A ceasefire agreement has been reached between Israel and Hamas, marking a critical step toward ending the Gaza war. The announcement was shared by U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman James Risch during Sen. Marco Rubio’s confirmation hearing. Risch stated, “Before we all celebrate, though, obviously we’re all going to want to see how well that executes.”
The ceasefire includes a multiphase agreement with an initial six-week phase. During this period, Hamas has pledged to release 33 Israeli hostages in exchange for approximately 1,000 Palestinian detainees. A Palestinian official confirmed the number but noted they were not authorised to speak to the media. Hamas insists on more detainees being released per each hostage freed alive but has not disclosed how many hostages remain alive.
This agreement follows weeks of indirect negotiations in Doha, Qatar, mediated by U.S., Egypt, and Qatar facilitators. Representatives from President Biden’s administration and President-elect Trump’s team also participated, applying pressure to finalise the deal. Envoys emphasised the urgency of addressing the situation for both sides.
The war, which began on October 7, 2023, has claimed over 46,000 Palestinian lives, according to Gaza health authorities. Most casualties were women and children. Meanwhile, the Israeli military reported 405 soldier deaths. Around 100 hostages were released in a previous deal, with others rescued or found deceased. As global attention focuses on the ceasefire’s execution, families and supporters of hostages continue to rally, urging accountability and swift action.
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Nimra Khan, a popular name in the Pakistani TV industry, has never been secretive about her life. This was evident when she recently shared with the world the amazing story of overcoming divorce and loneliness. In an honest talk on a popular podcast, Nimra shared the inspiring journey of healing from emotional struggles and how she found inner strength in healing and moving on.
The Reality After Divorce
Nimra Khan started her healing journey after signing the Khula papers. Then she dived headfirst into work and launched a new project, the drama Mujhe Khuda Pe Yaqeen Hai. The six-month shoot helped her temporarily forget about the reality of her personal life. As she got engaged in work and friendships on the sets, the distraction kept her mind busy.
According to Nimra, ”I used to love the drama and all the fun moments I had on set with the cast. This kept me preoccupied for seven months, but once the shooting was over, that’s when reality hit me with the fact of being alone. The sudden silence after all the commotion had me realise how lonely I became.”
The Struggles of Loneliness
Although Nimra had her career to focus on, the loneliness that came after the work frenzy hit her hard. “I should have fought for my marriage,” she admitted. “But it was too late by the time I truly understood that I was alone and had to face my emotions.” At that point, Nimra started questioning herself and felt the weight of her emotional burden.
”I would have thought then that I needed a psychiatrist to help me go through this. But then, I realised something important. Why should I rely on anyone? The more I had a hard time enjoying my company, the more I realised the first step of healing was becoming independent not only emotionally but with every aspect of life,” Nimra added.
Self-Love and Independence
A turning point in Nimra’s healing came when she understood the importance of self-love. “I believe that if you need someone, it means you are dependent on them. True strength lies in independence and you must be able to stand on your own, even in the face of challenges.”
She encouraged her listeners to embrace solitude and learn to appreciate their own company. ”Sometimes, when you feel like watching a movie or going out, do it alone. Enjoy the moment and realise that you are enough on your own,” Nimra said. She now strongly feels that self-love and independence are essential to overcome emotional struggles.
Embracing the Future
Today, Nimra Khanstandsmuch stronger and self-sufficient. Sheis proofof howself-reflection, self-love, and independence can heal anyone. She askspeople to like their own company, tolove their own space, and to build emotional muscles to fight life. Thestoryof Nimrais a shininglight of hope for anyonewhohas experienced difficult times. Her journey teaches us that healing sometimesstarts from within and the first step toward overcoming loneliness is learningto be comfortable with oneself.
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Meta Platforms Inc. has announced plans to lay off approximately 5% of its workforce, impacting around 3,600 employees. This decision, part of the company’s “Year of Efficiency” initiative, focuses on performance-based terminations to enhance operational efficiency. CEO Mark Zuckerberg outlined the approach in an internal memo, stating, “We typically manage out people who aren’t meeting expectations over a year, but now we’re going to do more extensive performance-based cuts during this cycle.”
The restructuring aims to achieve a 10% non-regrettable attrition target by the end of the performance cycle, with half of it expected to come from 2024. Employees flagged as underperforming in recent performance reviews will be affected. Despite the layoffs, Meta assured generous severance packages for those impacted.
This move is the latest in a series of workforce reductions by Meta, which has significantly downsized its team over the past year. With a global workforce of approximately 72,000 employees as of September 2024, the cuts highlight the company’s focus on streamlining operations and raising performance standards.
The layoffs coincide with other major policy changes at Meta, including scaling back diversity initiatives, relaxing content moderation policies, and discontinuing a U.S.-based third-party fact-checking programme. These changes have sparked internal and external criticism, reflecting growing concerns over the company’s evolving priorities.
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A strange black hole, 1ES 1927+654, is attracting astronomers’ attention in the vastness of space, 270 million light-years away. Weighing in at the mass of one million suns, this black hole has defied expectations. Its bizarre behaviour raises new questions about cosmic dynamics.
Source: Mashable
The mystery started when the corona surrounding the black hole—formed of a billion-degree cloud of charged particles—mysteriously vanished and then reappeared. Now, scientists have just detected something even more fantastic: X-ray bursts that are growing in frequency. The initially observed bursts erupted every 18 minutes, but now they have accelerated to cycle as frequently as seven minutes.
Role of a Resilient White Dwarf
The likely culprit behind these cosmic fireworks is a white dwarf, the dense core left behind when a star exhausts its fuel. This white dwarf is unlike anything seen before. It is venturing dangerously close to the black hole’s event horizon—beyond which nothing, not even light, can escape.
