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Asia

Schaeffler and Neura Robotics Team Up on Humanoid Component Development

by Rachel Kim – Technology Editor November 4, 2025

written by Rachel Kim – Technology Editor

Schaeffler AG is⁤ partnering with Neura Robotics to jointly develop and supply humanoid robots for industrial applications, ‍the companies announced Tuesday. The collaboration aims to integrate Schaeffler’s expertise ‌in precision ⁣mechanics, robotics, ‌and automation with Neura Robotics’ advancements in humanoid robotics technology.

The partnership addresses a growing demand‍ for flexible automation solutions in manufacturing and logistics, particularly as labor shortages intensify and companies seek to enhance productivity. Schaeffler will‍ contribute ⁣key components and systems, while neura Robotics will ‍focus on the ⁣robots’ software and overall⁣ integration. The initial focus will be on developing ‍robots capable of performing ⁣tasks in environments where automation is currently challenging or uneconomical, with plans⁢ for ⁤broader deployment across various industries.

Schaeffler will hold a minority stake in Neura Robotics as part of the agreement,solidifying a long-term commitment to ⁤the venture. The companies anticipate the first jointly developed robots⁤ will be available for⁢ pilot projects in 2024, with ⁢series production slated for 2025. Neura Robotics,‌ founded in 2019, has already developed the “mesa” humanoid robot,‌ designed for diverse industrial tasks.

November 4, 2025 0 comments

World

Title: Shein Under Investigation in France Over Child Porn Allegations

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor November 4, 2025

written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

Paris prosecutors have launched ‌an inquiry into Shein and other fast-fashion online retailers on suspicion⁤ of⁢ involvement in the dissemination of child pornography content, Reuters reported February 29, 2024. ‍The probe centers on allegations that images and videos depicting child⁣ sexual abuse were found embedded within metadata associated with products sold on the platforms.

The investigation, initiated ‌following complaints from a French ⁣child protection group, underscores growing scrutiny of the practices of ultra-fast fashion companies and their duty for content hosted on their sites. If substantiated, ⁣the allegations could lead to criminal charges and notable penalties for‌ the retailers involved, impacting their operations in⁢ France and perhaps beyond. The case highlights the challenges of policing online content and protecting children in the rapidly evolving e-commerce landscape.

According to the Reuters‍ report,‍ the Paris prosecutor’s ⁣office confirmed the investigation is underway but declined to ⁢name the other retailers involved beyond Shein. The ‍complaint filed by the group, “NetClean,” alleges that metadata linked⁢ to product images ⁤on Shein and other platforms contained hidden content‍ depicting child sexual abuse material.

Prosecutors are examining whether ‍the retailers knowingly hosted or facilitated the distribution of this illegal content. The investigation will⁣ focus on determining ⁤the ‍origin of the metadata and whether the companies took adequate measures to prevent its presence on their platforms.

Shein, a Chinese-owned company, has not yet publicly commented on the specific‌ allegations but has previously stated its⁤ commitment⁤ to combating‌ online child exploitation. The company maintains a policy prohibiting the sale of illegal or harmful‍ content and claims to cooperate with law enforcement agencies.

The Thomson Reuters trust Principles guide Reuters reporting.

November 4, 2025 0 comments

Business

Title: JERA Prepares for Sakhalin 2 LNG Alternatives Amid Supply Concerns

by Priya Shah – Business Editor November 3, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Japan‌ Can Replace Sakhalin 2 ⁢LNG, Executives Say

Tokyo, November 29, 2023 ⁤ – Japan’s largest power generator, JERA, and other industry executives assert⁢ the nation can secure choice⁢ liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies‌ to replace‍ volumes previously sourced from‌ the Sakhalin 2 project, even ‌as the fallout from Russia’s⁤ invasion ⁣of ‌Ukraine continues to⁤ reshape global energy ⁢markets. The statements‌ signal increased confidence in Japan’s ability to diversify ⁣its energy portfolio and reduce reliance on Russian ⁤fuel.

