliations with authorized recruitment agencies.

    The ministry emphasized that these unauthorized operations constitute clear violations of the UAE’s Domestic Workers Law, carrying potential legal consequences for both the unlicensed operators and employers who engage their services. Officials warned that dealing with unlicensed recruiters jeopardizes employers’ legal protections and bypasses critical mandatory procedures including comprehensive medical examinations, background verification checks, and conduct assessments.

    Licensed recruitment offices in the UAE adhere to strict service quality standards and operate under specific terms and conditions, including approved pricing structures within comprehensive service packages. These authorized agencies provide trained and qualified domestic workers capable of delivering required services while maintaining safe and healthy family environments.

    Emirati families and resident employers have been strongly advised to exclusively utilize licensed domestic worker recruitment offices. The ministry has encouraged the public to report suspicious advertisements or unethical practices on social media platforms through the dedicated hotline 600590000. Additionally, citizens can verify licensed agencies through the official list available on the ministry’s website.

    This enforcement action follows previous warnings from Dubai Police about fraudulent recruitment advertisements on social media platforms, indicating an ongoing coordinated effort to regulate the domestic worker recruitment sector and protect both employers and workers from exploitation.

  • European airlines warn of ‘severe disruption’ from new border checks

    European airlines warn of ‘severe disruption’ from new border checks

    Major European aviation associations have issued a stark warning regarding the European Union’s newly implemented Entry/Exit System (EES), predicting potentially catastrophic disruptions during the upcoming peak travel season. In a coordinated appeal to European authorities, industry leaders expressed grave concerns about the system’s operational readiness.

    The Airports Council International (ACI Europe), Airlines for Europe (A4E), and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) jointly communicated their apprehensions to European Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner. Their letter highlighted that despite the system’s phased implementation since October, airports are already experiencing excessive border control waiting times extending to two hours.

    The EES represents a significant technological advancement in border management, designed to replace traditional passport stamps with automated biometric data collection including photographs and fingerprints for non-EU nationals. The system aims to enhance information sharing among the 27 Schengen member states and improve detection of visa overstays and previously refused entrants.

    However, aviation authorities identify two critical challenges: chronic understaffing at border control points and unresolved technical issues with the automated systems. The industry groups have urgently requested clarification regarding potential flexibility measures, including whether Schengen members might partially or fully suspend EES implementation until October to accommodate summer travel demands.

    The core concern centers on projections that without immediate intervention, peak summer months could see queue times escalating to four hours or more, creating severe operational challenges for airports, airlines, and travelers alike. This warning comes as the European travel industry prepares for its busiest season since before the pandemic.

  • Vonn ‘making progress’ after third leg operation

    Vonn ‘making progress’ after third leg operation

    Olympic champion Lindsey Vonn continues her medical recovery following a catastrophic crash during the Winter Games downhill event in Cortina. The decorated American skier has undergone a third surgical procedure to address a complex tibia fracture sustained when she struck a gate just 13 seconds into her run on Sunday.

    The incident occurred merely nine days after Vonn had ruptured ligaments in her left knee during training in Switzerland. Despite this pre-existing injury, the determined athlete chose to compete in what was intended to be her final Olympic appearance. Medical teams airlifted Vonn from the piste to Treviso Hospital where she received her diagnosis and subsequent treatments.

    In an Instagram update, Vonn shared: “I had my third surgery today and it was successful. Success today has a completely different meaning than it did a few days ago. I’m making progress and while it is slow, I know I’ll be OK.” The skiing legend expressed profound gratitude toward medical staff, friends, family, and global supporters while also congratulating her Team USA colleagues for their ongoing performances.

    Vonn’s career has been marked by extraordinary achievement and persistent injury challenges. The 2010 Olympic downhill champion retired in 2019 as the most accomplished female skier in history, only to announce a surprising comeback in 2024 following partial right knee replacement surgery. Her return yielded eight World Cup podium finishes, including two victories, generating medal expectations for these final Games.

    Despite the heartbreaking conclusion to her Olympic journey, Vonn maintains she has “no regrets,” emphasizing: “I dared to dream and had worked so hard to achieve it.”

  • Female shooter? Nine killed in Canada mass shooting that targeted school, residence

    Female shooter? Nine killed in Canada mass shooting that targeted school, residence

    A remote mountain community in western Canada is grappling with an unprecedented tragedy after a mass shooting claimed nine lives and left 27 injured at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and a connected residence. The horrific incident, which unfolded on Tuesday in the picturesque foothills of the Rockies, represents one of Canada’s deadliest school shootings in recent history.

    According to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the attack resulted in two critically injured victims and 25 others with non-life-threatening wounds. While Canadian media outlets have reported the shooter was female, authorities have declined to confirm the suspect’s identity during press briefings. The assailant was found deceased at the school with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

    The violence prompted an immediate lockdown response at the secondary school, where six victims were discovered fatally shot. A seventh victim succumbed to injuries while en route to medical facilities. Simultaneously, police discovered two additional fatalities at a residential property believed connected to the incident.

    Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed being ‘devastated’ by the ‘horrific acts of violence,’ canceling his scheduled appearance at the Munich Security Conference to address the domestic crisis. The community of Tumbler Ridge, with approximately 2,400 residents located 1,100 kilometers north of Vancouver, has been plunged into mourning.

    Eyewitness accounts describe the terror that gripped the school during the lockdown. Student Darian Quist recounted to CBC how disturbing images of the carnage circulated among students during the two-hour ordeal before police tactical teams secured the building. His mother, Shelley Quist, emotionally declared her son wouldn’t be ‘out of my sight for a while’ following the traumatic event.

    The RCMP’s northern district commander Ken Floyd characterized the situation as ‘rapidly evolving and dynamic,’ with investigators continuing to search additional properties for potential connections to the attack. This tragedy follows another recent mass casualty event in Vancouver, where 11 people died in a vehicle attack targeting a Filipino cultural festival in April, challenging Canada’s reputation for low rates of mass violence.