International

US President Trump accused India of imposing “massive tariffs” on American goods during a White House press conference, stating that India’s high tariffs have hindered US exports. He mentioned that India has agreed to reduce these tariffs significantly, attributing this to the pressure of being exposed for their actions. In his speech to Congress, Trump…

Microchip Technology plans to reduce its workforce by 2,000 employees, constituting 9% of its total staff, in response to declining demand from automakers. The Arizona-based semiconductor company is addressing sluggish demand from automotive clients who are grappling with chip inventory management. Microchip plans job cuts at fabs in Gresham, Oregon and Colorado Springs, affecting production.…

President Trump signed an executive order to investigate how copper imports could impact national security and economic stability. The investigation directive falls under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick is tasked with evaluating whether restrictions on copper imports are necessary to safeguard U.S. national security in sectors like…

In June 2024, around 20% of New Zealand households dedicated 40%+ of their income to housing, up from 18.2% the previous year, as per Stats NZ. On average, households spent 22.2 NZ dollars per 100 NZ dollars on housing during this time, rising from 20.8 NZ dollars in 2019. In New Zealand, a significant portion…

The Elon Musk-led DOGE canceled a $21 million initiative to raise voter turnout in India. DOGE revealed this during a post, sharing about past US-funded foreign political projects. The $21 million was from a $486 million US allocation for enhancing elections and political processes under the Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening. The Indian…

The popular wildlife charity World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is accused of supporting the polar bear fur trade while using polar bear images in fundraising campaigns. Allegations surfaced after a two-year Guardian investigation found WWF enabling the international polar bear fur trade under a policy of “sustainable utilization.” The “sustainable utilization” policy allows limited animal use…

Indian PM Modi said India, inspired by Trump’s MAGA, aims for development with Viksit Bharat 2047. He shared at a US briefing that a developed India is like MIGA, or Make India Great Again. Combining MAGA and MIGA forms a MEGA Partnership for prosperity when the US and India collaborate. The leaders aim to boost…

President Trump unveiled a plan for reciprocal tariffs on all countries, but did not immediately impose them. He directed nominees to develop a country-specific tariff plan within 180 days. They are tasked with considering subsidies and exchange rate manipulation. The 180-day deadline allows time for negotiating with affected countries. Trump stated that most countries charge…

President Donald Trump immediately revoked former President Joe Biden’s security clearances and daily intelligence briefings, citing a lack of trust in Biden’s ability to safeguard national security. Trump questioned the value and impact of continuing to provide Biden with classified information on Truth Social. In 2021, Biden barred Trump from receiving intelligence briefings due to…

South Korea issued a special travel advisory for Santorini and other Greek islands – Anafi, Ios, and Amorgos – due to frequent earthquakes in the past two weeks. Over 700 earthquakes of magnitudes 3-4 hit the islands since January 24. Evacuations are underway, schools are closed, and gatherings are discouraged. South Korean citizens are advised…