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The article discusses the White House Opportunities Fund, a state-backed investment vehicle, and its implications for American capitalism. It analyzes the shift towards state capitalism and its potential effects on the economy. The article also touches upon the current economic landscape, referencing various global events and trends, such as the impact of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica and the rise of national autonomy in the age of Donald Trump.

China has been rapidly building up its secret stockpiles of food, fuels, and metals under the leadership of Xi Jinping, in an effort to achieve Trump-proof access to these essential resources. The stockpiles, such as the Dongjiakou oil storage facility, have been filling up quickly, with the latter being 56% full within two years of its establishment. This move is part of China's strategy to ensure national autonomy and security in the face of global uncertainties, particularly with the rise of protectionism and nationalism under leaders like Donald Trump. The article highlights the significance of these stockpiles in China's economic and strategic planning, drawing parallels with the concept of state capitalism and the need for deeper integration to achieve national autonomy.

The article discusses the battle between Google and Microsoft in the AI business models, highlighting Microsoft's unexpected rise to prominence with the help of its exclusive cloud partnership with OpenAI and the subsequent creation of over $2 trillion in shareholder value. Microsoft's success is contrasted with Google's vertically integrated approach, which is beginning to pay off. The article touches on the broader implications of the AI revolution and the different strategies employed by tech giants.

The article discusses whether Airbnb has reached its peak, highlighting the evolution of its CEO Brian Chesky and the company's potential for growth beyond just providing accommodation. Chesky, who co-founded Airbnb in 2007, has transformed from a casual design-school graduate to a tech boss with a more polished image. The article touches on Airbnb's potential to offer more than just a bed to sleep on, hinting at the company's ambitions to expand its services.

The article discusses India's current IPO boom and its positive impact on the economy, drawing a historical parallel with Mumbai's development during the American Civil War. It highlights how the current stock market boom is fuelling investment and potentially leading to long-term economic benefits, much like the lasting impact of the companies established during the 19th-century boom.

The article discusses the culture of self-promotion on LinkedIn, highlighting how users often exaggerate or fabricate their achievements to present themselves as thought leaders or successful entrepreneurs. It uses the example of a fictional character, Bryan Follicle, who claims to have been a millionaire at 14, bankrupt at 21, and a billionaire at 28, to illustrate the absurdity of such claims. The article critiques the prevalence of this behavior on LinkedIn and the impact it has on users' perceptions of success and reality.

The article discusses how artificial intelligence (AI) is improving market efficiency across various industries, including finance, medicine, and used cars. It highlights examples of how AI can save time and money for individuals, such as using chatbots to answer questions, analyzing contracts, and finding the best-value products. The article suggests that AI is radically changing the way markets operate, making them more efficient and reducing the potential for 'rip-offs'.

The article discusses the paradox of globalization in the age of Donald Trump, where national autonomy requires deeper integration. Using Brazil as an example, it highlights how external pressures, such as Trump's tariffs, can impact a nation's politics and economy. The article suggests that countries need to adapt their trade policies to navigate this new landscape.

The article discusses the growing demand for weight-loss drugs globally, particularly in India, where online pharmacies are offering same-day delivery of weight-loss injections. Eli Lilly's obesity treatment, Mounjaro, was introduced in India in March and became the country's second-best-selling branded medicine by September. The expiry of patents in China, India, and other countries is expected to boost the uptake of weight-loss drugs dramatically. The article highlights the trend of instant gratification in India, where urban consumers are accustomed to quick delivery of groceries and gadgets, and are now seeking similar convenience for weight-loss solutions.

The sole survivor of the Air India plane crash that killed 241 people has spoken out about his ordeal, describing himself as the 'luckiest man alive' but also struggling with physical and mental trauma. Viswashkumar Ramesh, 39, walked away from the wreckage of the London-bound flight in Ahmedabad, but lost his younger brother Ajay in the crash. Since returning to his home in Leicester, Mr Ramesh has struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and has been unable to speak to his wife and four-year-old son. Air India has offered an interim compensation payment of £21,500, but his advisers say this is not enough to meet his immediate needs. The airline has been criticized for its handling of the aftermath, with Mr Ramesh's representatives demanding a meeting with executives to discuss their needs and concerns.

