After the entire TikTok ban chaos, users are still unsure as to what will happen to the app in the future even if it has currently been made available in the country. According to a recent report, President Donald Trump has said that Microsoft is in talks to buy TikTok. The social media app currently has 170 million American users.
A Competitive Bidding War?
Trump told reporters that Microsoft wants to buy TikTok. When asked if they were making an offer, he said “I would say yes”. He also said multiple companies want to buy the app. Therefore, there could be a bidding war for it.
U.S. Government Concerns Over TikTok
The U.S. government has been pressuring TikTok’s parent company ByteDance to sell its U.S. operations. They fear China could misuse TikTok’s data. Both Trump and President Joe Biden have been concerned about privacy and Chinese government control of the app.
Trump insisted the app remain in the U.S. but without any Chinese control. China “will not be involved,” he said, “but we’ll see what happens.” He also said that a decision related to TikTok’s fate could come within the next 30 days.
Microsoft in Talks to Acquire TikTok, Says Trump
Microsoft’s History with TikTok
Microsoft attempted to acquire TikTok previously. In 2020, under Trump, ByteDance had discussions with Microsoft. However, the deal never went through. At one time, Microsoft’s CEO Satya Nadella referred to that deal as “the weirdest thing I’ve ever worked on.”
TikTok Temporarily Shut Down
Tiktok was temporarily taken down in the US. This came after Trump signed an executive order that would postpone a law that forces ByteDance to sell TikTok or be banned. The extension gives TikTok 75 additional days before a ban goes into effect.
Other Companies also Interested
Microsoft isn’t the only one interested in TikTok; billionaire Elon Musk is also tied to the deal, although he has made no public comments. The AI startup Perplexity AI has likewise suggested a merger with TikTok. If the deal goes through, the U.S. government could end up with as much as half of the new company, reports said.
Trump’s administration had previously pushed for ByteDance to sell TikTok’s U.S. operations. While the heat is still on, we’ll have to wait and see what happens in the next few weeks.
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Indian cricket is no stranger to controversy, and the latest storm brewing involves two of its biggest names—Rohit Sharma and Sunil Gavaskar. Reports suggest that Rohit has lodged a formal complaint with the BCCI over Gavaskar’s recent comments on his form and captaincy.
Yes, you read that right. The Indian skipper isn’t happy with the legendary cricketer-turned-commentator’s blunt assessment of his performance during the Test series against Australia.
What Triggered the Complaint?
It all started with Gavaskar’s column in the Sydney Morning Herald, where he questioned Rohit’s form and future as India’s Test captain. He even hinted that the Indian opener might step down on his own if his poor run continued—suggesting that the selectors wouldn’t have to make that call.
For a player already under pressure, these remarks didn’t sit well. According to sources close to Rohit, the 36-year-old felt that Gavaskar’s criticism was harsh and unnecessary—especially at a time when he’s already facing scrutiny from all corners.
Rohit’s Form Woes
Let’s be honest—Rohit Sharma has had a rough time in Test cricket lately. Scoring just 31 runs in three matches against Australia isn’t what you expect from a player of his caliber. Things got even worse when he decided to drop himself from the final Test in Sydney, fueling more speculation about his struggles.
This series defeat (1-3 in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy) and India’s failure to qualify for the World Test Championship final have only added to the heat. Gavaskar, known for his straightforward takes, didn’t hold back, and that’s where the issue lies.
Is the Criticism Justified?
Now, this is where the debate kicks in. Should senior players like Rohit accept criticism as part of the game, or does the pressure from former legends like Gavaskar make things worse?
Some argue that Gavaskar, as a respected voice in cricket, has every right to analyze performances honestly. On the other hand, others feel that as a former player, he should understand the mental toll such comments can have on a struggling cricketer.
So, what happens now? Will the BCCI step in and ask Gavaskar to tone it down? Or will they let it slide, considering that criticism from ex-cricketers is part and parcel of the game?
One thing is certain—this incident has sparked a fresh conversation about how much influence commentators should have on players’ confidence and career decisions.
Rohit Sharma is a world-class cricketer, but there’s no denying that he needs runs under his belt—and fast. While Gavaskar’s remarks might sting, they also reflect the frustration of millions of fans expecting more from their captain.
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Steve Smith has done it again! The Australian run machine has become the 15th batter in Test cricket history to reach 10,000 runs. And he didn’t just get there—he did it in style, becoming the second-fastest Australian to achieve this milestone.
With just one run needed before the first Test against Sri Lanka, Smith wasted no time. In the 31st over, he flicked a delivery from Prabath Jayasuriya to the leg side, jogged across for a single, and raised his bat to applause from fans, teammates, and even the opposition. It was a simple moment, but one that marked another massive achievement in his legendary career.
Fastest to 10,000: How Does Smith Compare?