It seems that the simulations done by MIT researchers and the European Space Agency indicate the white dwarf has gotten too close to the black hole, causing the outer layers to shed off and fall into the black hole. This is producing powerful X-ray flares as it is heated up by the black hole. The enhanced rate of this burst indicates that the white dwarf has been moving closer, accelerating since it orbits around the black hole.
The white dwarf is unlikely to fall into the black hole despite its precarious position. Its dense, compact nature makes it resistant to being completely shredded. Instead, as it loses material, a kickback effect propels it slightly away from the black hole, creating a delicate cosmic dance.
Source: Wire
MIT physicist Erin Kara describes this phenomenon: “Because white dwarfs are small and compact, they’re very difficult to shred apart, so they can be very close to a black hole. If this scenario is correct, this white dwarf is right at the turn-around point, and we may see it get further away.”
Cosmic Mysteries Unfolding
It is a discovery soon to be published in the journal Nature, offering unprecedented insight into black hole interactions. Astronomers will continue to observe this enigmatic system in hopes of uncovering more surprises. The behaviour of 1ES 1927+654 reminds us that, in the cosmos, there’s always something more to learn—and much more to marvel at.
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By now, you’ve probably heard about Temu, whether through viral TikTok videos, its flashy 2024 Super Bowl commercials or its recent launch in Pakistan. This online retailer has made a name for itself by offering a wide range of products at unbelievably low prices. On Temu, you can find everything from kitchen gadgets to fashion accessories, often at a fraction of the cost compared to other retailers. Sounds too good to be true? Well, sometimes it is.
Temu’s products are known for being affordable, but there’s a catch: questionable quality and some outright bizarre items. While it might be tempting to fill your cart for fun, some gadgets are just plain strange, and practicality takes a backseat. Here’s a look at a few oddball items you might stumble upon—and why you might want to think twice before hitting “Buy Now.”
If you thought Crocs couldn’t get any funkier, Temu begs to differ. One of their quirkiest offerings is LED lights designed to fit snugly into the holes of your Crocs. These tiny lights promise to illuminate your path when you venture into the dark, turning your casual footwear into a makeshift flashlight. While it’s an amusing idea, it’s hard to imagine when you’d seriously need to light up your shoes. Plus, if we’re being honest, do you really want to become the person whose Crocs glow in the dark?
LED light for crocs on Temu
Mini Portable Washing Machines
A mini portable washing machine might sound like a dream for apartment dwellers or campers. Temu offers several versions, from battery-powered models to hand-crank ones. They’re perfect for small loads or emergencies. But here’s the catch: they’re extremely small. Imagine trying to wash anything larger than a single sock. It’s more of a novelty than a solution. When it comes to investing in this, you’re better off saving your cash for a laundromat or a more reliable portable washer.
Mini Folding Washing Machine
Corn Kernel Stripper
This handheld tool promises to strip kernels off corn with ease. While it sounds convenient, it often leaves kernels half-cut or scattered everywhere, turning a quick task into a messy ordeal. It’s great for a laugh but not so much for efficiency. Temu is full of fruit and vegetable-cutting tools, but these are pretty much useless. Though their convenience might entice you, they’re only good for a few uses.
Corn Stripper
Automatic Toothpaste Dispenser
This gadget is designed to squeeze the perfect amount of toothpaste onto your brush. While it seems handy, it often misfires or dispenses too much, leaving a sticky mess. It’s a quirky addition to a bathroom but not always practical. Products like these are an unnecessary use of plastic. Unless you genuinely need a device to dispense toothpaste for you, don’t buy it!
Toothpaste Dispenser
USB-Powered Heated Slippers
These slippers plug into a USB port to keep your feet warm while you work. They’re cosy in theory, but being tethered to a cord can feel more restrictive than relaxing. Warm fuzzy slippers may be the perfect pair of shoes if you always have cold feet, these shoes run the risk of sparking.
USB heated Slippers
Should You Shop Temu’s Weird Gadgets?
Temu’s charm lies in its affordability and the sheer variety of products, but not every item is worth your time—or money. Many of these gadgets, while fun to browse, fall into the “you get what you pay for” category. Quality can be hit or miss, and the practicality of some items (like shoe lights or mini washers) leaves much to be desired.
Temu is an online treasure trove of oddities that can give you a good laugh or satisfy your curiosity. However, when it comes to actually using these products, you might find they’re more gimmick than gold. If you’re tempted, approach with caution, check reviews, and remember: just because it’s cheap doesn’t mean it’s worth it. Sometimes, it’s best to leave the strange gadgets where they belong—in your online cart and not in your home.
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In a highly emotional episode of Bigg Boss 18, the contestants, Eisha Singh and Karan Veer Mehra, are seen crying as they read letters from their mothers. The upcoming episode of Bigg Boss 18 promises to garner some touching moments as the reactions of the contestants pull at the hearts of the viewers.
Watch here:
A Tearful Surprise
In a preview for the next episode, Eisha and Karan, known for their strong on-screen personas, are seen tearing up. The letters, filled with words of love and encouragement, struck a deep chord with the contestants, highlighting the emotional toll of being away from home for so long. The heartfelt letters made both Eisha and Karan visibly emotional and showed their vulnerable side.
The scene shows the intimate moments of two strong-headed contestants, giving a breath of fresh air to the audience. Both Eisha and Karan proved how much they missed motherly support and warmth. This would make their authentic reactions resonate well with the audience, thus bringing a relatable aspect to the show.
