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PSG Defeats Liverpool in Champions League on Penalties

Anfield, Anfield Road, Liverpool, UK

PSG defeated Liverpool in the Champions League after winning on penalties following two closely contested legs. PSG performed nearly flawlessly in both matches, converting all four penalty kicks. The match took place at Anfield stadium.

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Duterte's Daughter Accuses Government of Kidnapping

Manila, Philippines

Following the arrest of former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte, his youngest daughter, Veronica, filed a petition accusing the Philippine government of "kidnapping" him. The petition demands his return to the Philippines. Duterte's eldest daughter, Sara, who is also the country's vice-president, traveled to Amsterdam on Wednesday morning to assist with his legal preparations. This development adds another layer to the ongoing dynastic feud within Philippine politics.

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Gene Hackman found dead at Santa Fe home

Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA

Gene Hackman, 95, was found dead near the entrance of his home in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Suffering from Alzheimer's disease and likely unaware of his wife Betsy Arakawa's death a week prior, Hackman was discovered malnourished and disoriented after apparently suffering a fall. The circumstances have raised questions about support for vulnerable elderly people and their carers.

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Barcelona, Bayern, Inter Advance to Quarter-Finals

Camp Nou, Carrer d'Aristides Maillol, 12, Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Inter Milan comfortably won their second-leg matches to advance to the quarter-finals of the Champions League. The victories secured their places in the next round of the competition.

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Canada Imposes $20 Billion Tariffs on US Goods

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Canada announced $20.7 billion (C$29.8 billion) in new tariffs targeting imports of U.S. computers, sports gear, and cast iron products, effective March 13, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. This action is a retaliatory measure following President Trump's imposition of 25 percent tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum. The tariffs include steel products worth C$12.6 billion, aluminum products worth C$3 billion, and additional U.S. goods worth C$14.2 billion, marking an escalation in the ongoing trade war between the U.S. and Canada.

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California hit by atmospheric river storm

Los Angeles, California, USA

California is bracing for a powerful atmospheric river storm expected to drench the state with rain and bring feet of snow to the mountains. The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning for northern California and a flood watch for southern California, anticipating dangerous driving conditions, road flooding, and debris flows, particularly in areas affected by recent wildfires. Los Angeles issued evacuation warnings and orders and closed roads, including a portion of the Pacific Coast Highway. The state's office of emergency services deployed over 400 workers, including rescue teams, across the state.

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Russian Forces Reportedly Capture Sudzha, Kursk Region

Sudzha, Kursk Oblast, Russia

Russian forces have reportedly captured Sudzha, a border town in the Kursk region, after intense fighting. Unconfirmed reports show Russian paratroopers raising the Russian flag in the town's central square. Ukrainian troops are allegedly retreating towards the Sumy Oblast. The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed to have intercepted and destroyed 21 Ukrainian drones over various regions, including Bryansk, Kursk, and Kaluga. The Russian advance in the Kursk region presents a significant blow to Ukraine.

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Ex-Bishop Pierce Jailed for Sexually Assaulting Boy

Swansea Crown Court, Swansea, UK

Anthony Pierce, the retired Bishop of Swansea and Brecon, was sentenced to over four years in jail for sexually assaulting a teenage boy during organ and piano lessons in the 1980s at Holy Cross Church. The victim reported the abuse in 2023, leading to Pierce's arrest and guilty plea. Pierce, who admitted to five charges of indecent assault, may die in prison due to failing health. The Church in Wales has apologized to the victim and will conduct an independent review of a prior unreported allegation.

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Jimmy Du Seuil Wins Coral Cup

Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, UK

Jimmy Du Seuil, ridden by Danny Mullins, won the Coral Cup at Cheltenham. The horse, trained by Willie Mullins, was a 16-1 outsider. He had previously finished second to Ballyburn at Cheltenham the prior year.

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Marine Nationale Wins Queen Mother Champion Chase

Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, UK

Marine Nationale, ridden by Sean Flanagan, won the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham by 18 lengths. The victory was particularly emotional as it came shortly after the death of jockey Michael O'Sullivan, who had previously ridden Marine Nationale to victory at the same festival. Jonbon, the race favorite, faltered after a jumping mistake. The win was dedicated to the memory of O'Sullivan.

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US Resumes Immigrant Family Detention in Texas

Texas, USA

The United States has resumed detaining immigrant families, re-establishing operations where young children learn to walk under the supervision of private prison corporations and celebrate birthdays in government facilities they cannot leave. Federal officials are re-operationalizing two Texas family detention centers, one of which will provide CoreCivic with approximately $180 million in annual revenue. At least three children are already in custody with their parents.

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EU to impose duties on US goods

Berlaymont building, Boulevard Charlemagne 11-1049, Brussels, Belgium

The European Union is set to impose duties on various US industrial and agricultural goods on April 1 as a response to President Trump's decision to increase tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports from the EU to 25%. This escalation has rattled financial markets, contributing to a significant drop in the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the S&P 500.

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Russia Intercepts Ukrainian Drones Over Several Regions

Bryansk, Russia

Russian air defense units intercepted and destroyed 21 Ukrainian drones overnight. Twelve drones were downed over the Bryansk region, while others were destroyed over the Kursk and Kaluga regions, the Crimean Peninsula, and the Black Sea. This follows a large Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow and surrounding areas that killed at least three employees of a meat warehouse and caused airport shutdowns.

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Marcus Smith Returns, Freeman Moves to Centre

Principality Stadium, Cardiff, Wales, UK

Marcus Smith will return to England's starting XV at full-back for the Six Nations match against Wales. Tommy Freeman transitions to outside centre, replacing the injured Ollie Lawrence. This tactical adjustment marks Freeman's first start in midfield after 19 Test appearances on the wing. Elliot Daly also shifts to the wing, and Tom Roebuck replaces Ollie Sleightholme.

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Mark Ross Guilty of Murdering Amazon Driver

Leeds Crown Court, Oxford Row, Leeds, UK

Mark Ross, 32, was found guilty of murdering Amazon delivery driver Claudiu-Carol Kondor, 42, in Leeds. Ross stole Kondor's van on August 20, 2024, while Kondor was delivering a parcel. Kondor clung to the passenger door as Ross drove erratically at speeds up to 60mph, deliberately crashing into parked cars to dislodge him. Kondor died from head and chest injuries sustained in the second crash. Ross claimed he was unaware Kondor was hanging on, but a jury found him guilty of murder. He is due to be sentenced on Friday.

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Syria: 1,383 Civilians Executed After Assad's Fall

Syria

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports that at least 1,383 civilians have been killed in "executions by security forces and allied groups" following recent violence in the Alawite minority's coastal heartland, the region of toppled President Bashar al-Assad. The violence and executions occurred after the fall of Assad's regime in December. Ahmed al-Sharaa, the new president of Syria, claims to have severed ties with extremist groups.

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Brazil Fells Amazon Forest for COP30 Highway

Belém, Pará, Brazil

The Brazilian government cleared an eight-mile stretch of protected Amazon rainforest to construct a four-lane highway, Avenida Liberdade, for the COP30 climate summit in Belém. The highway aims to ease traffic for the 50,000 attendees, including world leaders. Despite previous environmental concerns that led to shelving the project, it was revived along with other infrastructure plans for COP30. Locals and conservationists criticize the decision, emphasizing the deforestation's contradiction of the summit's purpose and the lack of compensation for affected communities.

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FCA Considers Industry Redress Scheme for Car Finance Mis-selling

Financial Conduct Authority, 12 Endeavour Square, London, E20 1JN, UK

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is considering implementing an industry-wide redress scheme for car finance mis-selling, potentially impacting millions of motorists. This follows a landmark ruling in October 2024 that 'secret' commission payments to car dealers were unlawful, leading to higher finance costs for consumers. The Supreme Court is set to hear an appeal next month. If the court upholds the decision, lenders could face huge payouts. The FCA has filed a submission with the Supreme Court and will consult on a redress scheme if customers are found to have suffered failings. Martin Lewis advises consumers not to use claims firms, as payouts are likely to be automatic.

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Aichi Police Arrest Men in Child Abuse Ring

Aichi Prefectural Police Headquarters, 2-1-1 Sannomaru, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, Japan

Japanese police in the Aichi prefecture arrested several men aged in their 30s, 40s, and 50s for allegedly sexually assaulting their daughters or stepdaughters, aged six to 14. The men are accused of repeatedly raping the children, filming the assaults, and sharing the videos on social media. They also face accusations of child prostitution and child pornography. The investigation began after one man's arrest in November led to the discovery of a group chat where messages and footage of the attacks were exchanged.

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Northvolt files bankruptcy due to financial difficulties

Stockholm, Sweden

Swedish electric vehicle battery startup Northvolt filed for bankruptcy in Sweden after failing to secure necessary financial conditions. The company's assets will be sold, and debts settled under a court-appointed trustee. 5,000 employees face an uncertain future. Northvolt faced rising capital costs, geopolitical instability, supply chain disruptions, and shifts in market demand. They had previously announced 1,600 job cuts and sought to restructure the business. Northvolt received over $10 billion in funding since 2016, with Volkswagen and Goldman Sachs as major owners.

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Kyle Clifford Sentenced to Life for Triple Murder

Cambridge Crown Court, Law Courts, Lion Yard, Cambridge, UK

Kyle Clifford, 26, was sentenced to a whole-life order at Cambridge Crown Court on March 12, 2025, for the rape and murder of Louise Hunt, 25, and the murders of her mother Carol Hunt, 61, and sister Hannah Hunt, 28, at their home in Bushey, Hertfordshire in July 2024. Justice Joel Bennathan issued the sentence, noting Clifford's jealousy and contempt for women. Clifford refused to attend the sentencing, which drew condemnation. He will serve his sentence at HMP Belmarsh in southeast London.

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Snow falls at Cheltenham Festival, Gloucestershire, UK

Prestbury Park, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, UK

Snow fell at Cheltenham Festival in Prestbury Park, Gloucestershire, UK, on March 12, 2025. Wintry showers covered the area in a light dusting of snow, with temperatures peaking at 9C. The Met Office forecast snow until 10 am on Wednesday, with overcast conditions predicted for the rest of the day.

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Study: Atmospheric rivers increasing in size, frequency

Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA

A study in the Journal of Climate found that atmospheric rivers impacting California and the West have increased in size by 6-9%, in frequency by 2-6%, and are slightly wetter since 1980. The research, led by Lexi Henny from the University of North Carolina and NASA, suggests that these changes align with expectations of how atmospheric rivers will evolve in a warming atmosphere. While the study doesn't directly attribute the changes to climate change, it notes that the observed trends are consistent with predictions of larger, more intense storms in the future.

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Jes Staley admits sex with Epstein employee

301 East 66th Street, New York, New York, USA

Former Barclays boss Jes Staley admitted to having consensual sex with one of Jeffrey Epstein's employees at 301 East 66th Street in New York, a building reportedly used for trafficking underage girls. The admission occurred during Staley's testimony at London's Upper Tribunal, where he is contesting a finance industry ban and a £1.8 million fine imposed by the FCA due to his ties with Epstein. Staley claimed Epstein was unaware of the encounter. Staley faces scrutiny over his relationship with Epstein, including accepting favors like helicopter rides and using Epstein's connections to aid his daughter's education.

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February Core CPI Rises 3.1%, Lowest Since 2021

Bureau of Labor Statistics, Washington, D.C., USA

The latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics showed that the "core" Consumer Price Index (CPI) — which excludes the more volatile costs of food and gas — rose 3.1% in February. This is down from 3.3% the month prior and marks the lowest yearly increase in core CPI since April 2021. This was below economists' expectations of 3.2%.

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Sean Baker wins Directors Guild Award for 'Anora'

Directors Guild of America, 7920 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046, USA

Sean Baker won the Directors Guild of America (DGA) award for best feature for his film 'Anora'. The film, which premiered at Cannes and won the Palme d'Or, has been a major player on the awards circuit, receiving five Golden Globe nominations and six Oscar nominations. Baker's win at the DGA awards is a strong indicator of his chances at the Oscars, as the DGA award often aligns with the best director Oscar.

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Constitution Hill fall allows Golden Ace victory

Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Rd, Cheltenham, UK

At the 2025 Unibet Champion Hurdle, overwhelming favorite Constitution Hill fell at the fourth-last hurdle. This allowed 25/1 outsider Golden Ace to win the title. One punter lost a £20,000 bet placed on Constitution Hill at odds of 1/2.

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Norway's Haltbakk boycotts fuel supply to US Navy

Norway

Norway’s largest oil bunkering operation, Haltbakk, announced it would immediately stop supplying fuel to US Navy ships calling at Norwegian ports. The decision followed a fiery meeting between Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Donald Trump, which Haltbakk described as a "shit show." The company encourages other Norwegians and Europeans to follow their example.

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Google Releases Gemma 3 AI Model

Google Headquarters, 1600 Amphitheatre Parkway, Mountain View, California, USA

Google has released Gemma 3, the newest version of its open AI model family. Gemma 3 is designed for developers creating AI applications that can run on various devices, from phones to workstations, and supports over 35 languages. It can analyze text, images, and short videos. Google claims that Gemma 3 outperforms competing models from Facebook, DeepSeek, and OpenAI on single-GPU performance. Gemma 3 features an upgraded vision encoder that supports high-resolution and non-square images. Google is also promoting Gemma with Google Cloud credits, and the Gemma 3 Academic program offers researchers the chance to apply for $10,000 worth of credits.

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Pakistani Forces, BLA Clash; Hostages Freed

Mach Railway Station, Mach, Balochistan, Pakistan

Pakistani security forces engaged in a gun battle with hundreds of Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) militants in Balochistan, resulting in the rescue of over 150 hostages from a hijacked train. The BLA had taken approximately 450 people hostage on Tuesday, halting the train in a tunnel in Bolan district. At least 27 militants were killed during the operation. The BLA claimed responsibility for the attack and offered to negotiate a prisoner swap, but the government has not responded. The rescued passengers, including women and children, are being sent home, while the injured are receiving treatment in Mach and Quetta.

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Trump Imposes Tariffs on UK Steel, Aluminium Imports

White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C., USA

Despite pleas from UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, US President Donald Trump has imposed a 25% tariff on steel and aluminium imports from the UK. The tariffs, which came into effect at 4am, have been met with disappointment from UK Steel, who emphasized the UK's role as an ally. The EU has responded with counter-measures affecting 26 billion euros of EU exports, set to be introduced in April. The UK government is focused on negotiating a wider economic agreement with the US to eliminate additional tariffs.

