BRAZIL COST OF LIVING
Lula da Silva: A metalworker who rose from poverty to reclaim Brazil's presidency
Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has secured a fourth, non-consecutive term as Brazil’s president, defeating Flávio Bolsonaro in a fiercely contested election. The victory strengthens the left’s position in Latin America amid Donald Trump’s growing influence, marking another remarkable comeback for the former metalworker who overcame corruption convictions and imprisonment.
'Brazil is no one's backyard': Re-elected Brazilian president Lula da Silva
Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has recently been re-elected as the President of Brazil. During his victory speech, he emphasized Brazil's status as an independent nation. Lula stated that the new government will reform the administrative system significantly. He aims to enhance public involvement in the decision-making processes that affect them.
Trump critic Lula wins reelection in Brazil, securing fourth presidential term
Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva secured his fourth term in a close election against Flavio Bolsonaro. The election was marked by confusion at polling places due to a last-minute decision to extend voting. Lula's victory represents a significant moment for leftist leadership in Latin America. Challenges related to the cost of living and security were crucial in the election.
Lula, Bolsonaro trade barbs over cost of living in final debate before Brazil runoff
Brazilian Senator Flavio Bolsonaro and President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva engaged in a heated debate on cost of living. Both candidates aimed to win over undecided voters ahead of a tight election runoff. Bolsonaro criticized Lula's past while emphasizing his proposals for security and welfare. Lula defended his minimum wage increases and highlighted progress in reducing hunger in Brazil.
Brazil Presidential Election run off: Who is winning Donald Trump's ally Flavio Bolsonaro or Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva whom Barack Obama once called 'world's most popular politician'?
Brazil Presidential run off: Lula, who at 80 is one of the world's oldest heads of state, is Brazil's 35th and 39th president, having served from 2003-2010 and again since 2023. Bolsonaro, 45, aims to return his family name to power while his father serves time for attempting a coup to prevent the end of his 2019-2022 presidency.
5 world market themes for the week ahead
An important week is upcoming with central banks like the Federal Reserve and European Central Bank making policy decisions. Major companies, including Alphabet, Amazon, and Microsoft, are set to report their earnings. Political events are also significant, with elections in Israel and Brazil influencing markets. China's leadership will hold discussions focused on party governance amidst external pressures.
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India eyes a $20 billion pot of gold in New Zealand as its trade pact goes live
The free trade agreement between India and New Zealand promises to promote trade and enhance professional movement. While some goods may enjoy duty-free status, a significant rise in merchandise exports might take time. However, New Zealand's engagement in several service sectors holds potential benefits for Indian companies. The agreement also opens up new job opportunities for Indian students and creates pathways for skilled professionals.

Australia Work and Holiday- Subclass 462 Explained: Indians have limited opportunities to live, travel, and work
The Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement opens the door for young Indians to join the Work and Holiday visa program. With only 1,000 visas available each year, eligible candidates must enter a ballot to secure a chance to apply. Selected individuals can work in various fields, enhancing their international experience and English proficiency while exploring the beauty of Australia.

Swedish-born billionaire once bought 400,000 acres of Amazon rainforest, almost the size of Greater London. Locals worry about green colonialism; around 1000 people lost their jobs
Johan Eliasch generated buzz by securing ownership of 400,000 acres of the Amazon rainforest to combat logging threats. However, his move raised concerns about the fate of roughly 1,000 workers employed in the logging industry. Detractors questioned the appropriateness of foreign ownership in Brazilian lands for conservation ideals. Additionally, Eliasch's partnership in founding Cool Earth reflects the ongoing struggle to balance environmental conservation with the livelihoods of nearby communities.

Trump's tariffs fuel factory job losses, threaten Republican support ahead of US midterms
Job losses in battleground states have led to political shifts among workers who previously supported Republicans. This includes individuals affected by President Trump's tariffs, which some blame for layoffs and company closures. Many voters are expressing dissatisfaction with the economic impact of these trade policies. Democratic candidates are likely to benefit from this backlash against tariffs in forthcoming elections.

