Historic Hollywood studio sale amended as buyer moves to cash-only deal
A major global streaming company has revised the terms of its previously announced acquisition of a leading entertainment studio, converting the transaction into a full all-cash deal valued at approximately $82.7 billion. The amendment preserves the original per-share valuation while removing the stock component of the agreement, a move that underscores the intensifying competition and high stakes shaping the global media and streaming sector. The original agreement, announced in la
Historic Hollywood studio sale amended as buyer moves to cash-only deal
A major global streaming company has revised the terms of its previously announced acquisition of a leading entertainment studio, converting the transaction into a full all-cash deal valued at approximately $82.7 billion. The amendment preserves the original per-share valuation while removing the stock component of the agreement, a move that underscores the intensifying competition and high stakes shaping the global media and streaming sector. The original agreement, announced in la
Iran remains largely offline as internet blackout stretches into tenth day amid unrest
Iran remained largely cut off from the global internet on Sunday, January 18, as a nationwide communications blackout extended into a tenth consecutive day following a brief and tightly controlled restoration of access. Internet monitoring organizations reported that limited connectivity, which had been temporarily allowed for select online services, was once again curtailed, leaving much of the country isolated amid continuing nationwide unrest. According to NetBlocks, a group that
Iran remains largely offline as internet blackout stretches into tenth day amid unrest
Iran remained largely cut off from the global internet on Sunday, January 18, as a nationwide communications blackout extended into a tenth consecutive day following a brief and tightly controlled restoration of access. Internet monitoring organizations reported that limited connectivity, which had been temporarily allowed for select online services, was once again curtailed, leaving much of the country isolated amid continuing nationwide unrest. According to NetBlocks, a group that
Pravasi Sampark NRI meet highlights Bank of India’s global banking focus
Bank of India’s Mumbai North Zone recently organised an NRI Meet titled “Pravasi Sampark” as part of its ongoing efforts to deepen engagement with Non-Resident Indian customers and better understand their evolving banking, investment, and remittance requirements. The initiative reflects the bank’s focus on strengthening long-term relationships with the global Indian diaspora by offering customer-centric and technology-driven financial solutions. The event was attended by sen
Pravasi Sampark NRI meet highlights Bank of India’s global banking focus
Bank of India’s Mumbai North Zone recently organised an NRI Meet titled “Pravasi Sampark” as part of its ongoing efforts to deepen engagement with Non-Resident Indian customers and better understand their evolving banking, investment, and remittance requirements. The initiative reflects the bank’s focus on strengthening long-term relationships with the global Indian diaspora by offering customer-centric and technology-driven financial solutions. The event was attended by sen
Iran blocks internet nationwide as military jammers disrupt Starlink satellite access
Iran has once again imposed sweeping restrictions on internet access, escalating its long-standing campaign of digital control by reportedly disrupting even satellite-based connectivity such as Starlink. The latest shutdown marks a significant development, as Starlink has long been considered resistant to conventional censorship and network blocking methods used by state authorities. Digital rights researchers monitoring the situation say the government has deployed military-grade G
Iran blocks internet nationwide as military jammers disrupt Starlink satellite access
Iran has once again imposed sweeping restrictions on internet access, escalating its long-standing campaign of digital control by reportedly disrupting even satellite-based connectivity such as Starlink. The latest shutdown marks a significant development, as Starlink has long been considered resistant to conventional censorship and network blocking methods used by state authorities. Digital rights researchers monitoring the situation say the government has deployed military-grade G
X experiences global outage as users report widespread access issues
Microblogging platform X, formerly known as Twitter, experienced a widespread global outage on Tuesday, January 13, disrupting access for users across several regions. The platform, which hosts a wide range of content spanning news, entertainment, sports, and general discussion, saw users report significant difficulty in accessing both its mobile application and website. Complaints began surfacing as users encountered loading issues, delayed responses, and intermittent service interruptions.
X experiences global outage as users report widespread access issues
Microblogging platform X, formerly known as Twitter, experienced a widespread global outage on Tuesday, January 13, disrupting access for users across several regions. The platform, which hosts a wide range of content spanning news, entertainment, sports, and general discussion, saw users report significant difficulty in accessing both its mobile application and website. Complaints began surfacing as users encountered loading issues, delayed responses, and intermittent service interruptions.
