ERIKA JOHNSON
Asia stocks extend losses as Ukraine war, China’s Covid-19 surge hit...
Asian stocks fell on Tuesday as COVID-19 cases in China and ongoing Ukraine war concerns weighed on markets. MSCI's Asia-Pacific index dropped 1.97%, with Chinese stocks leading losses, reflecting broader economic uncertainties and potential demand disruptions.
Refugee exodus reaches 2.8 million as Russian strikes hit west Ukraine
Russian strikes near Poland's border have driven thousands of refugees into eastern Europe, marking the fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War II. UN data shows over 2.8 million Ukrainians have fled, with millions more internally displaced as conflict continues.
UN: War in Ukraine to hurt poor nations importing grain
The UN Food and Agriculture Organization alerts that the war in Ukraine could severely impact food security in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Ukraine and Russia, responsible for one-third of global grain exports, face potential agricultural disruptions that may escalate international food prices and shortages.
World Bank official says war-driven oil price hikes to slash growth...
A World Bank official highlights how persistent high oil prices triggered by the Ukraine conflict could reduce growth by a full percentage point for countries like China, Indonesia, South Africa, and Turkey, compounding existing economic challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Russia-Ukraine war in the world’s ‘breadbasket’ threatens food supply.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine has severely impacted agricultural production in the world's "breadbasket" region. Ukrainian farmers can't tend fields, ports are closed, and wheat exports are disrupted, potentially causing global food shortages and price increases starting in July.
Masks do reduce spread of flu and some coronaviruses, study finds
A recent study shows surgical masks significantly decrease detectable flu viruses and seasonal coronaviruses in respiratory droplets. Researchers found masks lower virus presence in breathing and coughing, though more research is needed regarding SARS-CoV-2 transmission specifically.
Bubble tea chain raises US$656m in Hong Kong IPO
Chinese bubble tea brand Nayuki, founded in Shenzhen in 2014 by Peng Xin and Zhao Lin, plans to raise $656 million through its Hong Kong initial public offering. The company will sell 257.3 million shares priced between HK$17.2 and HK$19.8, potentially valuing the founders' stake at over $1.1 billion.
How Effective is Our Cloth Mask?
Health experts confirm facial coverings are crucial in coronavirus prevention. Our research explores how cloth masks work against Flügge droplets, which carry virus particles. Understanding droplet size and transmission helps individuals make informed protection choices during pandemic scenarios.
Amazon to include Pakistan Sellers on its seller’s list
Amazon has added Pakistan to its sellers list in 2021, creating new opportunities for Pakistani entrepreneurs to access international markets. This move enables local sellers to showcase products globally, potentially boosting online trade, creating jobs, and generating revenue for the country's digital economy.
China faces global pressure over increasing counterfeit coronavirus gears
China confronts international criticism as authorities uncover widespread production of substandard personal protective equipment during the coronavirus pandemic, seizing over 31 million fake masks and arresting more than 1,500 suspects involved in fraudulent manufacturing and distribution.