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American University of Sharjah has celebrated its 25th annual Global Day, a vibrant two-day event that showcased the rich tapestry of cultures represented within its community. The festivities, aligning with the UAE’s designation of 2025 as the “Year of Community,” underscored the university’s commitment to fostering global understanding and inclusivity.

Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of AUS, inaugurated the event, emphasizing the institution’s role as a nexus for cultural engagement and international collaboration. This year’s theme, “Bridging Cultures: Building Communities,” resonated throughout the campus, highlighting the transformative power of cultural exchange in nurturing a sense of belonging among the university’s diverse populace.

The celebration saw participation from 36 cultural clubs, marking a significant increase of nearly 25 percent compared to the previous year. These student-led groups transformed the campus into a global stage, offering immersive experiences that spanned history, art, and cuisine. Attendees had the opportunity to traverse various pavilions, each meticulously curated to represent the unique traditions of the 90 nationalities present at AUS.

Venues such as the Main Auditorium and Plaza were abuzz with dynamic performances, interactive activities, and exhibitions. Traditional dances, musical performances, and art displays provided a sensory journey through different cultures, fostering an environment of mutual respect and appreciation.

In her opening remarks, Sheikha Bodour highlighted the importance of such events in promoting dialogue and understanding. “Our diversity is our strength,” she stated. “By coming together to celebrate our unique heritages, we build bridges that connect us and fortify the fabric of our community.”

Students, faculty, and visitors expressed enthusiasm for the event, noting its role in enhancing cross-cultural interactions. “Global Day is a testament to AUS’s dedication to embracing diversity,” said Ahmed Khan, a third-year engineering student. “It offers us a platform to share our traditions and learn from others, enriching our university experience.”

The event also featured culinary delights from around the world, with food stalls offering traditional dishes prepared by students and local chefs. This gastronomic exploration allowed attendees to savor flavors from different continents, further enhancing the multicultural ambiance.

Workshops and seminars were conducted alongside the festivities, focusing on topics such as intercultural communication, global citizenship, and the role of youth in fostering inclusive societies. These sessions aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate and contribute positively to an increasingly interconnected world.

ROSHN Group, Saudi Arabia’s prominent multi-asset real estate developer and a Public Investment Fund company, has finalized a SAR 2 billion Shariah-compliant credit facility with Saudi National Bank . This seven-year financing arrangement is designated for the acquisition of ROSHN Front, a premier commercial and retail complex in Riyadh.

The strategic acquisition of ROSHN Front signifies ROSHN Group’s deliberate expansion into the commercial and retail sectors, complementing its existing residential projects. Opened in 2019, ROSHN Front has become a central hub for both shoppers and businesses, drawing over 7 million visitors annually. The development comprises two main sections: ROSHN Front—Retail, offering more than 81,800 square meters of leasable space occupied by leading retail and dining brands; and ROSHN Front—Business, providing over 78,900 square meters of office space housing esteemed government agencies, private enterprises, and multinational corporations.

Avinash Pangarkar, Group Chief Finance Officer of ROSHN Group, emphasized the importance of this financial partnership, stating that the agreement with Saudi National Bank is a pivotal milestone for ROSHN Group, enabling the unlocking of significant value from the acquisition and creating long-term benefits for stakeholders and the communities served.

The integration of ROSHN Front into ROSHN’s portfolio is poised to enhance the retail and commercial landscape of the area, elevate tenant experiences, and attract top-tier brands and businesses. This move aligns with ROSHN’s broader mission to develop integrated, human-centric communities that enrich the quality of life across the Kingdom.

The acquisition of ROSHN Front, formerly known as Riyadh Front, was initially announced in December 2022, with the rebranding to ROSHN Front occurring in September 2023. The complex is strategically located adjacent to ROSHN’s flagship SEDRA project in Riyadh, facilitating potential synergies between the developments. SEDRA is envisioned to house approximately 30,000 new homes upon completion, and the proximity to ROSHN Front is expected to provide residents with enhanced access to amenities, exclusive promotions, and diverse retail and commercial options.

The financing agreement with SNB not only underscores ROSHN’s commitment to expanding its footprint in the Kingdom’s real estate sector but also reflects the confidence of financial institutions in ROSHN’s strategic vision and operational capabilities. As a PIF-backed entity, ROSHN continues to play a vital role in advancing Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives by developing sustainable and vibrant communities that cater to the evolving needs of its populace.