An avalanche in Italy's Dolomite mountains killed five German climbers, including a 17-year-old girl and her father. The incident occurred on Cima Vertana mountain in the Ortler Alps on Saturday afternoon. The victims were traveling in separate groups when the fast-moving snow hit them. Rescuers were alerted by survivors from a third group, and a rescue operation was launched. The bodies of three climbers were recovered on Saturday, while the father and daughter's bodies were found on Sunday after a delayed rescue effort due to fog and low visibility.

China intimidated Sheffield Hallam University into abandoning human rights research on alleged Uyghur Muslim persecution, with threats and intimidation directed at university staff in China. The university eventually succumbed to pressure, halting research by Professor Laura Murphy and her team. The UK government has condemned China's actions, and the university has since apologized to Prof Murphy and pledged to support her research.

The Netherlands has agreed to return a 3,500-year-old Egyptian sculpture to Egypt after it was discovered at a Dutch art fair in 2022. The sculpture, a stone head of a high-ranking official from the dynasty of Pharaoh Thutmose III, is believed to have been plundered during the Arab Spring in 2011 or 2012. The Dutch government has pledged to hand it back to Egypt by the end of the year, citing its commitment to returning heritage to its original owners. The return of the sculpture coincides with the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, which showcases Egypt's archaeological heritage, including the tomb of Tutankhamun. The museum's opening has sparked hopes among Egyptologists that it will strengthen demands for the return of other key antiquities held in foreign museums, such as the Rosetta Stone.

The ongoing US government shutdown has caused significant disruptions to air travel, with nearly 13,000 air traffic controllers working without pay. This has led to widespread delays and cancellations at US airports, with half of the 30 major airports experiencing staff shortages. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reduced air traffic flow to maintain safety, resulting in average delays of over three hours at Newark Airport. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has warned that flights will be cancelled across the national airspace to ensure safety. The shutdown has put air traffic controllers under immense stress, with many struggling to make ends meet without pay. Lawmakers are at an impasse, with Democrats demanding an extension of tax credits for health insurance and a reversal of Medicaid cuts in exchange for reopening the government.

The US Supreme Court is set to hear a case challenging the legality of tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, with significant implications for businesses and trade policies. The tariffs, imposed using the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act, have been contested by small businesses and states who argue that the president overstepped his authority. The case could result in the refund of billions of dollars in tariffs collected and may impact future trade negotiations.

US President Donald Trump has ordered the military to prepare for action in Nigeria to tackle Islamist militant groups, accusing the government of failing to protect Christians. Trump claims that thousands of Christians have been killed, but groups monitoring violence say there is no evidence to suggest that Christians are being killed more than Muslims in Nigeria. Nigerian officials have responded by stating that any military action should be carried out jointly and that the country is not taking Trump's words literally. The situation has triggered alarm across Nigeria, with many urging the government to step up its fight against Islamist groups.

The article summarizes five news stories from the previous weekend, focusing on China's rare earths challenge, the G7's new rare earths alliance, and China's hosting of the 2026 Apec meeting in Shenzhen. The G7's alliance is seen as a potential challenge to China's dominance in the rare earths market. Meanwhile, China is set to host the 2026 Apec meeting, where it plans to 'vigorously' push AI cooperation. Other stories covered include how Chen-ning Yang missed out on a second Nobel Prize in physics.

A database listing the deaths of 76 young Chinese scientists under the age of 60 has sparked intense debate in China. The list, compiled anonymously and posted online, has raised concerns about the pressures faced by researchers. However, critics have questioned the ethics of publishing such a list and whether it accurately represents the situation. The compiler claimed the list fills a knowledge gap and could support research and policymaking.