Smith reached this milestone in his 205th innings, edging past Indian great Rahul Dravid, who took 206. However, he still sits behind some all-time legends. Three batters—Brian Lara, Sachin Tendulkar, and Kumar Sangakkara—share the record for the fastest to 10,000 Test runs, each getting there in just 195 innings.
With this milestone, Smith becomes just the fourth Australian to cross the 10,000-run mark, joining the legendary trio of Allan Border, Steve Waugh, and Ricky Ponting. Among these, Ponting was the fastest (196 innings), while Waugh took the longest (244 innings).
Smith’s Test career has been nothing short of extraordinary. From starting as a leg-spinner who batted down the order to transforming into one of the most prolific batters of his generation, his rise has been remarkable.
This achievement further solidifies his place among cricket’s modern greats. His consistency, technique, and hunger for runs have made him a nightmare for bowlers worldwide. And at 35, he’s still got a lot of cricket left in him.
Smith’s Reaction & Team Changes
Before the game, Smith had mentioned at the toss that he hoped to “tick off” the 10,000-run milestone. He also handed a debut cap to Josh Inglis and promoted Travis Head to open, dropping young Sam Konstas.
Reflecting on the pitch, Smith admitted he was unsure how it would play but emphasized the importance of adapting. “We have to adapt accordingly and see what’s in front of us. Sri Lanka are a very good team,” he said.
What’s Next for Smith?
With this milestone in the bag, the big question is: How far can he go? Given his hunger for runs, there’s every chance he’ll climb even higher in the record books. Could he challenge Ponting’s Australian record of 13,378 Test runs? Only time will tell.
For now, though, cricket fans can sit back and appreciate another chapter in the incredible career of Steve Smith. Here’s to many more runs from one of the best in the business!
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Kanwal Aftab, a popular Pakistani TikTok star, recently vented her frustration on social media when the influencer community remained tight-lipped about her husband’s arrest, Zulqarnain Sikandar. In a string of emotional Instagram stories, Kanwal bashed fellow influencers for their hypocrisy and the lack of support during hard times.
What Led to Zulqarnain Sikandar’s Arrest?
Zulqarnain Sikandar was arrested by the Punjab police with Rehan Malik and Tayyab Butt on charges of unlawful display of firearms in public.
Kanwal Aftab’s Reaction to the Arrest
Kanwal took to social media after her husband’s arrest, expressing her frustration. She showed her disappointment with fellow influencers who did not support them publicly.
Accusations of Hypocrisy Among Influencers
Kanwal criticised the influencer community, calling them hypocritical for not stepping up during a challenging time. She highlighted how influencers often pretend to offer help but rarely follow through.
The Impact of Social Media Silence
Kanwal’s Instagram stories were a raw painting of betrayal. Despite having hundreds of friends, it was only a few who reached out to ask them about their situation. Kanwal highlighted the peril of the silent influencer. In a world where social media has given meaning to connections, it was a harsh blow when people did not find support from influencers.
Kanwal’s Perspective on Fake Friendships
She described the world of influencers as “full of hypocrisy and lies.” Kanwal noted that most industries have peers supporting each other at times of difficulty. Some of the fans commented on this and stated, “Kanwal is true” and urged all influencers to join hands against her allegations. There are also several voices saying influencers did not take the stance on account of staying silent.
Many influencers remain silent during controversies out of fear of backlash or to maintain their brand image. This culture of silence often alienates those facing public scrutiny. In the high-pressure world of social media, relationships are often transactional.
As Kanwal highlighted, the need to maintain a polished public image can lead to shallow connections. Kanwal’s criticism brings forth the importance of authenticity on social media. One needs to create a network of people who support and care for them.
Kanwal asked fellow influencers to be genuine and stand up for friends who deserve it, not just making empty gestures.
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Jake Paul and Logan Paul sparked widespread speculation on Tuesday after announcing a March 27 event on social media. Their posts, featuring a face-off image, the Max logo and the tagline “the moment you’ve waited a decade for,” led many to believe the brothers would be facing each other in a boxing match.
However, sources told ESPN’s Mike Coppinger that the event will actually be a reality series on Max. Both brothers, known for leveraging social media hype, have been involved in high-profile combat sports events.
Jake Paul, 28, has built a professional boxing career, recently defeating former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson in November. The event attracted 108 million global views on Netflix and became Texas’ highest-grossing combat sports event, generating $18.1 million. It was also BetMGM’s most-bet fight ever.
Logan Paul, 29, has found success as a WWE performer, holding the United States Championship and competing in several premium live events. He also participated in an exhibition match against Floyd Mayweather, going the distance with the undefeated champion.
Meanwhile, a potential bout between Logan Paul and former UFC champion Conor McGregor is now off the table. McGregor previously claimed he was in discussions to fight Paul in India, backed by billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s family, but confirmed this week that the UFC would not approve the match.