Iran enters near total internet blackout as nationwide protests intensify
Iran remained largely cut off from the global internet on Friday as authorities enforced a nationwide digital blackout while protests continued to spread across the country, intensifying an already volatile political and economic crisis. Internet monitoring data showed that connectivity across Iran had dropped to almost zero for more than 12 hours, severely limiting access to online communication platforms as demonstrators gathered in cities nationwide. According to internet trackin
Iran enters near total internet blackout as nationwide protests intensify
Iran remained largely cut off from the global internet on Friday as authorities enforced a nationwide digital blackout while protests continued to spread across the country, intensifying an already volatile political and economic crisis. Internet monitoring data showed that connectivity across Iran had dropped to almost zero for more than 12 hours, severely limiting access to online communication platforms as demonstrators gathered in cities nationwide. According to internet trackin
India seeks more details from X on Grok AI obscene content action
The Union government has sought additional information from social media platform X regarding the steps taken to address obscene and sexually explicit content linked to its artificial intelligence tool, Grok, and the measures planned to prevent similar incidents in the future, according to sources familiar with the matter. The request follows a detailed response submitted by the platform, which officials have assessed as insufficient in addressing key regulatory concerns. Sources in
India seeks more details from X on Grok AI obscene content action
The Union government has sought additional information from social media platform X regarding the steps taken to address obscene and sexually explicit content linked to its artificial intelligence tool, Grok, and the measures planned to prevent similar incidents in the future, according to sources familiar with the matter. The request follows a detailed response submitted by the platform, which officials have assessed as insufficient in addressing key regulatory concerns. Sources in
Gmail may allow users to change @gmail.com address first in India
Gmail users could soon see one of the most requested features finally becoming a reality. Google appears to be preparing a major update that may allow users to change their “@gmail.com” email address, something that has traditionally been permanent since the day an account was created. While Google has long allowed users with non-Gmail login emails to update their address, those using a Gmail ID have largely been locked in, until now. Interestingly, early signs suggest that India could be
Gmail may allow users to change @gmail.com address first in India
Gmail users could soon see one of the most requested features finally becoming a reality. Google appears to be preparing a major update that may allow users to change their “@gmail.com” email address, something that has traditionally been permanent since the day an account was created. While Google has long allowed users with non-Gmail login emails to update their address, those using a Gmail ID have largely been locked in, until now. Interestingly, early signs suggest that India could be
Chicago Bears fans can use digital Illinois IDs at Soldier Field for age checks
Fans attending Chicago Bears games at Soldier Field will now have a new option for verifying their age when purchasing alcohol, as the stadium begins accepting digital Illinois driver’s licenses and state identification cards stored in Apple Wallet. The update takes effect starting Saturday, coinciding with the Bears’ matchup against the Green Bay Packers, marking a significant step in the expansion of mobile identification use at major sporting venues. Illinois Secretary of Sta
Chicago Bears fans can use digital Illinois IDs at Soldier Field for age checks
Fans attending Chicago Bears games at Soldier Field will now have a new option for verifying their age when purchasing alcohol, as the stadium begins accepting digital Illinois driver’s licenses and state identification cards stored in Apple Wallet. The update takes effect starting Saturday, coinciding with the Bears’ matchup against the Green Bay Packers, marking a significant step in the expansion of mobile identification use at major sporting venues. Illinois Secretary of Sta
US pauses £31bn tech investment in UK amid trade disputes with Starmer government
The United States has paused a multi-billion-pound investment programme in British technology, dealing a significant setback to relations between Washington and London amid ongoing trade disagreements. The decision places the £31bn tech prosperity deal on hold, halting a package that had been presented by the UK government as a cornerstone of its economic and diplomatic strategy with the US. The agreement, unveiled during Donald Trump’s state visit to the UK, was described by Pri
US pauses £31bn tech investment in UK amid trade disputes with Starmer government