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UK Government Ends Sustainable Farming Incentive Scheme

Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, 2 Marsham Street, London, UK

The UK government closed the Sustainable Farming Incentive Scheme to new applications, leading to criticism and ridicule of junior minister Daniel Zeichner. The scheme's closure involved removing subsidies for farmers, drawing comparisons to previous policies criticized as detrimental to the agricultural sector. The Labour party is facing backlash for this decision, further straining its relationship with farmers.

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PAPSS to Launch African Currency Marketplace Platform

Cairo, Egypt

The Pan-African Payments and Settlement System (PAPSS) is piloting the Africa Currency Marketplace platform to facilitate direct currency exchange between African countries. This system, backed by 15 central banks, aims to reduce reliance on third-party currencies like the dollar and address challenges in repatriating revenue due to currency revaluations and dollar shortages. The platform will intelligently match parties seeking to exchange local currencies, such as Nigerian naira and Ethiopian birr, enabling direct transactions without intermediaries. CEO Mike Ogbalu anticipates the platform will be transformational for commerce across borders.

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Emma Heming Willis advocates for caregiver support

Meta Headquarters, 1 Hacker Way, Menlo Park, California, USA

Emma Heming Willis, wife and primary carer of Bruce Willis who suffers from frontotemporal dementia, issued a statement advocating for better caregiver support following the deaths of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa. Speaking on Instagram, Heming Willis emphasized the vital role of caregivers and the misconception that they are always well-supported. Her memoir, "The Unexpected Journey," addressing caregiving, will be published in September.

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MGX Invests $2 Billion in Binance Stablecoin

Binance Headquarters, 33rd Floor, Al Sila Tower, Abu Dhabi Global Market Square, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Abu Dhabi-backed MGX invested $2 billion in Binance, marking Binance's first institutional investment. MGX becomes a minority shareholder through this deal involving stablecoin. This investment is one of the crypto industry's largest and strengthens ties between Binance and the UAE. MGX's CEO, Ahmed Yahia, stated the investment reflects a commitment to advancing blockchain's potential for digital finance. Binance, under Richard Teng, aims to enhance transparency after facing legal challenges.

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UK Denies Asylum to Sex Offender, Seeks Deal

Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, King Charles Street, London, UK

The UK government, led by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and Prime Minister Keir Starmer, is seeking a deal similar to the Rwanda scheme to avoid granting asylum to a 34-year-old Sri Lankan national convicted of sex offenses on the Chagos Islands. The individual, serving a six-month sentence, was denied entry due to public safety concerns and potential damage to public confidence in immigration policies. A high court judge upheld the decision, allowing the Foreign Office to seek an alternative country willing to accept him. The government argues that admitting him poses an 'inevitable risk' to public safety.

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Asus to manufacture Xbox-branded handheld for Microsoft

ASUSTeK Computer Inc., 15 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan

Asus is reportedly manufacturing an Xbox-branded handheld device as part of Microsoft's broader strategy to unify Windows and Xbox. Codenamed 'Kennan,' the handheld will likely debut later in 2025 and be powered by Windows with an Xbox-like interface. This initiative includes 'Project Bayside,' aimed at creating a common Xbox UI across multiple devices. Microsoft's goal is to create a universal library of Xbox and PC games, potentially unlocking the ability to play Xbox games on handheld PCs.

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Lecky Watson Triumphs in Brown Advisory Novices' Chase

Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, UK

Lecky Watson, ridden by Sean O'Keeffe and trained by Willie Mullins, achieved a surprise victory in the Brown Advisory Novices' Chase at Cheltenham. The horse was a 20-1 outsider. Stablemate Ballyburn, the favorite, struggled after a mistake.

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Stumptown Wins Cross Country Chase

Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, UK

Stumptown, ridden by Keith Donoghue and trained by Gavin Cromwell, won the Cross Country Chase at Cheltenham. Latenightpass came in second, with Vanillier third after nearly leading the field the wrong way.

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Bambino Fever Wins Champion Bumper

Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, UK

Bambino Fever, ridden by Jody Townend and trained by Willie Mullins, won the Champion Bumper at Cheltenham. This victory marked Mullins' sixth Champion Bumper win in eight years. Bambino Fever was the 5-2 favorite.

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The New Lion Wins Turners Novices' Hurdle

Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, UK

The New Lion, ridden by Harry Skelton and trained by Dan Skelton, secured a win in the Turners Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham. This victory marked the 80th Festival win for owner JP McManus. The horse has maintained an unbeaten run, extending it to five consecutive wins.

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Jazzy Matty Wins Grand Annual Chase

Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, UK

Jazzy Matty, trained by Cian Collins and ridden by Danny Gilligan, won the Grand Annual Chase. This victory also carried emotional weight due to the recent death of jockey Michael O'Sullivan, who had previously won the Fred Winter Hurdle on Jazzy Matty in 2023. Gilligan dedicated the win to O'Sullivan's memory.

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Sir Alex Ferguson's L'Eau du Sud Loses Arkle

Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, UK

Sir Alex Ferguson's horse, L'Eau du Sud, ran in the Arkle Chase at Cheltenham but ran out of steam in the final stretch. Trainer Dan Skelton acknowledged the defeat, while Ferguson watched with the same intensity he displayed during Manchester United games. Another horse, Jango Baie, who beat Ferguson's Caldwell Potter in December, won the Arkle.

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Starmer Faces Pressure Over 'Two-Tier' Sentencing Plan

Houses of Parliament, Westminster, London, UK

Prime Minister Keir Starmer is under pressure regarding the Sentencing Council's new guidance to judges. The guidance advises considering a criminal's ethnicity or religion before sentencing. Conservative MP Andrew Snowden challenged Starmer to support a bill blocking the guidance, claiming it creates a 'two-tier' system. Starmer emphasized equality before the law, noting the Lord Chancellor has addressed the issue with the Sentencing Council. Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood will meet with Sentencing Council officials later this week.

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US Mortgage Rates Decline Amid Recession Concerns

Zillow Headquarters, 1301 Second Avenue, Seattle, Washington, USA

On March 12, 2025, average US mortgage rates decreased, influenced by growing concerns about a potential recession. According to Zillow, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate fell by two basis points to 6.32%, while the 15-year fixed rate also declined by two basis points to 5.60%. This downward trend in interest rates reflects the public's increasing anxiety about the U.S. economy, as mortgage rates tend to drop during economic struggles.

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Plastic Pollution Causes Brain Damage in Seabird Chicks

Lord Howe Island, New South Wales, Australia

A new study by the University of Tasmania reveals that ingesting plastic is causing brain damage in sable shearwater chicks, a migratory bird species. The study found that plastic waste leads to decay of the stomach lining, cell rupture, and neurodegeneration in the chicks. Blood tests showed protein patterns similar to those in humans with Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease. Researchers examined dozens of chicks on Australia's Lord Howe Island, noting that many had been mistakenly fed plastic waste by their parents, leading to high levels of plastic in their stomachs. The chicks' stomachs were pumped before migration to the Sea of Japan.

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US Deportation Flights Send Asylum Seekers to Panama

Panama City, Panama

The Trump administration has been sending deportation flights to Panama and Costa Rica, carrying individuals from countries with strained bilateral relations with the U.S., including Iranians, Afghans, Russians, and Chinese. These deportees, including young children, are being held in Panama and Costa Rica, with some initially trapped in a hotel guarded by armed personnel. Some deportees were later moved to a camp at the Darién Gap. In Costa Rica, families with children are being held in a former factory with squalid conditions.

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Heavy Rain Causes Red Landscape on Hormuz Island

Silver and Red Beach, Hormuz Island, Hormozgan Province, Iran

Heavy rainfall on March 12, 2025, caused a bizarre 'blood rain' phenomenon on Hormuz Island, Iran, turning the landscape red due to the island's mineral-rich coastline. Video footage circulating online showed the downpour illuminating the Silver and Red Beach, a popular tourist destination known for its high iron oxide content in the volcanic soil. The phenomenon is a year-round attraction but was highlighted by the recent heavy rains.

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Trump Accuses Ireland of Exploiting US Trade

The Oval Office, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C., USA

During a meeting with Irish Taoiseach Micheal Martin in the Oval Office, US President Donald Trump accused Ireland of taking advantage of the United States through trade practices, particularly concerning pharmaceutical companies relocating to Ireland. Trump stated that Ireland has 'our pharmaceutical companies' and that the US had 'stupid leaders' who allowed this to happen. He also mentioned the significant trade deficit with Ireland and vowed to implement tariffs to restore fairness to US trade.

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Intel Delays Ohio Chip Plant Opening to 2030

New Albany, Ohio, USA

Intel has announced a delay in the opening of its new chip manufacturing campus in Ohio. Originally slated to open in 2025, the project is now not expected to be completed until 2030. The delay impacts Intel's expansion plans within the United States.

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Judge to weigh Meta leeching evidence arguments

US District Court, California, USA

Judge Vince Chhabria will weigh arguments about Meta's alleged leeching of pirated books on May 1. Meta argues that authors should not be allowed to do more discovery on Meta's alleged leeching or introduce a new expert to discuss why the leeching may have clinched the case for the authors. The authors hope to show that Meta shared pirated books with others during the leeching process. Chhabria admitted last month that the term leeching was foreign to him.

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Sydney Sweeney, Jonathan Davino postpone May wedding

Los Angeles, California, USA

Sydney Sweeney and Jonathan Davino have reportedly postponed their wedding, which was originally scheduled for May. An insider told TMZ that the wedding was put on hold, with no new date in sight, due to their hectic schedules. The couple, who began dating in 2018 and got engaged in 2022, have kept their relationship largely out of the public eye.

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Japan Unveils British-Designed Earthquake-Resistant Shinkansen Bullet Train

East Japan Railway Company, 1-1-6 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan

Japan has unveiled the new E10 Shinkansen bullet train, designed by British firm Studio Tangerine, headquartered in London. This marks the first time a non-Japanese company has been entrusted with designing the iconic Shinkansen. The train is earthquake-resistant and capable of speeds up to 200mph (320kph). It will replace the existing E2 and E5 trains on the Tohoku route connecting Tokyo and Aomori, entering service in 2030. The design incorporates a green color palette reflecting Japan’s mountain forests and coastlines, with an interior inspired by Japanese aesthetic traditions. Features include seat dividers, USB ports, indirect lighting, and advanced safety measures.

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Liam Gallagher Criticizes Leakers of Oasis Lineup

Principality Stadium, Westgate Street, Cardiff, Wales, UK

Liam Gallagher criticized leakers after NME revealed the lineup for the Oasis reunion tour. Gallagher expressed concern over NME's source, offering an exclusive interview in exchange for revealing the source. He then sarcastically announced a 'real' lineup consisting of former Oasis drummers, highlighting past tensions within the band. The tour is expected to begin in Cardiff at Principality Stadium on July 4, 2025, and include stops in Manchester, London, Edinburgh, Japan, Argentina, the United States and Brazil. The reunion is projected to earn the Gallagher brothers £150 million in ticket profits, plus additional revenue from merchandise and sponsorships.

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Amorim Acknowledges Manchester United Underperformance, Aims Improvement

Old Trafford, Sir Matt Busby Way, Stretford, Manchester, UK

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim responded to Sir Jim Ratcliffe's comments about player performance, acknowledging that he and the players are underperforming this season. Amorim singled out Casemiro, emphasizing his potential for better performance. Amorim said he has a good relationship with the United board, highlighting open communication. He aims to change Ratcliffe's opinion through improved team performance.

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UK, Russia Expel Diplomats Amid Espionage Accusations

British Embassy, Moscow, Russia

The UK and Russia have expelled diplomats in a tit-for-tat exchange, with both sides accusing the other of espionage. The UK Foreign Office responded to Russia's expulsion of a British diplomat and their spouse by expelling a Russian diplomat and their spouse. The Foreign Office described Russia's accusations against the British diplomats as 'fabricated' and part of an 'increasingly aggressive and coordinated campaign of harassment'. Russia's FSB claimed the expelled British diplomats were involved in 'espionage and sabotage work'.

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Morgan Stanley Cuts Apple Price Target Amid AI Doubts

Morgan Stanley, 1585 Broadway, New York, NY, USA

Morgan Stanley's analysts have reduced their price target for Apple stock, leading to a nearly 2% drop in share value on Wednesday. The price target was slashed because of concerns about the success of Apple's artificial intelligence strategy. This comes as Apple's stock was already experiencing losses from the previous day.

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Van Dijk Uncertain About Liverpool Future

Anfield, Anfield Road, Liverpool, UK

Virgil van Dijk has expressed uncertainty about his future with Liverpool, stating he has 'no idea' if he will remain with the club next season. His contract expires this summer, and he has yet to sign a new deal. Van Dijk emphasized his current focus is on the remaining 10 games of the season. Contract talks are ongoing with teammates Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

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Oxford Study: Diet in 50s/60s Impacts Dementia Risk

University of Oxford, Wellington Square, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK

A University of Oxford study tracked the dietary habits of 512 British adults over 11 years, assessing 664 people's waist-to-hip ratio over 21 years. The study found that a healthy diet between ages 48 and 70 improves brain activity, specifically connectivity between the left hippocampus and occipital lobe, which typically declines before a dementia diagnosis. Participants with less fat around their middle also showed better memory and more flexible thinking in old age. Researchers urge the public to improve their diet to maintain brain structure and reduce dementia risk.

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Channel 4 Renews 'Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins'

Channel 4, 124 Horseferry Road, London, UK

Channel 4 has reversed its decision to cancel 'Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins' after viewing the edited footage of the upcoming 2025 season. The show, which challenges celebrities with special forces training, will now return for a 2026 edition. This renewal comes after initial budget concerns led to the show's potential cancellation, despite its consistent popularity and positive fan reactions.

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Jamie Oliver Documentary on Dyslexia Airs on Channel 4

Channel 4 Headquarters, 124 Horseferry Road, London, UK

Jamie Oliver, who identifies as having dyslexia, is releasing a documentary about dyslexia on Channel 4. The documentary's release later in 2025 has sparked debate about the legitimacy and diagnosis of dyslexia, with some critics questioning its existence as a distinct affliction. The documentary may have an impact on how dyslexia is perceived and treated in educational settings.