With further details of the Paul brothers’ upcoming reality series still unclear, fans will have to wait for more information on what the highly anticipated project entails.
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The competition in AI is getting intense as Chinese startups are stepping up. Moonshot AI has launched Kimi k1.5, a powerful model that rivals OpenAI’s top-tier AI but costs much less to run. Another strong contender is DeepSeek-R1 which is breaking the internet right and specialises in reasoning through reinforcement learning. So, which one is better? Let’s break it down.
What Makes Kimi k1.5 Unique?
Kimi k1.5 is not just another AI. It stands out because it excels at both text and image-based reasoning. It uses reinforcement learning to improve itself over time by receiving feedback and adjusting its responses instead of just learning from static data. This makes training more efficient and results more accurate. Additionally, it can process 128k tokens, meaning it understands and summarises longer documents effectively. By reusing parts of past responses, it continuously improves its reasoning skills.
Kimi k1.5 vs. DeepSeek-R1: The AI Showdown
Advanced Problem-Solving Abilities
The model’s problem-solving abilities are also advanced. It uses special optimisation techniques to find the best solutions quickly and can explore different reasoning paths, making it great at handling complex challenges. Moreover, Kimi k1.5 is trained on both text and images, enabling it to analyse charts, diagrams and other visuals alongside written content. This versatility gives it an edge in multimodal tasks. It also applies efficient thinking strategies that help it achieve high performance in fewer steps, ensuring both speed and accuracy.
When comparing Kimi k1.5 and DeepSeek-R1, it becomes clear that Kimi k1.5 performs better in most tasks.
Image Analysis
DeepSeek-R1 struggled with interpreting data, whereas Kimi k1.5 analysed images accurately.
Web Search
When asked to find links for a red gown under $200, DeepSeek-R1 provided mixed, sometimes irrelevant links, while Kimi k1.5 delivered precise and useful results.
Handling Multiple Files
In processing multiple files, DeepSeek-R1 failed to handle them simultaneously, but Kimi k1.5 successfully summarised two out of three.
Coding Capabilities
In coding tasks, DeepSeek-R1 outperformed Kimi k1.5 by creating a more polished HTML game, whereas Kimi k1.5 produced a simpler version.
Overall, Kimi k1.5 won in three out of four categories, making it the stronger model.
Kimi k1.5 is setting new standards in AI by combining text, vision and smart learning techniques. While DeepSeek-R1 is strong in certain areas, Kimi k1.5’s efficiency and reasoning capabilities make it the standout model. With companies like Moonshot AI and DeepSeek pushing boundaries, the future of AI looks exciting. If you’re curious about the next big thing in AI, Kimi k1.5 is definitely worth exploring.
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Alibaba has released Qwen 2.5-Max, an upgraded version of its artificial intelligence model, claiming it surpasses DeepSeek-V3, GPT-4o and Llama-3.1-405B. The launch, announced on Alibaba Cloud’s official WeChat account, came on the first day of the Lunar New Year, a time when most Chinese workers are off. This highlights the pressure DeepSeek’s rapid rise has put on both global and domestic AI rivals.
DeepSeek’s AI assistant, launched on Jan. 10, and its R1 model, released on Jan. 20, have shaken the AI industry. Silicon Valley investors are concerned about the startup’s low development and usage costs, which have led to doubts about massive AI spending by U.S. firms. The company has claimed its R1 model competes with OpenAI’s o1 on key performance benchmarks.
DeepSeek’s success has also triggered a reaction from domestic competitors. Two days after the R1 model’s release, ByteDance launched an update to its AI model, claiming it outperformed OpenAI’s o1 in AIME, a benchmark for assessing AI’s ability to understand complex instructions.
As Chinese AI firms race to improve their models, the competition continues to intensify. Alibaba’s latest move signals that it is determined to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
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Neymar has officially parted ways with Al Hilal, as announced by the Saudi Pro League champions on X. The decision, made by mutual consent, follows a disappointing stint at the club for Brazil’s all-time top scorer. Neymar joined Al Hilal in August 2023 for a reported £78 million transfer fee, signing a lucrative deal that included an annual salary of £87.5 million and other extravagant perks like a private jet and luxury accommodation.
Despite these investments, Neymar’s contributions were minimal. In seven matches, he scored just one goal and made three assists. This translates to a staggering £31.4 million per goal involvement. His tenure at the club was marred by injuries, including a severe knee injury sustained during Brazil’s World Cup qualifier in October 2023. This sidelined him for over a year and even after his return, a hamstring tear ended his playing time at Al Hilal.
Al Hilal spent at least £209 million on Neymar’s transfer fee and salary, leading critics to describe this deal as one of the worst in football history. Club manager Jorge Jesus openly criticized Neymar’s physical condition, stating, “The truth is that physically, Neymar can no longer play at the level we are used to.”
