Reading Time : 3minutes Oya stone, a unique volcanic tuff near Utsunomiya, has shaped Japan’s architecture for centuries. From ancient tombs to Frank Lloyd Wright’s Imperial Hotel, its history is preserved in the vast Oya History Museum. With mining still ongoing, this storied stone continues to blend cultural heritage, natural beauty, and practical use in modern applications.
Reading Time : 3minutes The US and EU are embroiled in a new trade war, with President Trump threatening a 200% tariff on European alcohol in retaliation for the EU’s 50% tariff on American whiskey. This escalating conflict, rooted in past disputes over steel and aluminum, could have serious consequences for businesses and consumers on both sides of the Atlantic.
Reading Time : 3minutesIn 2025’s turbulent global markets, hedgers seek safety from chaos with futures, while traders chase profits in volatility. Hedging suits the cautious, preserving value amid trade wars and shocks. Trading fits the bold, exploiting swings for gain. The best choice? It depends on your risk appetite—maybe even a mix of both.
Reading Time : 2minutesBlackRock leads a consortium buying CK Hutchison’s Panama Canal ports for $22.8 billion, shifting control from Hong Kong to U.S. interests amid geopolitical tensions.
Reading Time : 2minutesThe U.S. government’s Bitcoin holdings are substantial, with significant value potential, sparking discussions on cryptocurrency policies
Reading Time : 2minutesChristie’s AI art auction saw mixed results amid controversy over copyright concerns. Despite this, Refik Anadol’s work excelled, highlighting growing interest in AI-generated art. The auction raised complex questions about the future of AI art.
Reading Time : 3minutesTrump’s $5M “gold card” offers U.S. residency to rich foreigners, skipping EB-5’s job rules. Set for March 2025, it aims to cut the deficit, but will millionaires bite when Italy’s deal is $260k? With 277,000 global tycoons eligible, it’s a bold bid for cash and talent.
Reading Time : 2minutesMicrosoft introduces Majorana 1, a quantum chip using a new state of matter, topological superconductors. With the potential to support 1 million qubits, this innovation could reshape quantum computing. Scientists remain cautious, awaiting independent verification of this bold leap.
Reading Time : 2minutesEuropean and Asian markets are gaining momentum, driven by investor optimism and innovation in tech sectors. The shift signals a diversification away from U.S. stocks, driven by value propositions and economic growth expectations.
Reading Time : 2minutesBYD’s bold move to offer its “God’s Eye” smart driving system for free shakes up the EV market, challenging Tesla’s $8,800 tech. As competition intensifies, the future of affordable autonomous driving looks more dynamic than ever.
Reading Time : 2minutesGoogle’s AI co-scientist, part of the Gemini 2.0 platform, promises to transform scientific research by generating hypotheses and expediting discoveries. Early results show significant potential, but ethical concerns and limitations must be addressed through a Trusted Tester Program aimed at responsible exploration.
Reading Time : 3minutesThe ICC Berlin, a Brutalist giant from 1979, blends raw concrete with sci-fi flair. Built to showcase West Berlin’s ambition, it closed in 2014 over asbestos woes. Now a listed relic, its future’s unclear—revival or reinvention? A Cold War icon awaits its next act.
Reading Time : 2minutesX’s decision to block Signal links raises concerns about secure communication. The move impacts whistleblowers, journalists, and privacy advocates. Signal’s encryption is vital for confidential reporting, but the block may hinder secure information sharing and government transparency, raising censorship questions.
Reading Time : 2minutesMeta’s Brain2Qwerty uses brain signals to type thoughts, aiming to aid those with speech or mobility issues. With EEG and MEG, it translates brain activity into text but faces challenges in accuracy and practicality.