Author: OMN AI

The United States has terminated a long-standing tariff exemption for low-value goods, altering how Americans shop. Starting Friday, parcels worth $800 or less will no longer enter duty-free and will face stricter customs inspections. Millions of packages daily will be affected. In 2023, 1.4 billion shipments valued at over $64bn entered the US under this rule, according to customs data. Experts warn the change will raise prices, reduce product choice, and challenge small businesses. Katherine Theobalds, founder of Buenos Aires shoe brand Zou Xou, said: “It might be the end for us.” Understanding the de minimis rule Introduced in 1938,…

Tesla Faces Steep Decline Tesla’s European sales plunged in July, falling 40% compared with the same period last year. Data from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) showed 8,837 Tesla vehicles were registered across the EU, the UK, and the European Free Trade Association, down sharply from 14,769 a year earlier. Even with the revamped Model Y, the company continues to lose traction against rising competition. BYD Records Strong Growth BYD’s momentum in Europe accelerated, with registrations climbing to 13,503 in July, more than triple the 4,151 reported the previous year. Its market share has now risen to 1.2%, outpacing…

Experts warn hotter temperatures and reduced rainfall from climate change intensify forest fires across Europe. Record-Breaking Fire Season Europe’s 2025 wildfire season has destroyed over one million hectares, surpassing the size of Corsica.That area is more than four times last year’s total. Fire Statistics Across the EU Authorities reported over 1,800 forest fires, releasing more than 38 million tonnes of CO₂.Only the Czech Republic, Estonia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, and Malta reported no wildfires.Italy and Romania recorded more than 450 fires each.Cyprus reported three fires, but each caused severe destruction.Spain lost over 400,000 hectares, while Portugal burned more than 260,000 hectares.Those areas…

Nvidia has posted record revenue as artificial intelligence demand surges, even while international tensions threaten its growth. On Wednesday, the Santa Clara-based chipmaker reported $46.7bn (£34.6bn) in second-quarter revenue, a 56% increase compared with the same period in 2024. Despite the strong performance, shares fell in after-hours trading after executives admitted the company was still “working through geopolitical issues.” Nvidia remains caught in the escalating trade conflict between Washington and Beijing. Policy changes under the Trump administration, aimed at maintaining US dominance in artificial intelligence, add further uncertainty for the company. AI demand drives record sales Nvidia’s chips have become…

Sharks could face major challenges feeding themselves in the future as ocean acidification threatens to erode their teeth, researchers warn. Shark jaws are lined with multiple rows of teeth, which are constantly replaced as they are lost. However, rapidly acidifying oceans could damage teeth faster than they are replaced, potentially reducing feeding efficiency and impacting marine ecosystem stability. Ocean acidification occurs as oceans absorb increasing amounts of carbon dioxide, lowering pH levels. Projections suggest that by 2300, ocean pH could drop from around 8.1 to 7.3, with “profound implications for marine organisms,” the study said. To test the effects, researchers…

A new study from the Colorado Rockies shows that wild bees strategically select flowers to balance their intake of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Over eight years, researchers observed eight species of bumblebees, collecting pollen samples to analyze their nutrient content. Protein levels varied widely, from 17% to 86%, and the nutrient composition shifted through the seasons, with spring flowers being more protein-rich and late-summer blooms higher in fats and carbohydrates. Bees adjusted their foraging as their colonies grew, reflecting changing nutritional needs. Larger bees with longer tongues preferred high-protein pollen, while smaller bees targeted pollen richer in carbohydrates and fats.…

Delivery Schedule Moved Forward The American plane maker will transfer 25 aircraft to the Irish low-cost carrier earlier than expected. Instead of arriving next spring, the 737 MAX jets are now set to be handed over in October, Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary revealed on Wednesday. He applauded Boeing’s efforts, describing the workmanship as “first-class,” and expressed optimism that U.S. authorities would quickly approve the new fleet. Manufacturer Under Pressure Boeing continues to grapple with a troubled track record of safety and quality issues. The 737 MAX was involved in several fatal crashes tied to system failures, shaking global confidence. In…

Gunfire erupted Wednesday at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis during morning mass.The shooter fired a rifle through church windows while also carrying a shotgun and pistol.Police confirmed the attacker killed two students, aged eight and ten, and wounded 17 others.Authorities reported the shooter then killed himself. Officials found no ongoing threat to residents. Leaders Respond to Violence Police chief Brian O’Hara condemned the shooting as “sheer cruelty and cowardice.”Governor Tim Walz called the attack “horrific” and prayed for students and teachers.Children’s Minnesota admitted five victims, and Hennepin Healthcare treated additional patients from the shooting.President Donald Trump said he received briefings…

South Korea has passed a law banning smartphones and other smart devices during school hours. The country joins others limiting phone use to protect students’ learning and wellbeing. The law will take effect in March 2026. Lawmakers from both ruling and opposition parties supported it. They argue it is needed to combat smartphone addiction, which research increasingly links to negative effects. Parents and lawmakers demand action Supporters say phones disrupt lessons and weaken academic performance. Children spend too much time scrolling instead of studying or socialising. Parents worry devices stop children from forming friendships or engaging in activities. Students remain…

Tariffs Put Pressure on Indian Exports Washington has enforced new 50% import duties on Indian products, a move set to impact shipments of textiles, seafood, precious stones, and other goods. The sharp increase is expected to disrupt export industries and heighten tensions between the two countries. Push for Self-Sufficiency and National Pride Prime Minister Narendra Modi has countered with a strong appeal for citizens to embrace local production. In his Independence Day address, he encouraged shopkeepers and businesses to highlight Indian-made items, framing self-sufficiency as a matter of dignity and national strength. Tax Cuts to Stimulate Consumption In response to…