The Economic Times
Elections 2026Global Business / The Economic Times
Galderma, Natura, and L'Oreal are developing treatments for consumers experiencing facial sagging due to rapid weight loss. These companies are responding to increased demand linked to the popularity of GLP-1 obesity drugs. Experts indicate that rapid weight loss may lead to skin laxity and diminished facial volume. While existing treatments show promise, some limitations remain in addressing deeper facial structure issues.
Global commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions are insufficient, threatening to push temperatures up to 2.6C by 2100. The UN warns that current climate pledges will not meet the agreed Paris goals, with dire consequences expected. Major emitters must take immediate action to significantly lower emissions, as a leadership gap remains evident. Climate impacts are already being felt worldwide, affecting all countries, including the United States.
Donald Trump has urged data centre companies to generate their own electricity for local communities. He suggests offering a financial dividend to enhance the popularity of data centres. Trump believes that such financial incentives can turn unpopular centres into well-received facilities in the area. Additionally, he emphasizes that these centres could contribute to lower electricity prices for local residents.
Global warming is now projected to exceed previous estimates, with average temperatures expected to rise significantly. Urgent and stringent cuts in greenhouse gas emissions are crucial to achieve best-case outcomes by mid-century. Current national emissions reduction plans fall far short of the necessary targets outlined in the recent UN report. As countries prepare for COP31 in Turkey, the need for decisive action becomes increasingly urgent.
China aims for the COP31 summit to discuss new challenges like tariffs on its clean technology. The country emphasizes the need for climate finance for developing nations as a priority at the conference. Officials have raised concerns over unilateralism and protectionism affecting global climate efforts. China also highlights its leadership in producing renewable energy technology such as solar panels and electric cars.
US President Donald Trump asserts that America is experiencing a golden age, despite rising costs affecting citizens. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance acknowledges the frustrations many voters feel due to high gas prices. Economic confidence continues to decline, with inflation affecting multiple sectors. Supporters have mixed feelings about the president's optimistic outlook on the economy.
China has claimed it has sovereignty over the Pratas Islands, located strategically in the South China Sea. The Chinese coast guard has been patrolling these waters to enforce what it describes as law enforcement. Taiwan has rejected these claims, insisting that only its people can decide their future. Taiwan's officials believe that Beijing's policy towards the island is becoming more aggressive.
France is experiencing significant protests driven by rising living costs and poor conditions in schools. Recent demonstrations have escalated into violence, resulting in thousands of arrests and clashes with police. Critics say government response to protests has escalated police violence and increased public mistrust. The tradition of public protest in France dates back to the 1789 revolution, highlighting civic engagement as a duty.
Bangladesh has requested clarification about the execution of two Bangladeshi nationals in Saudi Arabia. These executions occurred without prior notification to Bangladeshi authorities on October 14. The Bangladeshi government is seeking copies of court verdicts and details about the offenses. Saudi Arabia has not yet responded to these inquiries from Bangladesh. The situation remains sensitive given the large Bangladeshi workforce in Saudi Arabia and their remittances.
Hibsago, GSK's new hepatitis B treatment, recently secured approval from the US FDA, allowing patients to better manage their condition after therapy. This approval is vital as GSK aims for annual revenues of over 40 billion by 2031. The drug is already approved in Japan and is being assessed in China and Europe. Collaboration with Ionis Pharmaceuticals means they will receive milestone payments.
Protests erupted across Indonesia as students demanded action on rising living costs and environmental issues. Demonstrators criticized the government's handling of forest fires that generated toxic haze affecting public health. In Jakarta, students called for stronger protections for civil liberties and affordable healthcare. Meanwhile, the Presidential Chief of Staff announced measures to tackle forest fires and expedite corporate investigations.
Protests in Tirana escalated as police employed tear gas and water cannons against demonstrators seeking reform. Students are demanding lower tuition fees, enhanced state investment in education, and government accountability regarding corruption. Protests have erupted across several European countries due to rising living costs and housing concerns among citizens. Prime Minister Edi Rama condemned the violence but acknowledged the legitimacy of the protesters' grievances.
The Trump administration's recent sanctions on five Chinese companies have drawn firm opposition from Beijing, with ties to Linwei Ding, who faces charges of trade secret theft from Google. The U.S. State Department pointed out that significant violations occurred after January 2023. China's commerce ministry firmly defended their AI progress as a product of independent innovation, signaling potential responsive actions without revealing specific plans yet.