The Power of Letters and Motherly Love
Such letters in the reality show intensify the emotional drama and show the close relationship between the contestants and their families. For Eisha and Karan, getting words of encouragement and love from their mothers made them feel grounded amid the intensity. This moment will probably be one of the most memorable and heartwarming moments in the season.
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Former Punjab Minister for Mines and Minerals, Ibrahim Hassan Murad, has shared exciting news about a massive gold discovery in Attock. He announced that the deposit holds an estimated 2.8 million tolas of gold, valued at Rs800 billion.
Research Confirms the Gold Reserves
The Geological Survey of Pakistan (GSP) has validated the discovery through extensive research and sampling. According to Murad, the gold reserves span an area of 32 kilometres in the region. He shared this information on X (formerly Twitter), calling it a “groundbreaking” milestone for Pakistan’s economy.
Gold Reserves Worth up to Rs700 Billion Discovered in Attock
Unlocking Pakistan’s Mineral Wealth
Murad emphasised the importance of this discovery, describing it as a step towards revitalising the economy. He stated that it could open new opportunities for future generations. Moreover, he highlighted the immense potential of Punjab’s natural resources, which are now gaining recognition.
Government Steps to Secure and Auction the Reserves
Punjab’s current Minister of Mines and Minerals, Sardar Sher Ali Gorchani, confirmed the findings and shared updates on government actions. He noted that the reserves are worth between Rs600-700 billion in the global market. Furthermore, the government has been working based on the GSP study, which began last year.
To prevent theft, Section 144 has been imposed in the area. Additionally, Nespak and other firms will assess the reserves’ exact value. Gorchani revealed that the gold would be auctioned internationally after a month.
The provincial government has already formed an auction committee, led by the Attock deputy commissioner. Moreover, the Punjab cabinet will approve auction rules in a meeting next Tuesday. This discovery could mark a turning point for Pakistan’s economy and attract global investment in its mineral sector.
Stay tuned toBrandsynario for the latest news and updates.
Several Pakistani actors have won local hearts and at the same time achieved significant milestones in the expansive universe of Bollywood to emerge successfully into the extremely competitive film industry.
Among them are Ali Zafar, Saba Qamar and Mahira Khan who forged paths and shared the space of the greatest and finest that the Bollywood Industry has to offer. Yet, one name that stands out for her exceptional journey and undeniable impact, both in Pakistan and internationally, is Sajal Aly.
The Rise of Sajal Aly
Sajal Aly began her artistic journey in 2009 with the popular show Nadaaniyaan. It did not take much time for her acting talent to shine through in various television dramas.
Productions like Nanhi, Sannata, Yaqeen Ka Safar and Kuch Ankahi earned her widespread critical acclaim and also established her as a household name in Pakistan. Each performance she gave was an ode to her passion for her craft, leaving an indelible mark on audiences.
Her Groundbreaking Bollywood Entry
However, Sajal Aly’s career graph took a gigantic leap when she entered the world of Bollywood in 2017. She was a part of Mom, an outstanding film where she shared the screen with the legendary Sridevi, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Adnan Siddiqui and Akshay Khanna. The film was directed by Girish Kohli and became a commercial success as well as earned widespread critical acclaim.
This was one of the turning points in Sajal’s career, not only due to the appreciation but also for the learning and memories that came with it. Working with the legend Sridevi was one of the peak moments in Sajal’s career.
Talking about this, Sajal Aly took to social media in 2020 and posted a heartfelt tribute to Mom, as it had been three years since the film’s release. She wrote, “There are some experiences that one never forgets, no matter how much time has elapsed. They think that only glamour surrounds the life of an actor, forgetting the personal sacrifice we make as we take up a role. We give something of ourselves to a character, and in doing that, we suspend our own lives. This can sometimes be the most challenging aspect of our profession. For me, Mom wasn’t just a film; it was an unforgettable chapter of my life—three years of #MOM.”
Breaking Boundaries in International Cinema
Sajal Aly’s talent did not end at Bollywood; her career trajectory has since soared to the heights of British cinema. She has transitioned into international projects with a keen eye for diverse roles, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Sajal’s ability to transcend regional boundaries and shine on the global stage speaks volumes about her dedication and talent. Thus, her journey from becoming a famous tele-star of Pakistan to being respectable in Bollywood and British cinema gives an insight into her versatile skill and constant aim.
Sajal Aly now challenges herself continuously with every assignment, so international cinema’s abode is established solidly by her. She has been quite remarkable in her journey, from working with Sridevi to conquering new cinematic landscapes. Her journey is truly inspiring, making her one of the brightest stars in the global entertainment arena.
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As the possible TikTok ban in the United States approaches, netizens around the country are looking for a replacement platform. Not only are these self-described “TikTok refugees” searching for any platform, but they are also trying to find one that is sufficiently similar to TikTok in terms of design, content and vibes to lessen the discomfort of losing their beloved social media app. In early January 2025, a lot of people believe they discovered that in the Chinese app REDnote.
Just a few days before the possible TikTok ban, anticipated to take effect on January 19, REDnote, also known as Xiaohongshu, became the most downloaded app in the United States as of January 13. The TikTok ban is based on the US government’s concerns about national security (specifically, claims that the Chinese government is utilising Chinese-owned TikTok to spy on Americans). However, this hasn’t stopped the masses from turning to REDnote. Actually, some users are doing so out of anger rather than simply trying to locate the “new TikTok.”
How To Download the REDnote App
To download the REDnote app on your phone, all you have to do is go to the Apple App Store or Google Play. You can search it by its Americanised name (REDnote) or its Chinese name (Xiaohongshu). What should come up is the Chinese word 小红书. From there, click download, and you’re good to go.