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has assumed a pivotal role in shaping the international landscape under U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration. As traditional diplomatic norms give way to a more transactional approach, the Crown Prince’s influence is increasingly evident in critical geopolitical arenas, notably the Middle East and Eastern Europe.

In the Middle East, Saudi Arabia is leading an urgent Arab initiative to counter President Trump’s contentious proposal for Gaza. The U.S. plan suggests relocating Palestinians to neighboring countries, a move that has been met with widespread rejection from regional stakeholders. In response, Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with Egypt, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates, is formulating an alternative strategy. This plan emphasizes the establishment of a Gulf-funded reconstruction program and the marginalization of Hamas, aiming to stabilize Gaza while preserving Palestinian national aspirations. A summit in Riyadh is scheduled to further deliberate on these proposals, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s commitment to regional stability and its willingness to challenge U.S. policies when they conflict with Arab interests.

Beyond the Middle East, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is extending his diplomatic reach to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The Trump administration has announced potential peace talks with Russian officials, a move that has elicited mixed reactions from the international community. European leaders have expressed concerns that this approach may inadvertently legitimize Russian aggression. Amid these tensions, Saudi Arabia has offered to host summit talks in Riyadh, positioning itself as a neutral ground for dialogue. This initiative not only highlights the Crown Prince’s ambition to elevate Saudi Arabia’s global diplomatic profile but also reflects a strategic alignment with President Trump’s unconventional foreign policy methods.

The White House has barred an Associated Press reporter from attending an Oval Office event after the news agency declined to adopt the term “Gulf of America” in place of “Gulf of Mexico,” as mandated by a recent executive order from President Donald Trump. This move has ignited a debate over press freedom and governmental influence on media terminology.

On January 20, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, asserting that the change reflects national pride and sovereignty. The administration has since urged media outlets and mapping services to implement this new designation. Google Maps has updated its platform to reflect the change, while other services, such as Apple Maps, display mixed usage.

The Associated Press, a global news organization known for its adherence to traditional nomenclature, has chosen to continue using “Gulf of Mexico” in its reporting. AP Executive Editor Julie Pace stated, “As a global news organization, The Associated Press informs billions of people around the world every day with factual, nonpartisan journalism. It is alarming that the Trump administration would punish AP for its independent journalism. Limiting our access to the Oval Office based on the content of AP’s speech not only severely impedes the public’s access to independent news, it plainly violates the First Amendment.”

The White House Correspondents’ Association has also expressed concern over the administration’s actions. WHCA President Eugene Daniels remarked, “The White House cannot dictate how news organizations report the news, nor should it penalize working journalists because it is unhappy with their editors’ decisions. The move by the administration to bar a reporter from The Associated Press from an official event open to news coverage today is unacceptable.”

This incident is part of a broader pattern of tension between the Trump administration and the press. The administration has previously taken steps that critics argue undermine press freedom, including restricting access to certain media outlets and promoting terminology changes that align with its political agenda.

The renaming of the Gulf of Mexico has also led to international implications. Mexico’s foreign ministry has not yet provided a comment on the matter. The executive order has prompted discussions about the historical and cultural significance of geographical names and the authority of a single nation to unilaterally implement such changes.

In addition to the Gulf renaming, President Trump has reinstated the name “Mount McKinley” for Alaska’s Denali, reversing a 2015 decision by the Obama administration. These actions reflect the administration’s broader efforts to reshape national landmarks and terminology to reflect its perspectives.

The Associated Press has indicated that it will continue to use “Gulf of Mexico” in its reporting while acknowledging the executive order’s directive. Other major news organizations, including Reuters, have maintained the traditional nomenclature, providing context about the executive order when necessary.

The situation underscores the ongoing challenges and debates surrounding press freedom, governmental authority, and the role of media in society. As the administration continues to advocate for the adoption of “Gulf of America,” media organizations are grappling with decisions about language usage, editorial independence, and the potential implications for their access to governmental events and information.

Singapore-based cryptocurrency payment provider Alchemy Pay has secured an Electronic Financial Business registration in South Korea through a strategic investment in local e-finance platform EZPG Co., Ltd. This move enables Alchemy Pay to offer a range of financial services within the country, including money transfers, online payment gateways, and digital asset services.

