US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping met for the first time in six years, raising hopes that the world’s two largest economies could reduce long-standing tensions. Trump described the talks in South Korea as “amazing,” while Beijing said both sides had reached a consensus on tackling “major trade issues.” Relations have been strained since Trump imposed heavy tariffs on Chinese imports, prompting strong retaliation. A short truce in May failed to fully calm the standoff. While no formal trade deal emerged, both leaders suggested progress. Negotiators have spent months trying to resolve deep differences over trade and…
Author: Grace Johnson
Grace Johnson
Grace Johnson is a freelance journalist from the USA with over 15 years of experience reporting on Politics, World Affairs, Business, Health, Technology, Finance, Lifestyle, and Culture. She earned her degree in Communication and Journalism from the University of Miami. Throughout her career, she has contributed to major outlets including The Miami Herald, CNN, and USA Today. Known for her clear and engaging reporting, Grace delivers accurate and timely news that keeps readers informed on both national and global developments.
The U.S. economy continues to show strength, with real gross domestic product (GDP) rising at an annualized rate of roughly 3.8% in the second quarter of 2025. This growth indicates that economic expansion is still underway. Experts say the increase reflects steady consumer spending, rising business investment, and strong performance in both manufacturing and services sectors. These factors suggest a balanced and resilient economy. Manufacturing output improved, while service industries, including technology, healthcare, and finance, contributed significantly to overall growth. Analysts note that simultaneous expansion across sectors signals healthy economic momentum. Consumer spending remains robust, supported by higher household income…
A major Microsoft failure on Wednesday caused widespread disruption to online services around the world. Heathrow Airport, NatWest, and Minecraft were among the platforms affected, going offline for several hours before engineers restored access later in the evening. Millions of users faced interruptions to banking, work, and entertainment. Thousands of users report website failures Outage tracker Downdetector recorded thousands of complaints from users who could not access websites, send emails, or log into accounts. Many experienced frozen pages, stalled transactions, and unresponsive apps. Microsoft confirmed that users of Microsoft 365 experienced delays, particularly with Outlook. By 21:00 GMT, most websites…
A distinguished American musician and artist has received a prestigious honour in recognition of both creative achievement and philanthropic service in the entertainment sector. The award acknowledges not just the recipient’s influential work in music and performance, but also their notable contributions in giving back to communities and charitable causes. The honouree’s career spans decades of significant output. With a catalogue of acclaimed albums, performances before large audiences, and a reputation for innovation, they have secured a lasting place in the music world. Their creative work has influenced peers, inspired new artists, and reached audiences globally. What sets this recognition…
OpenAI has completed its transformation into a for-profit company. The move aims to attract billions in investment and could set the stage for a future stock market debut. Microsoft strengthens its stake in OpenAI As part of the transition, OpenAI and Microsoft have redefined their partnership. Microsoft now owns a 27% stake in the ChatGPT developer. This marks a new chapter in a collaboration that began in 2019, when OpenAI still operated as a non-profit AI research lab. The revised deal allows Microsoft to pursue artificial general intelligence (AGI) independently or with other partners. AGI is often defined as intelligence…
Amazon is preparing to eliminate tens of thousands of corporate positions in a sweeping restructuring, several media outlets report. The layoffs could start as early as this week. According to The Wall Street Journal and Reuters, the company plans to cut up to 30,000 jobs. The move is part of a cost-cutting strategy led by chief executive Andy Jassy, aimed at streamlining operations and refocusing company priorities. Amazon declined to comment when contacted by international news organizations. Largest layoffs since 2022 If confirmed, the reductions would rank among the biggest in the tech sector this year. They would also mark…
Real Madrid produced a dominant display at the Bernabéu, defeating Barcelona 2-1 to extend their lead at the top of La Liga to five points. Xabi Alonso’s team combined discipline, intensity, and precision in his first Clasico as manager. Jude Bellingham ended his goal drought with his first league goal and assist of the season after recovering from shoulder surgery. Kylian Mbappé continued his lethal form, leading the attack with authority. Yet the victory was overshadowed by Vinicius Jr’s fiery reaction to being substituted. The Brazilian winger reacted angrily after being replaced in the 72nd minute. He ignored Alonso, stormed…
A 100-year-old convent has been placed on the market with a unique condition: its historical significance must be preserved. The sale highlights ongoing efforts to protect cultural heritage while adapting historic buildings for modern use. The convent, known for its architectural charm and community history, has served as a spiritual and educational center for decades. Preservation experts emphasize the importance of maintaining its original features, including stained-glass windows, woodwork, and stone masonry. The current owners are seeking buyers who respect the convent’s heritage. The stipulation ensures that any future use—whether residential, educational, or community-focused—will retain the building’s character and historical…
US President Donald Trump has announced higher tariffs on Canadian goods after Ontario aired an anti-tariff advertisement featuring former President Ronald Reagan. Trump called the ad a “fraud” and criticized Canadian officials for allowing it to air before the World Series baseball championship. “Because of their serious misrepresentation of the facts, and hostile act, I am increasing the Tariff on Canada by 10% over and above what they are paying now,” he wrote on social media on Saturday. Trade tensions between US and Canada deepen Trump’s announcement came two days after he pulled out of trade talks with Canada, escalating…
The U.S. Justice Department has announced plans to monitor polling locations in California and New Jersey ahead of upcoming elections. This move aims to ensure that voting is conducted fairly and within the law. Officials said the monitoring program will focus on safeguarding voters’ rights and preventing any illegal activity at polling sites. Justice Department teams will be present at selected locations throughout the election period. The initiative comes as part of the federal government’s broader efforts to protect the integrity of elections across the United States. Authorities stressed that all eligible voters should be able to cast their ballots…