Create Your Account
Once you have the app, you should be prompted to create an account with your email address or phone number. (If you’re signing up with your phone number, be sure to specify which country you are signing up with so it includes the proper country code.) From there, you should receive a confirmation code to verify your contact info, followed by a puzzle to ensure you’re not a robot. After that, you’ll be asked to choose your interests, which will likely help its algorithm serve you content tailored to you. Then, you can set up your profile page, which includes your bio and your profile photo.
Unfortunately, many users have taken to other social media apps to share that they were unable to receive verification codes. As of Jan. 13, it’s unclear why this might be the case. Some users on TikTok and X have shared that they were successful in receiving their codes after waiting between 10 and 30 minutes. So, while that’s an imperfect solution, it could help for the time being!
Ensure Your language is set to English
If you’re an English speaker, this is a crucial step. To switch your language settings to English, you just have to tap the gear icon on your profile (next to edit profile, tap languages and then select English. This will help translate part of the app into English, although some sections will still be in Chinese.
Engage Mindfully
Once your profile is set up, you’re free to use the app! Watch videos, leave comments or even try posting your own content. Just keep in mind that this app is quite new to many U.S. users, so there might be some cultural barriers to overcome.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.
Have you ever considered having your own dropshipping in Pakistan that does not require you to deal with stock?
Starting a dropshipping business in Pakistan is an exciting opportunity for entrepreneurs to leverage the growth of the e-commerce industry with minimal upfront investment. This model enables you to sell products online without keeping any physical inventory since suppliers are in charge of storing and shipping the products directly to customers.
In this detailed guide, we have outlined the critical steps for building successful dropshipping in Pakistan.
What is Dropshipping?
Dropshipping is an order fulfilment model in which the store does not hold the inventory that it sells to its customers. When a product is sold by a store to a customer, it buys it from a third party, often a wholesaler or manufacturer, and has it sent directly to the customer. Thus, this model rules investing in huge stocks and allows an entrepreneur to market and serve the customer more intensely.
What is Dropshipping?
Legal Essentials in Pakistan
The following are the mandatory procedures you will have to take before you start your dropshipping in Pakistan:
Registration of your Business: First, you have to get your business registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan. This will legalise and make your business official.
Tax Requirements: You will also require a National Tax Number (NTN). It is a must to understand the tax procedure for an online business in Pakistan.
Consumer Protection Laws: Know what safeguards your consumers. The transparency towards your customers is what will attract them back to you over and over again.
Pick the Right Niche
The right niche is what would make your dropshipping in Pakistan successful. Here’s how to go about it:
Step
What to Do
Market Research
Understand and follow market trends for high-in-demand, low-competition products.
Leverage your interests
Pick a niche that you’re passionate about or knowledgeable in.
Check the Profit Margins
Determine whether or not these products can potentially generate money by examining their price, shipping fee, and sales price.
Find Trustworthy Suppliers
The right suppliers ensure the quality of the product and on-time delivery. Here are a few notable dropshipping suppliers in Pakistan:
More than 150,000 products are available on one user-friendly platform, with easy integration with Shopify and very good logistics support.
Setup your Online Store
Choose the Right Platform: First, choose the correct e-commerce platform. Options include Shopify, WooCommerce or Daraz. Such platforms give simple templates for creation, safe payment acceptance and a good purchasing experience for your clients.
Pick a Memorable Domain Name: Your domain name should be as short as possible, easily memorable and ideally should reflect the brand name. It should be related to your business and appeal to the target market that you hope to appeal to.
Design a User-Friendly Website: The company’s website is attractive in terms of visual mastery and user-friendliness. Visitors are more likely to purchase if the website is clean and optimised for mobile use, making its design crucial.
Payment and Shipping Solutions
Add secure payment mediums suitable for Pakistani customers, such as JazzCash, Easypaisa and bank transfers.
PayPal services are currently not available in Pakistan
Partner with logistics companies that offer efficient and cost-effective shipping options.
Clearly communicate the shipping times and policies to your customers.
Promote your Store like a Pro
Marketing is making sure that people know your store and encouraging them to shop in the store. Here are some easy ways to do it:
Search Engine Optimization (SEO):
Use keywords that people are looking for in the title of your product, description, and blog. What this ends up doing is presenting your website to Google in search of products that are similar to what you advertise for sales. Depending on how high your site is on the list, the more visitors you will be getting through the organic search results.
Social Media Marketing:
Post on public platforms, namely Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Inform people about your products through pictures, videos, storytelling, and all the techniques you use. You can also place some ads on these sites so that more people can have an encounter with your products.
Content Marketing:
Post content that is relevant to your product and industry. For instance, if your business is selling sportswear such as fitness gear, it might be relevant to post fitness tips. This will help make your audience think that you are an expert, and they will rely on you. It also assists you in getting more individuals into your website.
Email Marketing:
Get the email addresses of your buyers or other people who visit your site. Update them on new arrivals or offers in your shop, and any tips that concern your business area.
Prioritise Customer Service
Your customers can be increased, and clients can become loyal by providing good services. Here’s how you can manage it effectively:
Make sure that any time customers want to ask anything or express their opinion, appreciate, comment, or seek assistance about your products, they should be greeted well over the phone, through email, or in the live chat.
Create simple-to-implement positions when it comes to returns and refunds. Make sure clients understand how to return merchandise or request their money back. This process should be as easy as possible.
Options should be available for your customer so they can express what they think about your products and services as per their survey, review, or discussion.
Scale Your Business
When your dropshipping business gets some traction, you may struggle to manage its growth. As seen, most start-ups have a vision in mind, though as the demand grows, things become complicated. In the case of scaling, new techniques must be incorporated since resources will change in some way. Add more products to meet the different needs of the customer, explore the new market segments to access more clients available and use some robotic interfaces to minimize the work to be done by hand. This will go a long way in helping to manage growth while keeping the customers happy.
