Your brief - 24h (14 articles)

According to the Financial Times, global merger and acquisition (M&A) activity has reached $1 trillion in the third quarter of 2025, marking a 33% year-over-year increase. This sets the year up to be the strongest for dealmaking since 2021. Analysts attribute this surge to easing inflationary pressures and a resurgence of corporate confidence, particularly in sectors such as technology and healthcare. However, skepticism lingers over whether this momentum can be sustained amid geopolitical tensions and fluctuating global interest rates. Critics also point to the risks of consolidation reducing competition in key industries. Source 9

The Financial Times reports that retail prices in the United Kingdom are experiencing their fastest rate of increase in a year and a half, largely driven by food inflation. Data from the British Retail Consortium shows food prices rising even as costs for other retail goods decline. This inflationary pressure comes as households continue to grapple with rising energy costs. Economists warn that the Bank of England may need to consider further interest rate hikes to curb inflation, though this could weigh on consumer spending and economic growth. Source 25

As noted by the Financial Times, emerging market assets are showing a surprising rally in 2025, defying concerns over the global economic slowdown and the lingering effects of trade disputes. Analysts suggest that strong commodity prices and increased foreign investment are driving this recovery. However, some caution that this rally may be temporary, given vulnerabilities to shifts in U.S. monetary policy and ongoing geopolitical instability in regions such as Latin America and Southeast Asia. Source 11

The Financial Times highlights a significant shift in the Southeast Asian car market, where affordable Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) are rapidly gaining market share at the expense of traditional Japanese automakers. This trend reflects China's aggressive push to dominate the global EV industry. Observers note that while this competition could drive innovation and lower prices, it may also pose challenges for Japanese automakers to adapt quickly to changing consumer preferences and regional trade dynamics. Source 12

According to the Financial Times, Nigeria is emerging as a major importer of Chinese solar panels as the country seeks to diversify its energy sources. This trend is emblematic of a broader shift across Africa, where demand for renewable energy solutions is accelerating. While this growth offers a pathway to reducing reliance on fossil fuels, concerns remain over the environmental and economic implications of relying heavily on imported technology.

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The Financial Times reports that U.S. lawmakers are struggling to reach a deal to prevent a government shutdown, with federal funding set to expire imminently. Vice President Vance has blamed Democrats for the impasse, while Democratic leaders argue that extending healthcare subsidies is a critical priority. The standoff underscores the deep partisan divisions in Congress, raising concerns over the potential economic and administrative fallout of a prolonged shutdown. Source 22 Source 30 Source 31

As reported by the Financial Times, the European Union is taking steps to advance Ukraine's accession process, bypassing Hungary’s opposition. Brussels has advised Kyiv to proceed with technical preparations, reflecting growing EU support for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. While this move highlights the EU's strategic commitment to Ukraine, it also exposes divisions within the bloc, particularly over Hungary's alignment with Moscow. Source 7

According to The Guardian, former U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have unveiled a 20-point peace plan for Gaza. The proposal comes with a strong ultimatum to Hamas to either accept the terms or face military consequences. While the leaders have hailed the plan as a historic breakthrough, critics argue that it fails to address the underlying humanitarian crisis in Gaza and risks escalating tensions further.

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The New York Times reports that California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed one of the most comprehensive AI safety laws in the United States. The legislation introduces stringent rules on the development and deployment of artificial intelligence technologies, aiming to mitigate risks such as bias and misuse. While advocates praise the law as a crucial step in regulating AI, industry leaders warn that overly strict regulations could stifle innovation and competitiveness. Source 35

The Guardian indicates that South Korea has elevated its national cybersecurity threat level following a fire at a government data center, which disrupted critical digital infrastructure. Authorities fear that hackers could exploit vulnerabilities during the recovery process. This incident underscores the growing need for robust cybersecurity measures as digital infrastructure becomes increasingly integral to national security.

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The Guardian has reported on a tragic school collapse in East Java, Indonesia, where at least one student has died, and 65 others remain trapped under rubble. Rescuers are racing against time to save survivors, with concerns over the structural integrity of the building complicating efforts. This disaster has reignited debates over safety standards in Indonesian schools, highlighting the urgent need for better enforcement of building regulations to prevent future tragedies. Source 17