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Newsweek’s Remarkable Transformation Under Dev Pragad

From Crisis to Success: A Story of Innovation and Resilience

Newsweek, a legacy publication in global journalism, has undergone a profound transformation under the leadership of CEO Dev Pragad. Overcoming financial struggles and adapting to the digital era, Newsweek has emerged stronger than ever in 2024. This success story highlights the power of innovation, strategic leadership, and journalistic integrity.

Overcoming Challenges: Newsweek’s Turning Point

Six years ago, Newsweek faced significant financial and operational hurdles. Declining readership, reduced advertising revenue, and the rise of digital platforms created an uncertain future. Recognizing the urgency for change, Dev Pragad and his team implemented a bold strategy to revitalize the publication.

Key Steps in the Turnaround:

Digital-First Strategy: Transitioning from a print-centric model to a digital powerhouse.

Data-Driven Decisions: Leveraging analytics to understand and cater to audience preferences.

Innovative Revenue Streams: Introducing high-profile events, special reports, and rankings to diversify income sources.

Commitment to Quality Journalism: Reinforcing credibility through unbiased, fact-based reporting.

Financial Stability and Strategic Growth

Under Pragad’s leadership, Newsweek optimized its content for digital platforms, ensuring accessibility while maintaining journalistic excellence. This approach stabilized finances and positioned Newsweek as a competitive force in modern media.

Growth Strategies:

Expanded Digital Presence: Enhancing content distribution across multiple platforms.

Monetization through Events: Hosting influential political forums and industry summits.

Diversified Revenue Models: Combining advertising, subscriptions, and sponsored content.

Innovation and Audience Engagement

What Sets Newsweek Apart?

Personalized Content Delivery: Utilizing AI and analytics to tailor news to reader preferences.

Multi-Platform Accessibility: Engaging audiences via social media, newsletters, and podcasts.

Transparency and Trust: Maintaining editorial integrity to build a loyal readership.

The Future of Newsweek

As 2024 unfolds, Newsweek remains committed to sustainable growth, innovation, and ethical journalism. With plans to expand digital capabilities, enhance multimedia storytelling, and uphold high reporting standards, the publication is set to thrive in the evolving media landscape.

Conclusion

Dev Pragad’s leadership exemplifies how strategic vision, innovation, and commitment to journalistic integrity can drive transformation. Newsweek’s resurgence serves as a model for media organizations striving to adapt and excel in the digital age.

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Fuji TV Executives Resign Amid TV Host Sex Scandal

The chairman and president of Fuji TV, one of Japan’s largest broadcasters, have stepped down following a sexual misconduct allegation against popular TV host Masahiro Nakai.

The scandal has led to widespread backlash, with numerous companies, including Nissan and Toyota, pulling their advertisements from the network. Fuji TV has faced criticism for allegedly attempting to cover up the incident.

Nakai, a former SMAP member and well-known television personality, was accused of sexually assaulting a woman at a 2023 dinner party reportedly organized by Fuji TV staff. Last week, he announced his retirement from the entertainment industry.

At a press conference on Monday, Fuji TV chairman Shuji Kano and president Koichi Minato bowed as they announced their resignations, following an emergency board meeting. They apologized to viewers and stakeholders for the scandal that has shaken Japan’s entertainment sector.

“I deeply regret undermining trust in the media,” Minato said. “Looking back, I realize there were shortcomings in our response.”

Minato had previously admitted the company was aware of the allegations shortly after the incident but chose not to disclose them, citing concerns for the victim’s privacy and well-being.

Last month, reports surfaced that Nakai had paid the alleged victim over half a million dollars in a settlement. Additional allegations emerged, suggesting that a Fuji TV employee was involved in arranging the dinner party.

Despite Nakai’s denial of using violence, public outrage has grown, prompting Fuji TV’s majority shareholder, Rising Sun Management, to criticize the network’s corporate governance in an open letter.

In response, Fuji TV has established an independent committee to investigate the scandal. Executive Vice President Kenji Shimizu, who will succeed Minato as president, pledged to uphold human rights and prevent similar incidents in the future.

Earlier this month, Fuji TV suspended a weekly program hosted by Nakai, while other major networks have also distanced themselves from the presenter. Meanwhile, rival broadcasters have launched their own investigations following reports that celebrity-hosted dinner parties are common in the industry.

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Abramovich Accused of Dodging Millions in Tax Through Superyacht Charter Scheme

Roman Abramovich, the Russian billionaire and owner of luxury superyachts, is accused of orchestrating a decade-long tax evasion scheme that involved chartering his fleet of yachts through a network of companies to avoid paying millions in VAT on their purchase and maintenance costs.

The scheme was uncovered in an investigation by the BBC and the Bureau of Investigative Journalism, revealing how Abramovich's yachts, including the 115m Pelorus and the 162.5m Eclipse, were falsely presented as part of a commercial leasing operation. This allowed him to bypass tax obligations by hiding the true ownership and usage of the yachts.

In December 2011, during the Christmas period, records show that Abramovich’s Eclipse was officially chartered by a company based in the British Virgin Islands, despite him being photographed on board in the Caribbean. The chartering of the yacht appeared to be a legitimate business transaction, but was, in fact, part of a deliberate scheme to avoid paying taxes, including VAT on both the yacht’s purchase price and its operating costs.

