Chinese consumer companies signal spending is picking up again

The Tragically Hip is supporting the Canadian women's rugby team ahead of the World Cup in England by selling a limited-edition T-shirt, with proceeds benefiting the second-ranked team. Meanwhile, the Canadian men's team will compete against Japan and Trinidad and Tobago in an invitational event at B.C. Place Stadium in February, while the women's team participates in HSBC SVNS play from February 21 to 23. Want More Context? 🔎

A Moroccan man, identified as HamdiH., will be deported from Paris after lighting a cigarette with the flame of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, an act condemned by French officials as a desecration. He faces charges for violating a burial site, which could result in a year in prison and a €15,000 fine, and has a lengthy criminal record. Want More Context? 🔎

As the new school year begins, families with mixed immigration status face heightened anxiety about sending their children to school due to fears of immigration raids, particularly since the Trump administration has relaxed restrictions on enforcement in sensitive locations. This anxiety has led to increased absenteeism among students, particularly in immigrant-heavy areas, compounding existing educational disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic. Want More Context? 🔎

One person has died and 13 others have been injured as France's largest wildfire this summer ravages the Aude region, forcing evacuations of residents and tourists. The fire, described as "hellish," has burned over 13,000 hectares, destroying at least 25 homes and challenging firefighters amid extreme heat and drought conditions. Want More Context? 🔎

In Claremont, community generosity shone as nearly $100,000 was raised for motor neurone disease during Jordan Early's DIY Big Freeze event, featuring sporting legends like Daisy Pearce and John Worsfold. Meanwhile, dual Brownlow medallist Nat Fyfe made a strong return to the field, impressing fans with his performance after recovering from injury. Want More Context? 🔎

The tragic death of 19-year-old cyclist Fyfa Dawson, who was killed in October 2019 after a collision with a concrete truck at a construction site on Springs Rd in Christchurch, has led Coroner Ruth Thomas to call for reforms in temporary traffic management and heavy vehicle operations to prevent future incidents. Dawson's family has also joined the push for change following the coroner's findings. Want More Context? 🔎