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Archive: 2025-03-04 (566) - Page 9/12 (50)

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Western Allies' Aid to Ukraine Exceeds $200 Billion Since 2014

The total amount of aid provided by Western allies to Ukraine since the start of the conflict exceeds $200 billion, with Europe contributing significantly more than the United States. This significant influx of funding has enabled Ukraine to maintain its military capabilities and resist Russian aggression. The financial assistance provided by Western countries has also helped to alleviate humanitarian suffering in Ukraine.

Fired US Government Workers with Top Security Clearances Were Not Given Exit Briefings

Recent mass layoffs at Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency have resulted in some U.S. government workers with top security clearances not receiving standard exit briefings, raising significant security concerns. Typically, these briefings remind employees of their non-disclosure agreements and provide guidance on handling potential foreign approaches, which is critical given their access to sensitive information. The absence of these debriefings creates vulnerabilities, particularly as foreign adversaries actively seek to exploit gaps in security protocols.

Wall St Set for Lower Open as Trade War Worries Weigh

Investors are increasingly cautious ahead of President Donald Trump's planned announcement of his full-fledged global trade policy, which is expected to deepen the already strained US-China trade relationship and further exacerbate existing tensions with Canada and Mexico. The ongoing trade war is putting pressure on corporate earnings, inflation expectations, and overall market sentiment, with analysts warning of potential cuts in interest rates by the Federal Reserve to mitigate the economic impact. As investors prepare for more uncertainty, many sectors are already experiencing significant losses.

Musk Rallies the Far Right in Europe. Tesla Is Paying the Price

Musk's promotion of Germany's far-right party, Alternative fur Deutschland, had little impact on election results, despite his efforts to amplify its figures through 2 dozen posts on X and an interview with its leader. The AfD's stunning second-place result in the February 23 election suggests that Musk's support may have been more symbolic than substantive. Despite this, Tesla is already feeling the effects of Musk's politics, with European sales tumbling 45% in January from a year earlier.

The Impact of US Trade Tariffs on Global Markets

Stock futures pointed to further declines as investors grew increasingly nervous about how US trade tariffs will erode economic growth. Most Read from BloombergHow Upzoning in Cambridge Broke the YIMBY Mold Remembering the Landscape Architect Who Embraced the City NYC Office Buildings See Resurgence as Investors Pile Into Bonds Hong Kong Joins Global Stadium Race With New $4 Billion Sports Park US Tent Facility is Holding Migrant Families Longer Than Recommended S&P 500 contracts slipped 0.7%. Bonds rose, with yields on two-year Treasuries falling as four basis points. The dollar index weakened for a second day and oil declined.

Lenovo IdeaPad Pro 5 Gen 9 Reaches Record-Low Price Bringing 120 Hz OLED Panel and Discrete GPU Below MSRP

The Lenovo IdeaPad Pro 5 Gen 9 has reached an all-time low price on eBay, with the machine now selling for $635.99, which is a significant discount from its original price of $650 in early February. The laptop's impressive hardware, including a Ryzen 5 8645HS APU and RTX 3050 laptop GPU, makes it a great option for content creation and multimedia use. Additionally, the 16-inch OLED display offers great colors with infinite contrast, 400 nits of brightness, and complete DCI-P3 colors.

President Trump Addresses Congress Amid Trade Tensions and Ukraine Aid Pause

The speech by President Donald Trump follows a tumultuous term marked by efforts to stretch presidential limits, slash federal bureaucracy, impose steep tariffs on allies, and pause military aid to Ukraine. Trump is expected to use his speech to laud his rapid-fire efforts to reduce the size of the federal bureaucracy, reduce migrant flow over the U.S.-Mexico border, and his use of tariffs to force foreign nations to bow to his demands. The event promises to have a raucous element with Republican lawmakers cheering on Trump and Democrats expressing their opposition to what he lists as his achievements.