A recent poll conducted by OCTA in September found that Filipinos have high levels of trust in the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) despite public disagreements between officials and pro-Duterte politicians over the country's growing ties with the US. The poll revealed that 75% of the 1,200 people surveyed expressed satisfaction with the PCG's performance over the past three months, while 71% said they trusted the organization. The results indicate that the PCG enjoys broad public approval, particularly in coastal regions where its operations are most visible. The poll's findings come amid tensions in the South China Sea and debates about the Philippines' alliance with the US.

Hong Kong Olympic gold medallist Vivian Kong Man-wai has announced her candidacy for the tourism constituency in the Legislative Council election. To meet eligibility requirements, she has applied to give up her Canadian passport. Kong, 31, was supported by prominent business figures including Sino Group chairman Daryl Ng Win Kong and Kerry Properties chairman Kuok Khoon Hua. She expressed her desire to 'bring honour' to Hong Kong again and highlighted her love for the city and its people. Kong won gold in the women's individual épée at the Paris Olympic Games last year and subsequently retired from her sports career. Initially, she had considered running in a geographical constituency but was barred due to her foreign passport. The Legislative Council election requires candidates to be Chinese citizens with a Hong Kong permanent identity card and no foreign right of abode.

Japanese budget restaurant chains such as Saizeriya, Sushiro, and Torikizoku are thriving in China despite the country's sluggish catering market. These chains are exporting their recession-tested formula of low prices and standardized operations to provide an 'affordable dignity' to customers in uncertain economic times. Analysts attribute their success to their ability to balance low-cost operations with high customer retention through central kitchens, meticulous supply chain management, and standardized workflows.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang is set to promote free trade, encourage foreign investment, and highlight a trade deal with the US at the eighth China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai. Li will address hundreds of government officials, business leaders, and merchants from about 150 countries and regions, and visit pavilions set up by American companies to send a signal that China's vast consumer market remains open for global business. The CIIE, covering 430,000 square meters, has attracted 4,108 companies from around the world and will feature 33 conferences under the Hongqiao International Economic Forum.

World-renowned Belgian neurologist Steven Laureys has joined Hangzhou Normal University in eastern China's Zhejiang province as a professor. Laureys is a pioneer in consciousness research and has used brain-imaging technology to study hidden awareness in unresponsive patients. He has co-authored over 500 scientific papers and received numerous awards for his work. Laureys attended a ceremony to inaugurate the Zhejiang-Belgium Joint Laboratory for Disorders of Consciousness, which will focus on precision diagnosis and intervention for patients with consciousness disorders. The lab will use patients with consciousness disorders as a 'natural model' to study how the brain works.

The article criticizes Bill Gates for his previous stance on climate change, stating that he has finally acknowledged that it is not the biggest threat to people in poor countries. The author argues that Gates' change of heart comes after immense harm was done by him and other climate alarmists who used scare tactics and hyperbole to push their agenda. The article also notes that other climate activists, such as Greta Thunberg, are now backing away from the climate alarmism narrative.

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels suffered a severe arm injury during a game against the Seattle Seahawks on November 2, 2025. Daniels was sacked by Seahawks linebacker Drake Thomas and his left elbow snapped in an unnatural direction, potentially dislocating it. The injury occurred during the fourth quarter with the Commanders trailing 38-7. Daniels left the field on his own with his arm in an air cast. Coach Dan Quinn described it as a 'left elbow injury' and expressed concern, while teammate Bobby Wagner spoke positively about Daniels' character and the team's hopes for his recovery. The Commanders lost the game 38-15, dropping their record to 3-6. Daniels had returned to play after missing three games due to a hamstring injury and a sprained left knee.

Former Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin, known for raunchy party videos, has stated she has no plans to run for office in Finland's next parliamentary elections in 2027. Marin, who was ousted from office in 2023, cited the toll her term took on her personal life as the reason for her decision. She expressed a desire for a more balanced life where she can be more present as a mother and friend. Marin is currently promoting her new book, 'Hope in Action,' and works as a counsellor for the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change. While she has no immediate plans to return to politics, she hasn't ruled out the possibility in the future.

