July 2025 - Page 28 of 33 - New york time press

Brazil vows to match US tariffs after Trump threatens 50% levy

06 Jul

After Trump’s 50% levy threat, Brazil to match US tariffs

Roger W. WatsonEconomy

In a move that underscores the persistent tensions in global trade relations, Brazil has announced its intention to introduce reciprocal tariffs in response to recent threats from former US President Donald Trump to impose a significant 50% levy on certain Brazilian goods. The announcement marks the latest development in a series of economic maneuvers that have tested the relationship between two of the Western Hemisphere’s largest economies.The controversy began when Trump, speaking at a campaign event, revived a long-standing grievance concerning what he describes as unfair trade practices by Brazil. In his remarks, Trump specifically referenced imbalances in trade and…

'They scream the choruses': How Japanese anime songs became Gen Z's latest musical obsession

06 Jul

How Japanese anime songs are shaping Gen Z’s playlists

Roger W. WatsonCulture and Entertainment

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in the global music landscape as Japanese anime songs, known as "anisongs," gain remarkable popularity among young audiences, particularly members of Generation Z. What was once a niche interest confined to dedicated anime fans has now exploded into a mainstream musical phenomenon, with millions of listeners worldwide embracing these high-energy tracks and their distinctive style.The expansion of anime culture beyond Japan has greatly influenced this music scene. Due to streaming services and social networks, anime series have become more readily available than before. Platforms such as Netflix, Crunchyroll, and Funimation have…

Nutella’s parent company Ferrero is buying cereal maker WK Kellogg for .1 billion

06 Jul

Nutella’s parent company Ferrero is buying cereal maker WK Kellogg for $3.1 billion

Roger W. WatsonEconomy

In a significant development within the global food industry, Ferrero Group, the renowned Italian confectionery company best known for producing Nutella, has announced its agreement to acquire the cereal manufacturer WK Kellogg Co for a reported $3.1 billion. This strategic acquisition marks a major expansion for Ferrero, signaling its intent to strengthen its presence in the breakfast foods sector and broaden its footprint in the North American market.Ferrero, which has built its reputation over decades through iconic brands such as Ferrero Rocher, Kinder, and Tic Tac, has steadily diversified its portfolio beyond chocolates and sweets. The company’s decision to purchase…

Slovak rap festival featuring Kanye West called off

06 Jul

Slovak rap festival with Kanye West canceled

Roger W. WatsonCulture and Entertainment

A major music festival in Slovakia, which recently made headlines by announcing Kanye West as one of its headliners, has officially been called off. The unexpected cancellation comes as a disappointment to thousands of music fans who were eagerly anticipating the event, which was set to bring together some of the biggest names in rap and hip-hop for a weekend of live performances, community, and celebration.The festival, which aimed to position itself as one of Eastern Europe's largest rap-focused gatherings, was scheduled to take place later this year. Organizers had hoped that featuring an internationally recognized artist like Kanye West…

Jane Birkin’s original Hermès bag sells for million

06 Jul

$10 million sale for Jane Birkin’s classic Hermès bag

Roger W. WatsonFashion and Trends

In a moment that has mesmerized fashion enthusiasts, celebrity aficionados, and fans of luxury items, the initial Hermès handbag once owned by the late Anglo-French actress and musician Jane Birkin has been auctioned for a remarkable $10 million. This incredible transaction not only establishes a new milestone as the priciest handbag ever auctioned but also underscores the lasting impact of Birkin’s heritage and the symbolic importance of the bag named after her.Jane Birkin, known for her chic style and cultural impact, became a symbol of fashion on both sides of the English Channel. She is inseparably associated with the renowned…

The Trump administration said ‘many Jewish groups’ support a controversial nominee — some have never heard of him

06 Jul

Trump administration insists ‘many Jewish groups’ back controversial nominee — but some groups are unfamiliar

Roger W. WatsonSocial Responsibility

In a move that has sparked debate across political and religious circles, the Trump administration asserted that “many Jewish groups” were in favor of a contentious nominee for a key government position. However, a closer look at this claim reveals that several of the Jewish organizations cited were either unaware of the nominee or had not expressed any position regarding the appointment, raising questions about the accuracy of the administration’s statements.The debate revolves around the selection of an individual whose opinions and previous remarks have been met with disapproval from different civil rights groups and religious communities. The government's strategy…

06 Jul

July’s full buck moon: See it at its brightest

Roger W. WatsonScience and Technology

Skywatchers and nature enthusiasts are in for a celestial treat this month with the arrival of July’s full moon, traditionally known as the Buck Moon. This annual event offers a captivating opportunity to observe one of the most radiant full moons of the summer, providing a moment to connect with nature and marvel at the nighttime sky.The Buck Moon, named by Indigenous communities and early colonists in North America, is called so because it coincides with the season when male deer, referred to as bucks, start their antler regeneration. This name underscores the profound link between natural cycles and ancestral…

The US has a plan to breed millions of flies and drop them from planes. Here’s why

06 Jul

US strategy: breeding and dropping millions of flies from aircraft

Roger W. WatsonScience and Technology

In an unconventional approach to agricultural protection, the United States is preparing to breed and release millions of sterile flies over targeted areas by air. While it may sound unusual, this carefully coordinated plan is rooted in decades of scientific research and pest management aimed at protecting American agriculture from devastating invasive species.The target of this effort is the screwworm fly, a parasitic insect known for causing severe harm to livestock. Screwworm larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, leading to serious wounds, infections, and even death if left untreated. The economic and ecological consequences of a screwworm…

Linda Yaccarino departs as boss of Musk's X

06 Jul

Linda Yaccarino out as leader of Musk’s X

Roger W. WatsonInvestments and Business

Linda Yaccarino, the prominent figure who assumed leadership at X, the social media platform previously recognized as Twitter, has resigned from her role. Her exit signifies an important change in the continuous transformation of the organization under the ownership of businessman Elon Musk.Yaccarino, who previously held influential roles in the media and advertising industries, was appointed to lead X with the aim of revitalizing the platform’s business operations, strengthening advertiser relationships, and overseeing its transformation into an ambitious "everything app" as envisioned by Musk. Her tenure, though relatively short, was closely watched by industry analysts and media observers due to…

Concern for 'huge water demand' amid high temperatures

06 Jul

High temperatures trigger concern for ‘huge water demand’

Roger W. WatsonInternational

In various parts of the world, people are experiencing intense heatwaves and extended spells of soaring temperatures. This situation is raising worries about the escalating water requirements and their effects on societies, farming, and nature. The heightened demand for water during severe weather events highlights the critical necessity for sustainable water resource management and strategies to adapt to climate changes.In numerous regions, temperatures have soared to unprecedented levels, leading to a substantial increase in water demand. Families, industries, and the agricultural community are all utilizing water resources at remarkable rates to manage the heat. This significant demand has put tremendous…