Best Tech Deals at MWC 2025: What You Need to Know About the Latest Launches

The latest smartphone releases from Xiaomi, Samsung, Lenovo, and Honor showcased significant advancements in camera technology, battery life, and AI-powered features. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra took top honors as the best phone overall, thanks to its powerful internals, Leica-backed camera array, and professional-grade photography capabilities. In contrast, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro excelled with its unique design, versatile cameras, and fast charging capabilities at an affordable price point.

AMD's Radeon 860M Shines in Gaming Tests with Ryzen AI 7 350

The AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 has been tested by ETA Prime and performed relatively well in various games, running at over 60 FPS on many titles. The mini PC's lower-end iGPU, the Radeon 860M, held its ground reasonably well despite being a less capable option compared to higher-end models. This test suggests that the Ryzen AI 7 350 is a viable option for gaming with an affordable AMD processor.

AMD Warns Its RX 9070 GPUs Are Strictly ‘UEFI-Only’

AMD has announced that its new RDNA 4 graphics cards, including the RX 9070 models, will only be officially supported on UEFI motherboards, eliminating compatibility with older BIOS systems. This shift is intended to leverage UEFI's enhanced security features and improved performance, which significantly benefit modern computing environments. While most users with contemporary PCs will not face issues, those with legacy systems must ensure their setups are UEFI-compliant to avoid potential performance drawbacks.

HP's New Widescreen Monitor Stands Out Thanks to Outstanding Connectivity

The new HP Series 7 Pro 734pm's impressive array of connectivity features, including Thunderbolt 4 in and out, a multi-port USB hub, ethernet, and a high-quality webcam, make it an exceptional choice for business users who require seamless productivity and collaboration. The monitor's 34-inch widescreen form factor and IPS Black panel technology also contribute to its outstanding performance and colour accuracy. However, the relatively low pixel density and limited HDR support at this price point are notable drawbacks.

MIPS Shifts Strategy to Robots and Chips Design

MIPS, a decades-old Silicon Valley company, is shifting its strategy to design a suite of chips for artificial intelligence-enabled robots. The company, which was once known for processing data quickly in specialized applications like networking gear and self-driving cars, will focus on three key areas: sensing, calculation, and motor control. By designing its own chips, MIPS aims to increase competitiveness in the rapidly growing robotics market.

The Trump 2.0 Agenda Hits US Economy at Fragile Moment

Trump's tariffs are set to hit the US economy at what appeared to be a challenging time even without new costs for businesses and consumers. The president said Monday that Tuesday night "WILL BE BIG," with the economy undoubtedly a major focus. Ahead of these expected tariffs, stocks got crushed on Monday. Economic growth forecasts have tumbled in recent days, as Yahoo Finance's Josh Schafer writes, highlighted by the Atlanta Fed's GDPNow model projecting -2.8% GDP growth for the first quarter.

Mortgage and Refinance Rates Today, March 4, 2025: Rates Hold Steady

Today's mortgage and refinance rates show minimal movement after two weeks of fluctuations, with the average 30-year fixed rate at 6.26% and the 15-year fixed rate at 5.58%. Despite minor increases and decreases, this stability signals a potential turning point for buyers considering preapproval with lenders. Economic factors and Federal Reserve decisions will continue to influence these rates throughout 2025, with gradual decreases anticipated but no drastic changes expected.

Timeless Smartwatch Design Meets Advanced Health Tracking

The Withings Scanwatch Nova combines a timeless analog design with extensive health and wellness tracking features, including an ECG assessment, blood oxygen level monitoring, and sleep quality analysis. The watch is available for pre-order now, starting at $599, and is expected to appeal to those seeking a stylish smartwatch that also provides valuable health insights. Withings' latest model offers a range of features that set it apart from other smartwatches in the market.

Mach Industries Secures U.S. Army Contract and Plans Expansion

Mach Industries, a defense technology firm founded by 21-year-old Ethan Thornton, has secured a contract with the U.S. Army for its Strategic Strike vertical takeoff precision cruise missile. The company plans to build its first factory in Huntington Beach, California, which will be one of many decentralized factories designed to promote a "survival defense industrial base". This expansion aims to increase production capacity and meet growing demand for advanced defense technologies.

