Trending Topics

Loading trending topics...

See what’s trending right now
Sportsin World Affairs
an hour ago

Pochettino dismisses Tottenham rumors post-USMNT loss, while Fernandes' Man Utd stay sparks debate on squad balance. Albania-Serbia tensions simmer as Manaj's performance fails to ignite a result.

Ministers commit to £86bn for ‘breakthrough’ UK science and tech R&D

The GuardianSaturday, June 7, 2025 at 11:01:18 PM
Ministers commit to £86bn for ‘breakthrough’ UK science and tech R&D
The UK government is putting serious money behind science and tech innovation—£86 billion over the next four years, to be exact. That breaks down to £22.5 billion annually, with chunks like £500 million earmarked for local projects led by regional mayors. The funding will go toward cutting-edge stuff: AI development, better batteries, and new medical treatments. Ministers are framing it as a "breakthrough" push to keep the UK competitive in research and tech.
Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about lab coats and test tubes—it’s a bet on the UK’s future economy. Big R&D investments can spark new industries, create jobs, and solve real-world problems (think faster drug discoveries or greener energy). The local funding angle also means cities outside London might get a boost. If it pays off, this could help the UK stay ahead in the global tech race—but skeptics will be watching to see if the cash actually delivers results.
— Curated via WP Now’s

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Latest from World Affairs
Hong Kong’s retail sector is struggling but people will have to adapt: John Lee
negativeWorld Affairs
Hong Kong's retail sector is in a rough patch, with sales declining for over a year as more locals opt to shop and vacation in mainland China instead. Chief Executive John Lee acknowledges the slump but argues it shouldn’t define the entire economy. He’s urging businesses to step up their game—adapting to shifting consumer habits and finding ways to stay competitive.
Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about fewer people shopping locally—it’s a sign of deeper shifts in Hong Kong’s economy and consumer behavior. If businesses don’t pivot, the city’s retail landscape could keep shrinking. But Lee’s push for adaptation hints at a bigger question: Can Hong Kong reinvent its appeal, or will cross-border spending keep draining its vitality?
Microplastics from biodegradable material may be linked to diabetes, study finds
negativeWorld Affairs
A surprising new study reveals that microplastics from polylactic acid (PLA)—a common "biodegradable" material—can sneak into gut bacteria and cells, messing with metabolism and weakening the gut barrier in mice. Researchers from China and the U.S. warn this could play a role in triggering diseases like diabetes and inflammatory bowel disease. Turns out, even "eco-friendly" plastics might not be so harmless after all.
Editor’s Note: We’ve been told biodegradable plastics are the greener choice, but this study throws cold water on that idea. If these microplastics can disrupt gut health in mice, it raises big questions about their long-term effects on humans—especially since PLA is everywhere, from food packaging to tea bags. It’s a wake-up call that "biodegradable" doesn’t always mean safe.
‘Delivery man-poet’: Chinese man with basic education made head of academic body
positiveWorld Affairs
A 55-year-old Chinese food delivery driver, Wang Jibing, has been appointed vice director of a public reading promotion group in Xuzhou—despite having only basic formal education. Known as the "food courier poet," he’s written thousands of poems and published multiple books, proving passion and talent can defy traditional expectations.
Editor’s Note: This isn’t just a feel-good story about an underdog—it challenges stereotypes about who gets to lead cultural movements. In a society often fixated on academic credentials, Wang’s rise highlights how grassroots creativity can earn recognition. It’s a win for everyday artists and a reminder that literature (and leadership) isn’t confined to elites.
Basketball betting: Hong Kong plans fifth counselling centre for gamblers
neutralWorld Affairs
Hong Kong is gearing up to open its fifth counseling center for problem gamblers as part of a broader move to legalize basketball betting. The government plans to slap a 50% tax on the operator’s profits—likely the Hong Kong Jockey Club—and require them to chip in with donations and community support.
Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about adding another betting option—it’s a balancing act. Legalizing basketball betting could bring in revenue, but the push for counseling centers and heavy taxes shows the government’s wary of gambling’s social costs. If done right, it could fund public services; if not, it might fuel addiction. Either way, it’s a big shift in how Hong Kong handles gambling.
Watch: Defiance and anger on the streets of LA
negativeWorld Affairs
Protests in Los Angeles turned tense for a second straight day, with clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement in the Paramount neighborhood. Police deployed tear gas as tensions flared, reflecting growing unrest in the city.
Editor’s Note: This isn't just another protest—it's a sign of deepening frustration in LA. When tear gas starts flying, it usually means authorities and demonstrators are at a breaking point. These scenes could signal more upheaval ahead, whether over policing, economic struggles, or other simmering issues. People are watching to see if this escalates or cools down.

Why World Pulse Now?

Global Coverage

All major sources, one page

Emotional Lens

Feel the mood behind headlines

Trending Topics

Know what’s trending, globally

Read Less, Know More

Get summaries. Save time

Stay informed, save time
Learn more

Live Stats

Articles Processed

7,161

Trending Topics

117

Sources Monitored

211

Last Updated

in an hour

Live data processing
How it works

Mobile App

Get instant summaries, explore trending stories, and dive deeper into the headlines — all in one sleek, noise-free mobile experience.

Get it on Google PlayDownload on the App Store
Coming soon on iOS and Android.

1-Minute Daily Briefing

Stay sharp in 60 seconds. Get concise summaries of today’s biggest stories — markets, tech, sports, and more

By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy