– Pakistan accounts for about 48% of people living in extreme poverty across the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan and Pakistan region, according to the World Bank’s October 2026 economic update. The measure uses the international extreme poverty line of
Business
– The African Union officially launched the Africa Credit Rating Agency, or AfCRA, in Mauritius on October 7. The new institution will focus on African sovereigns, companies and other issuers. AfCRA plans to provide independent credit assessments using African data,
Travel
– Air Arabia will launch nonstop flights between Sharjah International Airport and Amman City Airport on November 15, 2026. The new route will operate four times each week and expand the carrier’s network between the United Arab Emirates and Jordan.
Technology
– The European Commission has proposed a new EU Critical Communication System to connect first responders across European borders. The plan would link national networks used by police, firefighters, emergency medical services and civil protection teams. It covers all EU
Apple has added a foldable model to the iPhone lineup with the debut of the iPhone Duo. The company introduced the device on Sept. 9, ahead of preorders opening Oct. 16. U.S. pricing begins at $1,999, while the starting price
Apple has introduced the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max with upgrades to cameras, battery life and processing power. Both models use the new A20 Pro chip and a redesigned vapor chamber for sustained performance. Apple also added
Apple has introduced the iPhone Duo, its first foldable iPhone, with availability scheduled for October 23. The handset opens to a 7.6-inch inner display and uses a 5.4-inch outer screen when closed. Both displays share the same aspect ratio and
The United States is adding battery factories while trying to cut its dependence on China. Domestic cell production has grown, but major supply gaps remain further upstream. Chinese companies still lead global production of several materials needed for lithium-ion batteries.
Japan is expanding its response to investment fraud by using artificial intelligence to detect warning signs in consumer complaints. The Consumer Affairs Agency announced the initiative on September 1 as part of a wider anti-fraud package. The system will analyze
