Author: Ryan Maxwell

In a bold move to reshape the U.S. auto industry, President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that his administration will impose a 25% tariff on imported cars and auto parts, set to begin April 2. The new tariffs threaten to disrupt the global supply chain that keeps U.S. automakers running smoothly. Experts warn that the move could significantly impact car manufacturers’ profits and raise vehicle prices for consumers across the country. The new tariffs will initially apply to finished vehicles, but the levies on essential components like engines, transmissions, and electrical parts will come later, with some exemptions for imports…

Moldovan authorities have arrested Evghenia Guțul, the leader of the country’s pro-Russian Gagauz minority, amid growing concerns over Russian interference. She was detained at Chișinău International Airport as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged foreign influence in Moldova’s internal affairs. This arrest follows the sudden disappearance of two pro-Russian lawmakers facing corruption charges, further intensifying political tensions in the region. Government Crackdown on Alleged Russian Interference Moldova’s President, Maia Sandu, has been vocal about the Kremlin’s alleged attempts to destabilize her administration. She has repeatedly warned of Russian-backed efforts to undermine Moldova’s democratic institutions. With Moldova seeking European Union…

China has substantial policy space to stimulate its economy this year, according to Huang Yiping, a central bank adviser and Peking University professor, who spoke at the Boao Forum on Wednesday. While recent fiscal measures have been introduced to support economic growth, Huang emphasized that reforms would be needed to boost consumption. China aims for a 5% economic growth target this year, which many analysts consider ambitious. To meet this target, the government has raised its annual budget deficit, and the central bank has committed to reducing interest rates and injecting more funds into the economy at an appropriate time.…

Belarus and Russia have jointly condemned Germany’s decision to suspend their membership in the Board of Trustees of the Foundation Remembrance, Responsibility and Future. The Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement criticizing the move, calling it an act of historical revisionism. The German foundation, established with support from Belarus and Russia, was created to aid victims of Nazism in Central and Eastern Europe. Its primary focus has been on Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine, the territories most affected by Nazi occupation during World War II. Suspension Sparks Outrage The foundation’s leadership has cited concerns over Belarusian and Russian participation,…

The 38th PMPC Star Awards for Television took center stage at the Dolphy Theater in Quezon City on Sunday night. The prestigious event, organized by the Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC), honored the top television shows and personalities of 2024. The star-studded ceremony was hosted by the dynamic trio of Alden Richards, Kim Chiu, and Piolo Pascual, who kept the audience entertained throughout the night. The event was a celebration of television excellence, with Kapamilya stars making a strong showing across multiple categories. Kapamilya Hosts Win Best Reality Show Hosts The big winners of the night included the hosts of…

The rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) technology has sparked concerns about the rise of deepfakes—realistic digital media such as images, videos, and audio recordings that can manipulate reality. Deepfakes allow users to create convincing content of people doing or saying things they never did. This phenomenon has attracted significant attention, as experts warn of the dangers posed by this form of misinformation in our digital world. Deepfakes can manipulate facts, damage reputations, and erode public trust in media. With more fake content flooding the internet, experts stress that deepfakes are not just a passing trend but a real threat…

Mortgage rates have risen this week, with lenders adjusting to an uncertain economic landscape. The Federal Reserve met on March 19 and voted to keep the federal funds rate unchanged. However, it signaled the need for more data before making any further changes to its policies. Despite this, mortgage lenders can quickly adjust their rates based on market conditions. For the week ending March 20, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate averaged 6.8%. This is an increase of 18 basis points from the previous week. A basis point is one one-hundredth of a percentage point. Fed’s Decision: No Surprises Leading up…

Spring in China transforms the country into a breathtaking paradise of cherry blossoms, peonies, tulips, and rapeseed flowers. The vibrant blooms make this season the perfect time for international tourists to explore China’s natural beauty. From Beijing’s imperial gardens to Wuyuan’s golden rapeseed fields, travelers can enjoy seamless visits to certified flower-viewing spots. According to the China National Tourism Administration (CNTA), several popular destinations offer visa-free entry for short-term travelers, making it easier for international visitors to witness the country’s stunning spring scenery. Below is a guide to the best flower-viewing spots in China. Best Flower Viewing Destinations in China…

Professor Peter Quartey, Director of the Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) at the University of Ghana, has raised concerns about the Ghanaian government’s plan to return to the capital market for loans. Speaking during his inaugural lecture as a Fellow of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences in Accra, Quartey emphasized the need for caution and advised focusing on multilateral financing and increasing domestic revenue mobilization to support the nation’s development goals. Capital Market Borrowing: A Risky Path Professor Quartey’s warning comes as Ghana grapples with rising debt levels, which reached 82.9% of Gross Domestic Product…

The Bank of Canada has announced its seventh consecutive interest rate cut, lowering its overnight rate to 2.75% amid ongoing uncertainty over U.S. trade tariffs. The central bank’s decision, widely anticipated by economists, aims to mitigate the economic impact of tariff-related turmoil, which has unsettled businesses and consumers alike. “In recent months, the pervasive uncertainty created by continuously changing U.S. tariff threats has shaken business and consumer confidence,” said Tiff Macklem, Governor of the Bank of Canada, during a press conference in Ottawa. “This is restraining household spending intentions and businesses’ plans to hire and invest.” Economic Risks Loom Amid…