Reported 9 months ago
KPMG senior economist Yelena Maleyev states that due to higher mortgage rates and increased home inventory, the housing market is feeling pressure, with maleyev estimating one interest rate cut by December, potentially lowering mortgage rates to around 6.5%. She mentions that more rate cuts could bring rates down to 5.5%. The current challenges in the housing market are attributed to high mortgage rates and inventory levels, impacting both buyers and sellers. Builders are also facing obstacles in construction costs. Maleyev suggests that despite the tough market conditions, there may be some relief in mortgage rates in the future.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
Kenyan President William Ruto has withdrawn a $2.3 billion tax bill following deadly protests against the plan. The proposed new taxes aimed to improve state finances and access IMF financing, but led to public outcry due to rising food prices and high youth unemployment rates. Ruto's decision to scrap the bill came after at least 23 people died during the protests, which were primarily organized by young Kenyans and met by police force.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
According to the 'May Consumer Price Index' survey by the Directorate-General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics, the rent category has reached a 28-year high in price increase! With the rising rent prices, making the most comfortable living space with limited space and budget has become a significant challenge for renters. Targeting the furniture purchasing needs of those on a budget, Shopee Shopping Festival is hosting the 'Lifestyle Style Festival' from 6/29 to 7/1, featuring a variety of bedding decorations, home storage solutions, and other lifestyle essentials with discounts starting at 50% off. Customers can also enjoy additional benefits like the highest 12% off and 2,000 Shopee Coins cashback. This event provides the best money-saving tips for renters! Don't miss out on the essential furniture list for renters! Shopee Shopping Festival 'Lifestyle Style Festival' offers minimum 50% off, with additional surprise 50% off vouchers during selected timeslots. Save big on high-quality furniture! From bedding must-haves for a good night's sleep to top-notch tables and chairs for a comfy daily home life, this event has it all. Dive into mega deals on various items like the Nooz Helix Latex Pocket Spring Mattress + Pillow for only 6,349 yuan (original price nearly 20,000 yuan), the HOYACASA 300 Thread Count Lyocell Silky Thin Bedsheet Set for 2,699 yuan (limited time offer on 7/1), and the breathable and lightweight DaisoDream Cotton Japanese Plain Summer Quilt for just 99 yuan (available at this discounted price for 6/30 only). Get ready to create the perfect home setup with the OTTO height-adjustable office desk for 2,199 yuan, the Japanese Style ELEGANT Healthy Spine Cushion for 4,999 yuan (original price 7,100 yuan on 6/30 only), and the perfectionist's favorite Grid Toast Lazy Sofa Chair for 899 yuan. Enhance your home storage with the magic of extra space using Shopee's storage solutions! Maximize your living space with stylish options like the TZUMii Mole Three-Layer Cabinet for 649 yuan or the Wheat Shopping Cart Storage for 69 yuan. Don't miss this opportunity to save money as a renter at the Shopee Shopping Festival 'Lifestyle Style Festival,' where star bedding items start from 50% off, with additional 12% off on selected orders. (Provided by Shopee Shopping Festival) This article was originally posted on Liberty Times Media.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
FedEx is considering selling or spinning off its FedEx Freight segment to focus on parcel and logistics business, following a strategic analysis. FedEx Freight, the best-performing segment, has been showing strong operating margins and income growth. Analysts predict a spinoff as the most likely outcome, with potential positive impacts on FedEx's stock price and shareholder value. The move would separate FedEx Freight as an independent company, maximizing value for shareholders and leveraging its leading position as the largest LTL carrier in the US.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
In 1981, Teresa Teng visited Kinmen Island and kissed a young lieutenant, who reappeared at an event 32 years later as a high-ranking executive in a major corporation. Teng, known as the eternal sweetheart of the military, often participated in military labor activities despite being invited to perform in China multiple times during her peak. In 2013, the Teresa Teng Foundation even launched a 'missing person notice' to find the lucky lieutenant who received her kiss, leading to the discovery of Xue Jinyou, who was then working as an associate manager at a company under the Chinatrust Group.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