Neymar’s departure comes as Saudi Arabia continues its efforts to elevate domestic football, attracting stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema. Neymar, however, reportedly looks to return to Santos, his boyhood club in Brazil. At 32, his chances of representing Brazil in the 2026 World Cup remain uncertain due to ongoing fitness struggles, according to national team coach Dorival Junior.
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The Presidential Inauguration is much more than political ceremonies in the United States of America. It is a moment of important history, traditions and symbolism, with every detail scrutinised globally. While the Presidents deliver speeches and lay out policies, there is a person who doesn’t say a word, simply holding the persona of ‘American royalty’ to help humanise the president.
The First Lady of the United States serves as the hostess of the White House, traditionally held by the president’s wife. Although the role is unofficial, unelected, and unpaid, the First Lady plays a significant part in state functions and ceremonies, often accompanying or representing the president. While most First Ladies have refrained from outside employment during their tenure, exceptions included Eleanor Roosevelt, who earned money through writing and lectures (largely donated to charity) and Jill Biden, who continued to work as an educator.
When the President takes office, the first lady becomes a familiar face due to her appearances during the presidential campaign. While millions anticipate inaugurations for the historical milestones, speeches, and spectacle of it all, many are more focused on just one thing—the first ladies’ fashion on inauguration day. It is a chance for her to make the first impression as the first lady. Let’s dive into the hidden symbolism of recent First Ladies’ inaugural fashion choices and what they revealed about their values and aspirations.
Melania Trump
Melania Trump stepped onto the inaugural stage in January 2017 wearing a powder blue Ralph Lauren dress. The structured dress and cropped jacket, paired with matching gloves, was compared to Jacqueline Kennedy’s iconic inaugural look in 1961. The colour blue—a symbol of tranquillity and loyalty—was also interpreted as an attempt to exude calm amidst the controversial political atmosphere surrounding Donald Trump’s presidency at that time. She also chose an American designer, showcasing a commitment to domestic fashion and tradition. The minimalism and simplicity of her attire reflected her enigmatic and elegant persona, aligning with her carefully curated public image.
First Lady Melania Trump
Returning to the white house for the 2025 Inauguration, Melania Trump wore an Adam Lippes wool coat and austere boater-style hat, whose rim almost entirely hid her eyes. This choice of millinery turned heads.With her face half hidden by her hat, Melania kept her aloof and mysterious image. Her clothes reflected her craving for privacy, giving a military-esque vibe and demonstrating it as a piece of armour since she underwent four years of intense scrutiny from the public during Jill Biden’s tenure.
Dr Jill Biden’s fashion during Joe Biden’s 2021 inauguration also held thoughtful symbolism. She wore a custom blue Markarian coat and dress with Swarovski crystals. Blue in her attire made an appearance representing trust, stability and hope—the themes that were central to her husband’s presidential campaign message which was regarding national healing.
Jill Biden
The detailing of the outfit reflected her own personality: intricate yet understated like a balance between strength and warmth. As a longtime educator, Jill Biden’s fashion choices likewise have often showcased approachability while maintaining a sense of formality.
Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama’s inaugural fashion choices were as groundbreaking as her role as the first African American First Lady. She was the First Lady twice, so let’s break down each of her inauguration ensembles. For Barack Obama’s 2009 inauguration, Michelle chose a lemongrass-hued dress and coat by Isabel Toledo, a Cuban-American designer who passed away in 2019 of breast cancer. Her choice spoke volumes about inclusivity and diversity, celebrating the multicultural fabric of America.
Michelle Obama
In 2013, For President Barack Obama’s second inauguration, Michelle Obama chose a navy silk jacquard coat and dress in a checked pattern from Thom Browne. Throughout her two terms as first lady, Michelle Obama consistently raised the profiles of emerging American designers, choosing homegrown talent who deeply aligned with her values, which also mirrored her role as a champion of representation and opportunity.
Hillary Clinton
Before her time in pantsuits as secretary of state, Hillary Clinton more often wore dresses and skirts as first lady. At Bill Clinton’s inauguration ceremony in 1993, Hillary Clinton’s choice of a blue suit for Bill Clinton’s first inauguration in 1993 carried subtle symbolism. The colour blue (associated with trust, loyalty, and confidence) reflected her desire to project these qualities as First Lady. The Darcy Creech hat, simple yet elegant, was seen as a subtle nod to her growing political stature, signalling her emergence onto the national stage.
Hillary Clinton (1993)
For Bill Clinton’s second inauguration in 1997, Hillary’s bubblegum pink swing coat carried layers of hidden meaning. Pink, often considered a feminine u, was a bold choice that defied the conventional expectations for women in politics, subtly signalling her willingness to break away from traditional roles. The colour also symbolised compassion and warmth, aligning with her later work advocating for children’s rights and healthcare reform.
