Your brief - 24h (10 articles)

The Financial Times reports that Merck's flagship cancer drug, Keytruda, has achieved record-breaking sales, surpassing $8 billion in quarterly revenue for the first time. This development underscores the growing demand for innovative oncology treatments. Analysts have noted that Merck’s dominance in the immunotherapy space is largely attributed to its strategic focus on targeted cancer therapies, a field that continues to expand rapidly. However, concerns about the affordability of such treatments persist, with critics urging pharmaceutical giants to balance profit-making with accessibility. Source 1

According to Financial Times, Novo Nordisk has disrupted Pfizer’s acquisition plans for Metsera, an obesity-focused biotech firm, by placing a $9 billion counteroffer. This aggressive move highlights the intensifying competition in the lucrative obesity treatment market, particularly as global rates of obesity continue to rise. While Novo Nordisk’s bid reflects strategic foresight, the high valuation may raise questions about long-term profitability amidst increasing regulatory scrutiny over drug pricing. Source 3

The Wall Street Journal reports that Meta, the parent company of Facebook, faces mounting challenges in the artificial intelligence sector. Unlike its competitors, Google and Microsoft, Meta’s business model has sparked skepticism among investors, who question the company’s ability to monetize its AI initiatives effectively. Analysts suggest that Meta’s focus on integrating AI into its social media platforms may not yield the same level of profitability as enterprise-focused AI solutions pursued by its rivals. This divergence in strategy could place Meta at a disadvantage as the AI race heats up. Source 19

Al Jazeera reports a tragic incident in which a teenage cricketer in Australia lost his life during training after being struck in the neck by a ball. The fatality has drawn comparisons to the death of Phil Hughes, a professional Australian cricketer who suffered a similar fate in 2014. Calls for increased safety measures in sports have resurfaced, with advocates urging governing bodies to prioritize protective equipment and stricter protocols to prevent such accidents. Source 26

Despite a recently brokered ceasefire, Al Jazeera reports that Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have continued, claiming two more Palestinian lives. This development underscores the fragility of ceasefires in the region and raises concerns about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where infrastructure remains devastated. Critics argue that the ongoing violence further complicates peace efforts and amplifies calls for international intervention to address the deteriorating living conditions in the territory. Source 17

According to Al Jazeera, residents of Gaza are grappling with the challenges of rebuilding their lives amidst ongoing Israeli attacks. The destruction of infrastructure and the lack of resources have left many families displaced and unable to recover. Humanitarian organizations have called for greater international support, but political divisions continue to hinder coordinated relief efforts. The situation highlights the urgent need for a sustainable resolution to the conflict. Source 25

France24 reports that US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping have reached a one-year trade agreement following a high-profile meeting in South Korea. As part of the deal, China has agreed to resume rare-earth exports and purchase American soybeans, while the US will reduce tariffs on Chinese goods by ten percentage points. While the agreement is hailed as a diplomatic victory, critics argue that it reflects only a temporary reprieve in the ongoing trade war, without addressing deeper structural issues in US-China economic relations. Source 7 Source 39

Al Jazeera highlights the challenges faced by ASEAN nations in leveraging their economic influence amidst rising global trade tensions. As the US and China vie for dominance in the region, Southeast Asian countries are striving to maintain neutrality while maximizing economic gains. Analysts warn, however, that the bloc’s ability to capitalize on its economic weight will depend on its cohesion and ability to navigate an increasingly polarized global landscape.

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Al Jazeera reports that the price of gold has surged by more than 50% in October 2025, reflecting heightened global economic uncertainty. Analysts attribute this spike to a combination of geopolitical tensions, inflation fears, and waning investor confidence in traditional markets. While gold remains a safe haven for investors, the rally also underscores the fragility of the global financial system, with policymakers urged to address underlying drivers of instability.

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The death of a teenage cricketer during training in Australia, reported by Al Jazeera, has reignited debates about safety standards in school and amateur sports. Critics argue that educational institutions and sports organizations must do more to protect young athletes, including mandating the use of advanced protective gear and implementing rigorous safety protocols. The tragedy serves as a reminder of the risks associated with contact sports and the importance of fostering a culture of safety in youth athletics. Source 26