Swiss pharma giant Novartis posts better-than-expected fourth-quarter sales

As AI evolves, the key trend shaping the technological landscape in 2025 is "agentification," where AI systems operate as autonomous agents. This shift improves efficiency, decision-making, and adaptability in industries by allowing AI agents to interact and collaborate independently. Superagents, coordinating multiple AI models, are emerging as decision-makers to optimize processes and drive transformative changes in business operations. Full Article

Labour leader Keir Starmer criticized the Tory immigration bill for undermining the modern slavery framework, which protects vulnerable individuals from exploitation. While Labour opposed the bill in the past, the new legislation retains some controversial measures, including banning asylum seekers from claiming protection under modern slavery laws. Critics argue that these changes could increase trafficking and modern slavery in the UK, as the government aims to crack down on people smuggling gangs responsible for migrants...

Your support for The Independent enables in-depth coverage of stories ranging from reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, with a commitment to factual reporting and accessibility. The UK government's proposed land use framework aims to balance agricultural needs with environmental concerns, potentially impacting farmers facing inheritance tax reforms. Environment Secretary Steve Reed emphasizes the framework's goal of protecting food production while addressing climate goals, despite farmer protests and concerns about land use restrictions....

The Isle of Man is scrapping its version of the triple lock on pensions due to affordability concerns, affecting residents who reached state pension age after April 5, 2019. The change introduces a watered down version of the UK's state pension triple lock, with treasury minister Dr Alex Allinson emphasizing that increased contributions should not burden workers and businesses. In contrast, UK Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch suggested means-testing the UK's triple lock, sparking criticism from...

Russian forces are encircling the strategic eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk, disrupting supply lines and steel production, prompting most residents to flee due to severe hardships and lack of basic utilities. Ukrainian forces are reinforcing defenses and leadership in response to the intensified Russian offensive, aiming to protect the city and its critical infrastructure. Full Article

Mamta Kulkarni was expelled from Kinnar Akhara at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, along with Mahamandaleshwar Laxminaryan Tripathi, who inducted her and faced accusations of violating rules. Rishi Ajay Das, founder of Kinnar Akhara, announced plans to restructure the sect after Kulkarni was designated as Mahamandaleshwar without his knowledge, prompting criticism from figures like Baba Ramdev and transgender Kathavachak Jagatguru Himangi Sakhi Maa for her sudden anointment and past involvement in drug cases. Full...