The United States has paused a multi-billion-pound investment programme in British technology, dealing a significant setback to relations between Washington and London amid ongoing trade disagreements. The decision places the £31bn tech prosperity deal on hold, halting a package that had been presented by the UK government as a cornerstone of its economic and diplomatic strategy with the US. The agreement, unveiled during Donald Trump’s state visit to the UK, was described by Pri
US proposes five-year social media checks for visa-free foreign travellers
American authorities have unveiled a proposal that would require foreign tourists from dozens of countries, including the United Kingdom, to provide a five-year record of their social media activity before entering the United States. The measure, introduced by Customs and Border Protection, seeks to significantly expand the personal information collected from travellers who qualify for the visa waiver programme. Forty-two countries currently participate in the programme, which allows short-te
US proposes five-year social media checks for visa-free foreign travellers
American authorities have unveiled a proposal that would require foreign tourists from dozens of countries, including the United Kingdom, to provide a five-year record of their social media activity before entering the United States. The measure, introduced by Customs and Border Protection, seeks to significantly expand the personal information collected from travellers who qualify for the visa waiver programme. Forty-two countries currently participate in the programme, which allows short-te
Microsoft Announces $17.5B Investment To Make India AI-First, Largest In Asia
Microsoft has announced a massive 17.5 billion dollar investment to help transform India into an AI-first nation, marking its largest investment in Asia so far. The commitment was confirmed after a meeting between CEO Satya Nadella and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, making it a milestone moment in India’s artificial intelligence growth path. Nadella expressed that the goal is to support India’s future by developing infrastructure, skills and sovereign technology capabilities f
Microsoft Announces $17.5B Investment To Make India AI-First, Largest In Asia
Microsoft has announced a massive 17.5 billion dollar investment to help transform India into an AI-first nation, marking its largest investment in Asia so far. The commitment was confirmed after a meeting between CEO Satya Nadella and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, making it a milestone moment in India’s artificial intelligence growth path. Nadella expressed that the goal is to support India’s future by developing infrastructure, skills and sovereign technology capabilities f
AP Govt Fast-Tracks AI Revolution In Vizag With Google, TCS And Cognizant Investments
The Andhra Pradesh government is pushing forward with high-speed development to transform Vizag into one of India’s biggest AI and cloud-technology hubs. A major milestone in this journey is the AI-powered data centre project being led by Raiden Infotech, associated with Google, approved in October 2025. The initiative is expected to bring a massive USD 15 billion investment into the state over the coming years. Nearly 1 GW of data-centre capacity is planned across Vizag and Anakapalli, mak
AP Govt Fast-Tracks AI Revolution In Vizag With Google, TCS And Cognizant Investments
The Andhra Pradesh government is pushing forward with high-speed development to transform Vizag into one of India’s biggest AI and cloud-technology hubs. A major milestone in this journey is the AI-powered data centre project being led by Raiden Infotech, associated with Google, approved in October 2025. The initiative is expected to bring a massive USD 15 billion investment into the state over the coming years. Nearly 1 GW of data-centre capacity is planned across Vizag and Anakapalli, mak
Trump family wealth drops by $1 billion amid steep cryptocurrency losses
The Trump family’s wealth has fallen by more than $1 billion following sharp losses in a range of cryptocurrency, memecoin, and other speculative digital asset investments. According to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, the family’s net worth declined from roughly $7.7 billion in early September to around $6.7 billion, reflecting the impact of severe volatility in the broader crypto market as well as significant depreciation in Trump-linked tokens. The downturn marks one of the most subst
Trump family wealth drops by $1 billion amid steep cryptocurrency losses
The Trump family’s wealth has fallen by more than $1 billion following sharp losses in a range of cryptocurrency, memecoin, and other speculative digital asset investments. According to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, the family’s net worth declined from roughly $7.7 billion in early September to around $6.7 billion, reflecting the impact of severe volatility in the broader crypto market as well as significant depreciation in Trump-linked tokens. The downturn marks one of the most subst
Illinois launches digital IDs for iPhone users at airports, bars, and restaurants
Illinois residents can now use digital driver’s licenses and state identification cards on their iPhones, marking a significant technological shift in how individuals verify their identity at airports, bars, restaurants, and select venues across the state. The program officially began Tuesday morning following the implementation of a new state law that authorizes digital IDs and enables their integration into mobile devices. Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced the launch