Final Thoughts
In particular, starting dropshipping in Pakistan is the best way to enter the e-commerce market with minimal investment. In this article, we divided the basics of dropshipping, legal considerations about the business, and how to select the right niche and the right supplier as the fundamental structure of the entire dropshipping business.
A professional online store, marketing, and offering customer services should be the goals of every business in its bid to get and sustain consumers. As your business grows, your efforts to grow should be through the expansion of product lines, market seeking, and application of tools which would assist with growth.
The debate over TikTok’s future continues in the U.S. Until then, thousands of American users shifted to an unexpected alternative: RedNote, the U.S. nickname for Xiaohongshu. This Chinese app, which means Little Red Book, has recently skyrocketed in popularity, claiming the top spot on Apple’s U.S. App Store. Known as a hub for travel tips, makeup advice, and fashion inspiration, Xiaohongshu has been a favourite in China for years but stayed relatively unknown elsewhere until now.
The sudden migration comes from uncertainty about TikTok’s future, with many U.S. users moving to RedNote to protest potential bans. The app’s rise has created an unexpected bridge between American and Chinese users, sparking connections that have rarely been seen on such a scale.
Why Xiaohongshu is the Talk of the Town
The shift to RedNote comes at a time when TikTok could go offline in the U.S., leaving millions of users searching for a new platform. Over the past week alone, downloads of RedNote in the U.S. have increased significantly. Within just two days, more than 700,000 Americans joined the app, earning them the nickname, TikTok Refugees.
Many newcomers have shared their excitement about the platform, with one user even calling it better than TikTok. Others have posted messages urging fellow Americans to respect Chinese users and avoid bringing political debates to the platform. The hashtag #TikTokrefugeehas exploded, gaining millions of views and comments.
Chinese users have warmly welcomed their new community members, offering video tutorials and even asking for help with English homework. One Chinese user called this moment historic. They said it’s a rare opportunity for ordinary people from both countries to engage in meaningful exchanges.
RedNote Headquarters in Shanghai
How RedNote Stands Out
Unlike TikTok, RedNote focuses on content based on user interests rather than the accounts you follow. This difference encourages more creative and original posts, making the platform feel fresh and less dominated by influencers. However, RedNote wasn’t designed for English speakers, so navigating the app can be tricky for some U.S. users.
Meanwhile, Lemon8, another app owned by TikTok’s parent company ByteDance, is also gaining traction. Modeled after Instagram and Pinterest, it’s currently the second most downloaded app in the U.S. While Lemon8 is still rising, it’s unclear if it could face the same challenges as TikTok due to its ties to ByteDance.
This migration to RedNote has sparked an unexpected cultural exchange between Americans and Chinese users. People are finding creative ways to connect, overcome language barriers and build a global community. While TikTok’s future remains uncertain, platforms like RedNote are showing how social media can unite people across borders in ways we never imagined.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.
In January 2025, Walmart unveiled its first logo redesign in nearly two decades, aiming to reflect its evolution as a modern, digital retailer. The updated logo features a chunkier font inspired by founder Sam Walton’s classic trucker hat, a deeper blue colour palette dubbed “True Blue,” and a refreshed yellow spark symbol known as “Spark Yellow.”
The Internet Reacts: Spot the Difference
As soon as the new logo was revealed, the Internet went berserk. Netizens took to social media to express their confusion. One user quipped, “Walmart just unveiled their new logo. It looks the f****** same.”
Walmart Logo: Before and After
Another chimed in, “I can’t believe someone got paid for this.”
Walmart Logo: Before and After
Memes comparing the old and new logos flooded timelines, with hilarious captions like, “Did Walmart release a new logo or a vision test?”
Walmart’s Justification: A Nod to Heritage and Innovation
According to William White, Walmart’s Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, the refresh is “rooted in the legacy of our founder, Sam Walton.”
The company highlighted that the new design is a display of its growth since now Walmart aims to be more than a simple retailer.
Critics’ Take: Money Well Spent?
Critics and consumers alike have questioned the financial prudence of investing in such a minimal redesign. Comments like, “How much do you think they paid for this? $1M? $10M? $100M,” and “Some consulting firm fleeced them for $500M for this,” reflect a widespread sentiment that the changes are too insignificant to warrant the likely substantial expenditure.
Branding experts argue that even minor tweaks can have significant psychological impacts. They reinforce brand identity and signal modernisation. The retention of the yellow spark and the shift to a deeper blue are seen as efforts to balance tradition with a fresh, contemporary look. However, the general public’s lukewarm reception suggests that the nuances may be lost on the average consumer.
Walmart’s logo redesign has certainly achieved one thing: it’s got people talking. The new logo is the subject of discussions all over the internet. On one hand, it can be viewed as a symbol of the past and modernity. On the other hand, it can also be seen as an unnecessary waste of money on an almost imperceptible change. But just the possibility of controversy is a promising sign of achievement in the world of branding. After all, there’s no such thing as bad publicity.
Walmart expects that the new logo will be featured in its 10,500 stores, and time will tell if the weird rebrand will either be accepted by the consumers or will be an embarrassing moment in Walmart’s History.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.
Leaked images have revealed what Samsung is planning to showcase at the Galaxy Unpacked event on January 22. As per the reports, the Samsung Galaxy S25 series is to be unveiled at the event. The promotional images show interesting changes in the line-up, ranging from a dramatic design change in the Ultra variant of the Galaxy S25 and AI features of the latest version.