Elon Musk has expressed support for a potential merger between Tesla and SpaceX. This merger could create a technology and manufacturing powerhouse worth approximately $3.5 trillion. By combining their resources, both companies could streamline operations and enhance collaboration on projects like AI and robotics. However, there are challenges related to governance, regulatory scrutiny, and execution risks that need to be addressed.
Meta has taken steps to comply with a court order for equal treatment of presidential candidates in Brazil. The electoral court directed the company to ensure balanced platform coverage before the upcoming runoff election. This follows allegations from President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's campaign regarding biased algorithms favoring his opponent, Flavio Bolsonaro. Meta has implemented measures to uphold electoral advertisement regulations amidst growing tensions.
The US and India are reportedly close to finalizing a new trade deal. President Donald Trump indicated that this deal would be significantly different from prior agreements. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's visit to India aims to strengthen various bilateral relations. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal recently engaged with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer to discuss the trade deal. The discussions follow the recent framework finalization of the bilateral trade agreement.
Oil prices are climbing amid increasing supply worries in the Middle East. Ongoing attacks on maritime vessels beyond the Strait of Hormuz have heightened shipping risks. The Houthis have taken responsibility for various assaults on Saudi installations, which has further inflamed regional tensions. Concurrently, US officials are collaborating with refiners to mitigate the impact of surging diesel prices linked to shortages.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that his country is now receiving crucial early warning intelligence from partners. Recent Russian missile attacks caused significant civilian casualties, prompting Zelenskyy to seek more American assistance. Although U.S. officials deny any political directives to slow support, Zelenskyy expressed concerns over military supplies and restrictions. European countries continue to allocate substantial funding to support Ukraine amid these challenges.
The United Nations is set to launch a new initiative focusing on military applications of artificial intelligence. This forum will aim to address the potential threats posed by rapidly advancing AI technology. Discussions are anticipated to include various stakeholders, including defense companies and governments. The initiative also aims to create guidelines for responsible AI use in military contexts. Concerns from global leaders highlight the urgency of addressing these emerging challenges.
Workers in Karachi's garment factories face extreme heat and unsafe conditions while producing clothing for international brands. Many report health issues due to the high temperatures and lack of adequate protections from their employers. Complaints about working conditions often go ignored, leading to serious health repercussions for workers. Some companies have pledged to improve safety measures, but implementation remains insufficient.
Italy has announced new security measures in response to violent protests that occurred in Milan. The government is deploying an additional 500 soldiers to bolster security until the year's end. New laws will hold parents financially responsible for damages caused by their children during riots. Police reported over 100 injured officers amid clashes and looting involving around 2,000 youths.
For nearly two years, US President Donald Trump's heavy-handed deportation drive has sowed fear in immigrant communities and created a flood of grim headlines and social media videos. Three of her employees stopped showing up over fears of being deported, she said, with sales falling 40 percent as people in the community pull back from going out.
A drone strike targeted Amiet Market in Abyei, killing at least 153 people and injuring many others. The act was attributed to Sudan's military, which claimed it aimed at fuel smugglers. Local officials reported extensive civilian casualties and significant property damage from the attack. Doctors Without Borders responded by providing medical aid to those injured. The ongoing conflict raises concerns for the safety of civilians in the region.
Donald Trump urged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to pursue peace negotiations with Russia, warning of dire consequences. He criticized the lack of return on American financial support for Ukraine amid ongoing economic struggles. Trump indicated that Russia is interested in negotiating while making territorial gains. He proposed a potential trilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi insists the Strait of Hormuz will stay closed until the United States complies. He emphasizes that Washington must first adhere to the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding for any negotiations to proceed. Indirect communications with the US continue through regional intermediaries, reflecting ongoing diplomatic efforts. The proposed 'Seven-Day Plan' outlines a timeline for reopening the vital waterway.
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated there has been no response to Iran's mediation offer. This offer comes after intensified Houthi strikes against Saudi Arabia earlier this month. Egypt's involvement in the conflict could escalate tensions, but it has reassured Tehran of non-intervention. A vote in the Egyptian parliament regarding military action against the Houthis has been delayed until later in October.
SPACEX is preparing for significant developments regarding its Starship program and upcoming flight schedules. Elon Musk projects that Starship will fly weekly in early next year and twice weekly later. The company anticipates substantial revenue growth, aiming for annual recurring revenue between $500 billion and $1 trillion by 2027. Additionally, SPACEX plans to establish a Louisiana launch site with numerous towers to support operations.