Illinois launches digital IDs for iPhone users at airports, bars, and restaurants
Illinois residents can now use digital driver’s licenses and state identification cards on their iPhones, marking a significant technological shift in how individuals verify their identity at airports, bars, restaurants, and select venues across the state. The program officially began Tuesday morning following the implementation of a new state law that authorizes digital IDs and enables their integration into mobile devices. Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced the launch
India Rolls Out Next-Gen E-Passports With RFID Chips And Enhanced Security Features
India has begun rolling out its next generation of e-passports equipped with advanced digital and physical security layers designed to strengthen identity verification and eliminate fraud. The upgraded system is part of Passport Seva Programme 2.0, which introduces new standards in passport security, digital integration, and citizen services. All new passports issued henceforth will be e-passports, while existing non-electronic passports will continue to remain valid until their expiry, with
India Rolls Out Next-Gen E-Passports With RFID Chips And Enhanced Security Features
India has begun rolling out its next generation of e-passports equipped with advanced digital and physical security layers designed to strengthen identity verification and eliminate fraud. The upgraded system is part of Passport Seva Programme 2.0, which introduces new standards in passport security, digital integration, and citizen services. All new passports issued henceforth will be e-passports, while existing non-electronic passports will continue to remain valid until their expiry, with
Bitcoin loses 10% in a week as crypto markets face volatility and rate-cut doubts
Bitcoin extended its recent downward trajectory on Monday, falling to its lowest level in six months as weakening expectations of a US Federal Reserve interest rate cut weighed on global market sentiment. The world’s largest cryptocurrency was trading near $94,859, a decline of just over 1 percent in the past 24 hours, continuing a broader slide that has erased a substantial portion of this year’s earlier gains. The latest fall marks Bitcoin’s third consecutive weekly decline and pushes its cumulative losses to more than 10 percent over the past week. After briefly surpassing $126,000 in October, the asset has now entered bearish territory, forfeiting more than 30 percent of the advance recorded earlier in the year. Analysts note that the decline reflects a shift in investor sentiment as traders unwind risk-heavy positions amid renewed uncertainty over global monetary policy. Other major digital assets were also under pressure. Ethereum fell to approximately $3,182, while Solana and Cardano saw modest declines over the past day. The broader pullback has been accompanied by a sharp rise in market liquidations, exacerbating volatility and prompting investors to seek short-term safety. Market observers say the shift is tied to rising concerns that the Federal Reserve may delay rate cuts as inflationary pressures persist. This has contributed to a risk-off approach across multiple asset classes, including cryptocurrencies. Edul Patel, chief executive of Mudrex, said Bitcoin briefly dipped below $93,000 before attempting a mild recovery, although market sentiment remains highly sensitive to macroeconomic signals. According to Patel, large institutional investors have begun accumulating again at lower price levels, suggesting a degree of long-term confidence. He noted that buying activity has increased since mid-week, particularly at price points below $100,000. Technical indicators now show resistance near $99,000 and a developing support region around $92,700, which could provide short-term stability if selling pressure eases. However, analysts caution that volatility remains elevated. Riya Sehgal, research analyst at Delta Exchange, said the global pullback is closely aligned with the broader decline across equities and other risk assets. She pointed to more than $700 million in liquidations within the crypto market in the past day alone, reinforcing the view that leveraged traders are rapidly reducing exposure. Sehgal added that chart patterns suggest long-term holders are beginning to lock in profits, a trend frequently observed during the later phases of strong market cycles. She highlighted resistance between $101,500 and $103,200, with key support near $98,500. Should Bitcoin fail to hold that level, prices could slip further toward the mid-$96,000 range. The combination of high volatility, uncertain monetary policy outlook, and cautious investor behavior suggests crypto markets may remain unstable in the near term. Analysts say that without a clear catalyst, Bitcoin and other major tokens could continue to track broader macroeconomic developments, particularly inflation data and signals from the Federal Reserve. For now, traders appear defensive, and the possibility of a deeper correction cannot be ruled out if global risk sentiment continues to weaken.