The New York City 'Citizen Idling Complaint Program' has led to some residents earning nearly $1 million by recording videos of idling trucks and buses. The program, launched in 2019, rewards citizen enforcers with 25-50% of the fines collected from violators. Top earners have made between $500,000 and $895,737. However, local politicians and environmental officials are now questioning the program's effectiveness and fairness, as the majority of complaints come from wealthier neighborhoods rather than 'environmental justice' communities. Councilman James Gennaro stated that 'the days of the six-figure bounty hunters are over,' indicating a potential shift in the program's administration.

The article discusses former CIA Director John Brennan's reaction to being confronted about his role in the Russiagate probe and the 'Dirty 51' letter, which falsely claimed Hunter Biden's laptop was Russian disinformation. At an event at George Mason University, whistleblower Thomas Speciale questioned Brennan about overriding CIA Moscow specialists' objections to include the discredited Steele dossier in the 2017 intelligence assessment. Brennan became agitated and defensive, denying any wrongdoing. The article suggests that Brennan's reaction shows he is worried about accountability for his actions. It also criticizes Brennan and other signatories of the 'Dirty 51' letter, including Michael Hayden and Larry Pfeiffer, for their roles in spreading misinformation and politicizing the intelligence community.

University of Alabama defensive back Dre Kirkpatrick Jr., son of former NFL star Dre Kirkpatrick, was arrested during the team's bye week on charges including reckless endangerment, attempting to elude, and speeding. He was released on $1,500 bond. The incident is being investigated by the University of Alabama Police Department. Kirkpatrick Jr. has played in all eight games this season and has nine tackles, a tackle for loss, and one forced fumble. Alabama is currently 7-1 overall and 5-0 in the SEC.

As Russia commemorates the annual day of remembrance for victims of Stalin's political repression, concerns are raised that the country's dark history could repeat itself. Hundreds gathered at Moscow's Lubyanka Square to lay flowers and remember relatives targeted in Stalin's purges. However, the event also drew attention to the current crackdown on dissent in Russia, with over 20,000 people detained for speaking out against the conflict in Ukraine. The article highlights the case of Stoptime, a band whose members were arrested and jailed for performing anti-war songs, and Maxim Kruglov, a liberal politician charged with spreading fake news about the armed forces. The atmosphere at the commemoration was tense, with a heavy police presence and plain-clothed FSB agents taking photographs and videos of attendees.

Five German mountaineers died in an avalanche in northern Italy's Ortles mountains on Saturday. The avalanche occurred at an altitude of over 3,500m near Cima Vertana. Two men survived and were rescued by helicopter. The victims were traveling in three separate groups, and rescuers were unsure why they were still ascending at a relatively late hour. The incident highlights the risks faced by mountaineers in the region, particularly during the winter season.

Nigeria's president has pushed back against Donald Trump's claims of religious intolerance, joining North Korea, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and China on a list of countries 'of particular concern' to the US due to violations of religious freedom. Trump threatened military action against Nigeria, citing the 'slaughter' of Christians, but Nigeria's government insists on respecting its sovereignty while welcoming US assistance against Islamist insurgents. The situation is complex, with both Christians and Muslims being victims of attacks by groups like Boko Haram.

Prince William is set to attend the Earthshot Prize and COP30 in Brazil, with his team hoping to shift attention away from the recent royal scandal surrounding his uncle, Prince Andrew. William will visit Rio de Janeiro and Belem, delivering a landmark speech on behalf of the King and the UK government at COP30. The Earthshot Prize awards will take place on Wednesday evening at the Museum of Tomorrow, and William has expressed his commitment to working together with optimism and courage to address the climate crisis.

The sole survivor of the Air India Flight 171 crash, Viswashkumar Ramesh, has spoken to Sky News about the trauma he experienced and the ongoing impact it has had on his life. Mr. Ramesh was the only person to walk away from the wreckage, which killed 241 people on board and 19 on the ground. He has been left with physical and emotional scars, including knee, shoulder, and back pain, as well as burns to his left arm. Mr. Ramesh is struggling to cope with the loss of his younger brother, Ajaykumar, who died in the crash. He is also finding it difficult to be a father to his four-year-old son and is receiving support from community leaders and advisors. Air India has offered Mr. Ramesh a one-off payment of £21,500, but his representatives are calling for more comprehensive support, including a meeting with Air India's CEO to discuss the ongoing impact of the crash on Mr. Ramesh and his family.