'Wait, shh... no, no, no': Trump loses his cool as White House reporter keeps shouting questions
'Somalis were stealing': Trump praises Nick Shirley, announces $25m fraud whistleblower program
Microsoft is gearing up for the next evolution in its gaming lineup with a new Xbox console rumored to launch in late 2028. Anticipated prices may soar between $1,200 and $1,800 unless the company opts for subsidization. Alongside this, a fresh handheld gaming device might debut for the 2027 holiday season.
Tehran analyst Saeed Leylaz said that, by prolonging the talks, Iran is influencing the US election without taking any unlawful action. Trump has repeatedly said he expects oil prices to drop after the elections, but has not offered a detailed plan to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy shipping route effectively closed by Iran since the war began.
Trump and Vance are expected to unveil a new whistleblower initiative aimed at curbing federal fraud. This program encourages citizens to report any suspicious activity related to taxpayer funds, with the potential to earn rewards up to $30,000. However, tips must lead to verifiable prosecutions or plea agreements to qualify.
Zelenskiy and Witkoff clasped one another in a hug as they went into the talks hosted by the leaders of Norway and Finland in Oslo. Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner was attending remotely. Zelenskiy held talks with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere and Finnish President Alexander Stubb ahead of his meeting with the US delegation.
Russian crude shipments have dropped to a month low due to maintenance work disrupting operations at the Primorsk port. Despite a reduction in Ukrainian attacks on refineries, oil production facilities are still under threat. Notably, shipments to Asia, including significant customers like China and India, are declining, mirrored by a substantial fall in export values, signaling a downturn in demand.
Chinese astrologer consider October 21 as destruction day. The energy of this days means anything which was creating obstacles for you or was not working for you will be removed from your path.
House on the Rock in Wisconsin features an unusual collection of giant installations and mechanical displays. Visitors can explore a notable indoor carousel that showcases intricate craftsmanship and detail without the option to ride. The attraction also includes an Infinity Room that stretches dramatically over the valley, enhancing the viewing experience. Numerous miniature houses and model ships are also part of the extensive collections available to see.
'Above all, Alberta chose...': Carney lauds referendum results amid Trump's '51st State' threats
Chan Zuckerberg Initiative has selected 34 nonprofit organizations in San Mateo County for the 2026 Community Fund. These organizations focus on providing essential services, including housing, education, and healthcare, to local residents. Each selected nonprofit will receive grants of up to $200,000 for a duration of two years. Organizations like Homework Central aim to bridge the opportunity gap for families in need.
Russia launched the Cosmos-2612 military satellite into low Earth orbit in April. It began changing course late September and eventually moved into the same orbit as ICEYE-X36, a satellite operated by Finland's ICEYE under contract with the United States.
Fred Lorenzen, a legendary NASCAR driver, was diagnosed with Stage 3 chronic traumatic encephalopathy after his death. CTE is associated with repeated head impacts and can only be confirmed post-mortem. Lorenzen's family announced a donation of $1 million for CTE research and established a memorial help line. The condition has sparked concerns in motorsports due to the high risk of head injuries.
Kyle Kennedy, the beloved daughter of Michael Kennedy and Victoria Denise Gifford, passed away at the age of 42. Throughout her life, she endured immense personal losses, including the tragic deaths of her father and infant daughter. A dedicated educator and passionate advocate for disability rights, she continued her mission even after a life-altering spinal cord injury in 2020.
Scott Kirby, the CEO of United Airlines, has called for a nationwide wealth tax and higher inheritance taxes. He argues that wealth inequality poses a significant threat to American society and needs a national response. Kirby suggests that a federal system will reduce relocation incentives for wealthy individuals seeking lower taxes. His own compensation, amounting to $32.3 million, has drawn attention alongside his tax proposals.
Weather updates, October 21: The IMD has forecast rain across several Indian states and Union Territories from October 20 to 26, with isolated very heavy rainfall likely over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal from October 20 to 22. Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are also likely to receive heavy rain. Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds are expected in several regions.
On Tuesday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai. He paid tribute to the 166 victims of the 26/11 terror attacks during a wreath-laying ceremony. Rubio was briefed by the hotel's security head, Sunil Kudyadi, who survived the attack. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted the enduring partnership between the US and India in combating terrorism.
On the second day of the Asian Para Games, Indian para athletes won five gold medals among 14 total medals. Nishad Kumar secured two golds, while Deepthi Jeevanji also claimed gold in the women's 400m T20 event. Simran set a new Games record to earn her first gold medal in women's 200m T12. In men's discus throw combined events, Pranav Soorma and Ram Ratan Singh achieved gold and silver respectively.

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