The reassurances come after several Japanese companies, including JERA and Mitsubishi, ⁣exited the Sakhalin 2 LNG project following Moscow’s demand for payment ‍in rubles.While⁣ the loss ⁣of Sakhalin 2‍ LNG initially raised concerns⁢ about ‌Japan’s energy security, ‍executives ⁤now believe a ‍combination of⁤ increased⁢ LNG imports from other ⁤sources – including the ⁤United ⁤States,⁣ Australia,⁢ and ‌Qatar – and domestic energy production can⁤ fill ⁣the gap.⁤ The shift is critical for Japan, ⁢which relies heavily on ⁤LNG imports to⁤ meet ‌its energy needs, especially as winter demand surges.

JERA⁢ President Yukio Kani, speaking at a recent energy ⁣conference, stated ‍the company has ⁢already secured alternative LNG supplies and ‌does not foresee significant disruptions. “We have diversified our procurement sources and are⁣ confident in our ability to maintain⁢ a ⁤stable supply⁣ of‌ LNG,” Kani ⁣said. He added that JERA is actively exploring long-term⁣ contracts with ⁤suppliers in various regions to further bolster⁤ its energy security.

Other Japanese utilities echoed JERA’s⁤ sentiment.Executives from ⁤Kansai Electric Power and Chubu⁣ Electric⁢ Power also indicated they have successfully secured alternative LNG sources and⁣ are‍ prepared for the upcoming winter season. According‌ to data from the Ministry of Economy, trade and Industry (METI), Japan’s LNG imports from Russia⁢ fell to approximately 9% in October, down from 9.7% ⁣in the previous year.⁤

The ability to replace Sakhalin 2 LNG ‌is a testament to Japan’s proactive efforts to ‌diversify its energy supply‌ and strengthen its ‌energy security in the face of geopolitical uncertainty. ‍ METI officials have emphasized the importance of⁤ continued collaboration with international partners⁤ to‌ ensure a stable and affordable energy supply for the⁣ nation. The long-term implications ⁣of this ⁢shift include perhaps higher LNG prices and ⁤a continued push for renewable energy sources within Japan.

November 3, 2025 0 comments

Business

Asia-Pacific leaders call for shared trade benefits as APEC summit wraps up

by Priya Shah – Business Editor November 2, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

San Francisco -‌ Asia-Pacific leaders concluded the⁤ APEC summit Friday with a joint call for trade policies that deliver shared ⁤prosperity across the region, amid growing concerns over protectionism and geopolitical tensions. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a free, fair, and open trade environment, emphasizing the⁤ need to ensure the benefits of globalization are more widely⁢ distributed.

The annual APEC gathering, held this year in San Francisco, comes at a critical juncture as the region navigates a complex landscape of slowing global growth, ⁣rising inflation, and increasing fragmentation of ⁣supply chains. The push for ⁤inclusive trade is aimed at addressing widening economic disparities and fostering greater resilience in the face of future shocks, with leaders signaling intent to build on existing frameworks and explore new avenues for cooperation.

Leaders from the 21 APEC economies issued a declaration outlining⁢ priorities including advancing digital innovation, promoting sustainable growth, and strengthening regional connectivity. U.S. ⁢president Joe Biden, ‌hosting the summit, highlighted ‌the importance of ⁤investing in infrastructure and clean energy transitions ‌to drive long-term economic‍ development.

“We recognize ⁢the importance of trade and investment in driving economic growth and creating opportunities for all,” said a statement released by the APEC secretariat. “We ⁤are committed to working together to ensure ‍that trade benefits are shared more broadly and that no one is left behind.”

Discussions also focused on bolstering supply chain resilience, a key concern following disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic ⁣and geopolitical events. Leaders agreed‌ to enhance information sharing and coordination to mitigate ‌future vulnerabilities and promote ⁣diversification of supply sources.

The summit saw the launch of several new initiatives,including a framework for cooperation on clean energy and a digital trade network aimed at facilitating cross-border data flows. These ‍efforts reflect⁣ a growing ‍recognition of the need to address emerging challenges and harness the potential of new technologies to drive sustainable and inclusive growth.