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Glen Earrach Project Concerns Over Loch Ness Ecology

Loch Ness, Inverness, Scotland, UK

The Glen Earrach pumped hydro storage project is facing objections from agencies, conservation bodies, and local businesses due to concerns about its potential impact on Loch Ness's ecology, migrating salmon and trout, leisure cruising firms, and archaeological sites. Buglife estimates Glen Earrach alone could lower the loch’s surface by nearly half a metre when recharging. Glen Earrach Energy is offering up to £25m a year in community benefit payments.

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Loch Ness Level Drops Due to Power Station

Loch Ness, Inverness, Scotland, UK

Overnight, the Foyers pumped-storage power station recharged, drawing millions of litres of water into a reservoir, causing the surface of Loch Ness to fall by 14cm in a matter of hours. Brian Shaw, from the Ness District Salmon Fishery Board, believes this drop in water level is a warning and is not a natural occurrence.

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Peter Murrell Arrested Amid SNP Finances Investigation

Police Scotland Headquarters, Tulliallan, Kincardine, Fife, Scotland, UK

Peter Murrell, former SNP chief executive and husband of Nicola Sturgeon, was arrested and charged in 2024 over alleged embezzlement of donations to the SNP. The arrest is part of Operation Branchform, an investigation into the party's finances. Nicola Sturgeon was also arrested in June 2023 but has not been charged, and remains under investigation. The controversy contributed to a period of turmoil for the SNP, which included poor election results and the resignation of Sturgeon's successor, Humza Yousaf.

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Disney Relocates Snow White Premiere to Spain

Alcázar of Segovia, Plaza Reina Victoria Eugenia, 1, 40003 Segovia, Spain

Disney has moved the premiere of its Snow White remake to Alcázar of Segovia in Segovia, Spain, amid backlash over 'woke' themes and casting choices. Originally planned as a large-scale Hollywood event with premieres in Los Angeles and London, the event has been scaled back to a tightly controlled press event. Stars Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot will attend, but media outlets have not been invited. The castle was chosen, in part, because it inspired the castle in Disney's 1937 animated film.

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Reform UK Suspends Rupert Lowe Over Verbal Threats

Metropolitan Police Service, New Scotland Yard, Victoria Embankment, London, UK

Reform UK has suspended MP Rupert Lowe after he was reported to the Metropolitan Police for alleged 'verbal threats'. This suspension has immediately reduced Nigel Farage's parliamentary representation by 20%. The conflict stems from both personality clashes and disagreements over the direction and representation of Reform UK, particularly regarding association with extreme elements. Lowe's actions, including challenging Nigel Farage's leadership, led to his suspension amidst a broader proxy-war within the party.

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Will Stuart Earns 50th Test Cap for England

Principality Stadium, Cardiff, Wales, UK

Prop Will Stuart will achieve a milestone by earning his 50th Test cap for England in the upcoming match against Wales. This accomplishment reflects Stuart's dedication and consistent performance at the highest level of rugby. Head coach Steve Borthwick acknowledged Stuart's hard work and contribution to the team.

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Nicola Sturgeon Announces Departure from Scottish Parliament

Edinburgh, Scotland, UK

Nicola Sturgeon, former First Minister of Scotland, announced that she will not seek re-election to the Scottish Parliament (Holyrood) next year. She stated that she wishes to start a 'new chapter' outside of politics. Sturgeon served as the MSP for Glasgow Southside and led the SNP for years. This decision comes after her resignation as First Minister in March 2023 and amidst an ongoing police probe into the SNP's finances, although she was cleared by the party to stand as a candidate.

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J.P.Morgan cuts Tesla's price target, expects lower deliveries

JPMorgan Chase & Co. Headquarters, 270 Park Ave, New York, NY, USA

J.P.Morgan reduced its price target for Tesla shares from $135 to $120, anticipating a second consecutive year of declining deliveries. The brokerage expects Tesla to deliver approximately 1.78 million vehicles this year, a 1% decrease from 2024. Analysts cited a shift in customer sentiment towards the EV maker, evidenced by protests at Tesla stores globally and sales boycotts. The median target for the stock is $370, according to LSEG data.

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Katherine Ryan Criticizes Meghan Markle's Netflix Show

London, UK

Katherine Ryan criticized Meghan Markle's new Netflix series 'With Love, Meghan,' calling it 'beige' and inauthentic. Ryan suggested Markle has lied about her past and puts on a forced act. This follows other Netflix stars panning the show and questioning its success, amidst reports of low viewership figures. Ryan made these comments on her podcast, 'Telling Everybody Everything'.

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Starmer Faces Labour Revolt Over Benefits Cuts

10 Downing Street, Westminster, London, UK

Keir Starmer is facing a significant revolt within the Labour Party over proposed £5 billion cuts to benefits. The announcement of the cuts, which includes tightening rules on sickness and disability benefits, has been delayed due to the backlash. Labour MPs have been invited to Downing Street for talks to address concerns, while unions, led by TUC head Paul Nowak, are warning against a return to austerity. The reforms aim to address rising health and disability benefits costs, projected to hit £100 billion annually by the end of the decade.

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Israel Occupies Syrian Territory 'Indefinitely' near Golan

Mount Hermon, Southern Syria

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz reaffirmed Israel's intention to occupy a 400 sq km demilitarized buffer zone in southern Syria near the Golan Heights for an "unlimited amount of time." The IDF has established nine military posts inside Syrian territory, including two on Mount Hermon. Katz stated the deployment is necessary to defend Israeli communities and disrupt Iran's ability to smuggle weapons to Hezbollah. The move has drawn international condemnation, with critics accusing Israel of exploiting the fall of the Assad regime.

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Niantic spins off geospatial AI business as Spatial

Niantic, Inc., 1 Ferry Building #200, San Francisco, California, USA

Niantic is spinning off its geospatial AI business into a new firm called Niantic Spatial, led by Niantic founder and CEO John Hanke. Niantic Spatial will be funded with $250 million of capital, including $200 million from Niantic's balance sheet and $50 million from Scopely. All of Niantic's original investors will continue to be shareholders of Niantic Spatial. This move is part of a strategic shift after Niantic sold its video-game division to Scopely.

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Niantic sells game division to Scopely for $3.5B

Niantic, Inc., 1 Ferry Building #200, San Francisco, California, USA

Niantic Labs has agreed to sell its video-game division to Scopely, owned by Saudi Arabia, for $3.5 billion. This decision comes as Niantic shifts its focus to geospatial technology after struggling to replicate the success of "Pokemon Go." The deal supports Saudi Arabia's ambition to become a global gaming hub. Niantic will distribute an additional $350 million to its equity holders and spin off its geospatial AI business into Niantic Spatial, funded with $250 million. The move follows layoffs and the axing of the "Harry Potter: Wizards Unite" game after years of struggling to replicate the initial success of Pokemon Go.

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Dave Myers' Motorcycle Auctioned for Charity

National Motorcycle Museum, Coventry Road, Bickenhill, Solihull, UK

The BSA Goldstar motorcycle ridden by the late Hairy Biker, Dave Myers, during his final TV special, 'The Hairy Bikers Go West', is being auctioned by the National Motorcycle Museum in Solihull. The auction, scheduled for late March, aims to raise money for CancerCare North Lancashire and NSPCC Childline, two charities Myers supported. Myers passed away in February 2024 at age 66 after battling cancer. The motorcycle is expected to sell for over £10,000 due to its connection to Myers.

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Liliana Orzac Learns to Ride Motorcycle

Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, UK

Liliana Orzac, the wife of the late Hairy Biker Dave Myers, is learning to ride a motorcycle in tribute to her husband's memory. She revealed her new skill on social media, stating she is 'moving forward with him' and taking forward Hairy Bikers' 'zest for life'. Dave Myers died last February at the age of 66, with his family and co-star Si, 58, by his side following a lengthy battle with an unspecified cancer. Liliana was reportedly made a director of Dave's production company shortly before he revealed his diagnosis in 2022, according to Companies House records seen by the publication.

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Ayo Edebiri Receives Death Threats After Musk's Post

Instagram Headquarters, 1601 Willow Rd, Menlo Park, California, USA

Ayo Edebiri, known for her work on 'The Bear,' reported receiving 'insane death threats' and racial slurs after Elon Musk shared a fake news report on Instagram about her replacing Johnny Depp in a 'Pirates of the Caribbean' reboot. The fake report originated from a right-wing account. Edebiri responded by calling Musk a fascist and an idiot. The owner of the right-wing account defended Musk and claimed to have credible Hollywood sources. This occurred after Jerry Bruckheimer confirmed a reboot was in development.

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Met Office issues ice alert for England

Met Office, Fitzwilliam Gate, Sheffield, England, UK

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for ice across ten areas in England, effective from 3am to 9am on Thursday, March 13, 2025. The alert covers parts of the East Midlands, North East, and North West of England, as well as Yorkshire. Icy conditions are expected to cause potential injuries and accidents on untreated roads and cycle paths, with temperatures falling close to freezing. The affected areas include Derbyshire, Darlington, Durham, Northumberland, Cumbria, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, North Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, and West Yorkshire.

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Rory McIlroy Criticizes YouTube Golf Content

TPC Sawgrass, 110 Championship Way, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, USA

Rory McIlroy voiced strong disapproval of YouTube golf content, stating that he prefers watching professional golf tournaments. He acknowledged the niche that golf YouTubers have carved out but suggested it diminishes the appeal of professional golf. McIlroy's comments come amid a reported decline in PGA Tour viewership, which saw a 19% drop in Sunday telecast viewers in 2024 compared to 2023.

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US Investors Shift to Value Funds Amid Uncertainty

Nasdaq MarketSite, 4 Times Square, New York, NY, USA

Amid concerns that President Trump's policies could slow the economy, U.S. investors are moving assets into value funds. In March 2025, U.S. growth ETFs experienced outflows of $3.6 billion, while U.S. value ETFs saw inflows of $1.8 billion, according to Lipper data. Value funds, consisting of stocks in sectors like banks, energy, and utilities, are seen as a buffer against market volatility due to their investments in stable, cash-rich, and undervalued stocks. Investors are seeking these attributes as trade disputes increase market volatility. Leading the inflow into U.S. value funds, the AAM S&P 500 High Dividend Value ETF, Acquirers Small and Micro Deep Value ETF, and American Century Focused Large Cap Value ETF saw significant inflows of $603 million, $513 million, and $388 million, respectively.

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Lucas and Walliams Tease 'Little Britain' Revival

ITV Studios, Television Centre, White City, London, UK

Matt Lucas and David Walliams hinted at a possible revival of their comedy show 'Little Britain' during an appearance on ITV's 'Lorraine'. The show, which was removed from streaming services in 2020 due to concerns about blackface, may return in a stage format. Lucas and Walliams also addressed being 'cancelled' in the past, suggesting they are not concerned about similar issues affecting a potential revival.

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Hannah Mossman Moore Stalked, Cyberattacked After Fashion Week Meeting

London Fashion Week, London, UK

Jewellery designer Hannah Mossman Moore was stalked and subjected to cyberattacks, including email hacking, bank account blocking, and sexual threats, starting in January 2018. The stalking began after she met Kin Hung, a Hong Kong-based businessman, at London Fashion Week in 2015. The attacks escalated over four years, impacting her personal and professional life. The police have acknowledged that they could have done more to help victims of cyber stalking like Hannah.

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Trump Considers Financial Action if Russia Rejects Ceasefire

The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC, USA

On Wednesday, March 12, 2025, President Donald Trump stated that the U.S. is considering financial measures against Russia if it rejects the proposed ceasefire in Ukraine. This came after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged Trump to take strong steps against Russia if it doesn't support the 30-day ceasefire agreed upon in Jeddah. Trump indicated that while he received 'positive messages' regarding the ceasefire, concrete action from Russia is necessary. US envoys are en route to Russia to discuss the ceasefire proposal with Vladimir Putin. Trump stated he could 'do things financially that would be very bad for Russia', but he prefers to achieve peace.

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GoTo Achieves First Full-Year Underlying Profit

GoTo Gojek Tokopedia, GoTo Group, Mid Plaza 2, Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 10-11, Jakarta, Indonesia

Indonesian tech giant GoTo Gojek Tokopedia reported its first full-year underlying profit of 327 billion rupiah for 2024, a significant turnaround from a loss of 3.670 trillion rupiah the previous year. The company forecasts a sharp increase in underlying earnings for 2025, with adjusted EBITDA expected to be in the range of 1.4 trillion to 1.6 trillion rupiah. GoTo's financial technology segment experienced a 70% earnings jump last year and anticipates further expansion in 2025. GoTo CEO Patrick Walujo stated that he is open to deals that enhance shareholder returns.

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Sabrina Carpenter's BRIT Awards Performance Sparks Ofcom Complaints

The O2 Arena, Peninsula Square, London, UK

Sabrina Carpenter's BRIT Awards performance at London's O2 Arena has led to 929 Ofcom complaints. The performance, featuring lingerie and suggestive dancing, was deemed inappropriate by many viewers, particularly as it occurred before the 9 pm watershed. Complaints also targeted Charlie XCX's outfit. Ofcom is now deliberating whether to investigate the complaints. The singer performed part of her song Bed Chem on a large bed where she spread her legs apart. The set's finale was so saucy it had to be edited for the ITV broadcast, with the camera focusing on the soldier winking, instead of Sabrina's suggestive position, which shocked the crowd inside the arena.

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Paul Chan projects Hong Kong IPOs to surge.

Hong Kong Stock Exchange, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong

Hong Kong's Financial Secretary, Paul Chan Mo-po, predicts that IPOs on the Hong Kong stock market could reach between US$17 billion and US$20 billion in 2025. This represents an increase of up to 80% compared to the US$11 billion raised in 2024. The forecast is based on optimism in the tech sector and support from mainland authorities for Chinese companies listing in Hong Kong. The projections align with estimates from Deloitte and PwC, which range from HK$130 billion (US$16.7 billion) to HK$160 billion.

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Michelle Dewberry Cancels Virgin Active Membership Over Policy

Virgin Active, London, UK

GB News presenter Michelle Dewberry canceled her Virgin Active membership after encountering a man in the female changing rooms and being dissatisfied with the gym's response to her concerns. Virgin Active's policy allows transgender females and boys up to eight years old in female changing rooms. Dewberry expressed concern over the right to single-sex changing spaces, sparking debate. The gym's policy and Dewberry's reaction have raised concerns about safety and inclusivity.