Fuel, fertiliser costs strain American farmers' support for Republicans in midterms
Farmers in the Midwest United States face surging diesel and fertiliser costs which are outpacing their incomes. The sector has seen diesel prices climb by 67 percent while fertiliser prices, at times, have seen steep price jumps. This comes amid trade along the Strait of Hormuz being disrupted by the US' conflict with Iran. Trade wars with China and Canada has also worsened the US agricultural market, raising doubts over their continued support for the Republican Party.

Brazil elections 2026 results: Ex-President Jair Bolsonaro's son, Donald Trump ally Flavio Bolsonaro leads against Left-wing Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Check what happens if neither gets majority
Brazil elections results 2026: If no presidential candidate -- Flavio Bolsonaro and Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva -- secures more than 50 per cent of valid votes, the top two candidates will advance to a run-off on October 25, according to multiple reports.

Brazil election: Lula, Flavio Bolsonaro face off in tight race shaped by Trump factor
Brazilians are preparing to vote in a tight election between President Lula and Flavio Bolsonaro on Sunday. Lula is seeking a fourth term while Bolsonaro aims to take advantage of his father's legacy. Opinion polls indicate neither candidate is expected to achieve a majority in the first round of voting. Key demographics are divided, with Lula favored among low-income voters and Bolsonaro appealing to wealthier groups.

As Brazil gears up for elections, US midterms signal a transformative year for global politics and democracy
Brazil is preparing for a closely watched presidential election involving incumbent Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and challenger Flavio Bolsonaro. Other countries, including Israel and the US, also have significant elections scheduled soon, which may influence global markets. Investors are particularly attentive to Brazil's fiscal concerns and the potential impacts of these elections.

‘India’s biotech ecosystem holds tremendous promise’: Eli Lilly CEO
Eli Lilly has experienced significant growth, reaching a market capitalization over $1 trillion. The company aims to maintain its leadership in anti-obesity drugs through ongoing innovation and development. With successful trials for drugs like retatrutide and Foundayo, Lilly is expanding its product offerings. The company recognizes the importance of India as a growing market for healthcare investments and partnerships.

Redefining global finance: Emergence of alternative payment infrastructure
Chairman of PSB Bank Petr Fradkov, in an interview with RBC, discusses what is happening in one of the most closed sectors of the economy, cross-border payments, and how the A7 international payment system operates, which essentially lacks international payments.

House Democrats plan vast oversight of Trump administration. Impeachment is an option
House Democrats are planning significant oversight investigations targeting President Trump and his administration after the elections. They expect to hold them accountable for alleged corruption and abuses of power. Key areas of inquiry will include Trump family business dealings and various civil rights violations.

In Brazil, frustration over cost of living undermines Lula's reelection bid
Kleyton Zacarioto, a butcher, expresses frustration with high food prices impacting household budgets ahead of elections. Incumbent President Lula highlights improving economic indicators like falling unemployment amidst voter dissatisfaction. Senator Flavio Bolsonaro argues that the economy has worsened, stating that families are financially strained. Lula's recent measures to boost disposable income have had little effect on voter sentiment.

Ban on US diesel exports would hurt, not help fuel markets, analysts say
US President Donald Trump has expressed support for a diesel export ban to help lower rising prices. Diesel prices in America have reached a record high, largely due to global supply disruptions. Analysts caution that the proposed ban may exacerbate issues rather than alleviate them, affecting both domestic and international markets. Major industry groups oppose the export ban due to potential negative impacts on refinery operations.

Google agrees biggest carbon-removal deal yet, aims to scale new model
Spanning more than 200,000 hectares in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul, it is the largest enhanced rock-weathering project to date, aiming to accelerate a natural process where certain rocks absorb CO2 from the atmosphere.