Worried Your Nvidia RTX 5080, 5090 or 5070 Ti Isn't Performing as Well as It Should? CPU-Z Can Now Check

CPU-Z has introduced a detailed GPU diagnostics verification system to detect missing Render Units (ROPs) in the RTX 50 series graphics cards. The new update allows users to quickly identify if their GPU is affected by the issue, which can result in reduced performance. With this tool, users can determine if they have a faulty GPU and potentially get a replacement under warranty.

Rockstar Acquires Studio Behind Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy - Definitive Edition Upgrades and Renames It Rockstar Australia

The acquisition of Video Games Deluxe by Rockstar marks a significant expansion of the company's talent pool and expertise, enabling it to further refine and enhance its flagship titles. By rebranding the studio as Rockstar Australia, Rockstar is likely seeking to reinforce its global presence and emphasize its commitment to delivering high-quality gaming experiences. The move also underscores Rockstar's dedication to nurturing and supporting talented developers like Brendan McNamara.

China Hits US Soybean Firms, Halts Lumber Imports as It Steps Up Retaliation Against Trump Tariffs

China has suspended the import licenses of three U.S. soybean firms and halted U.S. lumber imports as part of its retaliation against recently imposed U.S. tariffs. This escalation follows the U.S. decision to levy additional duties on Chinese goods, prompting China to impose tariffs on a range of U.S. agricultural products. The actions reflect the ongoing trade tensions and highlight the vulnerabilities in agricultural trade, particularly affecting U.S. farmers who rely heavily on exports to China.

China Tightens Squeeze on US Soybean Exports as Retaliatory Measures Mount

China suspended the soybean import licenses of three U.S. firms and halted imports of U.S. lumber due to phytosanitary issues, stepping up retaliatory action against U.S. tariffs imposed by President Trump. The move affects nearly $12.8 billion in trade in 2024, with soybeans being a crucial export for the United States. China's actions come as part of its efforts to reduce dependence on U.S. supplies and target U.S. farm goods.

Anker Launches New 12-in-1 Tower Power Strip With Switch

Anker has introduced its USB Power Strip (12-in-1, 20W) in European markets, featuring a tower design that includes multiple AC outlets and USB ports for versatile charging options. The device boasts a built-in power switch and a comprehensive safety system, making it both functional and secure for daily use. Priced at £34.99 in the UK, the product is positioned as a space-saving solution for consumers looking to reduce clutter while maintaining power accessibility.

China Imposes New Curbs on U.S. Firms as Trade Row Grows

China has imposed retaliatory tariffs and placed export and investment restrictions on 25 U.S. firms on national security grounds, targeting companies involved in advanced technologies and surveillance systems, amidst growing tensions between the two nations over trade and human rights issues. The move aims to restrict access to sensitive technology and limit U.S. influence in strategic sectors. China's actions reflect a broader effort to assert its sovereignty and protect domestic industries from foreign competition.

Trump Draws Retaliation with Economic Toll Expected to Be Heavy

The new tariffs imposed by President Trump have drawn swift retaliation from Canada and China, leading to concerns about the potential economic impact on the US. The tax foundation estimates that Trump's 2018-2019 tariffs shrank US GDP by about 0.2%, and the new tariffs this week against Canada and Mexico alone are projected to surpass that, even setting aside any retaliation. The uncertainty created by these tariffs is sowing confusion in the economy, with investors and consumers alike taking a hit.

Microsoft Unveils Dragon Copilot Voice-Activated AI Assistant for Doctors

Microsoft wants to use AI to help doctors stay on top of work. The new AI tool combines Dragon Medical One's natural language voice dictation with DAX Copilot's ambient listening technology, aiming to streamline administrative tasks and reduce clinician burnout. By leveraging machine learning and natural language processing, Microsoft hopes to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of medical consultations.