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Natalee Barnett's Gym Faces Criticism Over Trans Exclusion

Wandsworth, London, UK

British fitness influencer Natalee Barnett faced criticism for refusing to allow trans women to train at her female-only gym in Wandsworth, London. Initially, Barnett welcomed trans women, raising over £22,900 via GoFundMe. She then reversed her decision, citing the need for a 'safe space for biological women.' Critics branded her 'transphobic' and accused her of misleading donors. This sparked debate about single-sex spaces and inclusivity within the UK's health clubs.

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FCA, PRA drop diversity and inclusion rules

Bank of England, Threadneedle Street, London, England, EC2R 8AH, UK

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) have discontinued their work on establishing new rules to enhance diversity and inclusion within financial firms. Nikhil Rathi, chief executive of the FCA, cited new government legislation on workers’ rights as the reason for this decision, emphasizing the need to avoid duplication and ensure FCA rules align with existing legislation. The FCA will monitor employer responsibilities to protect staff against harassment.

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Government abolishes Payment Systems Regulator (PSR)

Financial Conduct Authority, 12 Endeavour Square, London, England, E20 1JN, UK

The UK government has abolished the Payment Systems Regulator (PSR) as part of an "efficiency drive," transferring its responsibilities and 160 staff to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This move is presented as part of the government's broader efforts to stimulate UK economic growth. Both the FCA and PSR are located in Stratford, east London, and PSR staff are already under FCA contracts.

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FCA drops plan to 'name and shame' firms

Financial Conduct Authority, 12 Endeavour Square, London, England, E20 1JN, UK

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has scrapped its plan to publicly identify companies under investigation, citing a lack of consensus. This decision follows pressure from the government to reduce bureaucracy and stimulate investment. The FCA will now only publicize investigations in exceptional cases. The initial proposal faced criticism from businesses and Tulip Siddiq, the then-City minister, who suggested she might overrule the FCA if it proceeded with the plan. Nikhil Rathi, the FCA's chief executive, stated that proceeding without consensus was not feasible.

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Texans Trade Tunsil, Green; Revamp Offensive Line

NRG Stadium, 8825 Kirby Dr, Houston, Texas, USA

The Houston Texans traded Laremy Tunsil to the Commanders for draft picks and Kenyon Green to the Eagles for CJ Gardner-Johnson. The Texans are revamping their offensive line after a season of poor performance. They have signed Laken Tomlinson to bolster their interior line.

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Vikings sign Ryan Kelly, Will Fries

U.S. Bank Stadium, 401 Chicago Avenue, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA

The Minnesota Vikings signed center Ryan Kelly and guard Will Fries from the Colts. This duo is known for their switched-on and savvy interior protection, which will provide security for JJ McCarthy during his first season as a starter. They are considered one of the most reliable interior tandems in the league.

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Seahawks Trade Geno Smith, Sign Sam Darnold

Lumen Field, 800 Occidental Ave S, Seattle, Washington, USA

The Seattle Seahawks traded quarterback Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders and signed Sam Darnold in free agency to a three-year, $105 million contract. The Seahawks view Darnold as a better scheme fit with new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak. The team is aiming to get younger at the quarterback position.

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Patriots Sign Milton Williams to $104M Deal

Gillette Stadium, 1 Patriot Place, Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA

The New England Patriots signed Milton Williams, an interior pass-rusher, to a four-year, $104 million deal. Williams previously played for the Eagles and is expected to be a key player for the Patriots' defense. The Patriots also added veteran cornerback Carlton Davis.

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Bengals Tag Tee Higgins, Delay Chase Extension

Paycor Stadium, 1 Paycor Stadium, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA

The Cincinnati Bengals placed the franchise tag on Tee Higgins and are working towards a long-term deal, expected to be around $30 million per year. They also need to negotiate a long-term extension with Ja’Marr Chase, who is likely to become the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, potentially requiring a $40 million annual investment. The Bengals also have to decide whether to extend Trey Hendrickson's contract.

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Buccaneers Re-Sign Chris Godwin, Sign Haason Reddick

Raymond James Stadium, 4201 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, Florida, USA

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers re-signed Chris Godwin to a multi-year extension, with Godwin reportedly leaving money on the table to stay in Tampa. The Buccaneers also signed edge-rusher Haason Reddick to a one-year, $14 million contract, addressing a need for an edge presence.

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Danny Jones Returns to Social Media Post-Scandal

London, UK

Danny Jones, the McFly singer, returned to social media by re-sharing birthday tributes on Instagram after a scandal involving Maura Higgins at the BRITs afterparty on March 1, 2025. He re-shared over 40 posts, mainly from McFly fans, while his wife, Georgia, remained silent on social media. Earlier, Danny and Georgia were seen together in London, following Georgia's return to social media with a photo of their son. Jones faces criticism after being caught kissing Higgins, leading to speculation about his marriage with Georgia.

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Legal & General Announces £500M Share Buyback

One Coleman Street, London, EC2R 5AA, UK

Legal & General announced a £500 million share buyback program. The group reaffirmed its commitment to returning over £5 billion to shareholders within three years. In its annual results, core operating profit reached £1.6 billion, while pre-tax profit under IFRS accounting standards was £542 million. The dividend for shareholders was increased by 5% to 21.36p. The company's Solvency II capital generation reached £1.8 billion, and its Solvency coverage ratio increased to 232%.

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Dallas experiences extreme climate whiplash

Dallas, Texas, USA

Dallas, USA is experiencing severe climate whiplash, with alternating periods of extreme drought and record-breaking rainfall. In 2011, the city experienced 40 consecutive days with high temperatures exceeding 38°C (100°F). In February 2025, record-breaking rainfall caused flash flooding on highways. According to WaterAid, 90% of all climate disasters are caused by too much or too little water.

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WaterAid report: Cities experience climate 'whiplash'

WaterAid, 47-49 Durham Street, London, UK

A WaterAid report reveals that many of the world's largest cities are experiencing 'climate whiplash,' characterized by alternating severe droughts and flooding. The report identifies Hangzhou, Jakarta, and Dallas as the cities experiencing the most severe climate whiplash, making it difficult for them to predict and prepare for future climate disasters. The study compared rainfall and evaporation data for the 100 most populated cities in the world, plus 12 cities in which the charity works, over the last 44 years. According to WaterAid, 90% of all climate disasters are caused by too much or too little water.

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TSMC Pitches Nvidia, AMD on Intel Foundry Venture

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, Hsinchu, Taiwan

According to a Reuters report, TSMC has approached Nvidia, Broadcom, and AMD about a joint venture for its chipmaking plants related to Intel's foundry business. Intel shares jumped almost 8% in premarket trading following the report. The stock has experienced volatility due to speculation about potential deals with rivals.

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Groupon Shares Rocket After Better-Than-Expected Guidance

Groupon, 600 West Chicago Avenue, Chicago, Illinois, USA

Groupon shares rocketed up 23% after the e-commerce marketplace issued better-than-expected full-year revenue guidance. Groupon forecasts full-year revenue from $493 million to $500 million.

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FTC Continues Antitrust Probe into Microsoft

Federal Trade Commission, 600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C., USA

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is moving ahead with a broad antitrust probe into Microsoft, according to Bloomberg. FTC staff have continued to gather information, meeting with companies and other groups in recent weeks. The continuation of the investigation could be an early sign that new FTC chair Andrew Ferguson will continue the agency's scrutiny of Big Tech.

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GE Aerospace invests $1 billion in US manufacturing

Cincinnati, Ohio, USA

GE Aerospace announced an investment of nearly $1 billion in its U.S. factories and supply chain for 2025, nearly double the previous year's investment. The funds will be used to strengthen manufacturing capabilities, increase technology adoption, and address robust demand for engines and spare parts driven by a strong travel environment. CEO Larry Culp emphasized the importance of investing in manufacturing and innovation. The company will allocate $500 million to boost engine manufacturing capacity and expand key sites, particularly those supporting the CFM LEAP engine. An additional $100 million will support external suppliers to upgrade tools, reduce defects, and alleviate supply-chain constraints. GE also plans to hire 5,000 U.S. workers this year, including roles in manufacturing and engineering.

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Marco Rubio Attends G7 Summit in Quebec, Canada

Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu, 181 Rue Richelieu, La Malbaie, Quebec, Canada

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio attended a two-day G7 summit in La Malbaie, Quebec, starting Wednesday. The summit, which includes foreign ministers from France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the UK, addressed global issues such as the situations in Ukraine, Sudan, and the Middle East, as well as China's influence in the Indo-Pacific region. Rubio stated that the summit's focus was not on Trump's suggestion of the US taking over Canada, despite ongoing trade tensions and diplomatic crises.

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Brooks Koepka Considers PGA Tour Return

Singapore

Brooks Koepka, currently playing on the Saudi-backed LIV circuit, hinted at a possible return to the PGA Tour. Despite having contractual obligations with LIV, Koepka acknowledged the rumors and stated his focus is on improving his game and team performance. Fred Couples suggested Koepka desires a return due to LIV's lighter schedule.

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"Moana 2" Begins Streaming on Disney+

Walt Disney Studios, 500 South Buena Vista Street, Burbank, California, USA

After a 106-day theatrical run and a late-January on-demand release, Disney's "Moana 2" became available for streaming on Disney+ starting today, March 12, 2025. The film, a sequel to the 2016 hit "Moana," follows Moana and Maui as they embark on a new adventure to find the lost island of Motufetu. The movie grossed $1.02 billion worldwide in 2024 and an additional $55 million domestically in early 2025.

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Queen Camilla meets Michael O'Sullivan's girlfriend, Giles.

Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Rd, Cheltenham, UK

Queen Camilla met with Charlotte Giles, the girlfriend of jockey Michael O'Sullivan, at the Cheltenham Festival on March 12, 2025. This meeting occurred less than a month after O'Sullivan's death due to injuries sustained in a fall at Thurles in February. O'Sullivan, a Cheltenham Festival winning jockey, passed away on February 16 at the age of 24. Giles was present at the festival, where tributes were paid to O'Sullivan, including a race renamed in his honor.

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Counselling in the Community Faces Funding Disparity

Blackpool, England, UK

Counselling in the Community, a counselling charity in Blackpool, estimates it would cost the NHS £3,750 weekly to cover the therapy it provides to patients referred by doctors. About 50% of the patients seen each week are referred through NHS pathways. Stuart Hutton-Brown has written to the all-party parliamentary group (APPG) on mental health to raise awareness of problems, highlighting the lack of direct funding or financial support despite the crucial role the charity plays in alleviating pressure on strained NHS services.

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NHS relies on under-qualified professionals for mental health

NHS England, Quarry House, Quarry Hill, Leeds, England, UK

Mental health charities in England are struggling with an influx of patients referred by GPs, leading to under-qualified professionals treating seriously ill individuals. Experts report GPs are directing patients to unregulated charities that may lack transparency regarding practitioner qualifications. Charities report struggling to meet the demand. NHS dietician recommended Amercine Maneely's daughter self-refer to First Steps ED. Maneely, a former psychiatric nurse, declined 'one-to-one support' for her daughter due to the support officer's lack of psychotherapy or counseling qualifications.

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Scotland Faces Greece in Nations League Play-off

Karaiskakis Stadium, Piraeus, Greece

Scotland is set to compete against Greece in a two-legged Nations League play-off later in March 2025. The team aims to maintain its position in the top tier of the competition. Following the play-off, Scotland will participate in a World Cup qualifying group that includes either Portugal or Denmark, along with Greece and Belarus. The matches outcomes will determine the teams future.

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Jane Hume Files Complaint Against Gazette News

Australian Electoral Commission, 50 Marcus Clarke St, Canberra ACT, Australia

Shadow Minister Jane Hume filed a complaint with the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) against Gazette News, labeling it a 'disinformation campaign'. Hume alleges that Gazette News is bankrolled by Climate 200 and promotes teal independent candidates. The complaint raises concerns about transparency and potential misleading of voters ahead of the federal election. Gazette News has denied any ties to political groups, asserting its independence. The AEC will investigate the complaint.

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Climate 200 Denies Ties to Gazette News

National Press Club, 16 National Circuit, Barton ACT, Australia

Simon Holmes à Court, founder of Climate 200, denied any connections between his organization and Gazette News, a community media organization accused of spreading disinformation and promoting teal independent candidates. He acknowledged meeting the founder of Gazette News, Anna Saulwick, but insisted there is no formal link. The denial follows a complaint filed by the Coalition to the Australian Electoral Commission regarding Gazette News's five digital newspapers. Holmes à Court emphasized the need for transparency across all media outlets.

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'Emilia Pérez' cast wins Best Actress at Cannes

Cannes Film Festival, Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, Boulevard de la Croisette, Cannes, France

The cast of Jacques Audiard's 'Emilia Pérez' collectively won the Best Actress prize at the Cannes Film Festival. This initial success helped propel the film into awards season with strong momentum. The film also received the third-place jury prize at Cannes, indicating its initial critical acclaim and awards potential before later controversies arose.

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Jacques Audiard's 'Emilia Pérez' nominations collapse after controversy

Netflix Headquarters, 100 Winchester Circle, Los Gatos, California, USA

Jacques Audiard's film 'Emilia Pérez' initially garnered significant awards attention, including four Golden Globes and 13 Oscar nominations. However, the film's momentum collapsed after the exposure of controversial social media content from its star, Karla Sofía Gascón. This controversy has severely diminished Audiard's chances of winning the best director Oscar, despite the film's initial success and progressive themes.

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NASA DART Spacecraft Redirects Asteroid Dimorphos

NASA Headquarters, 300 E Street SW, Washington, D.C., USA

NASA's Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) successfully altered the trajectory of the asteroid Dimorphos. This demonstrated technology to deflect dangerous asteroids. However, scientists are sceptical that this would work on 2024 YR4 due to uncertainty about its composition and the short window of time available for deflection.

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Ford, Lutnick to Meet on USMCA Trade

Washington, D.C., USA

Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick agreed to meet in Washington D.C. on March 13, 2025, alongside the United States Trade Representative, to discuss a renewed USMCA. This meeting aims to address issues with increased tariffs before the April 2 reciprocal tariff deadline.

