Latest News

UK Considers Abolishing Payments Watchdog in Regulatory Purge

UK Considers Abolishing Payments Watchdog in Regulatory Purge

UK Government Mulls Scrapping Payment Systems Regulator

The UK government is contemplating abolishing the Payment Systems Regulator (PSR) and merging it with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to streamline regulations and boost economic growth. This move is part of a broader effort led by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves to reduce red tape in the economy. The potential decision to dissolve the PSR follows recent changes in regulatory leadership and discussions on the effectiveness of various watchdogs overseeing the economy.

Massive Cryptocurrency Theft at Bybit Exchange

Massive Cryptocurrency Theft at Bybit Exchange

Bybit Exchange Faces $1.5bn Cryptocurrency Heist

Hackers stole $1.5bn in digital currency from Bybit exchange, marking a significant breach. The attack targeted an Ethereum wallet, with funds moved to an unknown address. Bybit reassured users that their assets are secure, despite the substantial loss.

Trump dismisses top US military officers, including highest-ranking commander

Trump dismisses top US military officers, including highest-ranking commander

Unprecedented shake-up in US military leadership by President Trump

President Trump has removed several top military officials in the Pentagon, including the highest-ranking commander and the first woman to lead a military service. This purge also involved the dismissal of five other admirals and generals, signaling a significant change in US military leadership. The move has sparked concerns about the direction of military leadership and raised questions about the impact on diversity and equity within the ranks.

New Bat Virus with Potential to Infect Humans Discovered

New Bat Virus with Potential to Infect Humans Discovered

Bat virus HKU5-CoV-2 found to use same cell-surface protein as SARS-CoV-2

Chinese researchers discovered a new bat coronavirus, HKU5-CoV-2, that could potentially infect humans similar to COVID-19. The virus utilizes the ACE2 protein to enter human cells, although not as efficiently as SARS-CoV-2. Lab experiments showed infection in cells with high ACE2 levels. Researchers also identified antibodies and antiviral drugs targeting the bat virus. Concerns about a new pandemic were downplayed by Dr. Michael Osterholm, citing existing immunity to related viruses.

Menendez Brothers Resentencing Bid and New Trial Rejection

Menendez Brothers Resentencing Bid and New Trial Rejection

Menendez brothers' new trial rejected, but resentencing bid could lead to their release

Lyle and Erik Menendez, convicted of murdering their parents in 1989, had a new trial request denied by the Los Angeles County District Attorney. However, a resentencing bid is pending, potentially allowing their release after 35 years in prison. The bid focuses on new evidence of their father's alleged sexual abuse, which the defense argues influenced their actions. The family criticized the decision, emphasizing the impact of abuse on the brothers' behavior.

Exploring Possibilities: Trump's Eligibility, US NATO Membership, and Musk's Presidential Ambitions

Exploring Possibilities: Trump's Eligibility, US NATO Membership, and Musk's Presidential Ambitions

Insights on Trump's Potential Re-election, US NATO Status, and Musk's Political Future

In a recent podcast episode, US correspondents discuss queries regarding President Trump's re-election eligibility, US-NATO relations, and speculations around Elon Musk's presidential aspirations. Questions arise on Trump's term limits, Russia's NATO membership attempts, and the potential for Musk to run for office. Listeners engage with topics concerning political power, international alliances, and future leadership scenarios.

Labour's Tax Increases Impact Low-Paid Workers

Labour's Tax Increases Impact Low-Paid Workers

Low-paid workers affected by Labour's tax changes on businesses

Labour's upcoming budget changes from April 2025 are causing concern for employers like Cliff Nicholls, who runs trampoline parks in Tamworth and Bolton. The increase in national minimum wage, reduced national insurance thresholds, and higher employers' national insurance rates are pressuring businesses to make cost-cutting decisions. While policies like the National Living Wage aim to support low-paid workers, other changes such as reduced salary thresholds for national insurance contributions could offset these benefits. Additionally, extended employment rights and reduced business rates relief are adding to the financial strain on businesses.

Support for Luigi Mangione in Brian Thompson's Killing Case

Support for Luigi Mangione in Brian Thompson's Killing Case

Luigi Mangione's Supporters Gather as He Faces Charges in US Healthcare CEO's Murder

Luigi Mangione, accused of fatally shooting UnitedHealthcare's CEO Brian Thompson, pleaded not guilty to murder charges in New York. Supporters, including Chelsea Manning, gathered outside court. Mangione faces federal charges with a death penalty possibility. He also faces forgery and firearms charges in Pennsylvania. The incident sparked resentment towards US health insurers, with many blaming insurance profits and coverage denials.

Apple Withdraws End-to-End Encryption Tool in UK Amid Privacy Concerns

Apple Withdraws End-to-End Encryption Tool in UK Amid Privacy Concerns

Apple removes top security encryption tool in the UK to uphold privacy principles

Apple has decided to pull its most secure cloud storage service from the UK due to disagreements with the government over end-to-end encryption. UK ministers argue that strong encryption hinders law enforcement efforts against criminals, while Apple and other tech firms prioritize customer privacy. The UK government attempted to enforce access to encrypted data through the Investigatory Powers Act, leading Apple to disable its Advanced Data Protection tool in the UK, sacrificing an extra security layer for users.

Apple's Removal of Security Tool in UK Amid Government Dispute

Apple's Removal of Security Tool in UK Amid Government Dispute

Apple ceases offering advanced security encryption tool in the UK following government disagreement

Apple has decided to stop providing its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) tool to customers in the UK due to a conflict with the government. The tool ensures that only account holders can access their stored photos or documents online, with Apple having no access to the data. This move comes after the UK government requested access to the data, leading Apple to discontinue the feature. The dispute revolves around end-to-end encryption, with security officials arguing it hampers investigations while tech firms defend it for user privacy.