Bitcoin loses 10% in a week as crypto markets face volatility and rate-cut doubts
Bitcoin extended its recent downward trajectory on Monday, falling to its lowest level in six months as weakening expectations of a US Federal Reserve interest rate cut weighed on global market sentiment. The world’s largest cryptocurrency was trading near $94,859, a decline of just over 1 percent in the past 24 hours, continuing a broader slide that has erased a substantial portion of this year’s earlier gains. The latest fall marks Bitcoin’s third consecutive weekly decline and pushes its cumulative losses to more than 10 percent over the past week. After briefly surpassing $126,000 in October, the asset has now entered bearish territory, forfeiting more than 30 percent of the advance recorded earlier in the year. Analysts note that the decline reflects a shift in investor sentiment as traders unwind risk-heavy positions amid renewed uncertainty over global monetary policy. Other major digital assets were also under pressure. Ethereum fell to approximately $3,182, while Solana and Cardano saw modest declines over the past day. The broader pullback has been accompanied by a sharp rise in market liquidations, exacerbating volatility and prompting investors to seek short-term safety. Market observers say the shift is tied to rising concerns that the Federal Reserve may delay rate cuts as inflationary pressures persist. This has contributed to a risk-off approach across multiple asset classes, including cryptocurrencies. Edul Patel, chief executive of Mudrex, said Bitcoin briefly dipped below $93,000 before attempting a mild recovery, although market sentiment remains highly sensitive to macroeconomic signals. According to Patel, large institutional investors have begun accumulating again at lower price levels, suggesting a degree of long-term confidence. He noted that buying activity has increased since mid-week, particularly at price points below $100,000. Technical indicators now show resistance near $99,000 and a developing support region around $92,700, which could provide short-term stability if selling pressure eases. However, analysts caution that volatility remains elevated. Riya Sehgal, research analyst at Delta Exchange, said the global pullback is closely aligned with the broader decline across equities and other risk assets. She pointed to more than $700 million in liquidations within the crypto market in the past day alone, reinforcing the view that leveraged traders are rapidly reducing exposure. Sehgal added that chart patterns suggest long-term holders are beginning to lock in profits, a trend frequently observed during the later phases of strong market cycles. She highlighted resistance between $101,500 and $103,200, with key support near $98,500. Should Bitcoin fail to hold that level, prices could slip further toward the mid-$96,000 range. The combination of high volatility, uncertain monetary policy outlook, and cautious investor behavior suggests crypto markets may remain unstable in the near term. Analysts say that without a clear catalyst, Bitcoin and other major tokens could continue to track broader macroeconomic developments, particularly inflation data and signals from the Federal Reserve. For now, traders appear defensive, and the possibility of a deeper correction cannot be ruled out if global risk sentiment continues to weaken.
Gen Z Leads Protests in POK Against Shehbaz Govt Over Fees and E-Marking
The streets of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK) are once again engulfed in protests, this time led by Gen Z students angered by rising tuition fees and a controversial digital evaluation system. What began as a small student-led protest over unfair exam results has evolved into a large-scale anti-government movement targeting the Shehbaz Sharif administration. Demonstrations first erupted in Muzaffarabad, where students voiced outrage over the newly introduced e-marking system. The i
Gen Z Leads Protests in POK Against Shehbaz Govt Over Fees and E-Marking
The streets of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK) are once again engulfed in protests, this time led by Gen Z students angered by rising tuition fees and a controversial digital evaluation system. What began as a small student-led protest over unfair exam results has evolved into a large-scale anti-government movement targeting the Shehbaz Sharif administration. Demonstrations first erupted in Muzaffarabad, where students voiced outrage over the newly introduced e-marking system. The i
Vreels App Redefines Social Media With Global Features Beyond TikTok and Instagram
Vreels, developed across the USA and India, is quickly making waves in the global social media landscape. Designed as a one-stop platform for creation, communication, and commerce, Vreels (Virtually Relax, Explore, Engage, Live & Share) merges short videos, chats, voice calls, photo sharing, and even e-commerce into a single, seamless experience. Available in 22 countries and currently in its beta phase, Vreels can be downloaded from both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. The app
Vreels App Redefines Social Media With Global Features Beyond TikTok and Instagram
Vreels, developed across the USA and India, is quickly making waves in the global social media landscape. Designed as a one-stop platform for creation, communication, and commerce, Vreels (Virtually Relax, Explore, Engage, Live & Share) merges short videos, chats, voice calls, photo sharing, and even e-commerce into a single, seamless experience. Available in 22 countries and currently in its beta phase, Vreels can be downloaded from both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. The app
Fake ‘traffic ticket’ text scams return in Illinois with threats and major typos
A wave of fraudulent text messages has resurfaced across Illinois, falsely warning residents of unpaid traffic tickets and threatening immediate penalties if payment is not made within 24 hours. The messages claim to come from the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles and include alarming statements about possible suspension of vehicle registration, prosecution, credit score impact, and extra toll fees. Officials have confirmed that these messages are fake and part of an ongoing scam designed t
Fake ‘traffic ticket’ text scams return in Illinois with threats and major typos
A wave of fraudulent text messages has resurfaced across Illinois, falsely warning residents of unpaid traffic tickets and threatening immediate penalties if payment is not made within 24 hours. The messages claim to come from the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles and include alarming statements about possible suspension of vehicle registration, prosecution, credit score impact, and extra toll fees. Officials have confirmed that these messages are fake and part of an ongoing scam designed t