New Look for the Ultra Variant
While the base Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25+ retain much of the design language from the Galaxy S24 series, including a triple-lens camera unit seamlessly blending with the phone’s frame, the Galaxy S25 Ultra stands out with a bold redesign.
Source: HT Tech
Gone is the signature boxy form factor of previous Ultra models. The new Ultra features rounded corners and thinner bezels, offering a more streamlined and modern aesthetic. Although the quad-camera setup remains, the lens rings now match the phone’s frame rather than its rear panel. This adds a touch of elegance to the overall design.
Galaxy AI: Samsung’s Next Leap in Artificial Intelligence
Apart from being aggressive in terms of hardware, Samsung is equally aggressive in its AI domain. The Galaxy AI suite introduces Live Translate; real-time language translation to enhance interlanguage communication. Note Assist- an intelligent assistant for creating and organising notes Sketch to Image, a tool that takes even the roughest sketches and translates them into refined visuals using sophisticated AI processing.
Samsung claims these tools will “redefine” the smartphone as a true AI companion, highlighting the brand’s ambition to lead in mobile AI technology.
While the Ultra still boasts its quad-camera setup, rumours hint at improvements to individual lenses for better low-light photography and zoom capabilities. The emphasis on design continuity in the base and Plus models reflects Samsung’s confidence in their existing blueprint while reserving the most dramatic changes for its flagship Ultra model.
Source: Galaxy AI
Anticipation Builds Ahead of the Launch
This new Galaxy S25 series promises a perfect blend of familiar strengths and bold innovations. From refined aesthetics to cutting-edge AI features, the lineup looks to set new benchmarks for premium smartphones. Tech enthusiasts worldwide have only days left before the official unveiling of what could be the most advanced Galaxy series by Samsung.
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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is gearing up for some big changes, and these aren’t your run-of-the-mill updates. With the Indian cricket team under scrutiny after a string of poor performances, the board is rolling out measures aimed at accountability, discipline, and focus. Let’s dive into what’s changing and why it matters.
Performance-Linked Pay: A Corporate Twist in Cricket
Imagine your paycheck depending on how well you perform at work. That’s exactly what the BCCI is proposing for the Indian cricket team. In a corporate-style move, players’ salaries will now be tied directly to their on-field performances.
The idea came up during a review meeting attended by key figures like captain Rohit Sharma, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar. The goal is simple: reward excellence and hold players accountable for underperformance.
Under the new system, poor displays on the field could result in pay cuts. This approach could be a game-changer, pushing players to bring their A-game to every match.
Family Visit Restrictions: A Balancing Act
Another significant shift is in the rules for family visits during tours. While players have often enjoyed the company of their wives and girlfriends (WAGs) on long tours, the BCCI is tightening the reins.
For extended tours lasting around six weeks, WAGs will be allowed to join players for only two weeks. On shorter tours, visits will be capped at seven days.
This decision stems from concerns about maintaining focus and reducing distractions during crucial games. While it may ruffle a few feathers, the BCCI believes it’s a necessary step to ensure players remain mentally and physically tuned in.
In a bid to foster team unity, players will now be required to travel together on team buses. Any extra luggage? That’s on them. The board seems intent on instilling a sense of discipline and shared responsibility among players. After all, cricket is a team sport, and every small step toward unity can make a big difference.
The Indian team’s recent track record has been a wake-up call. A 3-1 series loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, followed by a 3-0 whitewash at home against New Zealand, left fans and the board disappointed.
These defeats not only hurt team morale but also cost India a spot in the Championship final. The BCCI’s new measures are a direct response to these setbacks, aimed at preventing a repeat in the 2025 Champions Trophy.
In a surprising twist, the board has also revised rules for head coach Gautam Gambhir’s management arrangements. His manager will no longer enjoy perks like sitting in the VIP box, travelling with the team, or staying in the team hotel. Instead, they’ll need to arrange separate accommodations.
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A significant development has emerged as the salaried people of Pakistan are now the third largest contributors to the tax revenue of the country, reflecting the growing dependence on this sector to strengthen public finances. According to the FBR, there was a 39.3% year-on-year growth in tax collection from salaried individuals during the fiscal year 2023-24, which reached Rs368 billion, up by Rs103.74 billion compared to the previous year.
Drivers of Revenue Growth
The tax receipts from the salaried class witnessed a boom. This boom was part of a larger one that cut across many sectors. The largest sectoral revenue contribution came from contracts, which recorded Rs496 billion, up from over Rs106 billion. Next came taxes on bank interest and securities at Rs489 billion, showing a very healthy increase of 52.8%. Revenue from dividend payments also recorded a healthy jump of 70% to reach Rs145 billion.
Source: News International
Property transactions were the other significant source, which accounted for Rs104 billion in purchases and Rs95 billion in sales. Even routine expenses faced a tax increase as electricity bills contributed Rs124 billion, up by 30%, and telephone bills generated nearly Rs100 billion, which reflected a 14.3% increase.
Expanding the Tax Base
The increase in tax revenue indicates a broader tax net and better compliance from the salaried class, a section of society which has always been easier to tax due to fixed incomes and transparent payroll systems. At the same time, it underlines the pressure on the salaried individual due to increasing inflation and not-so-good wage growth.
The export sector, too, contributed Rs94 billion, growing by 27.2%, while taxes from retail transactions, technical fees, commissions, and cash withdrawals added to the overall revenue. These figures underline the FBR’s efforts to diversify revenue streams and tap into previously underutilised sectors.
Challenges and Implications
While the increasing salaried population increases government revenues, it does raise questions regarding the fair sharing of the tax burden. Further straining household budgets are indirect taxes on electricity and telephone bills, making the need for a more progressive tax system pressing.