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Sportsbet CEO Admits Failures in Preventing Financial Crime

Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Sportsbet CEO Barni Evans admitted at an industry conference in Sydney on Wednesday that the company failed to properly understand its responsibility to prevent financial crime and address integrity threats to major sports. Evans stated Sportsbet did "a terrible job" initially alerting sporting bodies to suspicious betting transactions, taking three to four years to recognize their role in helping sports combat integrity issues. He also criticized the delay in introducing a national self-exclusion register for problem gamblers, stating the ecosystem failed despite legislation being introduced in 2018 and launched in August 2023. Sportsbet's customers gambled $2.7bn with it over three months last year.

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US Imposes Tariffs; Australia Will Not Retaliate

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that while he considers the U.S. tariffs on Australian steel and aluminum unjustified, his government will not impose reciprocal tariffs on the United States. The U.S. officially increased tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports to 25%. Albanese stated that tariffs and escalating trade tensions are a form of economic self-harm and lead to slower growth and higher inflation, ultimately paid by consumers.

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Vodafone UK Network Suffers Outage, Resolved by 9:30 AM

Vodafone Headquarters, The Connection, Newbury, Berkshire, UK

Vodafone's UK network experienced an outage on March 12, 2025, starting around 07:45 GMT, impacting internet access for thousands of customers. Down Detector logged over 700 issues, with 84% related to landline internet. A Vodafone spokesperson stated a 'configuration issue' caused the problem, which was resolved by 9:30 AM. The company apologized for the inconvenience. Customers in Reading and the RG6 area reported ongoing issues even after the stated resolution time.

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Ringo Starr and Friends Perform at Ryman

Ryman Auditorium, 116 5th Ave N, Nashville, Tennessee, USA

Ringo Starr, accompanied by Jack White, Sheryl Crow, Billy Strings, Molly Tuttle, and Larkin Poe, performed at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. The concert special, 'Ringo & Friends at the Ryman,' which streams on Paramount+, celebrates Starr's 2025 country music-themed solo album, 'Look Up.' Appearances and testimonials were also made by Paul McCartney, Dolly Parton, Lainey Wilson, The War & Treaty, and Brenda Lee. The performance included Beatles classics and songs from Starr's solo career, infused with country influences.

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Christian Tetzlaff cancels US tour over Trump policies

United States of America

Renowned German violinist Christian Tetzlaff and his quartet cancelled their summer tour of the US, citing horror at the authoritarian policies of Donald Trump and the response of US elites to the country’s growing democratic crisis. Tetzlaff expressed feeling "utter anger" and said he could not proceed with the tour given his feelings about the current political climate in the United States.

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Spotify's Ek, Lorentzon Cashed Out Millions in Shares

Spotify Headquarters, 4 World Trade Center, 150 Greenwich Street, New York, NY, USA

Spotify co-founder and CEO Daniel Ek cashed out nearly $700 million in Spotify shares since 2023. Co-founder Martin Lorentzon cashed out $556.8 million in shares in 2024. The timing of these actions coincides with reports of widening financial inequalities for artists on the streaming platform.

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Total Lunar Eclipse Visible Across Americas on March 14

Charlotte, North Carolina, USA

A total lunar eclipse will occur on March 14, 2025, when the full moon passes directly behind the Earth, through its shadow. The partial eclipse begins at 05:09 GMT, the total phase at 06:58 GMT, returning to a partial phase at 07:31 GMT, and ending at 08:47 GMT. Observers in North and South America will see the entire event. In Europe and Africa, only the initial partial phase will be visible, while parts of Asia and Australia will catch the final partial phase.

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UK expands definition of 'bathers' for waterways

Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Seacole Building, 2 Marsham Street, London, UK

The UK government is expanding the definition of “bathers” to include participants in watersports other than swimming, such as paddle boarders and surfers. Also the bathing water season will be extended to the whole year from its current term of May to September and multiple testing points will be created at the bathing water sites. Applications for bathing water status, which have been on hold during consultation over the changes, will reopen in May.

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England, Wales introduce feasibility test for bathing waters

Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Seacole Building, 2 Marsham Street, London, UK

The governments of England and Wales are introducing a feasibility test for waterways seeking bathing water designation. Water bodies deemed too polluted to reach "sufficient" water quality will be denied designation. Campaigners fear this will exclude many rivers needing cleanup from receiving necessary protections and investment. The EU-derived bathing water regulations are being used to drive the cleanup of toxic rivers suffering from sewage pollution and agricultural runoff. All but one of the current river sites in England with bathing water status were displaying do not swim advisory notices due to pollution on Wednesday.

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NSW Hate Crime Incidents Linked to Organized Crime

Newtown Synagogue, Newtown, NSW, Australia

NSW police revealed that 14 recent incidents, including the attempted firebombing of a synagogue and graffiti, are believed to be coordinated by a small group or individual and are not ideologically motivated. Police clarified that these incidents, initially suspected as antisemitic acts, were orchestrated by organized crime figures. This revelation emerged during a budget estimates hearing, prompting questions about the government's response and the rationale behind hate speech legislation.

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Vance Accuses Zelensky of Being Ungrateful for Aid

The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C., USA

US Vice President JD Vance accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of being ungrateful for US aid during a meeting in the Oval Office. Vance criticized Zelensky for a lack of respect and sending politicians on a "propaganda tour" of Ukraine. The argument led to scrambling among European leaders to defend Zelensky and maintain negotiations for a potential peace deal.

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iRobot Corp. Plunges on Operational Doubt

8 Crosby Dr, Bedford, MA 01730, USA

iRobot Corp., a consumer robotics company, experienced a significant stock plunge of 37% after raising “substantial doubt” about its ability to continue operating. This announcement has raised concerns about the company's financial stability and future prospects within the competitive consumer robotics market. The company is assessing strategic alternatives to address its financial challenges.

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Demokraatit Party wins Greenland parliamentary elections

Nuuk, Greenland

The center-right Demokraatit Party won the most votes in Greenland's parliamentary elections, a surprise result as the territory went to the polls. Party leader Jens-Frederik Nielsen expressed surprise and happiness at the results. The election outcome may influence Greenland's future political course and approach to independence, especially in light of U.S. President Donald Trump's stated interest in taking control of the island.

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Scottish Parliament Considers Assisted Dying Bill, May 2025

Scottish Parliament Building, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK

The Scottish Parliament is currently considering the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults (Scotland) Bill, drafted by Liberal Democrat MSP Liam McArthur. If passed, the bill would allow eligible terminally ill adults in Scotland to request assisted dying, provided they have resided in Scotland for at least 12 months, are registered with a GP in Scotland, and possess the mental capacity to make the request. The bill is being reviewed by the health committee, with the first stage of their work due for completion by May 23, 2025. Scottish Health Secretary Neil Gray has raised concerns about the bill exceeding Holyrood's powers.

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British Students Face Racial Slurs in Arkansas School

Mena High School, Mena, Arkansas, USA

Two Black British teenagers, Dae-Jaun and Richae, attending Elmgreen School in London, experienced racist abuse during a school trip to Mena, Arkansas, as part of a Channel 4 documentary. Dae-Jaun was called the N-word at an American football game, while Richae faced similar slurs in the hallways of Mena High School. The head of year at Elmgreen School, Mr. Thomas, reported feeling unsafe and Vice Principal Ashcraft expressed heartbreak over the incidents. These experiences highlight the ongoing challenges of racism, even in educational settings.

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Dae-Jaun Faced Knife Attack in London

Lambeth, London, UK

Dae-Jaun, a British student, was previously attacked and held at knifepoint while playing basketball in London. This incident led him to carry a knife to school for self-defense, resulting in disciplinary action. His mother, Hilary, expressed concern about the impact of the attack on her son's safety and well-being in their Lambeth neighborhood, highlighting the challenges of youth violence in the area.

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Arkansas Student Jayla Faces Racism in Mena School

Mena High School, Mena, Arkansas, USA

Jayla, a mixed-race student in Mena, Arkansas, described experiencing racism at school. She recounted an incident where students tried to cut off her Black Lives Matter bracelet. She also mentioned instances of racial slurs being circulated about her in notes. Jayla's mother, Jessica, expressed distress over the racism her daughter faces, highlighting the ongoing challenges of racial discrimination within the school environment.

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Report: Biased laws drive rise in female prisoners

London, UK

A new report by Penal Reform International and Women Beyond Walls reveals a 57% increase in the number of women and girls in prison since 2000, compared to a 22% increase for men. The report, granted exclusive access to the Guardian before its launch on March 17, 2025, highlights how laws criminalize acts of survival, with women disproportionately jailed for petty theft, begging, and informal economy work. It also notes that women are frequently detained for debt in violation of international law. The report warns that the female prison population could soon exceed one million and calls for decriminalizing laws that violate human rights standards.

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Congress To Mark Detransition Awareness Day March 12

US Capitol Building, Washington, D.C., USA

For the first time, Congress is introducing a resolution to mark March 12 as "Detransition Awareness Day." This day is significant for individuals who regret undergoing sex changes and highlights the growing number of young adults who are detransitioning. The resolution aims to bring attention to the issues faced by detransitioners and advocate for policies that protect children from being pressured into gender transitioning.

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Nvidia CEO Huang To Speak At GTC Conference

San Jose McEnery Convention Center, 150 W San Carlos St, San Jose, California, USA

Nvidia Chief Executive Jensen Huang will give a keynote speech at the GTC conference next week in San Jose, California, on March 18. He is expected to address the continued potential for artificial intelligence. Nvidia is likely to detail its upcoming Blackwell Ultra graphics processing unit (GPU) and GB300 system, due out later this year.

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India aims to attract manufacturers amid US-China tariffs

New Delhi, Delhi, India

India is seeking to attract manufacturing companies relocating from China due to tariffs imposed by the United States under President Trump's administration. The move is intended to capitalize on the shift in manufacturing operations away from China, offering India as an alternative destination for businesses seeking to avoid the impact of the tariffs.

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ISA Discusses Deep Sea Mining Regulations

International Seabed Authority, Kingston, Jamaica

The International Seabed Authority (ISA) is holding meetings in March and July of 2025 to discuss the next steps in regulating deep-sea mining. Mining contractors are pushing for regulations to be agreed upon by the end of the year, with one company hoping to apply to begin mining in 2026. The ISA has a new leader who is promising an era of openness.

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Norway Pauses Deep Seabed Mining Plans

Oslo, Norway

Norway has paused its plans to exploit its own deep seabed, but the country's prime minister made it clear that 'preparatory work' would continue on regulations and environmental impact mitigations. Other countries such as the Cook Islands and Japan have expressed interest.

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Nine Entertainment Defends Publishing Clive Palmer Ad

Nine Entertainment Co., 1 Denison Street, North Sydney, NSW 2060, Australia

Nine Entertainment defended its decision to publish a $200,000 advertisement from Clive Palmer's Trumpet of Patriots party on the front page of the Age. The media company stated that rejecting the ad could imply endorsement of other political ads. This decision has drawn criticism from both staff and readers, especially given the advertisement's controversial message stating, 'There are only two genders.' The Age published an editorial on the same day criticizing Palmer. Nine Entertainment's Luke McIlveen and Tory Maguire addressed staff concerns acknowledging the discomfort the ad caused, but reaffirmed the Age's editorial independence.

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Victoria to Reintroduce Offence of Committing Crime on Bail

Parliament House, Spring Street, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

The Victorian government, led by Premier Jacinta Allan, announced it would reintroduce the offence of committing an indictable crime while on bail. This reverses a decision made in 2023 following the death of Veronica Nelson, an Aboriginal woman who died in custody. The proposed changes aim to prioritize community safety when deciding bail, especially for repeat offenders of serious crimes. Legal, human rights, and First Nations groups have criticized the move, while the Police Association supports it.

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Aunty Nelson Condemns Allan's Bail Law Changes

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Aunty Donna Nelson, the mother of Veronica Nelson, has strongly criticized Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan's plan to reintroduce tough new bail laws. Nelson accuses Allan of insulting her daughter's memory and warns that the changes will lead to more Indigenous people being incarcerated. Her statement was provided to The Guardian following the premier's announcement.

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NHS England Rolls Out Cladribine Pill for MS

NHS England, Skipton House, 80 London Road, London, SE1 6LH, UK

The NHS in England has become the first healthcare system in Europe to widely roll out the cladribine tablet for patients with active relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS). This new take-at-home pill, approved by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice), will reduce hospital visits and free up appointments. The treatment involves taking the tablet only 20 times in the first two years of a four-year cycle. This expansion of access means more patients can manage their treatment at home, and women with MS have greater flexibility regarding pregnancy. The rollout is expected to save thousands of clinical hours annually, increasing NHS productivity.

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UK MPs Warn of Uneven EV Charger Rollout

Houses of Parliament, Westminster, London, UK

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has warned that the slow and unequal rollout of electric vehicle (EV) charging points on British motorways could undermine driver confidence. Only a third of the 114 areas identified by the Department for Transport (DfT) have met the target of having six ultra-rapid charge points. The PAC highlighted a ‘clear geographical divide,’ with almost half of the 73,000 installed chargers located in London and the South East, potentially leaving rural and disabled drivers behind. The report also notes delays in a program designed to support local authorities in England with charger installations, with only ten of 78 projects approved for delivery.

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EU to Retaliate Against US Tariffs in April

European Commission, Rue de la Loi / Wetstraat 200, 1049 Brussels, Belgium

The European Union has announced that it will implement counter-measures in April in response to the US tariffs on steel and aluminum imports. These measures will affect approximately 26 billion euros of EU exports. This decision follows the US imposing a 25% tariff on steel and aluminium imports, including those from the UK, despite attempts by the UK Prime Minister to secure an exemption. The EU's action aims to defend European interests in the face of the new tariffs.

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Nicolas Cage Dismissed from Lawsuit over Son's Actions

Los Angeles, California, USA

Claims against Nicolas Cage have been dismissed from a civil lawsuit filed by his ex-girlfriend, Christina Fulton, concerning an alleged assault by their son, Weston Cage. Fulton initially sued Weston for assault and battery last month and accused Nicolas Cage of negligence, claiming he failed to prevent their son's behavior. However, the claims against Nicolas have been removed, with his lawyers previously calling the lawsuit 'frivolous'. Fulton's proceedings against Weston Cage are still ongoing, regarding an alleged attack in April 2024 that resulted in injuries and PTSD. Weston Cage was arrested in June 2024 and charged with assault with a deadly weapon, to which he pleaded not guilty.