Hillary Clinton (1997)
The Language of Fashion in Politics
First Ladies have always acknowledged that their fashion choices carry a lot of weight. Every piece of clothing, colour and designer is carefully chosen to send a message. Whether it’s supporting diversity or honouring tradition, their outfits represent their roles as national figures.
In today’s world of social media and constant public attention, these choices get even more attention, analysed and discussed. While First Ladies don’t give the inaugural speeches, their outfits often say just as much.
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Pak-Qatar Family Takaful’s outstanding growth is underpinned by a powerful combination of strategic vision and operational excellence.
Karachi, Pakistan 28, January 2025 – Pak-Qatar Asset Management Company Limited (PQAMC)-Rated AM2 with stable outlook by PACRA, Pakistan’s emerging dedicated Islamic Asset Management Company and part of Pak-Qatar Group, Pakistan’s premier and pioneer Islamic financial services group has achieved rating upgrade of Pak-Qatar Income Plan (PQIP) from A+ to AA- with Stable Outlook. This achievement establishes PQAMC as one of the asset management companies in the country, demonstrating exceptional achievement and market penetration in Pakistan’s competitive financial landscape.
“This achievement reflects our commitment to excellence and the trust our investors have placed in us,” said Mr. Farhan Shaukat, Chief Executive Officer of PQAMC. “Achieving rating upgrade of AA- with Stable Outlook by PACRA for “Pak-Qatar Income Plan” is not just an individual achievement; it is a testament to our team’s dedication, our strong investment strategies in Shariah-compliant financial solutions, and our promise to deliver superior value to our stakeholders while maintaining the highest standards of Shariah compliance.”
The achievement reinforces PQAMC’s vision as a key stakeholder in financial ecosystem with trust and commitment to excellence, highlighting company’s strategic vision in building a diverse product portfolio that resonates with both institutional and individual investors.
Zong 4G introduces a range of prepaid bundles tailored to suit every communication need. Customers can choose from the China Offer.
Islamabad, Pakistan – January 28, 2025 – This Chinese New Year, Zong 4G, Pakistan’s leading telecom Network, continues its tradition of delivering the best calling offers and exceptional experiences for its international callers with the launch of the IDD Pak-China Friendship Bundles. These exclusive offers ensure that staying connected with loved ones in China has never been easier or more affordable.
Zong 4G introduces a range of prepaid bundles tailored to suit every communication need. Customers can choose from the China Offer 75 Mins bundle for just PKR 325, valid for 7 days, or the China Offer 150 Mins bundle at PKR 625, offering 150 minutes of talk time for 15 days. For those seeking extended connectivity, the China Offer 300 Mins bundle provides 300 minutes for PKR 1150, valid for 30 days, while the China Offer 600 Mins bundle offers a generous 600 minutes for PKR 2000, also valid for 30 days.
These attractive bundles reaffirm Zong 4G’s commitment to enhancing customer convenience and celebrating the strong bond between Pakistan and China. With unmatched calling rates and reliable connectivity, Zong 4G remains the preferred choice for international callers. Make this Chinese New Year memorable by staying close to your loved ones in China with Zong 4G’s affordable and seamless communication solutions.
“Karachi is home to some of the largest urban slums in the world, which lack basic health infrastructure and qualified health providers.
Karachi, Pakistan, January 28, 2025 – Bayer Foundation and the Pula Foundation announced last week at World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, that they are planning to provide insurance coverage for 10 million smallholder farmers working with national governments in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Malawi, Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya and Mali, by 2030.
The collaboration aims to enhance climate resilience among smallholder farmers in these countries, protecting them against the growing impacts of droughts and floods, which threaten harvests, livelihoods, and global food security. It will help build private-public collaborations and shape the insurance market for agriculture in Africa and Asia.
By the end of 2030, Bayer Foundation’s grant for insurance premium support in the amount of 10 million euros – supported by a donation from Bayer’s Crop Science Division – will unlock a potential insurance coverage of 127 million U.S. dollars for 10 million farmers in the targeted countries. The grant originates from Bayer Foundation’s Social Innovation Ecosystem Fund which targets mature and high-impact solutions for underserved communities.
According to FAO, in 2023, around 2.33 billion people globally faced moderate or severe food insecurity. Smallholder farmers are on the front lines of combating food insecurity, producing more than half of the food consumed in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Yet, they face severe constraints in their ability to serve their communities, including lack of climate change adaptation tools, lack of access to agricultural inputs and inadequate credit and insurance services.
“Bayer’s Crop Science division is committed to deliver innovative, farmer-focused solutions that drive sustainable growth and regenerative agriculture,” said Rodrigo Santos, President of Bayer’s Crop Science Division, “By unlocking climate finance and collaborating with partners like the Pula Foundation, we aim to deliver ecosystem-based approaches that empower smallholder farmers and their communities to overcome challenges and thrive.”
