Piracy threat prompts dark sail for cruise ship in Philippine waters

At the Unlocking Capital for Sustainability 2023 event, Richard Mattison highlighted optimism for energy transition to sustainable alternatives to combat climate change, with a projected 25% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Challenges include capital, development periods, and historical investment returns, but recent improvements show promise, with climate tech exits reaching US$114 billion in 2021. While SPACs offer resources for climate tech companies, a long-term, meticulous approach is needed for successful energy transition in...

Yashar Shohret, a young Uyghur rapper and singer-songwriter, has been imprisoned in China for composing lyrics deemed to "promote extremism." Arrested in August 2023 and sentenced to three years in prison in June 2024, he is currently serving his term at Wusu Prison in Xinjiang. Shohret's songs, including "Wake Up," were seen as threatening to the Chinese Communist Party due to their emphasis on Uyghur language and cultural identity, leading to his harsh punishment. Full...

Vice President JD Vance arrived in Greenland with a group including his wife and national security adviser to tour a military base, amid Trump administration's push to take over the territory. The visit, met with protests and opposition, was originally planned to include cultural activities but was scaled back due to backlash. Trump's interest in Greenland's resources and strategic location has sparked controversy, with Greenlanders expressing dissatisfaction with Vance's presence and the administration's intentions. Full...

The U.S. Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Annual Threat Assessment report warns of intensifying strategic threats, particularly from China and Russia, who are enhancing their military capabilities and deepening cooperation. China's nuclear force has significantly expanded, posing a threat to U.S. security, while its space capabilities are surpassing Russia's, with the potential to challenge U.S. dominance. The report emphasizes the need for effective deterrence to counter China's ambitions and highlights the growing vulnerability of the...

China deployed two long-range H-6 bombers around the Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea, asserting sovereignty over the disputed atoll, as shown in satellite images obtained by Reuters. The deployment, not publicly announced, coincided with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's visit to the Philippines, which also claims the shoal. The US reaffirmed its commitment to its mutual defence treaty with the Philippines amid tensions in the region caused by China's actions. Full Article

Global seaborne trade is showing signs of weakness as bunker sales and prices decline, with VLSFO prices dropping 20% year-on-year. Singapore and Fujairah report a 9% decrease in VLSFO sales in February, reflecting a slowdown in trade as seen in declining ship visits and tonnage. Clarksons Research projects a 1.2% growth in seaborne trade for 2025, down from the 2.1% growth in 2024. Full Article