New Google Pixel 9a Leaks Tease Color Options, and Satellite Connectivity to Take on the iPhone 16e

Recent leaks regarding the Google Pixel 9a suggest a likely launch this month, with the device passing through the FCC regulatory filing process. New renders indicate the phone will feature a smooth design without the iconic camera bar and will offer multiple color options, including black, off-white, and light purple, while also introducing emergency satellite communication capabilities. This addition aims to position the Pixel 9a competitively against the recently released iPhone 16e, which has already integrated satellite messaging features.

IPhone 16e Teardown Reveals Major Battery Bonus – and Repairability That Matches the iPhone 16 Series

iFixit's teardown of the iPhone 16e highlights significant improvements in repairability, achieving a score of 7/10, which is higher than previous models. The phone features a new battery adhesive that can be released with a quick jolt of electricity, facilitating easier DIY repairs, although accessing certain components still requires removing multiple parts. Apple's evolving approach towards repairability, including the introduction of DIY repair kits, reflects a shift in priorities, though challenges remain for average users aiming to fix their devices.

Gold Prices Soar as Trade War Escalation Boosts Demand for Safe-Haven Assets

Gold prices rose significantly after President Donald Trump announced sweeping tariffs on Canada and Mexico, prompting swift retaliatory measures from these countries and China. The escalation of the trade war has led to a surge in demand for safe-haven assets like gold, which climbed above $2,915 an ounce as Beijing imposed 15% duties on some American farm goods. Geopolitical tensions have also fueled investor concerns about economic instability.

Xiaomi Unveils Revolutionary Modular Optical System (MOS) at MWC 2025

Xiaomi's Modular Optical System (MOS) showcases a concept phone with a magnetic-mounting lens that processes data directly on the chipset without attaching to the phone's lens, offering impressive and amazing technology. The system is easy to use and features a 100MP Light Fusion X Micro Four Thirds sensor, a bigger sensor than what's typically found in flagship camera phones. Xiaomi is considering broader implementations of its MOS, potentially bringing back "modular fun" to phones.

Ford Recall Sparks Safety Concerns Over LED Lights

Ford Motor will recall 35,328 vehicles due to faulty LED lights in the exterior mirror that may cause a fire, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said on Tuesday. The exterior mirror is equipped with LED logo lights which may short circuit, potentially leading to a fire hazard for drivers and passengers. If not addressed promptly, this issue could result in serious injuries or fatalities.

Business Up Front, Party Around Back

The Nothing Phone 3a Pro emerges as a standout budget smartphone, offering a unique design, solid camera features, and a premium feel that belies its price point. While it lacks in performance and network compatibility, its distinctive aesthetics and innovative features like Glyph LED lights provide an engaging user experience. This phone represents a compelling option for consumers seeking style and functionality without breaking the bank.

China Suspends Imports of US Logs and Soybeans From Three Firms

China has halted soybean imports from three US entities, further ratcheting up trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies. Most American companies that export to China have been forced to suspend operations or scale back production in response to retaliatory tariffs imposed by Beijing in 2018. The move is likely to exacerbate the already strained US-China trade relationship.

Nothing's New Budget Android Phones Make Samsung and Apple Look Bad

Nothing's Phone (3a) Series, including a new Pro model, deliver great value, design, and performance. The set consists of the base Phone (3a) and the Phone (3a) Pro, both housing an optimized Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset, ditching the MediaTek hardware present in the previous generation. Nothing brings a new feature to this generation of devices called Essential Space, providing quick access to other on-device tools.

Nothing Phone (3a) Pro Launched with Periscope Telephoto Lens and Divisive Camera Module Design

The Nothing Phone (3a) Pro's launch marks a significant milestone in the company's bid to establish itself as a major player in the smartphone market. With its periscope telephoto lens and 120 Hz AMOLED screen, the device offers an impressive combination of features that cater to photography enthusiasts and gamers alike. However, the radical design choice may polarize consumers, with some welcoming the fresh look and others criticizing it for being unnecessary.