This data underlines the salaried class’s role in sustaining Pakistan’s economy but also reminds the financial pressures they face. Moving forward, tax fairness and reducing reliance on a few income groups will be the keys to fostering a more inclusive and sustainable fiscal framework.
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Young Pakistani pacer Ihsanullah has been making headlines lately, but not for the reasons cricket fans might hope.
The 22-year-old speedster, who burst onto the scene with his fiery pace in PSL 8, recently found himself at the centre of controversy after making some impulsive statements.
In a dramatic turn of events, Ihsanullah first announced his boycott of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) after going unpicked in the PSL 10 draft. Hours later, he reversed his decision, calling it an emotional outburst.
A Decision Fueled by Frustration
Ihsanullah, who took 22 wickets in PSL 8 with an impressive average of 15.77, was understandably disappointed when no team showed interest in him during this year’s draft.
Speaking to a local media outlet, Ihsanullah admitted that his decision to retire was made in the heat of the moment.
“I was irked by the reactions of the masses and my family,” Ihsanullah shared. “The franchises didn’t pick me, and I reacted emotionally. It was wrong of me to make such a decision.”
He reassured fans that he has no plans to retire from the PSL. Instead, he is focused on working hard to prove himself.
The Comeback Plan
Ihsanullah sounded optimistic as he spoke about the road ahead. With four months to go until PSL 10, he believes there’s still time to make an impression.
“By the will of Almighty Allah, those who didn’t pick me this time will pick me later,” he said confidently. “There are domestic tournaments coming up, and I’ll use them to improve and make my fans happy.”
Addressing Concerns About Pace
Another talking point surrounding Ihsanullah has been his bowling speed. Known for clocking over 140 kmph during PSL 8, questions arose about whether he could maintain that pace.
The pacer explained that he’s been consistently bowling at 130-135 kmph in domestic matches, adding that the speed gun readings on TV often show slightly higher numbers.
“Just the other day, I bowled at 142 kmph during a match in Peshawar,” he said. “I’ll keep working to improve my pace and performance.”
An Apology to Franchises
Acknowledging his misstep, Ihsanullah extended an apology to PSL franchises for his earlier statement.
“I shouldn’t have made that decision in anger,” he admitted. “I’m sorry to the franchises and the fans. I’ll use this as a learning experience to handle such situations better in the future.”
Despite the setbacks, Ihsanullah remains grateful for the opportunities provided by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). “Cricket is my passion, and I thank the PCB for giving me a platform to showcase my talent,” he said.
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Who doesn’t want to work at a lively workplace that promotes growth and doesn’t deteriorate your mental health? Every year, WorkL compiles a list of the World’s Happiest Workplaces and this year’s list is here! It highlights organisations with outstanding employee engagement and happiness. Released on Tuesday, it also showcases companies creating positive work environments.
Pakistan’s Top Organisations
Prominent Pakistani companies like Nestlé, Unilever, and Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) made it to the top. These companies earned praise for fostering happy and productive workplaces.
Other notable names include Bank Alfalah, the Pakistan Super League (PSL), and the University of Karachi. Additionally, Pakistan State Oil, Alltech, HBL Bank, Meezan Bank, and Pakistan Petroleum are featured on the list. Companies like Jadeed and Factory X also secured spots for their employee satisfaction efforts.
Exceptional Happiness Scores
Several Pakistani companies achieved remarkable happiness scores. Some even hit an impressive 95% overall score. Organisations like Titanicofficial, Unique Cycle Industry, and Zong excelled. Fazal Paper Mills, Infiniti Software, and Bestway Cement followed closely.
Others like MCB Bank Limited, Mobilink, Flip Communication, Bank of Punjab, and Attock Refinery Limited also ranked highly. Their efforts to improve employee satisfaction paid off significantly.
Globally, South Africa’s DiFusion Technologies claimed the top spot. It earned a perfect happiness score of 100%. The Pavilion Shopping Centre from South Africa ranked second. Avis Budget Group from the United States secured third place.
Nestle, Unilever, PIA among ‘World’s Happiest Workplaces’ 2025
Massive Participation and Rigorous Testing
Over 100,000 organisations entered this year’s competition. More than one million employees participated in the “Happy at Work” test. This test assessed well-being, job satisfaction, and reward systems. It also evaluated information sharing, empowerment, and pride in workplaces.
To qualify, companies needed a score of at least 70%. Those who met the benchmark proved their dedication to workplace happiness.
This recognition emphasises the importance of a positive workplace culture. Happier employees lead to greater engagement and organisational success. The 2025 list celebrates companies that prioritise well-being and inspire others to do the same.
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Pakistan is making waves at Heimtextil 2025, the world’s largest home textiles trade fair. This grand event started on 14 January in Frankfurt, Germany, featuring 2,800 exhibitors from 130 countries. This year, Pakistan stands out as the fourth-largest participating country.
Record Participation by Pakistani Exhibitors
Pakistan has made history with more than 275 exhibitors at Heimtextil. This marks a 10% increase compared to last year. As part of its Ministry of Commerce initiative, the exhibition also had a national pavilion showcasing 64 small establishments. This marks Pakistan’s biggest-ever presence at the fair.
Pakistan Becomes the Fourth-Largest Exhibitor at Heimtextil
“Heimtextil is crucial for Pakistan’s home textile exports,” said Shafaat Ahmad Kaleem, Pakistan’s Consul General in Frankfurt. “This year’s record participation is expected to result in a significant increase in exports.”
