BBC and Channel 4 are engaging in preliminary discussions regarding a potential joint venture to combine operations. This collaboration would primarily focus on integrating Channel 4's advertising and video-on-demand services with UKTV. The proposed partnership aims to cut costs and ensure sustainability in a competitive broadcasting environment. While the discussions are ongoing, they are expected to intensify next year based on funding negotiations with the government.

Two attacks on Saudi airports by Houthi rebels resulted in three fatalities and numerous injuries on Wednesday. The strikes targeted Abha and Riyadh's King Khalid airports, affecting Moroccan, Algerian, and Sudanese nationals. In response to threats against oil and military assets, Saudi Arabia has bolstered security measures around key locations. Fighting continues in Yemen, particularly in strategic areas near the Bab el-Mandeb strait, with significant casualties reported.

US President Donald Trump will present the National Medal of Science to Elon Musk and other innovators. The White House event will discuss the impact of private-sector investment in scientific breakthroughs and technology. Musk's relationship with Trump has improved following a previous dispute over government contracts. The awards ceremony is significant as it is the first of its kind during Trump's administration.

This year’s Chinese National Day reception in Washington felt noticeably jollier than those I have attended in recent years. The mood was more relaxed and Chinese Ambassador Xie Feng’s opening speech was upbeat. He even joked about the panda ambassadors at his own expense. The cheerful tone followed President Xi Jinping’s short but successful state visit to the US, during which his counterpart, President Donald Trump, gave him an unprecedented high-level reception that would have flattered even...

The United States should engage with Chinese carmakers and battery manufacturers “strategically”, using targeted safeguards instead of the current “wholesale restrictions”, which could lead US carmakers to lose global market share, according to experts. “We need to consider strategic partnerships,” said John Helveston, an associate professor at George Washington University, during a discussion on Tuesday. “So not just wholesale restrictions, but look at some of the best opportunities and let...

Attacks on tankers in the Strait of Hormuz reached unprecedented levels during the week of September 28 to October 5. There were at least 12 attacks on various tankers, which was the highest number recorded since the Iran war began. The US Navy-led Joint Maritime Information Center confirmed Iran's intent to maintain pressure along key transit routes.

GST Council Meeting 2026: The GST Council, meeting in New Delhi, is expected to propose significant reforms for tax administration. One reform will address arrest powers for tax officers, requiring court orders for detentions. Input tax credits on certain business expenses may also be unblocked, which could benefit various industries. Small taxpayers may see a simplified registration process and reduced compliance requirements.