According to South Korea's Yonhap News Agency on the morning of June 26, 2024, North Korea launched a suspected ballistic missile from the Pyongyang area towards the Sea of Japan, which exploded in the air over the East Sea in the region of Wonsan, Gangwon Province, after flying about 250 kilometers. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff indicated that it may have been a failed test of a hypersonic weapon. Observers noted more visible smoke in the border region between North and South Korea, suggesting engine problems leading to the explosion. This launch, the first since May 30, has prompted continued cooperation between South Korea, US, and Japan in monitoring North Korea's actions and condemning provocations that threaten peace and stability in the region.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
The government of Texas in the United States has announced encouraging building managers and the public to turn off unnecessary lighting at night to reduce the risk of around 2 billion migrating birds passing through the state annually colliding with buildings and dying due to the attraction of bright lights. The National Audubon Society is actively working with several states and cities in the US and Canada, including Texas, to promote the Lights Out movement, urging developers, businesses, building owners, and individuals to turn off outdoor lighting at night to assist birds in their migration and prevent such tragic incidents.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
The U.S. Department of Defense unveiled a new information technology (IT) modernization project called 'Fulcrum: DOD Information Technology Advancement Strategy,' aiming to promote interconnectivity and integration in the IT field across all departments, address talent and technology barriers, and enhance procurement and governance efficiency. The strategy, approved by Deputy Secretary of Defense Hicks, will integrate with national security strategies, DoD key strategic management, software management, and cybersecurity plans to ensure future capabilities, meet operational personnel needs, and solve issues like IT labor shortages, bureaucracy streamlining, and efficiency improvement. The plan focuses on four key priorities including providing joint operational IT capabilities, achieving information network modernization, optimizing IT management for efficiency, and developing top digital workforce for deploying emerging technologies.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
As Hong Kong approaches the 27th anniversary of the handover on July 1st, the pro-democracy forces have largely disintegrated since the enactment of the National Security Law in 2020, with civil human rights fronts dissolved. It is anticipated that the large-scale July 1st marches will cease for the next 5 years. Despite the upcoming significant date, no organization has announced plans for a July 1st march. Chief Executive Carrie Lam cautioned against manipulation of public activities, urging citizens to cherish the current 'safe and stable' environment and celebrate the day with a festive attitude.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
On June 26, 2024, at 12:00 PM, the Young Daily News reported that the National Armed Forces Comrades Savings Association held the 484th draw of military savings bonds lottery. To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Whampoa Academy, 11 military officials including Lieutenant General Yu, the school principal, were invited as guests, adding 10 bonus prizes of 100,000 yuan each and a total of one million yuan special awards. The winning numbers will be announced on the association's official website and Facebook page. Lieutenant General Yu emphasized the importance of the 'Military Savings Bonds Lottery' as a financial product exclusive to comrades in the armed forces, combining saving and winning elements to promote financial planning habits among soldiers and officers.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
According to CNN, the US is considering lifting the ban on defense contractors entering Ukraine to provide direct weapon maintenance for the Ukrainian military. This move, once approved, will enhance Kyiv's advantage against Russia by allowing US defense companies to provide on-site repair and maintenance services for Ukrainian weapons. Additionally, the US Defense Secretary Austin recently held a first-time call with his Russian counterpart Belousov, discussing issues related to the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Belousov warned that continued US weapon assistance to Ukraine would escalate the situation further.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
On June 26, 2024, South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) signed a contract to officially kick off the mass production of KF-21 fighter jets. The first batch of 20 jets is set to be delivered between 2026 and 2028, taking on the responsibility for South Korea's new generation of air defense. The contract includes the production of 20 KF-21 fighter jets, training, maintenance, and logistic services amounting to approximately 1.96 trillion Korean won (about 458 billion New Taiwan dollars). With successful testing progress and performance evaluations, the project has received approval to proceed with production, demonstrating the aircraft's overall excellent performance.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