Nothing Phone 3a Launches with Upgraded Cameras, Fresh Design and More

The Nothing Phone 3a series has officially launched, bringing two new mid-range phones that promise an attractive price point in the EU. The non-Pro device boasts an updated design, improved cameras, and a more powerful processor, making it a feature-packed option for those looking for a solid mid-range smartphone. The company's focus on performance and camera capabilities is evident in the specs, which also highlight a high-quality display and robust battery life.

Nothing’s AI-Powered Organization Features Shine in Latest Phone Launch

The Nothing Phone 3A and 3A Pro use AI to organize all your stuff, a feature that promises to streamline your digital clutter. These devices offer solid specs for their midrange prices, including improved hardware, updated cameras, and a new feature called the Essential Space. The Essential Space uses AI to store and index miscellaneous screenshots, voice memos, and photographs.

Tesla's China-Made EV Sales Fall to Lowest Since August 2022

Tesla's sales of its China-made electric vehicles dropped significantly in February, with sales plummeting 49.2% from the same period last year. The drop is attributed to intense competition from Chinese rivals who have launched affordable smart EVs, including Tesla models. Despite this, Tesla remains a dominant brand in China, but its popularity is being challenged by newer models and emerging players.

Investors Say It's Time to Take Trump Seriously as Markets Recoil

Markets are recalibrating their expectations regarding Donald Trump's economic policies, anticipating a slowdown in growth as he implements significant tariffs on imports from major trading partners. The response from investors has shifted from optimism about rising yields and a strong dollar to a more cautious outlook, with many fleeing to defensive sectors as volatility increases. The evolving trade landscape has left investors grappling with uncertainty, as the potential for retaliatory measures and further tariffs complicates market dynamics.

BleeqUp Debuts Ranger: The World's First 4-in-1 AI Cycling Glasses

BleeqUp has introduced the Ranger glasses, touted as the world's first 4-in-1 AI cycling camera glasses, featuring an integrated camera capable of recording 1080p video and one-tap video editing. Designed for cyclists, these glasses come equipped with UV400 protection, anti-fog capabilities, and a lightweight, durable frame, while also offering built-in headphones and walkie-talkie functionality for enhanced communication. With an emphasis on safety and convenience, the Ranger glasses leverage AI for easy video editing, enabling users to capture and share their cycling experiences effortlessly.

Indian Stocks Post Historic Losing Streak as Global Funds Flee

The Indian stock market has experienced a historic losing streak, with the benchmark index declining for a record 10th straight day due to continuous selling by overseas investors. The selloff has been driven by concerns about slowing economic growth and relatively high valuations, leading to a swift shift in sentiment among emerging-market fund managers. As the market continues to slide, small investors who are new to the market and have not experienced a significant downturn before may be particularly vulnerable.

Many Businesses Are Overspending on Their Cloud Storage Budget.

Research from Wasabi reveals that nearly half of UK businesses are overspending on cloud storage, primarily due to high egress fees that discourage switching providers. The report indicates that 62% of organizations exceeded their cloud budgets in the past year, with 49% of their overall cloud bill attributed solely to fees. Despite the focus on critical factors like data security and performance, cost remains the primary reason organizations continue with their current cloud providers.

Samsung's Thinnest Galaxy Phone Ever at MWC - and It Made My Devices Feel Outdated.

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge, recently showcased at Mobile World Congress (MWC), is a game-changer in terms of design and portability. With an estimated thickness of 6mm, the phone is incredibly thin, making it an attractive option for those seeking a lightweight device. The S25 Edge's sleek design and near-bezel-less display are notable features that set it apart from its predecessors.

AWS Showcases Innovations in AI and 5G at MWC 2025.

