A study published in BioScience highlights the growing reliance on black-box technologies like AI and satellite imagery in scientific research, which can obscure the processes behind findings and challenge trust in science. The study, led by Ivan Jarić from the University of Paris-Saclay, discusses the issues of reproducibility and transparency as these tools, often owned by private companies, limit access to their operational details.

Released in 1998, the action RPG Hexplore is now available for around $1 on Steam, making it a nostalgic choice for fans of old-school RPGs. The game, which features a medieval fantasy world and a party-based combat system, has received 90% positive reviews on Steam, despite its low graphical quality. The 85% discount has made Hexplore a 'hidden gem' for gamers looking to experience classic RPG gameplay.

Apple has issued threat notifications to users in 110 countries, alerting them that they may have been targeted by mercenary spyware. These high-level attacks are rare and require significant resources. The notifications, sent on August 13, do not confirm a device has been hacked. Users are advised to activate Lockdown Mode and update their devices. The alerts are part of Apple's 2021 threat notification system, aimed at warning individuals who may be the focus of sophisticated, targeted cyberattacks.

Alibaba's Qwen AI models have surpassed 3 billion downloads in six months, overtaking Meta and Google to become the world's leading AI model. The Chinese tech giant has released over 460 models and created 300,000 derivatives, indicating a significant influence in the global AI race. This success reflects the growing traction of Chinese AI technologies, which are becoming popular due to their affordability and adaptability.

U.S. courts will be required to disclose instances when government agencies use spyware to intercept communications, aiming to increase transparency and oversight of surveillance practices.

U.S. courts will be required to disclose instances when government agencies use spyware to intercept communications, aiming to increase transparency and oversight of surveillance practices.

U.S. courts will begin publicly disclosing the government's use of spyware, starting with the 2028 Wiretap Report. This initiative, part of a push for greater transparency in government surveillance, will reveal instances where judges authorized wiretaps using hacking tools and spyware. The data will not include instances of phone hacking for data but will highlight when spyware was used to intercept communications. The move comes as tech companies like Apple have alerted users to potential mercenary spyware attacks.

U.S. courts will be required to disclose instances when government agencies use spyware to intercept communications, aiming to increase transparency and oversight of surveillance practices.

U.S. courts will be required to disclose instances when government agencies use spyware to intercept communications, aiming to increase transparency and oversight of surveillance practices.

U.S. courts will be required to disclose instances when government agencies use spyware to intercept communications, aiming to increase transparency and oversight of surveillance practices.

Over $2 trillion in digital assets, nearly the entire value of the $2.16 trillion crypto market, is at risk due to quantum computing's potential to break elliptic-curve cryptography. Quantus CEO Christoper Smith warns that the industry must migrate to quantum-secure blockchain networks before quantum computers become powerful enough to undermine current cryptographic protections.

Nigerians may soon invest in Dangote Petroleum Refinery's $5 billion 'people's IPO', with plans to nearly double capacity to 1.4 million barrels per day. The refinery has submitted an application to Nigeria’s SEC, and CEO David Bird aims to make the offering widely accessible to Nigerians. While foreign investors could eventually participate, the company plans to focus on domestic growth for at least three years before considering an international listing.

Shiprocket, an ecommerce logistics platform, is set to debut on the stock market on August 19. The IPO, which opened for subscription on August 12 and closed on August 14, attracted significant interest, with a total issue size of Rs 1,617 crore. The fresh issue was Rs 885 crore, and the offer for sale was Rs 732 crore. Shiprocket's shares are priced between Rs 92 and Rs 97, with an expected post-money valuation of Rs 7,056 crore.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is proposing a significant change to its grant review process by moving away from numerical scores for applications, instead concealing the scores from applicants. This change could shift decision-making about NIH funding from science and scientists to the U.S. President and political appointees. The NIH has posted a Request for Information (RFI) on this proposed change, inviting comments until October 13.

A consortium led by Amit Bhatia and including Amazon's Jeff Bezos has acquired a minority stake in Liverpool, with Fenway Sports Group (FSG) retaining majority ownership. The investment aims to support the club's long-term growth, with the new investors bringing global business, technology, and investment expertise. FSG president Mike Gordon expressed optimism that the consortium aligns with Liverpool's long-term vision.

Baloch leader Mir Yar Baloch congratulated PM Modi on India's 80th Independence Day, offering Balochistan's seaports for trade to support 'Make in India'. He paid tribute to Indian freedom fighters and criticized Pakistan's claim over Balochistan, urging the international community to recognize Balochistan's independence.

UBS suggests infrastructure investments may be attractive due to long-term growth, resilient cash flows, and portfolio diversification. Factors include structural spending trends like population growth and net-zero emissions, stable cash flows from assets like utilities and toll roads, solid historical returns, and low correlation with traditional portfolios. UBS favors core and core-plus infrastructure in non-cyclical sectors for predictable, inflation-protected income.

Ground beneath 394-foot wind turbines in Poland has become a haven for wild bees and diverse plant species, challenging the notion that wind infrastructure harms biodiversity. Research found that the bare gravel and low maintenance of turbine bases attract ground-nesting bees, making these areas more productive habitats than surrounding fields. The study, published in PubMed Central, suggests that wind turbine bases can support conservation of pollinators and wild plants in farmland.

A provincial propaganda department in China has issued a warning against conspiracy theories that deny Western history, such as the claim that Aristotle and Ancient Greece never existed. The 'Zhejiang Propaganda' social media account criticized the 'pseudo-historical school' for promoting the idea that Western civilization's achievements originated in China, which it says reflects ignorance and cultural insecurity. This stance is part of a broader promotion of 'cultural confidence' in China, which has been encouraged by President Xi Jinping since 2016.

Fenway Sports Group (FSG) has announced a minority equity stake acquisition in Liverpool Football Club, led by Amit Bhatia with backing from Jeff Bezos and the Mittal Family Trusts. The consortium, including K5 Sports and EE Capital, aims to support Liverpool's long-term growth while FSG retains majority ownership and control. The investment is intended to strengthen Liverpool's position among Europe's leading football clubs without altering the club's ownership structure.

China has requested to join Brazil in World Trade Organization (WTO) consultations against US tariffs, citing substantial commercial interest. The tariffs, which could reach 37.5%, are part of a broader dispute over US Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, which China has challenged at the WTO since 2018. China's participation in the consultations does not equate to becoming a complainant, but it will engage in discussions and observe the proceedings.

The Los Angeles Lakers' acquisition by Thrive Capital for $12.5 billion has driven 2026 sports team dealmaking to an all-time high, reflecting strong investor interest in sports franchises. NFL and NBA franchises are commanding the highest premiums in M&A transactions, with valuations often exceeding a 10x revenue multiple.

Nazanein, a Tehran-based entrepreneur, faces unprecedented challenges as she resorts to credit for groceries for the first time due to U.S. sanctions, currency collapses, and wars, highlighting the severe impact on Iran's economy.

UBS suggests infrastructure investments may be attractive due to long-term growth, stable cash flows, solid historical returns, and portfolio diversification. The bank cites structural spending trends, inflation-linked cash flows, a 30% correlation with traditional portfolios, and a low correlation with gold as reasons to consider core and core-plus infrastructure in non-cyclical sectors like utilities and toll roads.

India's IPO market is set for another busy week with five companies aiming to raise Rs 5,499.32 crore through public issues between August 17 and 21. Horizon Industrial Parks leads with a target of Rs 2,600 crore, followed by Lalithaa Jewellery Mart seeking Rs 1,700 crore. Shankesh Jewellers and Sunshine Pictures will also list on August 18, while Gaja Alternative Asset Management will close its IPO on August 21. All companies are listed on BSE and NSE.

The UK Ministry of Defense is increasing scrutiny of its defense supply chain after surveillance drones equipped with cameras sent signals to an internet address in China. A cyber vulnerability assessment revealed the issue in K3 Scout uncrewed vessels made by Kraken Technology Group. Officials are investigating if other defense contractors use cameras from the same supplier. The ministry found no evidence of data compromise but noted the cameras contained some Chinese-made components. The incident highlights potential security risks in complex defense supply chains, especially when sourcing components from countries considered adversaries.

Empery Asset Management, LP acquired approximately $4.07 million worth of Empery Digital Inc. (NASDAQ:EMPD) stock, purchasing 1.4 million shares at an average price between $2.8211 and $2.9845 per share. The firm, which is a significant investor and director at EMPD, made these purchases through Empery Asset Master, Ltd. and Empery Tax Efficient, LP. Despite EMPD's stock trading near its 52-week low, InvestingPro considers it undervalued with a Fair Value of $3.77. Empery Asset Management's indirect beneficial ownership through the Empery Funds now totals 4,430,345 shares, plus 100,000 shares directly held by Ryan M. Lane.

Saskatchewan-based Max Power Mining is drilling for natural hydrogen at the Lawson Complex to demonstrate commercial-scale extraction. The company aims to establish the world's first large-scale natural hydrogen system, which could lead to greener and cheaper hydrogen for decarbonizing industry and transportation. Natural hydrogen, a molecule critical for producing ammonia and refining petroleum, could offer an ecologically friendly alternative to hydrogen produced from fossil fuels.

A Catholic cemetery in Torrington, Connecticut, leased 7,000 solar panels on unused land, creating a potential habitat for bees and pollinators. The solar array, developed by Verogy, is on a 20-year lease and does not interfere with burial grounds. This initiative reflects a trend among Connecticut cemeteries to lease spare land for solar projects to generate income and reduce maintenance costs.