The 2024 Taipei International Choral Festival will take place from July 26 to August 4, featuring international choirs from Indonesia, Norway, and Spain, along with over 10 Taiwanese groups, for a total of 14 performances across 6 cities. The festival's music director, Ge Yu-Zhong, announced the participation of three special international groups, including Cantus, the original singers of the opening song 'Vuelie' from Disney's 'Frozen,' as well as the Batavia Choir from Indonesia and the Leioa Youth Choir from Spain. Additionally, the 6th Taipei International Choral Competition will showcase 31 teams from Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and more, competing for the top honors and a chance to participate in the World Choir Championship next year.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh started his first overseas visit after taking office, meeting with Australian Prime Minister Morrison in Canberra on June 26th to discuss bilateral security relations and seek Australian assistance in expanding the country's police force to ensure safety and stability. They discussed topics regarding police training and security issues, with Australia committing to supporting the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force to help meet the country's security needs and reduce external dependencies. The Solomon Islands plans to double its police force to 5000 personnel within 10 years to address domestic unrest since 2021. Australia, having increased its cooperation with the Solomon Islands under Manasseh's leadership, aims to further weaken China's influence in the region.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
After a six-month test, the bulk carrier 'Pyxis Ocean,' equipped with large rigid sails, has proven the potential of wind power to reduce carbon emissions in the shipping industry. The vessel, with two foldable rigid sails measuring up to 37.5 meters on the deck, has reduced fuel consumption by 3 tons a day since August 2023 during its journeys across the Pacific, Indian, and Atlantic Oceans. This reduction equals 11.2 tons of CO2 emissions daily, approximately equivalent to the annual emissions of 480 cars. The leasing company, Cargill, views wind energy as a key for transitioning to clean energy, emphasizing that retrofitting old ships like 'Pyxis Ocean' demonstrates significant potential. BAR Technologies that developed these sails plans to install three more in other ships to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions, as the maritime industry looks for strategies to lower its carbon footprint.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
Located near the air force operational command in Fuxing Camp, Gongguan District offers a variety of affordable street eats on Tingzhou Road, ranging from popular Instagrammable dishes to traditional local snacks. From the 24-hour self-service Korean noodle shop to the renowned Longtan Tofu Pudding and Zhengji Pork Blood Cake stall, visitors including air force personnel can relax, enjoy the riverside scenery, and indulge in delicious meals while exploring the lively district. Whether craving for unique flavors at the self-service noodle shop, refreshing tofu pudding in summer, or classic Taiwanese snacks like pork blood cake, Gongguan District ensures a delightful culinary experience for all.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
In an interview by Yang Qiaolin on June 26, 2024, at 12:00 noon, the Youth Daily reports on the military's efforts in promoting anti-drug work and exchanging academic experiences, yielding remarkable results. Recognized by the Anti-Drug Task Force 'Drug Prevention and Control Team,' Lieutenant Colonel Liu Huiqi, head of the Chemical Identification Team at the Military Police Criminal Investigation Center, excels in using scientific data to support drug bust operations. With the assistance of instruments like the gas chromatography-mass spectrometer, she analyzes drug samples in real-time, assisting in achieving the goals of tracing drugs and capturing individuals to uphold the purity of the armed forces. The article highlights ongoing efforts to combat drug crimes and enhance prevention and monitoring through collaboration with various law enforcement agencies and experts, aiming to strengthen inspection capabilities against new types of drugs. The dedication of military personnel like Investigator Wu Hongxun, who successfully cracked 17 drug cases and apprehended 20 suspects through meticulous investigation, is also noted, earning recognition from the 'Anti-Drug Collaboration Team.' Commander-in-Chief of the Military Police Zheng Zhenxiang commends the contributions of both Lieutenant Colonel Liu Huiqi and Senior Investigator Wu Hongxun in advancing anti-drug efforts and their commitment to eradicating drug crimes.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