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Weston Cage Pleads Not Guilty to Assault Charges

Los Angeles, California, USA

Weston Cage pleaded not guilty to two felony counts of assault with a deadly weapon in June 2024, following an alleged attack on his mother, Christina Fulton, in April 2024. Fulton claims the attack left her with concussion, neck and throat injuries, dental and abdominal trauma, and PTSD. The charges stem from an incident where Weston allegedly assaulted Fulton in a 'manic rage' without provocation. The case is ongoing.

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Quontic Bank offers highest money market rate

30-95 44th St, Astoria, New York, USA

As of March 12, 2025, Quontic Bank offers the highest money market account rate at 4.75% APY, which is more than seven times the national average. This makes Quontic Bank a leading institution for high-yield money market accounts.

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Channel 5 Rebrands as '5' Amid Fan Criticism

Channel 5 Broadcasting Centre, 105 Upper Ground, London, UK

Channel 5, a major UK television channel, has rebranded itself as '5', marking its fourth name change in 28 years. This unification of linear TV and streaming offerings, replacing the My5 platform, aims to streamline the viewing experience. The rebrand, which was initially announced in August, officially took effect on Wednesday. Despite the company's enthusiasm, viewers have expressed confusion and frustration, with some calling the move 'beyond parody'. The rebrand includes the tagline 'It's all on 5' and aims to highlight the channel's partnerships after its acquisition by Paramount.

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Moft's Kickstarter campaign for iPad case successful

Moft Headquarters, Shenzhen, China

Moft has launched a Kickstarter campaign for its new Dynamic Folio case, designed to improve the ergonomics of iPads. The origami-inspired case transforms into a stand that can elevate the tablet by up to three inches. The campaign has already surpassed its $10,000 funding goal. The case will be available in three sizes, supporting the iPad Mini, as well as 11 and 13-inch versions of the iPad Pro and Air. Early backers can preorder the Mini case for $34, the 11-inch version for $45, or the 13-inch version for $55, with shipping expected to start in May 2025.

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NYT Spelling Bee Celebrates 2,500th Edition with 'S'

The New York Times Building, 620 8th Avenue, New York, NY, USA

The New York Times' Spelling Bee puzzle celebrated its 2,500th edition today, March 12, 2025. To mark the occasion, the puzzle includes the letter 'S' for the first time, allowing for many new word possibilities.

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Samsung Launches 'The Six' Trivia Game on Phones

Samsung Electronics America, 85 Challenger Road, Ridgefield Park, NJ, USA

Samsung launched its daily trivia game, 'The Six,' on the Samsung News app for Galaxy phones today. The game, which debuted on Samsung Smart TVs in June, challenges players with six questions on topics from entertainment to world history, awarding higher scores for faster correct answers.

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Oliver Reed Died After Drinking During 'Gladiator' Filming

Atlas Studios, Ouarzazate, Morocco

During the filming of 'Gladiator', Oliver Reed consumed alcohol, stating he didn't feel well before passing away. According to Ridley Scott, Reed "probably had a couple of pints," said he didn't feel well, laid on the carpet, and died. His death occurred during production, contributing to the challenges of completing the film.

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Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 on sale

Amazon Headquarters, 410 Terry Ave N, Seattle, Washington, USA

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 is on sale at Amazon, Target, and Best Buy starting at $69.95 ($10 off), which is its second-best price to date. The Mini 12 is easy to use, highly portable, and captures great photos. It features a built-in selfie mirror and a handy Close-Up mode.

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Anker MagGo USB-C Adapter on sale at Amazon

Amazon Headquarters, 410 Terry Ave N, Seattle, Washington, USA

Anker’s MagGo USB-C Adapter is on sale at Amazon starting at $21.99 ($3 off). This MagSafe-compatible device functions as an SD and microSD card reader for laptops and other electronics. The USB-C port offers up to 42.5W of power output, and if you have a compatible iPhone 15 or 16 and a memory card that supports at least 220MB/s write speeds and 256GB capacity, it can even capture ProRes 4K recording at 60fps.

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Tile Pro on sale at Amazon, BestBuy, Target

Amazon Headquarters, 410 Terry Ave N, Seattle, Washington, USA

The 2024 Tile Pro is on sale at Amazon, Best Buy, and Target starting at $24.49, which is about $11 off the original price, marking an all-time low. This Bluetooth tracker, known for its water resistance and compatibility with both Android and iOS devices, features a wide range of 500 feet and the loudest ring among Tile products. It is capable of tapping into both the Tile Network and Amazon Sidewalk for tracking. The Tile Pro also has a replaceable CR2032 battery and can send SOS alerts to loved ones and Tile's emergency dispatch center with a $14.99 monthly subscription to Life360 Gold.

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Theragun Mini 2nd Gen on sale at retailers

Amazon Headquarters, 410 Terry Ave N, Seattle, Washington, USA

The second-gen Theragun Mini is on sale at Amazon, Best Buy, and Target for $149 ($50 off), which is $20 shy of its best price to date. The powerful three-speed massage gun can quickly melt away tension and comes with three swappable attachments that allow you to target certain areas, including your lower back. The compact USB-C device is highly portable and pairs with a companion app, too, letting you tap into personalized wellness routines in the Therabody app.

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Mischa Barton recalls working with Hugh Grant

Hammersmith, London, UK

Mischa Barton shares her admiration for Hugh Grant, recalling their collaboration when she was younger and noting his kindness towards her. She highlights their shared birthplace, Hammersmith Hospital in London, as a personal connection. She fondly remembers Notting Hill being re-released every Christmas.

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Mischa Barton recalls hanging out with Killers

Warner Bros. Studios, 3400 Warner Blvd, Burbank, California, USA

Mischa Barton reminisced about the time the Killers and other bands played on The OC, stating that it was one of the highlights of the whole show. She mentioned getting close to Rooney, Phantom Planet, and Modest Mouse and even made friends and found a couple of boyfriends off the back of it.

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Mischa Barton starred in Noel Gallagher video

Los Angeles, California, USA

Mischa Barton shares how she ended up doing the video for Noel Gallagher's song 'Everybody's on the Run.' Gallagher, knowing Barton lived in Los Angeles, asked her to participate, and Barton agreed. Despite feeling unsure about some aspects of the shoot, like having her skirt ripped off, she is ultimately glad she did it because she admires Gallagher and Oasis.

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Mischa Barton remembers working with Bruce Willis

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA

Mischa Barton fondly recalls working with Bruce Willis on The Sixth Sense and Assassination of a High School President. She remembers Willis being great with the kids, fun on set, and always playing guitar in his trailer. Barton also highlights that The Sixth Sense was a massive movie set and a huge production.

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Earthquake Strikes Alamo, California; Magnitude 2.5

Alamo, California, USA

A 2.5 magnitude earthquake struck near San Francisco, specifically less than three miles outside of Alamo, California, at approximately 7:45 AM ET on March 12, 2025. The epicenter was located within miles of four towns with a combined population of over 100,000 people. The earthquake was detected by the US Geological Survey (USGS).

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3.2 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Near Petrolia, California

Petrolia, California, USA

A 3.2 magnitude earthquake struck in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 47 miles west of Petrolia, California, on March 12, 2025. The earthquake occurred on the San Andreas fault, which spans 800 miles from Cape Mendocino to the Salton Sea. This region has experienced several earthquakes in the past few days. No damages or injuries were reported.

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Home Assistant Officially Certified as Matter Controller

Home Assistant Headquarters, California, USA

Home Assistant, the open-source smart home platform, has been officially certified as a Matter Controller after supporting Matter in beta since 2023. According to founder Paulus Schoutsen, while this certification won't significantly impact users, it represents a symbolic achievement. The certification process was lengthy and expensive, requiring testing with every compatible device type. Home Assistant supports most Matter devices, unlike Apple, Amazon, and Google.

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Amazon MGM Acquires Tiger Woods Biopic Rights

Amazon MGM Studios, 2450 Colorado Ave, Santa Monica, California, USA

Amazon MGM Studios has acquired the film rights to Kevin Cook's book 'The Tiger Slam' to produce a biopic about Tiger Woods. Reinaldo Marcus Green, director of 'King Richard,' will direct the film, which chronicles Woods's rise to fame. Barack and Michelle Obama's Higher Ground is in talks to produce the movie along with Irwin Winkler.

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Torrey Peters Releases Provocative Story Collection 'Stag Dance'

Penguin Random House, 1745 Broadway, New York, NY, USA

Author Torrey Peters released her new collection of stories titled 'Stag Dance', which includes the titular novel, two early novellas ('Infect Your Friends and Loved Ones' and 'The Masker'), and a new novella ('The Chaser'). 'Stag Dance' directly addresses transition, placing familiar gender transition tropes in fresh contexts. Peters, known for 'Detransition, Baby,' aims to challenge herself creatively and undermine the cis-trans binary in her work, exploring themes of identity and stigmatization.

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Matt LeBlanc's 'professional nothing' interview goes viral

NBC Universal, 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY, USA

A TikTok video featuring resurfaced interviews with Matt LeBlanc, where he expresses his desire to do "nothing", has gone viral. The interviews, from 2017 and 2018, highlight LeBlanc's enjoyment of taking time off after Friends and his contentment with doing very little, contrasting with the perceived drive for "more, more, more" of plutocrats and politicians.

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Family Sues Waitress Over £650,000 Home Gift

Central London County Court, 27 St Cross St, London, UK

The family of Richard Joy, an 82-year-old deceased man, is suing Mariia Romanyshyn, a 38-year-old Ukrainian waitress, to reclaim his £650,000 home. Joy gifted the home to Romanyshyn in 2016, two years before his death in May 2018. The family claims Joy lacked the mental capacity to make the gift. Romanyshyn insists Joy knew what he was doing, and that she and her family cared for him. The case is being heard at Central London County Court.

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Lily Phillips Nursing Home Stunt Faces 'Fake' Claims

Los Angeles, California, USA

Fans are accusing porn star Lily Phillips of faking her nursing home sex stunt after identifying adult film star Jake Jacobs (aka Jay Crew) among the elderly men in her TikTok videos. Phillips, 23, claimed to visit American nursing homes to sleep with older men, but social media users believe the scenes were filmed on a set. Jake Jacobs, 68, who has also appeared in the Eric Andre show, has been identified as one of the 'geriatric fans'.

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Ayesha Shand leaves Hauser & Wirth for Trinny London

Trinny London Headquarters, London, UK

Ayesha Shand, Queen Camilla's niece, is leaving her position at Hauser & Wirth art gallery in London after eight years, where Princess Eugenie is a director. Shand will be taking on the role of US VP of marketing at Trinny London. She announced the decision on LinkedIn, stating her excitement to enter the beauty world and challenge herself professionally. Trinny London, founded in 2017, is a makeup and skincare brand focused on empowering women.

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Queen Camilla Attends Cheltenham Style Wednesday

Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Rd, Cheltenham, UK

Queen Camilla, Princess Eugenie, and Zara Tindall attended 'Style Wednesday' at Cheltenham, a gender-neutral event celebrating racing and fashion. The three royals coordinated in burgundy outfits. Queen Camilla was accompanied by her son, Tom Parker Bowles. Zara Tindall attended with her husband Mike, sharing a passionate kiss. Princess Eugenie attended with her husband Jack Brooksbank.

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CIT Bank offers highest savings rate: 4.30% APY

CIT Bank, 10201 Centurion Parkway N, Jacksonville, Florida, USA

As of March 12, 2025, CIT Bank offers the highest savings account rate at 4.30% APY. This rate requires a minimum opening deposit of $5,000. While the average savings account rate is just 0.41%, high-yield savings accounts offer rates around 4.0% to 4.5% APY. This is still well above historical norms.

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A24 releases 'Friendship' in US cinemas May 9

A24 Films, 1245 4th St, Santa Monica, California, USA

A24 is set to release the film 'Friendship,' starring Tim Robinson and Paul Rudd, in US cinemas on May 9, 2025. The film, directed by Andrew DeYoung, premiered at SXSW and previously at the Toronto film festival. It focuses on the complexities of a friendship breakup through comedy.

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Lively, Baldoni Face Off in Court March 2026

Los Angeles County Superior Court, 111 N Hill St, Los Angeles, California, USA

Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni are set to face off in court in March 2026 over their respective lawsuits. Lively filed a complaint in December 2024, alleging sexual harassment and a smear campaign during the "It Ends With Us" press tour. Baldoni has denied the allegations and filed a $400 million defamation lawsuit against Lively, Ryan Reynolds, and their publicist.

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Vanessa Feltz Discusses Marriage, Relationships on Podcast

Associated Newspapers Ltd, Northcliffe House, 2 Derry Street, London, UK

Vanessa Feltz discussed the importance of relationships and her past marriage to Michael Kurer on the 'Loving and Living' podcast with Lizzie Cundy and Mike Parry on Wednesday, March 12, 2025. Feltz admitted to feeling 'less whole' without a husband and reflected on her previous relationships, including her 16-year relationship with Ben Ofoedu, which ended in 2023 due to infidelity. She emphasized the importance of trust in relationships and the potential for loneliness in relationships with the wrong person, drawing from her experiences of taking back a cheat in 2017.

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Fox Corp Stock Shows Potential Rebound

1211 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY, USA

Fox Corp Class A (NASDAQ:FOXA) shares, after hitting a record high of $58.74 on March 3, 2025, experienced a pullback. As of March 12, 2025, the stock shows signs of a potential rebound, trading near its 50-day moving average. Historical data indicates similar pullbacks have led to an average one-month gain of 11%. The stock's RSI of 23 signals oversold conditions, and short interest has decreased by 12.4%. Analysts remain cautious with a 'hold' rating, leaving room for potential upgrades.

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Cantona, Davids Headline Football Art Exhibition

Aviva Studios, Water Street, Manchester, England, UK

Eric Cantona, Edgar Davids, Ella Toone, and Juan Mata are participating in the Football City, Art United exhibition. Cantona and artist Ryan Gander created an installation that puts a spotlight on visitors, highlighting the effects of fame. Davids is working with Paul Pfeiffer to exhibit a tunnel inspired by the player's walk before a match. The exhibition also features Vivianne Miedema, Raí, Lotte Wubben-Moy, and Jorge Campos. The exhibition will run at Aviva Studios in Manchester in July and August as part of the Manchester International Festival.

