- Centerstage Events

Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions took centerstage on Thursday, 31 October 2024 among all major events across the globe, and remains the highlight of this week's list of center stage events.
Picture Courtesy: Profit loss

Centerstage events of week 4

Israel's parliament votes to ban the United Nations Relief...

Israel's parliament votes to ban the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) from operating in Israeli territory and controlled areas. The move, passed on Monday, impacts aid distribution amid Gaza's worsening humanitarian crisis. The ban, effective in 90 days, will close UNRWA premises in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza, hindering its operations. UNRWA, crucial for Gaza's aid, has faced Israeli strikes, making this conflict deadly for UN workers.

Sunday, 27 October, 2024

Germany's IG Metall union initiates strikes...

Germany's IG Metall union initiates strikes in the metal and electrical industries, impacting the automotive and manufacturing sectors with 3.9 million workers. Protests began during the night shift, involving 250 workers at Volkswagen's Osnabrück plant and 400 in Hildesheim. Union negotiator Thorsten Gröger blames employers for halted production and empty offices. IG Metall demands a 7% wage increase over 12 months, while employers offer 3.6% over 27 months. Strikes follow proposed closures and job cuts at VW plants.

Monday, 28 October, 2024

The UN Security Council renames...

The UN Security Council renames the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) as the United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia, beginning its transition on November 1, 2024. The first phase will last until October 31, 2025, with the mission expected to end by October 31, 2026. The resolution emphasizes state-building, elections, human rights, justice, security, and international donor coordination. Nations stress Somali ownership and support, aiming for a successful transition to local governance.

Tuesday, 29 October, 2024

The European Environment Agency...

The European Environment Agency (EEA) reports an 8% decrease in EU greenhouse gas emissions in 2023, driven by reduced fossil fuel use and increased renewable energy adoption. Emissions fell to 37% below 1990 levels, showing progress after challenges from COVID-19 recovery and the energy crisis. Renewable energy led electricity generation in the EU at 44.7%, surpassing fossil fuels at 32.5% and nuclear power at 22.8%, contributing to the EU’s push for climate neutrality.

Wednesday, 30 October, 2024

China revises regulations to attract more ...

China revises regulations to attract more foreign investment in listed companies, expanding eligibility and easing financial requirements. The new rules allow foreign individuals to invest strategically in listed firms, as announced by the Ministry of Commerce. The asset threshold for non-controlling foreign investors is lowered from $100 million to $50 million. Additionally, tender offers are now approved as an investment method, alongside private placements and negotiated transfers, broadening investment options.

Thursday, 31 October, 2024

Berkshire Hathaway sells $36.1 billion worth of...

Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway sells $36.1 billion worth of stocks, including billions in Bank of America shares, while purchasing only $1.5 billion, marking the eighth consecutive quarter as a net seller. For the first time since 2018, Berkshire does not repurchase its own stock, indicating Warren Buffett doesn’t see it as undervalued. Buffett praises Apple as a superior investment compared to American Express and Coca-Cola, and cites tax reasons for the sales while building cash reserves.

Friday, 1 November, 2024

Severe air pollution forces authorities...

Severe air pollution forces authorities in Lahore, Pakistan, to close all primary schools for a week and implement a "green lockdown," including 50% remote work for office employees. Measures also ban engine-powered rickshaws and barbecues without filters. With an air quality index exceeding 1,000, far above the 300 considered dangerous by WHO, officials attribute the smog to cross-border crop burning. Authorities advise residents to stay indoors and pause construction in certain areas.

Saturday, 2 November, 2024