PIMCO's Dynamic Income Fund (PDI) offers a 16%+ monthly yield, attracting income-focused investors. Despite seven significant risks, the report identifies five strategies PIMCO might use to protect this yield. The analysis concludes with a strong opinion on investing in PDI, while the author discloses a beneficial long position in PDI shares.

The UK Ministry of Defense has increased scrutiny of its defense supply chain after surveillance drones equipped with cameras from Kraken Technology Group transmitted signals to an IP address in China. The issue was identified during a routine cyber vulnerability assessment of the K3 Scout uncrewed vessels. Officials are investigating whether other defense contractors use cameras from the same supplier, but no evidence of data compromise was found. The ministry's testing and assurance procedures are being reviewed to identify vulnerabilities early.

India-focused offshore equity funds and ETFs outperformed the MSCI India USD Index in Q1FY27, with returns up to 32.7% compared to a 12% fall. Taishin India led with a 32.7% return and an AUM of $15 million. Aditya BSL, SBI Resurgent India Opportunities, AsahiLife Neuberger, and Wasatch Emerging India Investor followed with returns of 25.5%, 24.4%, 23.9%, and 23.1% respectively, and AUMs of $8 million, $76 million, $31 million, and $273 million as of June 2026.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India's need to lead in hypersonic defence technologies, drones, and counter-drone systems, aiming to become a global supplier of advanced military equipment. Addressing India's 80th Independence Day, he outlined 'Raksha Shakti' as part of his vision, stressing self-reliance in defence and the importance of indigenous manufacturing. Modi also highlighted the progress of Mission Sudarshan Chakra, an air-defence initiative expected to be completed by 2035, akin to Israel's Iron Dome.

Debt mutual funds in July 2026 attracted Rs 1.87 lakh crore, reversing outflows from the previous two months. Liquid, overnight, and money market funds led inflows, while longer-duration categories saw redemptions. Experts attribute this to seasonal treasury movements and a continued preference for liquidity. Liquid funds received the highest inflow at Rs 1.19 lakh crore, followed by overnight and money market funds. Corporate bond funds recorded the highest outflow at Rs 784 crore.

UK bonds, particularly gilts, are seen as a safe haven amidst market turmoil and inflation fears. Despite some investors finding them unexciting, hedge fund managers are optimistic about their stability and the government's money-back guarantee upon maturity. Gilts offer above-inflation returns and are favored by both hedge funds and other investors, especially in light of potential political spending and concerns over US tech giants' AI investments.

The Witold Pilecki Institute of Solidarity and Valour, a Polish state institute documenting Nazi and Communist-era crimes, was targeted by hackers who posted Russian propaganda and anti-Ukrainian narratives on its main website and branches in Berlin and Augustów. The IT team successfully blocked the attack, secured the archives, and is conducting a security review. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk noted a separate cyber breach involving MyDr, which affected nearly 19 million medical records, was financially motivated.

Antonia Medlicott of Investing Insiders warns that a savings mistake could cost up to £100,000 from your pension or ISA. Her analysis shows a stark contrast between the top and bottom performing Stocks and Shares ISAs over ten years, with the best yielding 224.98% and the worst just 9.2%. A £10,000 investment in the top performer would grow to £32,498, while the worst would only reach £54,600, highlighting the importance of choosing the right investment strategy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his Independence Day speech, encouraged India's youth to pursue ambitious ideas and innovation, emphasizing the government's ₹1 lakh crore funding mechanism to support young innovators, researchers, and entrepreneurs. He assured that the government would ensure resource availability for their ambitions, highlighting digital connectivity and affordable data as key enablers.

An Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon killed seven people, marking one of the deadliest incidents since a truce with Hezbollah. Additionally, two vessels were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, with an ADNOC tanker being targeted, raising tensions in the region amidst ongoing conflicts.

A National Symposium on Water in New Delhi, organized by White Dolphin Media and IndianPSU.com, convened environmentalists, academicians, policymakers, and activists to discuss India's water challenges and the need for sustainable management. Keynote speaker Dr. Rajendra Singh emphasized collective responsibility for water conservation, involving communities and institutions. The symposium highlighted innovative water treatment solutions and community participation as crucial for India's water security.

Google has released Gemini 3.7 Flash to GitHub Copilot, marking its third Flash model in under eight weeks, intensifying the AI coding race. The new model shows improvements in web/app development, agentic coding workflows, code quality, and complex task handling. This rapid release cycle reflects the competitive efforts of AI labs to dominate coding tools used by millions of developers. Gemini 3.7 Flash is now available to Copilot Pro, Pro+, Max, Business, and Enterprise users.

A Startup.co.uk study reveals that 25% of small and medium-sized business (SMB) leaders cannot explain AI-generated outputs, with many relying on AI for critical financial tasks such as expenses and payments. The survey also highlights concerns over GDPR compliance and the potential misuse of customer data, as well as the trust placed in AI for sensitive financial operations like audits and compliance.

China, once the world's largest polluter, is now a clean energy superpower, with over a million megawatts of solar power and wind capacity surpassing the US. This shift is driven by its need to reduce reliance on imported oil and address pollution and climate change. Despite this progress, China continues to build coal and nuclear power plants, aiming to become the world's first 'electrostate'.

An Israeli airstrike on southern Lebanon killed seven people and wounded three near Ansar village. The attack is one of the deadliest since the truce between Israel and Hezbollah began.

Alex Brummer suggests that British horseracing, a beloved national pastime, may require private equity intervention to avoid decline. He criticizes Labour's policies, particularly Rachel Reeves' proposed increase in remote gaming duty, which could severely impact the industry. Brummer argues that the sport, integral to Britain's gambling culture, needs modernization to thrive amidst changing regulations and competition.

UPL's subsidiary, Advanta Holdings B.V., is acquiring Hytech Egypt for USD 110 million, aiming to secure a leading position in the white and yellow corn seed market in the Middle East and Africa. The deal, expected to close by January 31, 2027, will result in Advanta BV holding 99.98% of Hytech Egypt's shares.

Germany's private pension assets could double to about €500 billion over the next decade due to a major reform directing more retirement savings into capital markets. The reform, set to take effect on January 1, 2027, will replace the Riester pension system with subsidized brokerage accounts and investment products like index-tracking funds and private credit. Asset managers and financial institutions are preparing for the change, which is expected to generate €26 billion to €56 billion in additional annual inflows into German private pensions. Competition is growing among banks, insurers, fund managers, and digital brokers to capture market share.

Joshua Kushner and Bob Iger will become the controlling shareholders of the LA Lakers for $12.5bn, the highest price ever paid for an American sports team. This deal reflects a surge in sports investment, with Apollo Global Management also backing the New York Yankees. The Lakers' value is attributed to their broadcasting rights and global fanbase, with the NBA securing a $76bn media-rights package. The Lakers' sale is seen as a strategic pivot for Kushner after his failed attempt to invest in FIFA's World Cup.

Apple has partnered with Alibaba to develop a custom AI model for the Chinese market, marking a significant shift from its previous reliance on global AI integrations. This move comes as Apple seeks to address falling iPhone sales in China, where strict local regulations by the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) prevent the use of standard AI models from companies like OpenAI and Google. Alibaba is playing a key role in training this Large Language Model (LLM), which is tailored to comply with China's regulatory environment.

The Nigerian Navy has funded a water project in Surulere, Lagos, providing solar-powered boreholes, storage tanks, and filtration units to improve clean water supply for residents of Ward F2, Hogan Bassey, and Oyerokun communities. The initiative aims to enhance sanitation, public health, and quality of life, while also fostering military-civilian relations. The project was facilitated by the Chief of Defence Training and supported by community leaders.

A two-year study at Midwest solar farms found a 50% increase in bat activity, attributed to vegetation beneath solar panels. The ecovoltaic developments, with native prairie plants, provided a richer hunting ground for bats compared to the bare fields nearby. The research, published in 2025, highlights the impact of seasonal changes and agricultural practices on bat foraging behavior.

Harvard Management disclosed a $2.2 billion stake in SpaceX, reflecting its significant investment in the company. The university's endowment, overseen by Harvard Management Co., has profited from an early bet on Elon Musk's SpaceX, which has seen a record-breaking IPO. SpaceX's valuation exceeds $1.8 trillion, and Harvard's holdings may include directly owned shares and those from private funds. The gains come at a time when US university finances face challenges, including threats to federal research funding and demographic changes affecting student populations.

Mutual funds invested nearly Rs 9,789 crore across 11 IPOs in July, with INDO-MIM leading at Rs 3,622 crore. SBI Funds Management and Manipal Health Enterprises followed. Key investments included Lohia Corporation, Juniper Green Energy, and Xtranet Technologies among others.

Google announced a new feature allowing users to hide visible watermarks on AI-generated content while retaining invisible SynthID and C2PA markers for transparency. The feature, initially available for Nano Banana, Omni, Lyria, Gemini, and Google's video editor, aims to balance creative control with safety. Concerns have been raised about the potential difficulty in identifying AI-generated content without visible watermarks, which could impact efforts to combat misinformation and fake media.

An ADNOC vessel was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, marking the third such incident in less than a week, with no injuries reported. The UAE has accused Iran of the attacks, amid heightened security concerns in the strait, which is crucial for global oil and gas shipments. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump defended the extended deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln, stating it was not long enough and that a replacement would soon arrive.