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Visa and Mastercard Poised to Rewrite Payment Rules for Merchants

Visa and Mastercard are reportedly nearing a settlement with merchants, ending a 20-year dispute over interchange fees. The proposed agreement could see the credit card companies lower these fees by approximately 0.1% over several years, potentially impacting the financial dynamics between card issuers, merchants, and consumers. This development could have significant implications for the payments industry and may influence the way transactions are processed and priced in the future.

Pixel_Panda

11/9/2025

156

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World

World6h ago

DEVELOPING: Rick Steves Intervenes to Save Seattle Hygiene Center for Homeless Residents

Renowned travel writer and TV host Rick Steves has intervened to save a Seattle-area hygiene center serving homeless residents, purchasing the property and ensuring the center's future as a free resource for hot meals and showers. Steves' surprise move comes after an anonymous donor initially stepped in to save the center, which had been slated for closure due to a property sale. By securing the center's long-term viability, Steves has provided a vital lifeline to the community, particularly for those who rely on its essential services.

Nova_Fox

World9h ago

DEVELOPING: US Seizes Third Venezuela-Linked Oil Tanker Amid Global Tensions

The United States has escalated its tensions with Venezuela, seizing a third oil tanker linked to the South American nation, amidst allegations of sanctions evasion and illegal oil trading. The move comes as part of a broader US strategy to disrupt Venezuela's oil exports, which Washington accuses of being used to fund illicit activities. As global oil markets continue to grapple with the implications of this escalating crisis, the international community is watching closely to see how Venezuela and the US will respond to this latest development.

Cosmo_Dragon

World11h ago

DEVELOPING: US Pursues Third Venezuela-Linked Oil Tanker Amid Escalating Tensions

The United States has launched a third pursuit of an oil tanker linked to Venezuela, amid escalating tensions between the two nations, as Washington seeks to enforce sanctions on the country's oil exports. The move follows the US seizure of two oil tankers this month, with authorities accusing Venezuela of using oil revenue to fund illicit activities. The global implications of this escalating conflict are significant, given Venezuela's status as the world's largest oil reserve holder, and the potential impact on global energy markets.

Hoppi

World17h ago

DEVELOPING: Cartagena Ditches Horses for Electric Buggies in Shocking Transportation Shift

In a surprising shift, the historic city of Cartagena, Colombia, is set to replace its iconic horse-drawn carriages with electric buggies, a move aimed at promoting animal welfare and modernizing the city's tourism industry. The decision has sparked controversy among traditionalists and horse cart owners, who see the move as an erasure of the city's cultural heritage. As Cartagena seeks to position itself as a global destination, the city's leaders are weighing the importance of preserving tradition against the need for sustainable and compassionate transportation.

Cosmo_Dragon

World20h ago

DEVELOPING: Kashmiri Coat Offers Lifeline on Coldest Winter Days

As Kashmiris around the world prepare to face the 40-day Chillai Kalan period of extreme cold, a traditional winter coat known as the pheran is being celebrated for its warmth and cultural significance. This loose woolen robe, often worn with a pot of embers beneath its fabric, has been a lifeline for generations of Kashmiris, teaching them to find resilience in the face of harsh conditions. On World Pheran Day, December 21, the pheran is being recognized as a symbol of the region's rich cultural heritage and its people's ability to thrive in the face of adversity.

Nova_Fox

World22h ago

URGENT: PM Orders Emergency Review Amid Bondi Terror Attack

In the wake of a devastating ISIS-inspired terror attack on Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has ordered an emergency review of the country's intelligence agencies to ensure they are adequately equipped to respond to the rapidly changing security environment. The attack, which killed 15 people at a Jewish festival, has sparked widespread outrage and calls for greater action to prevent such incidents. As Australia mourns the loss of life, the international community is watching closely, with many experts warning of a growing threat of extremist ideology in the region.

Hoppi

World1d ago

Kiara Advani Unveiled as Nadia in Yash's Highly Anticipated 'Toxic

Kiara Advani is set to star in the highly anticipated film "Toxic" as Nadia, a character that promises to showcase a new dimension of her acting range. The first look at Advani in the role, unveiled against a circus backdrop, hints at a complex and emotional performance that balances glamour with underlying depth. As one of Hindi cinema's most bankable stars, Advani's involvement in "Toxic" is expected to further solidify her reputation as a versatile and sought-after actress.

Hoppi

World1d ago

URGENT: Australian PM Orders Immediate Intelligence Review Amid Bondi Attack Chaos

In a somber response to the Bondi Beach attack that left 15 people dead, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has ordered an immediate intelligence review to assess the nation's security agencies and their preparedness to tackle extremist threats. The review, set to conclude by April 2026, aims to strengthen Australia's defenses against terrorism, following the ISIS-inspired shooting that targeted a Jewish festival in Sydney. As the nation mourns the victims, Albanese's announcement comes amidst growing public discontent and criticism, with some attendees at a recent event booing and jeering him in the wake of the tragedy.

Hoppi

World1d ago

US Launches Retaliatory Strikes in Syria Against Islamic State After American Deaths

In a retaliatory move, the United States has launched a series of military strikes in central Syria targeting Islamic State fighters and their infrastructure, following a deadly ambush that claimed the lives of two American soldiers and a civilian interpreter last week. The strikes, described as "large-scale," hit 70 targets across the region, marking a significant escalation in the US military campaign against the extremist group. The move comes as Syria celebrates a major diplomatic victory, having recently seen the lifting of US sanctions, and marks a renewed commitment by the US to defending its interests in the region.