“Smallholder farmers in Pakistan face tremendous economic challenges in the face of climate disasters such as the 2022 monsoon floods that caused devastating crop and infrastructure losses,” added Ahmed Ali, Managing Director and CEO Bayer Pakistan, “We therefore appreciate and welcome this timely and relevant initiative by Bayer Foundation in collaboration with the Pula Foundation, to enable greater resilience for our smallholder farmers.”
Bayer aims to support a total of 100 million smallholder farmers in LMICs by 2030, by improving their access to agricultural products and services, thereby increasing their productivity and income, as well as by creating resilience to ensure long-term food security, in keeping with the company’s global mission, Health for All, Hunger for None.
The MoU underscores the commitment to resolving regulatory challenges, financial transparency, digital transformation, and ethical standards.
Karachi, January 28, 2025: The Pakistan Advertising Association (PAA), All Pakistan Newspaper Society (APNS), Pakistan Advertisers Society (PAS), and Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA) – four major stakeholders in Pakistan’s media and advertising sector – have joined forces, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to drive collective growth.
This landmark agreement marks a pivotal moment for Pakistan’s media and advertising industry. By uniting under a shared vision, these key stakeholders will address industry-wide challenges and promote sustainable growth and development. The partnership will enhance synergy, transparency, and professionalism across advertising, media, and marketing sectors.
The MoU underscores the commitment to resolving regulatory challenges, financial transparency, digital transformation, and ethical standards. By fostering mutual cooperation, it creates a robust framework to elevate operational efficiency and strengthen the ecosystem. Together, these organizations will champion stakeholders’ interests, promote innovation, and position Pakistan’s advertising and media industries on par with global standards.
Addressing the milestone event, Chairman PAA, Ahmed Hussain Kapadia, remarked, “The alliance represents a unified commitment to safeguard the interests of our industry and promote a collaborative environment where creativity and innovation thrive. Together, we aim to raise the bar of professionalism and ethics while advocating for fair policies and sustainable practices.”
With this historic agreement, the stage is set for a new era of collaboration and growth in Pakistan’s media and advertising landscape.
Following the resignation of engineers and technicians from Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), the management of the national flag carrier has decided to hire employees on daily wages.
Interviews have started for over 100 candidates who have completed a training period at PIA. They are being considered for contract-based employment. The officials of an engineering department have called these candidates for interviews. To manage the shortage of engineering staff, PIA will recruit over 100 technicians on daily wages.
However, no decision has yet been made related to hiring aircraft engineers. The last batch of aircraft engineers was recruited in 2016. Along with PIA, the Society of Aircraft Engineers spokesperson also confirmed the new hiring.
It is worth mentioning that 65 technicians and 45 aircraft engineers have resigned from the PIA and joined domestic and international airlines.
Yesterday, a British delegation arrived in Pakistan in order to assist the country’s aviation safety standards.
The delegation from the UK Department for Transport and Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is set to review the safety standards of the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA).
This review is an important step toward the resumption of flight operations between Pakistan and the UK. PCAA Director-General Nadir Shafi Dar and his team are hosting the delegation.
Recently, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered an inquiry into a controversial advertisement related to PIA’s Paris flights.
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DeepSeek is a relatively new AI startup from China that has caused ripples in the technological arena by challenging U.S. giants like OpenAI and Google. Founded in May 2023 by Liang Wenfeng-a hedge fund magnate and AI enthusiast-DeepSeek is known for deploying cost-effective strategies toward the delivery of powerful AI models into the market. This has shaken up the competition.
What Makes DeepSeek Unique?
Unlike most startups whose dependence on external funding is considerable, DeepSeek operates under an entirely new model: a hedge fund called High-Flyer. Wenfeng founded this hedge fund, fully funding the company. This independence has allowed DeepSeek to emphasise its research over short-term profits by producing revolutionary AI products.
DeepSeek’s team consists of fresh graduates from elite Chinese universities. Instead of experience with traditional corporate cultures, innovation is their driving force. This encourages fresh thinking and creative ideas to face the challenges that modern AI development entails.
Source: CNBC
Reliance on Cheaper Technology
In contrast, DeepSeek creates highly efficient AI models without extravagant resources. Rather than using advanced hardware – which most major U.S. firms depend on – DeepSeek optimises its algorithms for the more affordable Instinct GPUs from AMD. Mixed models, including mixture-of-experts architecture, only activate relevant model parameters for particular tasks. Ultimately, DeepSeek trains models via the discipline of reinforcement learning: trial and error rather than expensive datasets.