According to a report from Army recognition on June 25, the US and Indian governments have begun negotiations for the production of 'Javelin' anti-tank weapons in India to strengthen defense cooperation and help India enhance its ability to counter the threat from the People's Republic of China (PRC). This move aims to meet the Indian Army's need for modern anti-tank weapons, replacing outdated equipment and boosting India's defense modernization and local defense industry capabilities.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
According to a report by 'Military.com' on June 25, the United Nations (UN) has warned Israel that if urgent action is not taken to ensure the safety of humanitarian workers in Gaza, aid operations in the area will be temporarily suspended. Armed groups have been looting humanitarian convoys, prompting the UN to request Israel to provide communication and protective equipment for aid workers and establish direct channels with the military to protect aid operations from attacks. The UN emphasizes the need for a safer environment to expand aid efforts in Gaza.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
The US Marines announced the reopening of the historic Peleliu Airport on Peleliu Island in Palau, with a KC-130J aircraft successfully conducting landing and takeoff tests after decades of being inactive. The airport is set to become a new flexible deployment base in the Indo-Pacific region. The Marines have stationed a unit on the island to repair and level the runway, allowing for future aircraft deployments. The airport's runway has been officially named 'Sledge' in honor of Eugene Sledge, a Marine who fought in the intense battle on the island during World War II, which has inspired various adaptations in film and TV.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
A survey conducted by 'Ling Media' on future political leaders including county/city heads, legislators, cabinet members, and party leaders revealed Vice President Xiao Mei-qin leading in 'best impressions' and 'future development,' while President Lai Ching-te was ranked first in 'leadership.' The survey reflected the strong influence of Mei-qin, Ching-te, and People's Party Chairman Ko Wen-je. Overall, under the leadership of Lai Ching-te, the DPP maintains a dominant position, with Lai and Xiao expected to lead Taiwan towards a new future in upcoming elections.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
A recent survey conducted by Ling Media on future political leader reputation shows that the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has a high level of party support at 39.16%, significantly ahead of the Kuomintang (KMT) at 17.25% and the Taiwan People's Party (TP) at 11.06%. In terms of favorability, DPP's overall favorability exceeds half at 51.09%, surpassing KMT at 23.02%. The survey reflects an increase in support for DPP compared to previous months, signaling a positive trend for the party's standing among the public.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
In this article by Wang Chia-chun on June 26, 2024, it discusses the ongoing recall process of Keelung Mayor Hsieh Kuo-liang. Wang reflects on the political forces at play, from the legislative changes that lowered the recall threshold to the specific circumstances surrounding Hsieh's potential dismissal. The article highlights the interplay of political forces and reactions, emphasizing the power dynamics and implications for both ruling and opposition parties in the political landscape.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
According to an agreement between the U.S. and the African country of Niger, American troops will withdraw from the region by September 15. The withdrawal will force the U.S. to close its drone base in Agadez, central Niger, potentially hindering U.S. intelligence gathering in Niger and other African countries, and reducing their monitoring capabilities against threats. Experts are concerned that the withdrawal may allow groups like ISIS and al-Qaeda to expand their influence in the region, with some likening the situation to the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 and the subsequent decrease in intelligence on terror groups.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 9 months ago
The Taipei International Food Expo's 'Latin American Pavilion' received praise for showcasing products from Belize, Guatemala, and Paraguay, despite recent bans on Guatemalan coffee and Hawaiian beans by China. The expo featured 23 vendors promoting their high-quality goods, with Guatemala's coffee being the 4th largest coffee importer to Taiwan and Paraguay's Hawaiian beans being ranked 1st in Latin America and 5th globally. The expo highlighted the competitive pricing and tariff advantages under the free trade agreement with Guatemala, Belize, and Paraguay, promoting increased imports to benefit Taiwan's consumers.
Source: YAHOO