Business
– On October 7, the African Union officially inaugurated the Africa Credit Rating Agency, or AfCRA, in Mauritius, marking a significant step toward strengthening the continent’s financial infrastructure. The newly formed institution aims to evaluate the creditworthiness of African sovereigns,
– Pakistan’s federal state-owned enterprises had accumulated debt totaling approximately $36.5 billion at the end of December 2025. This represents a 14.3% rise from the previous year, translating to an increase of roughly $4.7 billion at current exchange rates. The
– In 2025, the UAE registered outward foreign direct investment totaling $63.353 billion, as reported by UN Trade and Development. By the end of that year, the country’s total outward FDI stock had climbed to $402.729 billion, marking a significant
– Pakistan increased petrol prices once again on October 6 following the daily fuel rate revision, with petrol climbing by Rs0.88 per litre to Rs393.64, thereby extending the upward trend seen three days prior. Conversely, high-speed diesel experienced a decline,
– During high-level discussions in New Delhi on Monday, India and Switzerland formalized five collaboration agreements. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Swiss President Guy Parmelin led the negotiations, which encompassed areas such as migration, young professionals, transport infrastructure, scientific research,
– Saudi Aramco reduced November crude prices for Asian buyers while raising them for northwest Europe and the Mediterranean. The Arab Light grade was priced at $5 below the Oman and Dubai benchmark average for Asia, representing a $3 decrease
Technology
– The European Commission has introduced a new initiative called the EU Critical Communication System (EUCCS), designed to connect first responders across European borders by linking national networks used by police, firefighters, emergency medical services, and civil protection teams. This
– Artificial intelligence is increasingly penetrating traditional Chinese medicine education, research, and clinical applications across China. Beijing University of Chinese Medicine has created a dedicated large model centered on comprehensive TCM knowledge and educational resources. The Xinhuo TCM system encompasses
– Apple has unveiled the iPhone Duo on September 9, marking the company’s debut into the foldable smartphone market. Starting at $1,999 in the U.S., this device features a 7.6-inch inner display that unfolds, while its closed form utilizes a
– Apple has announced the new iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, bringing significant upgrades in camera technology, processing power, and battery life. These models showcase a 48-megapixel Fusion Main camera with a variable aperture, marking a first
– The United States is actively expanding its domestic battery production capabilities in an effort to lessen reliance on China. The challenge extends deeper into the supply chain, as China continues to hold a dominant position in the production of