At MWC 2025, AWS highlighted key advancements in AI and 5G technology, focusing on enhancing B2B sales monetization and improving network planning through predictive simulations. The company introduced on-device small language models for improved accessibility and managed integrations in IoT Device Management, allowing for streamlined operations across various platforms. Additionally, AWS partnered with Telefónica to create an Alexa-enabled tablet aimed at assisting the elderly, showcasing the practical applications of AI in everyday life.

Fox News Hits Trump With Uncomfortable Real-Time Reality Check On Live TV

The live broadcast of President Donald Trump's announcement of new tariffs on Canada and Mexico provided an uncomfortable reality check for Fox News viewers. As Trump praised Taiwan Semiconductor for investing $100 billion in US manufacturing facilities, the stock market began to tank, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average plummeting nearly 650 points. The visual display of the Dow's decline on live TV was a stark reminder that even for a network like Fox News, which often toes the line with conservative views, reality can be hard to ignore.

European Shares Plummet as Trump's Fresh Tariffs Come Into Effect

European shares joined a global market selloff on Tuesday after U.S. tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China took effect, raising concerns that similar levies could be imposed on Europe. The pan-European STOXX 600 index was down 0.8% at 0933 GMT, retreating from the previous session's record high. Germany's blue-chip index also came off record peak, falling about 1.6%.

Kremlin Says Pause of U.S. Military Aid to Ukraine Is Best Hope for Peace

The Kremlin has expressed support for pausing US military aid to Ukraine, suggesting it could be a significant step towards peace in the conflict-torn region. Russia's President Vladimir Putin sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine in 2022, triggering a major confrontation with Western powers. The pause in aid, proposed by US President Donald Trump following his clash with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskiy, could potentially reduce tensions and encourage Kyiv to engage in peace talks.

Europe's Defence Firms Need Orders to Fill Capacity Gap, Thales Says

Thales's CEO Patrice Caine has emphasized that European defence firms' ability to address military readiness gaps amid transatlantic tensions relies heavily on the swift translation of political commitments into actual orders. The recent rally in European defence stocks, driven by strategic pledges for increased military spending, underscores the industry's precarious position, where companies await concrete contracts to justify ramping up production capacity. Despite having the necessary technology, Caine expressed caution about overextending production without guaranteed orders, highlighting the disconnect between political promises and actual procurement.

Unlocking AI’s True Potential: The Power of a Robust Data Foundation.

Businesses are increasingly recognizing the importance of a solid data foundation as they seek to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) for competitive advantage. A well-structured data strategy allows organizations to effectively analyze and utilize their data, transforming it from a mere asset into a critical driver of decision-making and innovation. As companies navigate economic challenges, those with robust data practices will be better positioned to adapt and thrive in an AI-driven landscape.

Faceminer Builds a Biometric Data-Harvesting Empire.

Faceminer is a narrative simulation game set in the late 1990s, where players construct a biometric data-harvesting empire amid the optimism surrounding Y2K. Players must efficiently manage resources, collect vast amounts of data, and navigate the consequences of unethical practices to grow their operations. The game critiques mass data hoarding and surveillance, highlighting the dangers of concentrating power in the hands of a few.

Global Markets Show Signs of Relief as Trade War Fears Ease.

US stock futures rose on Tuesday as China's careful response to President Donald Trump's tariff hike eased market nerves over the prospect of a deepening trade war. The measures, including fresh 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico, and a doubling in China duties to 20%, were signed into effect at midnight ET on Monday. Relief followed Beijing's response, seen as less aggressive than feared and leaving room for negotiation with Trump.

European Auto Stocks Sink as U.S. Tariffs on Mexico, Canada Kick In

Shares in European carmakers and automotive suppliers fell sharply on Tuesday, after U.S. tariffs of 25% took effect on imports from Canada as well as Mexico, a major automotive supply and manufacturing hub for global firms. The STOXX Europe 600 Automobiles and Parts index (.SXAP) fell the most since September 2022, reflecting exposure to the tariffs. Companies such as Volkswagen (VOWG_p.DE), Stellantis (STLAM.MI), and BMW (BMWG.DE) all have manufacturing sites in Mexico.