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Keir Starmer Received Warmly in Washington, D.C.

The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C., USA

Keir Starmer has been warmly received in Washington by the current White House administration. This visit highlights the ongoing discussions between the UK and the US, although the article cautions that avoiding conflict shouldn't be mistaken for significant leverage. The article suggests Starmer is attempting to navigate a middle ground in US-Europe relations.

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Constantine Werner Adapts George RR Martin Story

Germany

German screenwriter Constantine Werner adapted a story from fantasy author George RR Martin for the film 'In the Lost Lands'. The film, directed by Paul WS Anderson, is set in a post-apocalyptic futureworld where humanity's remnants gather in an urban hellhole, while outside in the “lost lands” chaos reigns. Milla Jovovich stars as Gray Alys, a witch who defies the theocratic tyranny.

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O'Dessa Premieres at SXSW Film Festival 2025

Austin Convention Center, 500 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, Texas, USA

The film O'Dessa, starring Sadie Sink, Kelvin Harrison Jr., and Regina Hall, premiered at the SXSW Film Festival. Directed by Geremy Jasper, the dystopian rock opera follows O'Dessa, a nomadic musician, in a world ruled by a tyrannical gameshow host. The film is set to be available on Hulu in the US and Disney+ elsewhere starting March 20, 2025.

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UK Gardeners Advised to Support Birds in March

Kent Wildflower Seeds, Ashford Road, Faversham, UK

Gardeners across the UK are being urged to support birds like robins, blackbirds, and starlings during the crucial month of March. Kent Wildflower Seeds founder, Charlotte Denne, advises providing reliable food sources, including sunflower hearts, suet, and mealworms, and bird-friendly plants such as hawthorn and holly. She also recommends washing feeders weekly and leaving out fresh water. Gardeners are warned not to disrupt nesting doves or pigeons to avoid fines under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

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UK Gardeners Warned: Damaging Bird Nests Illegal

Primrose, London, UK

Gardeners are warned not to disrupt doves or pigeons nesting in their gardens from February onwards, as these birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Damaging nests or disturbing birds can result in fines or prosecution. Gardeners are advised to provide food for doves, which prefer seeds and grains, and to avoid any actions that could harm nests or birds.

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Ficre Ghebreyesus's Solo Exhibition Opens in London

Modern Art, 4-8 Helmet Row, London, UK

Ficre Ghebreyesus, an Eritrea-born artist who passed away in 2012, is having his first solo British exhibition at the Modern Art gallery in London. The exhibition comprises 25 canvases from the 1990s to 2011, many of which have never been displayed publicly. Ghebreyesus's paintings reflect his experiences of war, displacement, and migration, incorporating diverse influences such as Coptic Christian iconography and Italianate architecture.

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Hong Kong Hosts Wealth for Good Summit on March 26.

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Harbour Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

Hong Kong is scheduled to host the third edition of the Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit on March 26, 2025. Christopher Hui Ching-yu, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, announced the summit, which aims to reinforce Hong Kong's position as an international financial center. The summit focuses on themes like technology, artificial intelligence, philanthropy, and arts and culture, attracting global leaders, family office principals, and business innovators. The event underscores Hong Kong's role as a 'superconnector' and 'super value-adder' for mainland China and the rest of the world.

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National Portrait Gallery Displays Princess Diana Photo (1988)

National Portrait Gallery, St. Martin's Place, London, UK

The National Portrait Gallery features a minimalist portrait of Princess Diana taken by David Bailey in 1988. The photo, set against a plain background, contrasts with the extravagant fashion trends of the 1980s, portraying Diana in an 'unplugged' style. The portrait captures a moment of introspection and stands as a testament to Bailey's diverse photographic styles during the decade.

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University of Nottingham: Sleep Impacts Conspiracy Beliefs

University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, UK

Researchers at the University of Nottingham tracked over 1,000 Britons and found that a month of restless sleep increased the likelihood of endorsing conspiracy theories. The study, published in the Journal of Health Psychology, assessed the impact of sleep quality on motivations for conspiratorial thinking. The results indicate that poor sleep quality amplifies the effect of exposure to conspiracy theories, with depression, anger, and paranoia playing a significant role. The lead author, Dr. Daniel Jolley, suggested that improving sleep quality could serve as a protective factor against the spread of conspiratorial thinking.

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Warner Bros. Upgrades Discovery Plus with Max Technology

Warner Bros. Discovery Headquarters, 230 Park Avenue South, New York, NY, USA

Warner Bros. Discovery announced an upgrade to Discovery Plus, migrating it to the same technology used by its flagship streaming service, Max. This upgrade is intended to improve app and video performance, provide a more refined homepage and navigation, and offer better content recommendations. Additional improvements include the ability to sign in using a QR code and share show recommendations via text or social media on mobile. The update is currently rolling out to most devices in the US and Canada.

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Cheltenham Revellers Tumble While Dancing; Unharmed

Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Rd, Cheltenham, UK

Two racegoers at the Cheltenham Festival, dressed in tweed and knee-high boots, fell while dancing on the concourse. Fellow revellers helped them up, and neither appeared to be harmed. The incident occurred as the festival was in its second day. The women saw the humor in the situation after being helped up by passersby.

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Cheltenham Festival: Guinness Price Hike Angers Fans

Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Rd, Cheltenham, UK

Racing fans attending the Cheltenham Festival were angered by a 30p increase in the price of Guinness, bringing the cost of a pint to £7.80. This price hike was revealed by Mail Sport and has been criticized as a 'rip off'. Premium lager is priced at £7.40, 40p less than Guinness. The alcohol-free version of Guinness is priced the same as the alcoholic version.

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Lucinda Williams Installs Greenhouse, Solar Panels Post-Split

Milland, West Sussex, UK

Lucinda Williams, ex-wife of Hugh Bonneville, is installing a £50,000 greenhouse and solar panels at their former six-bedroom, four-bathroom home near Milland, West Sussex. Sixty solar panels are planned for a field next to the property, valued at approximately £4 million. The couple split last year after 25 years of marriage.

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Analysts Issue Reports on S&P Global, Moody's

S&P Global, 55 Water Street, New York, New York, USA

Analysts released reports on S&P Global Inc (SPGI) and Moody's Corp (MCO) on March 12, 2025. These reports offer insights into the companies' performance and outlook.

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Vickers Identifies Companies with Largest Insider Purchases

Vickers, 2881 Business Center Blvd, Melbourne, Florida, USA

Vickers Top Buyers & Sellers daily report identifies the five companies with the largest insider purchase transactions based on the dollar value of the transactions. The report provides exclusive reports, detailed company profiles, and trade insights.

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Mixodectes Skeleton Reveals Primate Evolutionary Link

San Juan Basin, New Mexico, USA

A 62-million-year-old skeleton of Mixodectes pungens, discovered in New Mexico's San Juan Basin, has provided new insights into the anatomy, behavior, and evolutionary relationships of this enigmatic mammal. The skeleton, belonging to a mature adult weighing about 3 pounds, revealed that Mixodectes was arboreal, primarily ate leaves, and occupied a unique ecological niche in the early Paleocene. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed that mixodectids are primatomorphans, closely related to primates and colugos, thus fairly close relatives of humans. The study, co-authored by Yale anthropologist Eric Sargis, was published in Scientific Reports.

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Piers Linney Reveals Dragons' Den Set Fakery

BBC Television Centre, 101 Wood Ln, London, UK

Piers Linney, a former investor on BBC's Dragons' Den from 2013 to 2015, disclosed that much of the show's set is not real, including the lift and the 'rusted and worn surfaces'. He emphasized that the entrepreneurs' pitches, reactions, and investments were authentic. Linney made nine deals during his time on the show, investing in companies such as Lost My Name and Skinny Tan.

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Tiny Box Company Achieves £10M Annual Revenue

Uckfield, East Sussex, UK

Rachel Watkyn's company, The Tiny Box Company, initially criticized on Dragons' Den in 2008, now generates £10 million annually. After securing £60,000 in investments from Peter Jones and Theo Paphitis, despite Duncan Bannatyne's negative feedback, the company expanded its offerings to over 1,500 eco-friendly packaging products. Watkyn reflects on resilience and the company's success amid personal health challenges.

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Rory McIlroy Plans Early Retirement from Golf

Sawgrass, Florida, USA

Rory McIlroy, currently 35, indicated that he plans to retire from professional golf before the age of 50. He stated his desire to make way for the younger generation and avoid embarrassing himself on the course later in his career. McIlroy also dismissed any possibility of playing on the Champions Tour.

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Winterbourne Abbas Residents Complain About Noisy Drain Cover

A35, Winterbourne Abbas, Dorset, UK

Residents of Winterbourne Abbas, Dorset, have been complaining about a faulty drain cover on the A35 that creates a loud noise resembling a 'double-barreled shotgun' every time a car drives over it. The noise has been disrupting residents' sleep for over a year. Despite complaints to National Highways and BT Openreach since February 2024, the issue remains unresolved. BT Openreach claims work is expected to start this month. David Bailey, a local resident, is forced to sleep at his partner's house due to the unbearable noise.

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Coal Australia hosts Littleproud fundraiser before election

Parliament House, Parliament Dr, Canberra ACT 2600, Australia

Coal Australia hosted a fundraising dinner with Nationals leader David Littleproud on Wednesday night to discuss election strategy and policy priorities. The event aimed to rally support for the coal industry in the face of a federal election that Coal Australia believes will determine the future of the industry. Stuart Bocking, CEO of Coal Australia, stated the group attends fundraisers for all major parties and supports those who advocate for coal communities.

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Clare Sheridan's Russia Trip Photo Album Up for Auction

Auctioneum Ltd, Bristol, Somerset, UK

A photo album documenting Clare Sheridan's 1920 trip to Russia, including never-before-seen images of her with Soviet diplomat Lev Kamenev and inside the Kremlin, is going up for auction at Auctioneum Ltd in Bristol, Somerset. The album, containing 80 black and white images, was acquired from a house clearance of a Sheridan family member and is valued at £12,000. The auctioneer, Andrew Stowe, expressed excitement over the historical importance of the album, which sheds light on Sheridan's controversial visit and relationships with key Bolshevik figures.

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Jamie Lomas Returns to 'Hollyoaks' for Flashback

Lime Pictures, Hollyoaks, Liverpool, UK

Jamie Lomas, known for playing Warren Fox in 'Hollyoaks', has returned to the show to film flashback scenes. Lomas first appeared on the show from 2006 to 2011, and again from 2016 until leaving in 2024. The return will explore the 'missing year' of his character's story, focusing on Mercedes’ Bowel Cancer diagnosis and Joel’s relapse episode.

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David Ames Hospitalized with Suspected Kidney Stones

Unknown Hospital, Unknown Location

David Ames, known for his roles in 'Hollyoaks' and 'Holby City', was rushed to the hospital on March 12, 2025, after waking up in severe pain, suspected to be caused by kidney stones. He shared a photo on Instagram from his hospital bed, stating he was in 'absolute agony'.

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CNBC Hosts Inaugural "CONVERGE LIVE" Event in Singapore

Singapore, Singapore

CNBC is hosting its inaugural "CONVERGE LIVE" event in Singapore on March 12-13, 2025. Global business leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and decision-makers will convene to discuss innovation and growth through collaboration. Speakers include Singapore's Deputy Prime Minister Kim Yong Gan, Alibaba Group Chairman Joe Tsai, Bridgewater Associates Founder Ray Dalio, and Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff.

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Brady Corbet wins BAFTA for 'The Brutalist' direction

Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, London, UK

Brady Corbet won the best director award at the British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA) for his film 'The Brutalist'. Corbet's film had already won the best director award at Venice. Despite Corbet's BAFTA win, his chances at the Oscars remain uncertain, especially after losing to Sean Baker at the Directors Guild Awards. The film has faced criticism regarding its length and the use of AI-assisted voices.

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Woody Allen ambushed Twiggy with demeaning questions

New York, NY, USA

In 1967, Woody Allen ambushed Twiggy with demeaning questions about philosophers during her first US trip in front of a studio audience. Allen attempted to belittle her, but Twiggy turned the tables by asking him to name his favorite philosophers, which he failed to do. Twiggy considered Allen's behavior ill-mannered, while Sadie Frost labeled it as misogyny.

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Phil Spector intimidated Twiggy with a gun

Los Angeles, California, USA

Twiggy recounts an incident where producer Phil Spector invited her to his house and attempted to intimidate her by waving a gun around. Her husband, Michael Witney, was present and helped her leave the situation. This occurred after Spector repeatedly refused to call her “Twiggy”.

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ONS Keeps 7am Data Release Due to Website

Office for National Statistics, Segensworth Road, Titchfield, Fareham, UK

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) will continue releasing economic data at 7am, a decision made during the pandemic, due to concerns that reverting to the previous 9:30am release time would overwhelm their website. The Office for Statistics Regulation (OSR) has agreed with the ONS, citing the need to avoid disruption to public bodies, financial markets, the media, and the public. City analysts have criticized this decision, arguing that data should be released during office hours for proper analysis. The ONS faces sustained pressure over data reliability, with the Bank of England also criticizing their pandemic recovery.

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Neighbor Dispute: Father potentially protected by easement law

London, UK

A man's father is in a dispute with a new neighbor who wants to remove trees and hedges that have provided privacy for 20 years. While the Prescription Act 1832, which deals with ‘acquisition of easements’, does not specifically cover privacy from trees, it may be possible to argue for a prescriptive easement related to the trees, especially if the father jointly owns the trees/hedges or tree preservation orders are in place. The article suggests the father speak with the neighbor and check local regulations before seeking legal advice.

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La Fête des Tersons Celebrated in Pierrefort, France

Pierrefort, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France

The town of Pierrefort, France celebrated La Fête des Tersons in early April. This festival featured a parade of Aubrac bulls through the town, accompanied by food, music, and entertainment. The Aubrac bulls, known for their distinctive "eye makeup" due to white fur around their eyes, are a source of local pride, providing both beef and milk for Laguiole cheese production.

