DeepSeek AI cranks open the spigots on Chinese venture capital

In March, retail sales in Great Britain increased by 0.4%, contrary to expectations of a decline, driven by sunny weather that boosted shopping in clothing, outdoor, and DIY sectors. This marked the third consecutive month of sales growth, with a 1.6% rise in the first quarter, the strongest since July 2021, despite a decline in consumer confidence due to impending tariffs announced by U.S. President Donald Trump. Analysts warn that while March's sales surge was...

Months after devastating wildfires in Southern California, many residents remain homeless as Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass faces criticism for the slow rebuilding process. Cal Fire reported over 12,000 structures lost and only 23 permits issued for rebuilding in Pacific Palisades, despite Mayor Bass's efforts to expedite approvals. President Trump, who declared a national emergency and visited the area, criticized local leaders for not using emergency powers effectively, while state officials maintain that permit approval...

An electrician named Elliot, responding to an emergency call on the Gold Coast, discovered a dead snake in a residential power box while investigating power issues. The snake, identified as a carpet python, had been electrocuted after entering through a hole in the switchboard, leading to a horrendous smell and smoke. The shocking find was shared in a video that garnered nearly a million views, with viewers expressing disbelief and concern over the unusual pest...

The medical director of Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, Dr. Khalil Al-Daqran, has declared a critical level of malnutrition, Stage 5, in the Gaza Strip due to the ongoing Israeli blockade, resulting in severe food shortages and threatening children's survival. Approximately 200,000 Palestinians with chronic illnesses lack essential medications, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis as the UN marks 50 days of blockade. Since resuming its offensive on March 18, Israel has killed nearly 51,400 Palestinians, prompting international attention,...

Chancellor Rachel Reeves emphasized the importance of the UK's trading relationship with the EU, stating it is “arguably even more important” than with the US, as she seeks to rebuild ties with European finance ministers during her visit to Washington. Meanwhile, there are indications of a potential youth mobility scheme gaining support among UK ministers, with proposals to limit numbers to avoid a return to free movement. Additionally, Keir Starmer and Ursula von der Leyen...

SINGAPORE: Mediacorp will host two election forums featuring five political parties on Apr 27 and Apr 29, 2025, ahead of the general elections. The parties participating are the People's Action Party, Workers' Party, Red Dot United, People’s Alliance for Reform, and Progress Singapore Party. The English forum, 'Singapore Votes 2025: The Roundtable', will air live on Apr 27, while the Mandarin forum will be broadcast on Apr 29, showcasing Mediacorp's comprehensive coverage of GE2025 across...