Strategic Support and Opportunities
The exhibition provides a major chance for Pakistani exporters to connect with global buyers. Meetings under the ‘Thread Connect’ initiative on 15 January will strengthen these ties. Omar Salahuddin, Messe Frankfurt’s representative in Pakistan, said, “This year, the exhibition features a record 275 exhibitors from Pakistan. With larger stalls and a better, more strategic location for our exhibitors, we expect to see a significant boost in Pakistan’s export potential.”
Pakistani exhibitors are showcasing a wide range of home textile products, including towels, bed linen, and apparel. Messe Frankfurt is also offering marketing help to support its global outreach.
Exporter Syed Osman Ali highlighted new opportunities for Pakistani textiles in Western markets. “The export value of home textile products is already $2 billion, and with the US tightening policies on Chinese products and cotton, Pakistani textiles are well-positioned to capture more market share,” he said.
Sustainability Standards and Future Plans
Pakistani exporters are optimistic about the future. However, they are also preparing for upcoming European Union sustainability rules.
Currently, about 30% of Pakistan’s textile industry meets global sustainability standards. This number must double by 2030 to stay competitive. One exhibitor said, “This exhibition will help us plan production for the next six months, from cotton procurement to delivering finished products. With stable utility costs and a strong rupee, fulfilling export orders will be much easier.”
Heimtextil 2025 has a lot in store for Pakistan’s textile industry; it promises to showcase the emerging export potential of the country as well as pave avenues towards building a future in global markets.
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The 15-month-long war in Gaza might finally be coming to an end as mediator Qatar gave Israel and Hamas the final draft of a truce deal on Monday after a midnight breakthrough occurred in talks attended by Donald Trump.
Qatar says that it is hopeful that both parties will soon agree upon the Gaza ceasefire and hostages release deal. Both parties are beginning the final stage of their indirect talks.
Majed al Ansari, Qatar Foreign Ministry Spokesman
Meeting in Doha
US President-elect Donald Trump’s incoming envoy Steve Witkoff and Biden envoy Vrett McFurk both attended the talks hosted by Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Muhammad bin Abdulrahman Ali Thani. On the other hand, David Barnea, director of spy service Mossad, and Ronen Bar, director of the Shin Bet internal security agency, represented Israel.
In the meeting, Qatari mediators gave Israel and Hamas a final draft of a text for a ceasefire and release of hostage agreement. This draft mainly consisted of pointers on troop withdrawal, hostage return, increased aid and the future governance of Gaza.
Palestinians Dare to Hope
Palestinians have finally expressed some hope after a long time as the ceasefire is probably closer than ever.
“I can’t believe that I am still alive to witness this moment,” shared 17-year-old Sanabel in a voice note to BBC. “We’ve been waiting for this with bated breath since the first month of [last] year.”
However, hope isn’t just seen on this side of the border. Israelis, who have family members as hostages are also hoping that they will finally meet them once the agreement is signed.
No Word of the Outcome Yet
A senior Hamas official told Reuters late on Tuesday that after eight hours of talks, there is no outcome. The Palestinian group has not delivered its response because it was still waiting for Israel to submit maps showing how its forces would withdraw from Gaza.
An Israeli official said that talks had reached a critical phase, although they need to work on some details. “We are close, we are not there yet.”
If successful, this phased ceasefire could halt the fighting that decimated Gaza, killed tens of thousands of Palestinians and made most of the population homeless. It will put an end to the dozens that are being killed today.
Following the deal, women and children hostages will be released first and humanitarian assistance will be allowed into Palestine.
Despite the efforts made for a ceasefire, Israel continues to strike Gaza. In a recent attack, it killed at least 15 people on Tuesday in Deir al-Balah and Rafah, medics reported. Only time will tell what the future holds for both Palestinians and Israelis.
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Usman Qadir, son of the legendary leg-spinner Abdul Qadir, has made a bold decision to leave Pakistan cricket behind and start a new chapter in Australia.
At 31, the talented leg-spinner has settled in New South Wales and is currently playing for the Hawkesbury Club in Sydney, hoping to revive his cricketing career in a land that once nurtured his skills.
A Fresh Start in Familiar Territory
Australia isn’t uncharted territory for Usman. Before committing his international future to Pakistan in 2020, he spent years developing his craft in the Australian cricketing system.
From representing South Australia to turning out for the Perth Scorchers and Adelaide Strikers in the Big Bash League (BBL), Usman has already made a mark Down Under.
Speaking about his move, Usman Qadir explained, “Cricket is my livelihood. I’ve come to Australia with future plans and am determined to explore good opportunities here.”
The shift comes with optimism as Usman focuses on reigniting his career in a competitive cricketing environment.
Saying Goodbye to Pakistan Cricket
On October 3, 2024, Usman Qadir officially retired from Pakistan cricket. In an emotional social media post, he expressed gratitude for his journey and the honor of representing his country.
“Today, I am announcing my retirement from Pakistan cricket,” Usman shared. “It has been an immense honor to represent my country. I’m thankful for the support of my coaches and teammates who have been with me every step of the way.”
Usman’s international career began with a bang in 2021. He debuted in a T20I series against Zimbabwe, taking eight wickets in three matches and earning the Player of the Series title.
For a time, he was Pakistan’s first-choice leg-spinner, even keeping Shadab Khan out of the T20I playing XI. But as opportunities dwindled and challenges mounted, Usman made the tough call to step away and chart a new path.
The decision to move back to Australia isn’t just about cricket—it’s about opportunity. Australia offers a platform for growth, and Usman is no stranger to its cricketing culture.
From playing in domestic leagues to representing the Prime Minister’s XI, Usman has built connections and gained valuable experience in the Australian cricket scene. Now, he’s ready to leverage that foundation and explore where this journey takes him.
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