Making a dollar detour: Why BRICS isn’t breaking up with the dollar
The latest BRICS declaration emphasizes interoperable payment systems and local currency settlement. It explicitly avoids proposing a common BRICS currency or linking central bank digital currencies. This approach acknowledges the impracticality of a unified currency due to diverse economic conditions. BRICS countries aim to reduce dollar dependence through enhanced payment choices and national currency use. The focus remains on practical cooperation rather than a monetary union.

BRICS adopts New Delhi Declaration: Inside the 140-point document on Global South's ambitions
BRICS leaders adopted the New Delhi Declaration at the 18th summit, reaffirming their commitment to cooperation, multilateralism and a more representative global order. The document outlines India's 2026 chairship priorities, recognises partner countries' contributions and calls for greater participation of Emerging Markets, Developing Countries and Least Developed Countries in global governance.

Beyond bloc politics: India’s BRICS bet on multipolarity
Under India's BRICS chairmanship, the importance of practical cooperation is underscored with an aim to launch impactful development initiatives. Enhancing citizens' lives through tailored health programs and technology is paramount. The chairmanship also prioritizes the nurturing of startup ecosystems and the support of MSMEs, while dedicating significant efforts to climate finance and vital infrastructure projects.

The epistemology of power: Why BRICS must build a common scientific architecture
For nations striving for geopolitical balance, achieving scientific and technological independence is crucial. The BRICS alliance, with its substantial population and economic resources, is focused on developing joint scientific initiatives and promoting collaborative innovations. By pooling their strengths, they intend to amplify their influence on future technological advancements and frameworks, thus enhancing their role in global tech governance.

Biocon shares rise 3% after Rs 638-crore block deal; Active Pine likely seller
Biocon shares rose after a block deal involving around 1.65 crore shares. Investor Active Pine was reportedly looking to sell up to 1.66 crore shares, or about 1% stake, for around Rs 638 crore at a floor price of Rs 385 per share, implying a discount of up to 1.9% to the market price. The seller will face a 30-day lock-up on further stake sales.

Sandoz bets big on biosimilars, aims to double group sales by 2035
Sandoz plans to more than double annual net sales by 2035, with biosimilars leading growth. The company will expand its biosimilar portfolio to 100 drugs by 2040. Sandoz targets mid-to-high single-digit sales growth from 2025 to 2030. Its net sales targets exclude potential contributions from generic GLP-1 drugs. Sandoz will invest an additional $300 million in a Slovenian biosimilar manufacturing facility.

Quote of the day by Henry Ford: 'If you don't think of the future, you won't have one.' Life lessons from inspiring quote on strategic thinking, goal setting, adaptability, complacency and challenges
Quote of the day by Henry Ford, “If you don't think of the future, you won't have one,” explains why planning, goal setting and preparation matter. The quote connects future thinking with action, adaptability and decision-making. Henry Ford’s life also shows how planning and innovation can shape business, production, workers, markets and society while failure can follow when leaders stop adapting.

Putting a plastic bottle filled with water on your roof: 30+ countries use this unusual trick; here’s what it does and how to use it correctly
Putting a plastic bottle filled with water on your roof: The Moser lamp is a simple invention that uses sunlight to brighten dark indoor spaces during the day, reducing the need for electric lighting. Developed in Brazil, the low-cost technique involves filling a transparent plastic bottle with water and fitting it through a roof so that sunlight can be refracted and dispersed inside. The concept was later promoted by the MyShelter Foundation through its Liter of Light programme and spread across the Philippines and other countries, offering an affordable way to bring natural light indoors using readily available materials.

In a 2022 Brazil trial, 52 lambs spent 60 days under solar-panel shade; researchers reported lower body temperatures and about 4% better feed efficiency on hotter days
A comprehensive study conducted in Brazil revealed that lambs grazing beneath solar panels experienced reduced body temperatures, which led to enhanced feed efficiency and notable weight gain. Further research by Oregon State University confirmed these encouraging trends in lamb growth. The practice termed solar grazing is gaining traction nationwide, showcasing how merging animal welfare with solar farm designs can yield positive results amid rising temperatures.
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