Notably, the APEC Business Advisory‍ Council⁣ (ABAC) presented recommendations to leaders on streamlining trade⁢ procedures, ‍reducing non-tariff barriers, and promoting regulatory coherence.ABAC chair, Phil O’Reilly, emphasized the importance ⁤of translating commitments into concrete actions. “APEC has a unique opportunity to shape the future of trade and investment in the region,” O’Reilly⁢ stated. ⁣”It is crucial that leaders follow through on‌ their pledges⁢ and deliver tangible benefits for businesses and citizens alike.”

November 2, 2025 0 comments

World

Hegseth says US ready to share tools to help allies counter ‘aggressive’ China

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor November 2, 2025

written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

WASHINGTON, Oct 26 – ⁣The united States is prepared to equip its allies with the resources necessary to confront ⁣what it ‍views as increasingly assertive actions by China, Fox News host Pete Hegseth stated Thursday.This commitment comes amid heightened global ⁣tensions⁢ and concerns‍ over China’s military and economic ‍influence.

Hegseth’s remarks, made during a panel discussion on the network, signal a potential escalation in U.S. ⁢efforts to bolster its partners in the Indo-Pacific region ⁣and beyond. ⁣The move⁣ reflects a growing U.S.⁤ strategy to counter China’s expanding reach, which Washington perceives as a challenge ⁤to ⁢the existing international‍ order. The ⁣implications extend to nations reliant on U.S. security guarantees and those navigating ‌complex economic relationships with Beijing, possibly reshaping geopolitical alliances and trade ⁢dynamics in the coming years.

“We are absolutely ready to share tools,⁤ intel,⁢ and where appropriate, military hardware, to help our allies counter aggressive moves by China,” ‍Hegseth said. He further emphasized the‍ need for a united front against perceived Chinese coercion, citing concerns over issues such as intellectual property theft,‍ unfair trade practices, and territorial disputes in the South China Sea.

The Biden governance has previously articulated a similar ‍stance, framing‍ its approach to China as one of “competition” while seeking areas of cooperation. Though, Hegseth’s comments suggest a more proactive willingness to directly assist allies in defending against Chinese pressure. The specific “tools” and “hardware” ⁣referenced were not detailed, leaving open the possibility of increased military aid, intelligence sharing, or cybersecurity assistance.

November 2, 2025 0 comments

World

India vs. Australia Cricket World Cup Final: India Seeks Maiden Title

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor November 2, 2025

written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

History will be made on ‍Sunday as ⁤India‍ and South Africa clash in the final ⁢of the ‌2023 ICC Cricket World Cup at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, ⁤vying for their first-ever tournament triumph. The highly anticipated match pits the tournament’s undefeated host nation, India, against a resilient South african side that overcame a mid-tournament slump to reach the decider.

This World Cup ‌final represents more than just a⁣ cricket match; it’s a culmination of decades of ambition for both nations.India, a cricketing powerhouse, last lifted the trophy in‍ 1983, while South Africa⁤ has consistently fallen short ‍despite ⁢reaching multiple semi-finals and the 1992 final. A win for either team will etch their names into cricket folklore and ignite celebrations across their respective countries, impacting national pride and inspiring⁢ future generations of cricketers.

India cruised through the group stage with ‌a ⁣perfect 9-0 record, defeating New Zealand in the semi-final. Key to their success has been a dominant batting lineup led by Virat Kohli, who surpassed Sachin Tendulkar’s record for⁣ most ODI centuries during the tournament, reaching 50, and⁣ Rohit Sharma’s aggressive opening partnerships.Their bowling attack, spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, has consistently dismantled opposition lineups.

South Africa, after early losses to the Netherlands and Pakistan, rebounded spectacularly, winning eight consecutive matches to secure their place⁤ in the final. Their semi-final victory against Afghanistan‌ showcased their adaptability ‌and resilience. Quinton‌ de Kock‍ has⁤ been their standout performer with the ⁣bat, amassing 594 runs, while Kagiso Rabada has ‍led the bowling attack‍ with 21 ‍wickets.

The match begins at 2:00 PM local time (IST) and will be broadcast globally. Millions are expected to tune in, making ⁢it one of the most-watched sporting events of the year. The winner will not ‍only claim the coveted World Cup trophy but also ‍a prize purse of ‍$4 million.

November 2, 2025 0 comments

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