Dragon boat races took place across Hong Kong on Friday for the Tuen Ng Festival, drawing thousands of competitors and spectators despite recent unsettled weather. Events were held in Stanley, Aberdeen, Sha Tin, Tai Po, Tai O, and Sai Kung, with participants expressing excitement and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
India and the UK will implement their Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) from July 15, aiming to expand market access, reduce tariffs, and deepen cooperation. The pact is expected to open a market worth over $500 billion for Indian exporters and includes provisions for the automotive and spirits sectors.
Durham head coach Ryan Campbell has offered his full support to England Test captain Ben Stokes, who is under investigation by the ECB for breaking a midnight curfew. Campbell stated Durham's door is always open for Stokes and that he is in good spirits and working hard.
Olivia Trujillo, President Claudia Sheinbaum's dressmaker, shares insights into crafting the president's signature style, highlighting Sheinbaum's preference for Mexican fabrics and Indigenous motifs. The article also delves into Sheinbaum's political journey, her background as a scientist, and her distinct leadership style compared to her predecessor.
Olivia Trujillo, President Claudia Sheinbaum's dressmaker, shares insights into creating the president's signature suits and dresses. Despite Sheinbaum's busy schedule, Trujillo expresses a desire for fittings, highlighting the personal touch often missing in the president's tailored wardrobe.
The Italian beverage market in 2026 sees declining volumes in spirits and wine, but a shift towards lighter, more selective consumption. Rinaldi 1957 highlights growth in ready-to-drink, low/no alcohol, and specific spirits like tequila and mezcal, while wine consumption becomes more occasional.
Witchcraft retreats, like Isabella Ferrari's Green Veil in Ireland, are booming as women seek spiritual independence and community outside traditional institutions. Participants confront ancestral trauma, practice self-trust, and find solace from societal failures.
China's women's volleyball team, after a rocky start, finished the Nanjing leg of the Volleyball Nations League with three wins and one loss, capped by a 3-1 comeback victory over previously unbeaten Poland.
Suntory Spirits is shifting its strategy in France, moving towards entry-level products due to declining spirit consumption and geopolitical tensions. The company, which previously aimed to dominate the premium French whisky market, now sees less appeal in the super-premium segment amidst a 5% drop in overall spirit sales last year.
Letters critique Tony Blair's economic policies, arguing that poverty and inequality, not just the economy, need addressing. Critics point to a lack of action on wealth inequality and the negative long-term impacts of PFI deals.
North Korea's Naegohyang women's football team, one step away from becoming Asian champions, displayed a cheerful mood during their final training session before the AFC Champions League final against Tokyo Verdy Beleza. The team, which defeated Suwon FC Women 2-1 in the semifinals, aims to win the championship and its $1 million prize.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves unveils a summer savings scheme with VAT cuts for kids' meals and leisure, free bus travel, a fuel duty freeze, and support for chemicals and ceramics, funded by closing a tax loophole on multinationals. The £1.6bn package aims to ease cost-of-living pressures.
President Trump engaged in diplomatic meetings and public appearances in Beijing, showcasing a more conventional demeanor. Despite outward signs of camaraderie with President Xi Jinping, underlying tensions and differing priorities suggest the visit will not fundamentally alter the US-China relationship.
Imam Abdul Halim Khan, 54, receives life sentence with 20-year minimum for raping and sexually abusing seven women and girls (ages 12-13+) over 11 years, exploiting his religious authority and threatening supernatural harm if they disclosed the abuse.
The Spirit of Tasmania ferry replacement program has cost $717 million more than was forecast in the original business case, a parliamentary inquiry has heard.
Evacuees from the hantavirus-hit MV Hondius cruise ship have landed in the Netherlands, with passengers disembarking in good spirits. Authorities have begun quarantine procedures for the 26 individuals, including eight Dutch nationals, who arrived on a flight from Tenerife. The ship experienced a hantavirus outbreak, leading to three passenger deaths.
Nottingham Forest’s 3–1 win over Chelsea was overshadowed by a head collision between Gibbs-White and goalkeeper Robert Sánchez, both requiring stitches. Gibbs-White had assisted the third goal before the clash, while Sánchez suffered a smaller wound. Despite the injuries, both appeared stable, with social media posts in good spirits. Forest remain six points clear of relegation, focusing now on their Europa League semi-final.
Spirit Airlines, a prominent low-cost carrier, has ceased operations after 34 years, citing an immediate shutdown. The airline's abrupt closure follows failed federal intervention and mounting financial losses exceeding $2.5 billion since 2020. This development impacts approximately 17,000 employees and cost-conscious travelers.
President Trump announced he will remove tariffs and restrictions on Scotch whisky following a White House visit by King Charles and Queen Camilla, citing their influence.
A risk-on rally that began in semiconductors and small caps has evolved into a full 'Animal Spirits' market, with bitcoin approaching $80,000 for the first time since February. Crypto-related stocks are seeing explosive options volume—Michael Saylor's Strategy is up 9% with call volume outpacing puts 5-to-1, while Coinbase saw a 5% bounce and a trader paid $120,000 for $230-strike calls expiring Friday. Tesla reports earnings tonight, down 10% year-to-date despite Nasdaq-100 making new highs, with options pricing in a 5.5% post-earnings swing.
The Strait of Hormuz has been largely closed since late February when US and Israeli war on Iran triggered a blockade, bringing shipping to a near standstill. The vital waterway, which normally carries 25% of world seaborne oil and 20% of LNG, briefly reopened earlier this month before Iran re-closed it on Saturday. Logistics disruptions including longer transit times, missed sailings, and higher insurance premiums are already affecting wine, spirits, and time-sensitive goods, with analysts warning prices will rise on shop shelves and restaurant tables.