With this registration, Alchemy Pay is now authorized to process cryptocurrency transactions and integrate with prominent South Korean payment platforms such as KakaoPay, PAYCO, and Naver Pay. Chief Marketing Officer Ailona Tsik emphasized South Korea’s significance, stating, “As a pivotal hub in Asia for both traditional finance and digital currency adoption, Korea represents a tremendous opportunity for Alchemy Pay’s long-term growth.”

This development follows Alchemy Pay’s recent expansion into the Australian market, where it obtained registration as a Digital Currency Exchange Provider with the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre . This approval allows the company to facilitate fiat-to-crypto payment services across Australia, enhancing its regional presence and compliance with local regulations.

In South Korea, the Electronic Financial Business registration is governed by the Electronic Financial Transactions Act, which sets the framework for electronic financial services and aims to ensure their security and reliability. Companies holding this registration are subject to regulatory oversight to maintain transparency and protect consumers.

Solana has witnessed significant whale activity, with large investors moving substantial amounts of the cryptocurrency off exchanges, indicating potential bullish momentum. In the past week, a prominent Solana whale accumulated 257,599 SOL, valued at approximately $54 million, suggesting renewed confidence among major investors.

This accumulation aligns with a broader trend of increased whale activity within the Solana ecosystem. Notably, another whale unstaked 2.16 million SOL, worth around $128 million, transferring 1.3 million SOL out, with 312,868 SOL deposited to major exchanges like Binance and Kraken. Despite these movements, the whale retains a substantial holding of 863,000 SOL in their wallet and 9.86 million SOL in staking, reflecting ongoing engagement with the network.

These developments have coincided with a notable price increase for SOL. The cryptocurrency has experienced a 34% rise over the past week, surpassing the $200 mark for the first time since April. This surge is attributed to significant whale accumulation, which has reignited bullish momentum for Solana’s native token.

Technical indicators further support this positive outlook. The Relative Vigor Index has climbed above the signal line, indicating increased buying pressure. Additionally, the On-Balance-Volume has risen from $64.8 million to $71.6 million over the past month, suggesting heightened trading activity and investor interest.

Institutional investors have also shown increased interest in Solana. According to a CoinShares report, institutional funds flowing into Solana have surpassed investments in rival layer 1 tokens such as Ethereum and Avalanche. This trend underscores growing confidence in Solana’s scalability and performance features, attracting substantial capital from institutional investors.

The decentralized exchange activity on Solana has also been robust, with high trading volumes highlighting the platform’s active ecosystem and cost-effective transaction model. This efficiency in facilitating decentralized trading has garnered significant attention, particularly from users seeking airdrops, underscoring Solana’s competitive edge in providing seamless trading experiences.

However, not all whale activities have been bullish. On November 4, a significant sale occurred when a whale offloaded 265,070 SOL on Binance, netting approximately $44 million. Despite this sale, the whale still holds a considerable amount of SOL, indicating ongoing interest in the asset.

India is poised to enhance its naval capabilities through a significant acquisition of 26 Rafale Marine jets from France. The French government has submitted its final price proposal to New Delhi, marking a pivotal step in the procurement process. This development coincides with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval’s scheduled visit to Paris, where the deal is expected to feature prominently in strategic discussions.

The Rafale Marine jets are intended for deployment on the INS Vikrant, India’s indigenous aircraft carrier, as well as at various naval bases. The inclusion of these advanced fighters is anticipated to significantly bolster the Indian Navy’s maritime strike capabilities. Defence sources indicate that the French side has offered a substantial price reduction following rigorous negotiations, underscoring the deepening defence collaboration between the two nations.

A French delegation recently visited New Delhi to finalise the terms of the agreement. The deal’s progression is expected to be a focal point during the India-France Strategic Dialogue, where NSA Doval will engage with his French counterparts. This dialogue aims to further solidify bilateral ties and address mutual security concerns.

India has approved specific modifications in the letter of request for the Rafale Marine jets, including the integration of the indigenous Uttam radar system. While this integration is projected to take approximately eight years and entails additional costs, it represents a significant step towards self-reliance in defence technology. Furthermore, India has requested the incorporation of homegrown weaponry, such as the Astra beyond-visual-range missiles and Rudram anti-radiation missiles, into the aircraft’s arsenal.

The pricing structure of the deal is informed by previous agreements, notably the procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Air Force. Considerations include factors like inflation rates and the inclusion of specific requirements from the Indian Air Force, such as the provision of approximately 40 drop tanks and a limited number of workstations for the aircraft.

