Major Russian Lender Receives Gold Export License as Sanctions Bite

China has showcased artificial intelligence (AI) technology alongside 7,000-metre (23,000-feet) deep-sea trials of its upgraded Jiaolong submersible, highlighting the potential for similar systems to support decision-making and emergency responses aboard nuclear-powered submarines. The Chinese crewed submersible reached a maximum depth of 7,056.9 metres during three dives in the Philippine Basin in the western Pacific Ocean, according to state news agency Xinhua on October 27. The trials...

China’s fourth aircraft carrier, widely believed to be the country’s first with a nuclear-powered system, could launch as early as next year, according to US researchers, as Beijing pursues a fleet capable of projecting naval and air power far beyond its shores. A launch in 2027 would coincide with the centenary of the People’s Liberation Army, with the anniversary falling on August 1. Beijing has previously used major military anniversaries to showcase developments in its armed forces. The...

China has accused the Philippines of setting up “numerous obstacles” to attending a meeting with defence ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) and of violating “basic diplomatic protocols”. The row, which follows years of tension over the two countries’ competing claims to the South China Sea, saw Beijing sending its defence attache to the meeting in the Philippines – the lowest-ranking Chinese representative at the event since it was first held in 2010. “The...

Christine Lagarde has announced her decision to step down from her position at the ECB. Her resignation will take effect on February 7, 2027, nearly nine months early. Originally, her term was expected to end in October 2027. Speculation regarding her early exit has been ongoing for several months. The announcement coincides with the ECB's interest rate decision the same day.

Jio Platforms celebrated its stock market debut at the National Stock Exchange in Mumbai, where Mukesh Ambani's grandchildren stole the show with their charming behavior. Their playful moments quickly became internet sensations, receiving a flood of comments from online users. The event showcased not only their playful nature but also how Mukesh and Nita Ambani navigated the joyful chaos with incredible patience and affection, highlighting their expanding family bonds.

Mumbai Indians confirmed the exit of Lasith Malinga, Paras Mhambrey, and Carl Hopkinson from their coaching positions. Malinga, a key player and mentor, inspired many during his time with the franchise. Mhambrey contributed significantly to developing the team's bowling talent and understanding its culture. Hopkinson, who joined recently, helped improve the fielding standards of the team as well.

Army Lieutenant General Brett Sylvia has been relieved of his strategy and planning duties within the Joint Chiefs of Staff. This removal coincides with reports of President Donald Trump contemplating new military strikes against Iran. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth previously announced significant cuts to military leadership, emphasizing accountability and a shift in military focus.

In a show of defiance, North Korea has test-fired nearly 10 short-range ballistic missiles into the sea off its eastern shores amid rising frictions with South Korea. This move follows North Korea's threats to revive propaganda efforts and introduce new military assets to the region. Kim Jong Un recently strengthened ties with China, highlighting their support amid escalating tensions linked to past border disputes.

The climate-tech company, founded by Karthika Gopi and Rahul Babu, develops microalgae-based systems to capture carbon dioxide and purify air

A recent examination of 45 plastic cattle tanks has shed light on the significant role that species arrival order plays in biodiversity. Tanks with low nutrients exhibited similar communities irrespective of this order, while high nutrient tanks presented diverse variations. This phenomenon, termed the priority effect, has implications for community stability and ecosystem restoration efforts, cautioning restoration ecologists against presuming automatic self-repair in nutrient-rich habitats.

The Uttar Pradesh government has tightened character verification rules for direct recruitment to government jobs, making individuals associated with organisations that advocate changing the existing social system through violence ineligible for appointment. The order clarifies that political ideology alone, an FIR or a pending investigation cannot automatically disqualify a candidate.

The International Monetary Fund has nominated Min Liao, China’s Vice Minister of Finance, for Deputy Managing Director. His appointment follows the term expiration of Bo Li, which ends on November 30, 2026. Liao has extensive experience in financial regulation and macroeconomic governance, contributing to global economic policy coordination. He has played significant roles in various financial institutions since beginning his career.