The result? Models such as DeepSeek-V3 and R1 break benchmark records with which to boot and at a fraction of the price. Additionally, DeepSeek has espoused an open-source philosophy, releasing accessible versions of its models-distributed distilled for smaller devices, allowing wider adoption.
Why do Investors Care?
The disruptive approach of DeepSeek is already pushing down prices in the Chinese AI market. Its competitors such as Alibaba and Tencent are reassessing their offerings. The low-cost API pricing has also pressured global tech giants, who now face the dual challenge of maintaining profitability while competing with affordable alternatives.
Further, DeepSeek’s focus on open-source innovation somehow introduces it as a risk factor for US firms, as proprietary models of AI are now seen as overpriced or inaccessible in comparison. Since competition has increased with this shift, the profit margins of the major players might be eroded in the long run.
A Disaster for the AI Market or a Boom?
Critics point out that DeepSeek’s lack of affordability may keep it from scaling and innovating as heavily as some firms with deeper pockets. Export restrictions on advanced chips, such as NVIDIA’s A100 GPUs, further the hardware gap between DeepSeek and America’s tech giants.
Source: BBC
Moreover, DeepSeek’s alliance with China raises concerns about censorship and data privacy. Its models, being controlled by the government, might not attract too much clientele in regions that value open communication and more transparency.
For that, advocates point to DeepSeek as the democratiser of the world of AI. It ensures that cost-efficient open-source solutions bring such advanced tools into play even with much smaller businesses to trigger innovation globally.
DeepSeek’s story shows the nature of the emerging AI market and the need for greater efficiency over simple brute force capabilities. Though deep in geopolitical contention and market scepticism, innovations from its products are influencing the AI terrain and compelling giant industry players to take notice of its rise. Even though much is unsure regarding whether the startup can build momentum, it remains apparent that a significant player stands out in opposition.
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200 companies in the United Kingdom have signed up for a permanent four-day working week with no loss of pay for over 5,0000 employees. This latest development was reported by the 4 Day Week Foundation, which has been promoting this change across different sectors, including charities, marketing and technology.
Proponents of the four-day workweek argue that the traditional five-day schedule is a relic of an earlier economic era. Joe Ryle, the campaign director for the foundation, stated, “9-5, five-day working week was invented 100 years ago and is no longer fit for purpose. We are long overdue an update.”
The shift to a four-day workweek is common in marketing, advertising and social care sectors. Companies in London are the majority of those participating. Proponents argue that this transition improves employee well-being, helps attract and retain talent and increases overall productivity.
While the policy is gaining attention in the UK, the debate over work practices continues globally, with US-based firms like JPMorgan, Chase, and Amazon implementing more rigid in-office attendance rules.
However, the younger UK employees, aged 13-34, are demanding, such reforms, in order to prioritise mental health and the balance in work-life. As per the Spark Market Research, 78% of young workers believe the four-day week will become a new standard within five years.
As the movement gains momentum, political figures like Labour’s Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner have expressed their support for the policy. Some remain wary of entirely endorsing it due to opposition from the conservative party. Despite this, the four-day workweek remains a significant topic as the UK moves toward evolving its work culture.
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The much-awaited WWE 2K25, developed by 2K and Visual Concepts, is promising to take the franchise to heights never seen before. Known for its immersive gameplay and lifelike graphics, this year’s edition promises a lot of exciting updates to its rosters, including fan favourites and rising stars. While there is fresh energy in the rosters, absences have many fans yearning for more.
Confirmed WWE Superstars
The WWE 2K25 roster has some really famous names in it. Iconic names like Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes, Bayley and CM Punk are back in the game to let players relive their unforgettable rivalries. Newcomers to the scene include Ethan Page, the reigning NXT Champion, and Kelani Jordan, bringing in new talent into the game.
Source: Windows Central
Tag team fanatics will find themselves gleeing at The Motor City Machine Guns- Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin- welcoming them to the division with their unorthodox synergy. Talented newcomers like Bron Breakker, Tiffany Stratton and Oba Femi inject fresh life into the lineup, hinting at what might be coming up in WWE next. Last but not least, icons such as Paul Heyman take managerial jobs, further simulating reality to the fullest potential.
Notable Absences: Who Missed the Cut?
While the roster is incredibly strong, some of the biggest superstars are absent this year. Bobby Lashley, a staple in WWE games, is absent after his contract expired in August 2024. MVP also moves to AEW, leaving a managerial gameplay void.
Source: Game Rant
Longtime favourites like Baron Corbin, Ricochet and Jinder Mahal are also missing. Baron Corbin’s exclusion ends an eight-game streak, while Ricochet’s absence leaves fans without his signature high-flying manoeuvres. Other absentees, including Indi Hartwell, Xia Li and Beth Phoenix, reflect recent shifts in WWE’s roster.