In addition to the Rafale Marine jets, India and France are finalising a deal for three additional Scorpene-class submarines. These submarines are slated to be constructed with French collaboration, further enhancing India’s underwater warfare capabilities. Both deals, collectively valued at nearly Rs 1 lakh crore, are anticipated to be concluded by the end of the current fiscal year, reflecting the robust and growing defence partnership between the two nations.

The acquisition of the Rafale Marine jets and Scorpene submarines aligns with India’s broader strategy to modernise its military assets and strengthen its defence posture in the Indo-Pacific region. As geopolitical dynamics evolve, such strategic partnerships and procurements are crucial for maintaining regional stability and safeguarding national interests.

The Rafale Marine, a naval variant of the Dassault Rafale, is renowned for its versatility and advanced combat capabilities. Equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and weapon systems, it is capable of carrying out a wide range of missions, including air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance. Its integration into the Indian Navy is expected to significantly enhance operational readiness and combat effectiveness.

The Scorpene-class submarines, developed by France’s Naval Group, are diesel-electric attack submarines known for their stealth and advanced sonar capabilities. The addition of three more Scorpene submarines will augment the Indian Navy’s underwater warfare strength, providing a strategic advantage in maritime operations.

Financial educator and author Robert Kiyosaki has issued a stark warning about an impending market downturn, advising investors to consider assets like Bitcoin, gold, and silver as safeguards. Kiyosaki, renowned for his book *Rich Dad Poor Dad*, has a history of cautioning against economic vulnerabilities and promoting alternative investments.

In a recent communication, Kiyosaki emphasized that the anticipated market crash is now unfolding, affecting various sectors including stocks, bonds, real estate, and commodities such as gold, silver, and Bitcoin. He described the situation as a “brutal crash” and suggested that this period presents an opportunity for investors, as high-quality assets become more affordable. He stated, “The best assets in the world are going on sale.”

Kiyosaki has consistently expressed concerns about escalating global debt levels and the potential for widespread economic instability. He has been a vocal proponent of Bitcoin, viewing it as a hedge against traditional financial system risks. He has previously predicted that a significant market crash would lead to a surge in Bitcoin’s value, urging investors to “Get out of fake and into crypto, as well as gold and silver.”

The financial expert has also criticized traditional education systems for not adequately preparing individuals for financial independence. He argues that schools often train students to become employees rather than investors or entrepreneurs, leaving them ill-equipped to manage their finances during economic downturns. He stresses the importance of financial education, stating that those without it are likely to suffer the most in the event of a market collapse.

Kiyosaki’s investment strategy focuses on assets that he believes can withstand economic turbulence. He advocates for a diversified approach, including investments in physical gold and silver, as well as Bitcoin. He views these assets as protection against currency devaluation and market instability, advising investors to consider them as part of their portfolios.

While Kiyosaki’s predictions have been met with both support and skepticism, his warnings come at a time when global markets are experiencing significant volatility. Recent policy decisions, such as the introduction of new trade tariffs by the U.S. government on countries including Canada, Mexico, and China, have contributed to market instability. These developments have led to substantial losses in various asset classes, prompting investors to seek safer alternatives.

During the Super Bowl LIX halftime performance at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, a protester brandishing a Palestinian flag disrupted Kendrick Lamar’s set. The individual, who was part of the 400-member field cast, ascended the stage and unfurled a flag that combined the Palestinian and Sudanese emblems, with the words “Gaza” and “Sudan” inscribed respectively. Security personnel swiftly intervened, apprehending the protester and escorting him off the field. The New Orleans Police Department is currently evaluating potential charges against the individual.

The National Football League confirmed that the protester had concealed the flag until the performance commenced, and that neither the production team nor the organizers were aware of his intentions. Roc Nation, the company responsible for producing the halftime show, stated that the act was neither planned nor part of the official production.

Kendrick Lamar continued his performance without interruption, delivering a set that included collaborations with artists such as SZA and Samuel L. Jackson. The halftime show was notable for Lamar’s position as the first solo hip-hop artist to headline the event.

The Super Bowl, attended by President Donald Trump, concluded with the Philadelphia Eagles defeating the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22. This victory served as redemption for the Eagles, who had previously lost to the Chiefs in an earlier Super Bowl matchup.