A crowd surge at the Swamy Venkateswara Temple in southern India's Andhra Pradesh state resulted in at least 12 deaths and dozens of injuries on Saturday. The incident occurred during the Hindu sacred day of 'Ekadashi' when hundreds of devotees gathered at the temple. An initial investigation suggests that a broken iron grille meant to maintain the queue of worshippers led to the uncontrolled crowd surge. The temple, with a maximum capacity of 3,000, was overcrowded with around 25,000 devotees. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and state officials expressed grief and condolences to the families of the victims. An inquiry into the incident has been ordered, and strict action will be taken against those responsible.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa is scheduled to visit Washington, D.C., on November 10 and meet with President Trump at the White House, confirmed by U.S. envoy Tom Barrack. This marks the first-ever visit by a Syrian president to the White House and their third meeting. Al-Sharaa, once associated with al Qaeda and designated a terrorist by the U.S. in 2013, led a surprise attack on Aleppo, ending the Assad family's 54-year rule. Trump has shown a positive disposition towards al-Sharaa, calling him a 'young, attractive guy, tough guy, strong past.' The meeting comes as al-Sharaa faces questions on unifying, stabilizing, and democratizing Syria after the civil war that ended last year.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy discussed the impact of the government shutdown on the transportation sector, particularly on air traffic controllers, in an interview on 'Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan'. Duffy acknowledged that the shortage of air traffic controllers poses a risk to safety, but emphasized that measures are being taken to ensure safety. He expressed concern about the financial strain on controllers who have not received a paycheck in over a month and urged them to continue working. Duffy also highlighted the broader impact of the shutdown on transportation employees, including technicians and inspectors who are working without pay. He called for the government to be reopened to pay these essential workers.

Baidu's Apollo Go robotaxi unit has surpassed 250,000 fully driverless weekly rides as of October 31, matching the number reported by Alphabet's Waymo in April. Apollo Go operates primarily in Chinese cities and is expanding to other countries. The company has received 17 million robotaxi ride orders to date and has driven 240 million kilometers without a major accident involving human injury or death. Baidu is competing with US companies in advanced technologies like autonomous driving.

The article discusses the potential return of K-pop to the Chinese market after a content exchange deal between South Korea's national broadcaster KBS and Chinese state media company China Media Group (CMG). The deal could pave the way for South Korean entertainment to re-enter China, which had imposed a 'soft ban' on K-pop content in 2016. Shares of K-pop entertainment companies such as SM Entertainment, JYP Entertainment, and YG Entertainment rose significantly following the news. Analysts believe that the deal is a positive sign for the K-pop industry and could lead to the revival of cultural exchanges between South Korea and China.

The Maldives has become the first country to impose a generational smoking ban, making it illegal for anyone born after January 1, 2007, to smoke, buy, or sell tobacco. The ban aims to protect public health and promote a tobacco-free generation. The country has been working to reduce tobacco use, having banned vapes in late 2024 and planning to set up anti-smoking clinics. Similar proposals have been debated in other countries, including New Zealand and the UK, but have faced challenges. The Maldives' move is seen as a significant step in reducing smoking-related deaths, which claim over seven million lives globally each year.

A federal judge has extended her order blocking President Donald Trump from deploying National Guard troops to Portland, Oregon, until Friday. The decision comes after a three-day trial that saw arguments over whether the Trump administration violated the law by federalizing and trying to deploy Oregon and California troops to Portland. The judge ruled that the federal government's deployment of the National Guard in Oregon exceeded its legal authority, violated the Tenth Amendment, and caused ongoing constitutional harm. The Trump administration has faced multiple challenges over its power to send National Guard troops into cities, with a federal court blocking the deployment of National Guard troops in Chicago last month. The ruling is expected to draw a quick appeal.