What Fans Can Expect
While some omissions are disappointing, WWE 2K25 keeps the franchise alive with a dynamic mix of old and new stars. Enhanced gameplay, detailed graphics, and diverse gaming modes will ensure an electrifying experience. The inclusion of fresh talent signals the evolving landscape of WWE, which keeps the series relevant and exciting.
A recent report on Global Firepower has ranked the Pakistan Air Force as the seventh most powerful air force in the world. The ranking is based on aircraft inventory, including fighter jets, helicopters and support aircraft. It is a significant recognition of PAF’s capabilities on the global stage.
The Global Leaders in Air Power
Leading the list is the United States, with unmatched 5,737 helicopters, 1,854 fighter jets and 3,722 support aircraft. With an annual military budget of $800 billion, the U.S. Air Force operates on a scale unmatched by any other nation, consolidating its position as the dominant aerial force.
Source: World Atlas
Russia and China took the second and third positions, respectively. Although Russia’s stock is still impressive, the ongoing war in Ukraine has resulted in losses, including 220 aircraft destroyed since 2022. China, on the other hand, has been rapidly advancing, with the unveiling of a sixth-generation fighter jet and significant investments in supersonic aircraft technologies.
India ranks fourth with an impressive fleet of 2,296 aircraft, underscoring its growing focus on modernising its air force. South Korea and Japan follow in fifth and sixth positions, with robust air fleets of 1,576 and 1,459 aircraft, respectively.
Pakistan’s Strategic Position
Seventh place is what makes Pakistan’s intent in the strategic domain of maintaining a strong and efficient air force. Operating 1,434 aircraft consisting of fighter jets, helicopters and support units, PAF is an essential part of the country’s defence strategy. PAF continues to modernize its fleet while keeping itself on operational readiness.
Source: Economic Middle East
The top 10 list is rounded out by Egypt, Turkey, and France, whose air forces consist of 1,080, 1,069, and 972 aircraft, respectively. The report shows that air power is dynamic. While some nations, such as China, speed up technological development, others, such as Russia, find it difficult to withstand the financial and operational consequences of protracted wars.
For Pakistan, the ranking maintains a stand for national security and affirms the strategic position of its air force. It also puts emphasis on continuous investment in advanced technologies if Pakistan wants to remain in competition with other nations worldwide.
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AB de Villiers, the legendary South African batter fondly known as “Mr. 360,” is all set to return to the game. Four years after his retirement, the cricketing maestro has announced his comeback, and honestly, it feels like a dream come true.
Why the Comeback Now?
De Villiers, who bid farewell to all forms of cricket in 2021, shared an interesting story behind his decision to return. Turns out, it’s a classic case of backyard cricket rekindling the flame. Playing with his young sons in the garden has reignited his passion for the game.
In a statement released by the World Championship of Legends (WCL), he said, “Four years ago, I retired from all cricket because I just didn’t feel the urge to play anymore. Well, time has passed, and my young sons have started playing the game… it feels as though some kind of flame has been lit again.”
And now, he’s not just returning for fun; he’s heading back to the gym and nets to gear up for a competitive outing in July.
The Big Stage: World Championship of Legends 2025
De Villiers will lead the South Africa Champions in the second edition of the World Championship of Legends (WCL), a thrilling T20 tournament featuring retired and non-contracted players representing their countries.
The inaugural WCL in 2024 saw Team India, captained by the iconic Yuvraj Singh, lift the trophy. With de Villiers at the helm, South Africa Champions aim to go all the way this time.
This isn’t just about another cricket tournament. It’s about witnessing a genius back in action. AB de Villiers isn’t called Mr. 360 for nothing. His ability to hit shots all around the ground is unmatched, and the thought of seeing him lead his team again is enough to excite any cricket fan.
Amandeep Singh, co-owner of the South Africa Champions and founder of Game Changers, summed it up perfectly: “AB de Villiers’ return as our captain is a monumental boost for our team. His leadership will undoubtedly inspire us to new heights.”
De Villiers last played in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), where he was a fan favorite. Known for his innovative strokes, calm leadership, and match-winning performances, he’s left a legacy that few can rival.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.
The State Bank of Pakistan has announced that the newly designed currency notes will be introduced into circulation this year. SBP Governor Jameel Ahmed confirmed in a press conference that the new notes, across all existing denominations, would be introduced gradually with updated designs, rather than all once.
He further clarified that the newly designed currency notes will be sent to the federal cabinet for validation once the technical evaluation procedure is completed.
Although the Governor did not disclose which denomination would be released first, the announcement marks a significant move towards modernising Pakistan’s currency. According to an official statement, it is standard practice for central banks to issue new banknote series every 15 to 20 years to maintain the integrity of the currency and adopt the newest advancements in banknote design and security features.
Last year, the SBP showcased potential designs for the new currency notes, which were shortlisted from numerous entries submitted by citizens in a competition organized by the SBP.
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