Britain’s poorest still face ‘summer of hardship’, charities warn, despite first energy price cap cut in a year – business live

A Hong Kong industry group called Web3 Harbour, teamed up with accounting giant PwC, just dropped a big plan to speed up blockchain growth in the city. Dubbed the "Hong Kong Web3 Blueprint," it pushes for more investment and lays out five key areas—like talent and infrastructure—to make the most of what they call "Web3 superpowers." The report hypes up blockchain’s transparency and security, aiming to ride the wave of recent buzz around the tech in Hong Kong.

Editor’s Note: Hong Kong’s making a serious play to become a blockchain hub, and this blueprint is their game plan. With crypto and Web3 gaining traction globally, the city wants to attract talent, cash, and big projects—positioning itself as a leader in the next internet revolution. If it works, this could mean more jobs, tech breakthroughs, and maybe even a model for other cities eyeing the same goal.

Iran's foreign minister is heading to Moscow for discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, likely focusing on regional tensions and economic ties. Meanwhile, global markets are reacting to recent U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities—oil, gold, and the dollar are all climbing as investors brace for instability.

Editor’s Note: This meeting isn't just routine diplomacy—it signals deepening cooperation between two countries often at odds with the West. Add the market jitters, and it’s clear the world is bracing for ripple effects, whether in energy prices or broader security tensions. If you’ve got a gas tank or a retirement account, this one’s worth watching.

Asian stock markets took a hit today, while oil prices climbed higher as global investors brace for Iran’s next move. The tension stems from recent geopolitical flare-ups, leaving markets jittery about potential disruptions to oil supplies or broader instability.

Editor’s Note: When markets get nervous, it’s usually a sign that big players—governments, corporations, or investors—are hedging against uncertainty. In this case, all eyes are on Iran, and any escalation could ripple through everything from gas prices to your retirement fund. It’s one of those moments where global politics and your wallet suddenly feel a lot closer.

Hong Kong’s hotel market is heating up as investors scoop up discounted properties, betting on a tourism comeback and fewer available rooms to drive up value. Deals could hit HK$5 billion this year—a nearly 50% jump from 2024—with firms like Colliers and JLL predicting a surge in transactions. It’s a classic "buy low, hope for high" play, with optimism riding on post-pandemic travel demand.

Editor’s Note: After years of pandemic slump, Hong Kong’s hotel scene is finally looking like a smart bet. Investors are gambling that tourists will flood back, and with fewer rooms up for grabs, prices could climb. For locals, it might mean pricier stays—but for the economy, it’s a sign life’s returning to normal (and that someone’s making big money off it).

Amazon’s got a deal on a cordless stick vacuum that’s catching shoppers’ attention—it’s normally $110 but marked down to $68, and users rave about its lightweight design and strong suction. One reviewer especially loves how it stands upright on its own and switches to handheld mode without hassle.

Editor’s Note: In a world where cordless vacuums can cost a small fortune, a solid budget-friendly option that actually works well is big news. For anyone tired of bulky, overpriced cleaners, this could be a game-changer—especially if it lives up to the hype. Plus, who doesn’t love saving $40?