Japan is experiencing a record number of bear attacks, with 12 deaths and over 100 injuries reported this year, mostly in northern prefectures. The government has deployed the military to assist local authorities in responding to the crisis, while also increasing incentives for hunters to cull the bear population. Experts attribute the surge in attacks to environmental and demographic factors, including poor acorn harvests and rural depopulation. The situation has sparked a national debate over balancing conservation with public safety.

The Trump administration is pressuring Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah by 2025, with US Special Envoy to Syria Thomas Barrack describing Lebanon as a 'failed state' due to its inability to dismantle Hezbollah's operations. Despite a US-brokered ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel in November 2024, and Lebanon's acceptance of an American plan to disarm Hezbollah by the end of 2025, the Lebanese government and army have not taken sufficient action. Israeli officials and experts argue that the Lebanese army is not doing enough to disarm Hezbollah, and that Israel is the only one effectively disarming the group through airstrikes. The US is calling for Lebanon to fully implement its plan to disarm Hezbollah, with a State Department official stating that an armed Hezbollah is a threat to Lebanon and its neighbors.

A federal judge in Oregon has extended a block on President Trump's plan to deploy National Guard troops to Portland, citing concerns that the move violates the Constitution's 10th Amendment. The judge, Karin Immergut, issued a preliminary injunction, giving her more time to consider the 'voluminous' evidence presented in a trial last week. The Trump administration had argued that the deployment was justified to protect an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building from daily protests, but Immergut disagreed, saying the government had not proven its case. The protests in Portland have been ongoing since early June, with demonstrators occasionally turning violent and blocking cars from entering or exiting the ICE facility. The judge's decision is not final, and federal lawyers are expected to appeal if the final ruling upholds the preliminary injunction.

The article reports that over 735,000 New Yorkers cast early ballots in the 2025 New York City mayoral election, marking the highest early in-person turnout ever for a non-presidential election in the city. The final day of early voting saw around 151,000 voters, with a significant surge in younger voters, bringing the median age of early in-person voters down to 50. The article compares the current election to previous ones, noting that the turnout is higher than in the 2021 mayoral election but lower than in the 2024 presidential election. The article also highlights the change in demographics, with younger voters participating more in the current election.

The Trump administration is facing a deadline to inform two federal judges whether it will continue funding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) using contingency funds during the government shutdown. SNAP is the nation's largest food aid program, serving about 1 in 8 Americans and costing around $8 billion monthly. Courts in Rhode Island and Massachusetts have ruled that the administration must continue funding SNAP, with judges giving leeway on partial or full funding for November. The USDA has a $5 billion contingency fund, and Democratic officials argue that a separate $23 billion fund could also be used. The situation has led to uncertainty for millions of beneficiaries, with food banks warning of a crisis and some states announcing additional funding or novel ways to load benefits onto SNAP debit cards.

The White House announced that China has agreed to restart exports of three critical metals - gallium, germanium, and antimony - to the US as part of a trade truce forged between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The metals are essential for high-tech industries such as semiconductors, defense, and renewable energy. China's export controls on these metals were put in place in December 2024, but the White House stated that China will issue general licenses for exports to US end-users and their suppliers.

Sheffield Hallam University halted research on human rights abuses in China, specifically on forced labour and supply chains involving Uyghurs, after pressure from Chinese authorities. The university's decision to cease the research, led by Professor Laura Murphy, was attributed to various factors including concerns over staff safety and insurance coverage for defamation risk. However, emails suggest commercial interests, particularly the university's relationship with Chinese students, played a role. The halt was lifted after eight months following legal threats from Murphy, but concerns about academic freedom and the influence of foreign governments on UK universities remain.

The article discusses the role of Turkey in the Gaza peace process, with President Donald Trump praising Turkey's efforts to pressure Hamas into a ceasefire deal with Israel. However, Israel has expressed skepticism and criticism towards Turkey's involvement, citing its historical ties with Hamas. The article highlights the complexities of the situation and the differing perspectives of the parties involved.