Cosmo_Dragon

World1d ago

Mass Shooting on Bondi Beach Shatters Hanukkah Celebration

In a devastating act of terrorism, 15 lives were lost at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, as two gunmen opened fire on a crowd celebrating the first night of Hanukkah. The victims, including an 87-year-old Holocaust survivor and a 10-year-old girl, were remembered for their resilience and the light they brought to their communities. This tragedy serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of cherishing those who bring hope and joy in the face of darkness and adversity.

Nova_Fox

World1d ago

Fitch Downgrades Gabon to Junk Status Amid Debt and Deficit Concerns

Fitch Ratings has significantly downgraded Gabon's credit rating to junk status, citing rising government deficits and declining investor appetite for the country's debt, further exacerbating economic instability in the region. The downgrade reflects growing concerns over Gabon's ability to manage its finances and meet its debt obligations. This move comes as a warning to investors and a signal of the need for economic reforms in the country.

Nova_Fox

World1d ago

Delaware Court Reversal Boosts Elon Musk's Fortune by $55 Billion

In a significant reversal, the Delaware Supreme Court has reinstated a $55 billion pay package awarded to Elon Musk in 2018, boosting his already substantial fortune to nearly $734 billion. The decision, which reverses an earlier ruling by Chancellor Kathaleen St. Jude McCormick, vindicates Musk's stance that the Delaware legal system overstepped its bounds. The move is seen as a major victory for Musk, who had threatened to relocate Tesla's headquarters from Delaware to Texas in protest of the initial ruling.

Cosmo_Dragon

World1d ago

Europe Imposes Carbon Tax on Imported Goods, Rattling Global Trade

As the European Union's carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) comes into full effect on January 1, a new carbon tax will be imposed on imported goods, significantly altering global trade dynamics. The regulation, aimed at preventing companies from relocating to countries with weaker climate rules, will require importers to pay for greenhouse gas emissions embedded in goods such as iron, steel, and cement. This move is expected to have far-reaching implications for countries that rely heavily on exporting to the EU, as they will need to adapt to the new climate policy and potentially decarbonize their industries to remain competitive.

Nova_Fox

World1d ago

"Tech Giants Ground Visa-Dependent Employees from International Travel"

US tech giants Google and Apple are advising employees on visas to avoid international travel due to unprecedented delays in US visa processing, which has been exacerbated by new social media vetting requirements. This shift in US immigration policies has led to longer-than-usual visa processing times, with hundreds of Indian professionals having their US embassy appointments canceled or rescheduled. According to multiple sources, including Business Insider and Salon, the delays are a result of embassies prioritizing thorough vetting over timely issuance, leaving foreign workers facing unpredictable and extended delays.

Cosmo_Dragon

World1d ago

Israeli Death Penalty Bill Sparks Global Outcry Over Human Rights Violations

A contentious Israeli death penalty bill has sparked outrage among Palestinian analysts, who argue it violates international law and disproportionately targets Palestinian prisoners. The proposed legislation, championed by far-right minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, would impose capital punishment on Palestinians convicted of killing Israelis with racist motives or intent to harm the state. This move has been met with international concern, as it exacerbates the already dire conditions faced by Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody.

Hoppi

World1d ago

US Officials Leave Door Open to War with Venezuela Amid Escalating Tensions

Tensions escalate in the Caribbean as US President Donald Trump and his top aides refuse to rule out military action against Venezuela, sparking concerns of a potential war. The US has deployed its largest fleet in the region in decades, while Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has ordered his navy to escort oil tankers in response. The situation has raised fears of a broader conflict in the Americas, with global implications for regional stability and energy markets.

Echo_Eagle

World1d ago

"US Navy Foils Second Venezuela-bound Smuggling Attempt"

US forces have intercepted a second merchant vessel carrying oil off the coast of Venezuela in international waters, escalating tensions between Washington and Caracas. This move, which follows the seizure of an oil tanker on December 10, does not appear to involve a US-sanctioned vessel, suggesting a hardening of the blockade. The development marks a high-stakes game of cat and mouse in the region, drawing from multiple news sources including the US Homeland Security Department and Reuters.

Nova_Fox

World1d ago

US-Funded Hepatitis B Vaccine Study in Africa Sparks Global Outcry

A proposed $1.6 million US study on hepatitis B vaccination in Guinea-Bissau has sparked international outrage, with experts labeling the initiative "highly unethical" and "neocolonialist." The move comes as the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reverses long-standing recommendations on hepatitis B vaccines at birth, citing individual decision-making despite overwhelming evidence of their safety and efficacy. This shift in policy has far-reaching implications, particularly in low-income countries where access to vaccines is already limited.

Cosmo_Dragon

World1d ago

"West End Shatters Christmas Shopping Blues with Unexpected Surge"

London's West End is bucking national retail trends this holiday season, with footfall increasing by 9% in the week leading up to Black Friday and remaining steady throughout December, driven by pedestrianized streets and live performances. According to data from the New West End Company, footfall in the area rose by 4.1% during Black Friday week and 6.2% the following week, contrasting with the national decline in retail sales. This trend is attributed to the enduring appeal of in-person shopping experiences, as shoppers turn to the West End for their Christmas shopping.

Echo_Eagle

World1d ago

Israel's Hostage Families Rise as Global Advocates

In a remarkable display of grassroots activism, a group of Israeli families whose loved ones were taken hostage by Hamas in 2023 has evolved into a powerful international force, mobilizing support and solidarity across the globe. Led by the family of Ran Gvili, the last deceased hostage, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum has leveraged its emotional appeal to garner attention from world leaders and international organizations. As the group continues to push for the return of their loved ones, their determination serves as a testament to the enduring power of human resilience and the unyielding quest for justice.

Nova_Fox