The incident occurred amidst a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, as well as ongoing civil unrest in Sudan since 2023. The protester’s actions have sparked discussions about the intersection of political expression and entertainment events, highlighting the challenges organizers face in maintaining security while respecting freedom of speech.

In the aftermath of the game, celebrations in Philadelphia escalated into chaos, with fans setting fires, climbing on police vehicles, and engaging in brawls. Law enforcement agencies are investigating the disturbances, aiming to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the disorderly conduct.

Saudi Arabia’s Capital Market Authority has released draft amendments to its Investment Funds Regulations, seeking public feedback until 5 November 2024. The proposed changes aim to enhance investor protection, particularly for retail clients engaging with private and foreign investment funds.

A key proposal mandates that fund managers secure equal or greater cash subscriptions from qualified and institutional clients before offering private fund units to retail investors. Similarly, foreign fund securities cannot be privately offered to retail clients unless matching cash subscriptions are obtained from qualified and institutional clients within the Kingdom. This initiative addresses concerns that private and foreign funds, which operate under fewer regulatory constraints than public funds, may pose higher risks to retail investors.

In 2021, the CMA permitted retail clients to invest up to SAR 200,000 in private and foreign funds without specifying their subscription percentage. The current draft amendments aim to set specific percentages for retail client subscriptions to mitigate risk exposure and enhance protection. The CMA emphasizes that these proposals will strengthen investor protection by addressing the risks associated with private and foreign funds.

The CMA encourages stakeholders, market participants, and the public to share their insights on these proposed amendments. Comments can be submitted via the Unified Electronic Platform for Public Consultation or through the CMA’s official email channels. All feedback will be carefully reviewed before finalizing the regulatory amendments.

These proposed amendments are part of the CMA’s ongoing commitment to enhance investor protection by refining the requirements for offering private and foreign investment funds to retail investors. The CMA aims to increase market transparency, enhance investor protection, and boost market participation.

As Saudi Arabia continues to diversify its economy and expand its financial markets, these measures will contribute to a safer and more appealing environment for both local and international investors.

Chinese startup DeepSeek has rapidly emerged as a formidable player in the artificial intelligence sector, challenging established norms with its cost-effective AI model. Founded in 2021 by hedge fund manager Liang Wenfeng, DeepSeek developed its R1 model in just two months, utilizing Nvidia’s H800 chips and investing under $6 million—a stark contrast to the substantial budgets typically associated with AI development. citeturn0search3

The R1 model’s launch has had significant global repercussions. Downloads of DeepSeek’s app have surpassed those of OpenAI’s ChatGPT on Apple’s App Store, indicating a swift rise in user adoption. The model’s performance and affordability have prompted a reevaluation of AI development strategies worldwide, challenging the notion that advanced AI requires substantial financial and computational resources. citeturn0search0

In India, DeepSeek’s success has ignited discussions about the nation’s position in the AI landscape. Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw praised DeepSeek’s frugal innovation, drawing parallels to India’s own AI ambitions. In March 2024, the government announced the IndiaAI mission, committing $1.25 billion to fund AI startups and develop indigenous AI infrastructure. Vaishnaw emphasized the importance of strategic investment and innovation, stating, “Some people question the amount of investments the government has committed in [the IndiaAI mission]. You have seen what DeepSeek has done? $5.5 million and a very very powerful model. Because, the use of brain.” citeturn0search0

Despite these initiatives, industry experts highlight challenges that may impede India’s ability to replicate DeepSeek’s achievements. Structural issues in education, limited funding for research and development, and a cautious investment culture are cited as significant barriers. Entrepreneur GDP noted, “You need to be able to walk before you can run. There is no protected market to practice your craft in early days. You will get replaced by American service providers as they are cheaper and better every single time.” citeturn0search5

To bridge this gap, there are calls for the establishment of a government-backed fund dedicated to AI research. GDP proposed creating an Indian equivalent of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency , suggesting a national program with a $3 billion budget over three years to support AI teams without immediate revenue expectations. This approach aims to foster innovation and allow for the development of competitive AI models. citeturn0search5

The global AI community is closely monitoring DeepSeek’s impact on the market. The company’s approach has not only challenged established players but also demonstrated that significant advancements in AI can be achieved with strategic investment and efficient resource utilization. As nations like India seek to bolster their AI capabilities, DeepSeek’s model offers both inspiration and a benchmark for what can be accomplished with focused effort and innovation.