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Habba Claims Discovery: Biden's 'Fake Oval Office'

Old Executive Office Building, 17th Street & Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C., USA

White House Counselor Alina Habba, a legal ally to Donald Trump, claims she discovered the 'fake Oval Office' allegedly used by Joe Biden during his presidency. Habba posted a video on social media showcasing a room with the White House logo, an American flag, a teleprompter, a golden chair, a table, television screens, and lighting fixtures. Biden reportedly used this set for Zoom sessions and public events. It's unclear if the set was the exact one used by Biden inside the South Court Auditorium at the Old Executive Office Building. The arrangement drew criticism from many, questioning why he didn't use the real White House.

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Spotify's 2024 Report: $10B in Royalties Paid

Spotify Headquarters, 4 World Trade Center, 150 Greenwich Street, New York, NY, USA

Spotify's Loud & Clear report for 2024 states that the company paid out $10 billion in royalties. This represents around two-thirds of Spotify’s total income. The report highlights the increasing number of artists generating significant revenue on the platform, with over 200 artists earning over $5 million annually. However, it notes that only a small fraction of artists are thriving financially.

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James Cameron considered attacking Harvey Weinstein

Samuel Goldwyn Theater, 8949 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, California, USA

In 1998 at the Academy Awards, James Cameron, angered by Harvey Weinstein's firing of Guillermo del Toro from the film Mimic, nearly struck Weinstein with his Oscar he had just won for Titanic. This occurred because Ron Perlman held a party that was attended by both del Toro and Cameron, solidifying their friendship.

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Ron Perlman, Donald Trump Jr. Twitter Spat

Twitter Headquarters, 1355 Market Street, San Francisco, California, USA

In 2018, Ron Perlman recounted on Twitter an incident where he urinated on his hands before shaking Harvey Weinstein's hand. Donald Trump Jr. responded, accusing Perlman of knowing about Weinstein's predatory behavior and doing nothing. Perlman retorted that he knew Weinstein was a "prick."

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Kamay Film Premieres at Bertha DocHouse, London

Bertha DocHouse, Curzon Bloomsbury, The Brunswick, London WC1N 1AW, UK

The documentary film 'Kamay,' directed by Ilyas Yourish and Shahrokh Bikaran, premiered at Bertha DocHouse in London on March 14, 2025. The film chronicles the Khawari family's quest for justice after their eldest daughter, Zahra, a Kabul University student, died by suicide. 'Kamay' explores themes of ethnic violence against the Hazara community in Afghanistan and the psychological toll on Zahra's family.

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Terry Leader dies after terminal cancer diagnosis

United Kingdom

Terry Leader, a 67-year-old UK resident who immigrated from St. Kitts, died in hospital after battling terminal stomach cancer. Despite his wish to die at home, he and his partner, Gillian, received minimal specialist end-of-life care support. He was admitted to hospital due to declining health two weeks before his death. His partner wants to see changes to prevent others from experiencing similar situations.

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Netflix to Launch Kid Cosmo Game on March 18th

100 Winchester Circle, Los Gatos, California, USA

Netflix is continuing to push its gaming efforts towards tie-ins with its streaming offerings. Kid Cosmo, a puzzle game, is launching for subscribers on March 18th, 2025, a few days after The Electric State premieres.

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Daniel Bedingfield Performs Outside McDonald's in London

McDonald's, London, UK

Daniel Bedingfield, the noughties legend, surprised fans with an impromptu performance outside a McDonald's in London. He sang his hit song 'Gotta Get thru This' alongside DJ AG Online, whose real name is Ashley Gordon. The performance occurred 20 years after the song's release. Bedingfield's performance delighted fans and sparked excitement about his return to music.

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Dutton clarifies Coalition policy on insurance companies

Parliament House, Canberra, ACT, Australia

Federal opposition leader Peter Dutton clarified the Coalition's policy regarding the potential breakup of large insurance companies. This clarification came after conflicting statements from Dutton, his deputy Sussan Ley, and shadow treasurer Angus Taylor. Dutton stated the Coalition would consider breaking up insurance companies if the market fails to provide affordable coverage due to market concentration, causing Australians to face spiraling premiums.

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Inkle Releases 'Expelled!' Game on Multiple Platforms

Inkle Studios, Cambridge, UK

Inkle released their latest game, 'Expelled!', on Nintendo Switch, iPhone/iPad, Mac, and PC. The game, set in 1922 at Miss Mulligatawney’s School for Promising Girls, revolves around Verity Amersham, a scholarship student who is wrongly accused of pushing the hockey captain out of a window. Players must navigate the school's social hierarchy, uncover secrets, and resort to lying, stealing, and blackmail to prevent Verity's expulsion. The game explores themes of class, empire, and the aftermath of the first world war.

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Maple3 Doubles Profits with Maple Water Sales

Quebec City, Quebec, Canada

Maple3, a Canadian producer of maple water drinks, has doubled its annual profits since 2021. Sales have increased not only across Canada but also in 12 other countries, including France, Japan, Singapore, and South Korea. Approximately 75% of its sales now come from overseas. The company sells both still and sparkling maple water, as well as flavored versions with added natural fruit flavorings.

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Travelers Cycle Flower Route in Kop van Noord-Holland

Kop van Noord-Holland, Netherlands

Travelers are recommended to cycle through the Kop van Noord-Holland, Netherlands during April to see millions of crocuses, daffodils, hyacinths, and tulips. The recommended cycling route is between Schagen, Den Helder, Den Oever and Middenmeer. Travelers can also cycle the dune road from Callantsoog to Den Helder.

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Cherry Blossoms bloom at Bispebjerg Cemetery, Copenhagen

Bispebjerg Kirkegård, Copenhagen, Denmark

In mid to late April, the cherry blossom trees at Bispebjerg Cemetery in Copenhagen are in full bloom. Visitors can walk under the trees and visit Grundtvig's church nearby. Amager Strand offers smooth paths for walking, skateboarding, or rollerblading. Modern art galleries like Arken and the Louisiana combine art with beaches and sculpture gardens. Fashion shifts to color, florals, and lace, with flea markets offering secondhand items.

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Velika Planina Plateau blooms with purple crocuses.

Velika Planina, Stahovica, Slovenia

In April, the Velika Planina plateau in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps of northern Slovenia is covered in purple crocuses, signaling the Earth's annual renewal. This high-altitude meadow has been used for summer pastureland since the bronze age, and a unique Alpine culture has developed over the years. Herdsmen wear resinous pine ponchos and live in low-slung cottages, creating a Narnia-like setting. The plateau is accessible by car or cable car from Ljubljana and offers cottages for overnight stays.

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Dr. Lehmiller Surveys Americans on Sexual Fantasies

Kinsey Institute, Indiana University, 1165 E 3rd St, Bloomington, Indiana, USA

Dr. Justin Lehmiller surveyed over 4000 Americans about their sexual fantasies. The study revealed that 26% of straight women and 42% of non-heterosexual women fantasize about watching their partner have sex with someone else. Additionally, 40% of heterosexual women and 58% of non-heterosexual women have fantasies about having sex with someone else while their partner watches. The survey highlights the diverse range of sexual fantasies among different demographics and challenges traditional assumptions about male and female desires.

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Kolachi Venkatesh Collects Hair for 20 Years

Avadi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Kolachi Venkatesh, based in Avadi, Chennai, has been collecting hair for 20 years. Starting as a picker, he collected hair from households and rubbish. Pickers sell non-Remy hair to traders like Venkatesh for $0.10-$1 per kilogram. A diligent collector might gather 1–5 kilograms of hair in a day, earning $0.59-$6, often below minimum wage. Venkatesh employs 50 pickers.

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Diva Divine Hair Expands Wigs, Extensions Business

Delhi, India

Diva Divine Hair, a Delhi-based company co-founded by Krishan Jalani in 2019 and managed by CEO Nidhi Tiwari, focuses on high-quality hair extensions and wigs. The company has benefited from shifting attitudes towards wigs and extensions, which are now more openly discussed due to evolving social norms. 3D-printed wigs and digital color-matching tools are implemented.

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Raj Hair International Upgrades Hair Untangling Technology

Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Raj Hair International, a major trader in Temple hair based in Chennai, has developed a machine to untangle hair, aiming to minimize waste and improve efficiency. The company sorts and grades hair according to color, texture, and length. CEO George Cherion notes increasing global demand for Indian human hair due to its quality and thinness.

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On Top Up Refunds Mother £1,440 After Complaint

On Top Up, London, UK

On Top Up refunded a customer's mother £1,440 after she was unintentionally subscribed to a monthly mobile top-up service since September 2021, costing her over £1,900. The refund came after the customer threatened small claims court action. Initially, On Top Up only offered a one-month refund, later increasing it to a year. The company says the refund was a "non-obligatory gesture of goodwill", stating that recurring charges only happen if the user manually activates the auto top-up feature.

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Leticia Carvalho Assumes Role at ISA

International Seabed Authority, Kingston, Jamaica

Leticia Carvalho has assumed the role of Secretary-General of the ISA earlier in 2025. She stated that the deep seabed is one of Earth's least explored frontiers, yet its ecosystems are vital to the health of our ocean and the planet.

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Salt's Tobacconist Shop in Coventry Closes After 109 Years

Salt's Tobacconist, Coventry, UK

Salt's Tobacconist, a shop that has traded in Coventry since 1916, is set to close its doors on March 29, 2025. The closure marks the end of a long-standing business in the city.

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White Lotus Characters' Fates Speculated by Third Season

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, 60 Yorkville Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

As the third season of The White Lotus progresses, numerous mysteries surround the characters, leading to speculation about who might die. Theories range from Belinda facing danger due to her knowledge of Greg/Gary, to the potential demise of the insufferable rich white women, and Saxon's involvement due to his archetype. Rick's revenge plot and Tim's unravelling mirroring Armond's fate in season one are also considered. The presence of a shooting and a body are known elements, increasing the anticipation and uncertainty surrounding the characters' fates.

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Skinny Jeans Make Comeback on 2025 Catwalks

New York, NY, USA

Skinny jeans are reportedly making a comeback in high fashion, appearing on the autumn/winter 2024 and spring/summer 2025 catwalks. This trend is also fueled by social media influencers like Alix Earle, who launched a pair of skinny jeans with Frame. Jake Denton, a gen Z fashion Instagrammer, attributes this shift to the return of skinny models and a nostalgia for indie sleaze aesthetics.

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National Portrait Gallery Opens Edvard Munch Exhibition

National Portrait Gallery, St. Martin's Place, London, UK

The National Portrait Gallery in London opened a new exhibition celebrating the portraits of Edvard Munch. The exhibition, which costs £21/£23.50 with donation, runs from March 13 to June 5.

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Zara Tindall Honors Princess Anne's Fashion Advice

Gatcombe Park, Gatcombe, Gloucestershire, UK

Zara Tindall acknowledged the influence of her mother, Princess Anne, on her fashion choices, emphasizing 'timeless elegance with craftsmanship and practicality'. She highlighted the importance of 'good-quality clothing that keeps you warm and comfortable outdoors.' Tindall's style mirrors her mother's, prioritizing practicality and British brands that suit her active lifestyle. Both champion clothing longevity and repurposing.

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Richard E Grant Drank During 'Withnail and I' Filming

Shepperton Studios, Studios Road, Shepperton, Surrey, UK

During the filming of 'Withnail and I', director Bruce Robinson encouraged Richard E Grant to drink alcohol to achieve a "chemical memory" of inebriation. Despite Grant's intolerance to alcohol, Robinson sent him home with a bottle of champagne and instructed him to drink it, even if he vomited, which Grant did. This was done to enhance Grant's performance in portraying an alcoholic character.

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Trump Administration Cuts Department of Education Funding

Washington, D.C., USA

The Trump administration is reportedly cutting the Department of Education's workforce, eliminating grants and pressuring schools on various administration priorities. Over 1,300 workers were fired on Tuesday, with more than 600 having accepted separation packages or were fired last month. This leaves the department with roughly half of its workforce, which is responsible for enforcing civil rights laws in schools, supplying student loans and grants, and tracking student achievement. President Trump also aims to cut federal funding for schools and colleges that promote "critical race theory and transgender ideologies."

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Tom Anderson Retires after Myspace Sale

Myspace Headquarters, 407 N Maple Dr #100, Beverly Hills, CA 90210, USA

Tom Anderson, the co-founder of Myspace, retired after selling the site for a significant sum of money. He is now traveling the world and enjoying life instead of setting up dystopian ventures or becoming a politician.

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Bluestone Resort: Snell Family Visits Pembrokeshire Resort

Bluestone National Park Resort, Pembrokeshire, Wales, UK

Lisa Snell and her family stayed at Bluestone National Park Resort in Pembrokeshire, Wales. They enjoyed various activities including Serendome (an indoor-outdoor playground), The Hive (an indoor play tower and air maze), and the Blue Lagoon Water Park (a subtropical indoor water park). The family also participated in Camp Smokey's 'Smokey Joe's Shindig'.

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Guillermo del Toro received handwritten fan letter

Los Angeles, California, USA

In 1990, Guillermo del Toro, who was working as a special-effects makeup expert, wrote a handwritten fan letter to Ron Perlman. Following this, Perlman and del Toro met for dinner where del Toro ate dessert before soup, and the pair became very close.

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Travelers Explore Palermo Architecture and Culture

Palermo, Sicily, Italy

Travelers explore the architecture of Palermo, Sicily, Italy, including the Quattro Canti baroque square and the Palazzo Conte Federico. They also visit the Antonio Pasqualino International Puppet Museum and the Capuchin Catacombs. They enjoy pistachio ice cream and pasta alla norma at Bisso Bistrot, formerly Libreria Dante.

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Formentera restaurants compete with pintxos in April.

Es Pas Formentera Agroturismo, Formentera, Balearic Islands, Spain

During the last weekend of April, restaurants on Formentera, Spain, compete to create the best pintxos, which are small bites served on sticks. The island, known for its beaches and wildflowers, offers cycling and hiking routes. In the last two weeks of May, restaurants showcase local food with fixed-price menus, featuring dishes like fried octopus and fish stew.

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Levi's Europe VP: Age Groups Differ on Denim

Levi Strauss & Co. Europe, Avenue Herrmann Debroux 15A, Auderghem, Brussels, Belgium

Anne-Catherine Lepas, the vice-president of merchandising at Levi’s Europe, stated that there are clear distinctions in how different age groups approach denim, noting the dominance of loose and baggy fits. This observation highlights the ongoing evolution of denim trends and the varying preferences across generations in the fashion industry.