Author: Grace Johnson

The 38th China Golden Rooster Awards celebrated outstanding achievements in film, honoring top performers and productions from across the country. The ceremony highlighted talent in acting, storytelling, and filmmaking. “Good Things” (《好东西》) took home the Best Story Film award, recognized for its compelling narrative and engaging performances. Analysts say the film’s win underscores the continued emphasis on strong storytelling in Chinese cinema. Song Jia was awarded Best Actress for her performance, receiving praise for her emotional depth and nuanced portrayal. Critics noted that her role demonstrated versatility and reinforced her status as one of China’s leading actresses. Jackson Yee (易烊千玺) made…

Court Rejects Monopoly AllegationsA US district judge in Washington ruled that Meta did not break antitrust laws when it bought Instagram and WhatsApp more than ten years ago. The decision marks a setback for the Federal Trade Commission, which sued Meta in 2020 and argued the company used these acquisitions to dominate the social-media market. Judge James Boasberg wrote that the agency failed to prove its claims and concluded that Meta does not hold monopoly power. Meta welcomed the decision and said it faces strong competition every day. Meta Leaders Describe Intense RivalryIn April, Judge Boasberg oversaw a long bench…

Pichai warns no business can escape the falloutSundar Pichai says every business will feel the effects if the AI market fractures. He told a major British news outlet that today’s surge in AI investment marks an “extraordinary moment” but also shows clear traces of “irrationality”. He highlighted growing concern in Silicon Valley as valuations rise fast and companies pour huge sums into expanding AI systems. Pichai said his firm can handle a downturn but still faces exposure. “I think no company is going to be immune, including us,” he said. Interview reveals deep industry challengesPichai discussed energy demand, delayed climate…

China has submitted a new “nationally determined contribution” (NDC) for 2035 at COP30, setting an ambitious goal for absolute greenhouse gas reductions. The move reflects China’s growing commitment to long-term, systemic decarbonization. The 2035 target covers all greenhouse gases, signaling a comprehensive approach to cutting emissions. Officials highlighted that the plan aims to strengthen climate action across sectors, from energy and industry to transportation and urban development. China’s submission underscores the country’s intention to align with global climate goals, including the Paris Agreement objectives. The NDC outlines measurable targets and strategies for reducing emissions while supporting economic growth. Experts say…

Trump Makes an Unexpected Political PivotDonald Trump now urges House Republicans to vote for the release of the Epstein records. He states on Truth Social that his party has “nothing to hide.” His shift comes as many Republicans signal they may join Democrats on the vote. The House plans a vote this week on a bill that orders the Justice Department to publish the files. Supporters expect enough votes in the House, though the outcome in the Senate remains unclear. Trump must approve the measure if both chambers pass it. Bipartisan Support Gains Real MomentumDemocrats and several Republicans support the…

Rising Bills Push Washington to Act President Donald Trump rolls back tariffs on a broad range of food imports. He signs an order that removes duties from items such as coffee, bananas and beef. The move follows public anger over rising grocery costs. Trump previously dismissed affordability concerns before Republicans faltered in recent elections. The updated list includes avocados, tomatoes, coconuts and mangoes. Officials say US farms cannot supply these goods in sufficient quantity. Trump Sticks to His Tariff Narrative Trump insists his tariffs never drove up consumer prices. He argues Democrats amplify affordability fears for political effect. He says…

Judge Brings Prolonged Legal Fight to a CloseA bankruptcy judge approved a $7.4bn settlement on Friday that requires Purdue Pharma and its billionaire owners to pay for their role in the US opioid crisis. The ruling ends a long legal battle to hold the OxyContin-maker and the Sackler family accountable. It also releases long-delayed funds for people struggling with addiction. Purdue filed for bankruptcy in 2019 after thousands of lawsuits accused the company of driving the opioid epidemic. Agreement Exceeds Earlier Settlement PlanThe new deal increases the payout by more than $1bn compared with a previous settlement rejected by the…

Apology Sparks Intensifying BacklashThe national broadcaster apologises to US President Donald Trump after Panorama producers merged parts of his 6 January 2021 speech. The edit wrongly suggested Trump directly urged violent action. The 2024 episode will not be shown again. Trump’s legal team threatens a $1bn lawsuit and demands a retraction, an apology, and compensation. The scandal triggers the resignations of Director General Tim Davie and News Chief Deborah Turness on Sunday. The broadcaster contacts the White House for comment. Another Problematic Edit RevealedThe apology follows hours after the Daily Telegraph uncovers a second edited clip from a 2022 Newsnight…

President Donald Trump has signed a short-term spending bill that ends the longest government shutdown in US history. He approved the measure just hours after the House of Representatives voted 222 to 209 on Wednesday night. The Senate had already passed the same bill two days earlier after tense negotiations. In the Oval Office, Trump announced that the government would “resume normal operations” after “people were hurt so badly” during the 43-day shutdown. Since October, most federal services had stopped. About 1.4 million federal workers were either on unpaid leave or working without pay. Food aid programs froze, and flight…

US President Donald Trump says he has an “obligation” to take legal action against a British broadcaster for the way it edited part of his 6 January 2021 speech in a Panorama documentary. Speaking to Fox News, he claimed the edit “butchered” his words and “misled” the public. It is his first public reaction since his lawyers warned of a $1 billion lawsuit unless the organisation retracts the film, apologises, and offers compensation. Trump says editing ‘changed everything’ In an interview on The Ingraham Angle, Trump said he planned to proceed with legal action. “Well, I guess I have to,”…