Italian tax lawyer and professor Tommaso Di Tanno, commenting on the investigation, stated, "There has been tax evasion. This is criminal."

Abramovich’s legal team, however, defended the billionaire, stating that he had "always obtained independent expert professional tax and legal advice" and had "acted in accordance" with that guidance. The billionaire, who has been sanctioned by the UK since March 2022 due to his ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s regime, divides his time between Istanbul, Tel Aviv, and Sochi.

The scheme involved five luxury yachts that Abramovich acquired during the 2000s, including the Pelorus, which he famously lent to Chelsea footballer John Terry for his honeymoon in 2007, and the Eclipse, once the largest private yacht in the world and valued at approximately $700 million.

The details of the tax evasion scheme were uncovered through the leak of more than 400,000 files and 72,000 emails from a Cypriot corporate service provider, MeritServus. These documents shed light on how the oligarch’s businesses were managed through a network of global companies controlled by trusts, with Abramovich as the beneficiary. The leaked files were part of the "Cyprus Confidential" investigation by the BBC, Guardian, and other media partners, which has been ongoing since 2023.

The investigation revealed that Abramovich's advisers helped him avoid large tax bills on his yachts by leasing them to a company in Cyprus, Blue Ocean Yacht Management, which then chartered the yachts to companies in the British Virgin Islands that appeared independent but were actually controlled by Abramovich. This deceptive scheme allowed him to circumvent tax laws in EU waters, saving millions of euros in taxes.

The investigation continues to uncover further details about Abramovich's financial dealings and his connections to figures close to Vladimir Putin, raising new questions about the oligarch's business practices.

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Trump Offers Buyout Packages to Federal Workers in Effort to Shrink Government

President Donald Trump has extended a buyout offer to nearly all federal employees who are unwilling to return to the office, marking a significant step toward downsizing the US government.

In an email sent to millions of federal workers on Tuesday, the Trump administration presented a "deferred resignation program," asking employees to decide by February 6 whether they would voluntarily leave their positions. Those who choose to resign would receive a severance package amounting to approximately eight months’ salary, including benefits through September 30.

The administration anticipates that up to 10% of the federal workforce, or around 200,000 employees, will accept the offer, potentially saving the government up to $100 billion, according to senior officials speaking with CBS News.

Workers who are interested in the buyout were instructed to reply to the email with the word "resign" in the subject line. However, certain employees, such as postal workers, military personnel, immigration officers, and national security staff, were excluded from the offer.

The email from the Office of Personnel Management, the government's HR agency, also warned that future downsizing measures could affect employees who choose to stay. "We cannot give you full assurance regarding the certainty of your position or agency, but should your position be eliminated, you will be treated with dignity," the message read.

This offer follows Trump's earlier directive requiring federal employees who had been working remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic to return to the office five days a week. White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy, Stephen Miller, told CNN that the government’s workforce, which is largely left-leaning, needed restructuring for Trump to regain control over federal operations.

Trump has long advocated for reducing the size of the federal government and cutting spending. He appointed Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to lead an advisory body focused on cutting regulations, reducing government spending, and trimming the workforce. Ramaswamy has since stepped down from his role.

The buyout offer echoes a similar move made by Musk in late 2022 after acquiring Twitter (now X), when he also asked employees to email if they wished to remain at the company.

The announcement came after a turbulent day in Washington, which included a memo from Trump calling for a pause on federal grants, loans, and other forms of assistance. A district judge temporarily suspended the order, which had been set to take effect on Tuesday, until the following Monday. The White House attempted to reassure the public that essential services, such as Social Security and Medicaid, would not be disrupted.

Additionally, on Tuesday, Trump signed an executive order aimed at restricting gender-related care for minors. Titled "Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Mutilation," the order seeks to prevent individuals under 19 from making irreversible gender-transitioning decisions. It also prohibits federal funding for such procedures. The order's implementation remains unclear and is expected to face legal challenges.

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US Tech Stocks Stabilize After DeepSeek AI App Disrupts Market

US Tech Stocks Stabilize After DeepSeek AI App Disrupts Market

US tech stocks held steady on Tuesday after experiencing a sharp decline on Monday, triggered by the unexpected rise of the Chinese-made artificial intelligence (AI) app, DeepSeek.

Shares of chip giant Nvidia, which had fallen sharply on Monday, rebounded by 8.8% as experts suggested the AI market selloff may have been an overreaction. Investors were quick to adjust their positions after DeepSeek claimed its AI model was developed at a fraction of the cost of its competitors' offerings.

The news sparked concerns over the future of America's AI dominance and raised questions about the scale of investments US companies are planning. US President Donald Trump described the situation as "a wake-up call" for the tech industry, while also suggesting that the development could ultimately be beneficial for the US economy. He remarked that if AI models could be produced more cheaply while delivering the same results, it would be a positive outcome for the country.

Trump downplayed concerns, emphasizing that the US would remain a key player in the AI field. The surge of optimism around AI investments has fueled much of the US stock market's growth over the past two years, prompting fears of a potential market bubble.

DeepSeek, launched just a week ago, quickly became the most downloaded free app in the US. Its rise comes amid ongoing tensions between the US and China over AI technology, with the US restricting the export of advanced AI chips to China.

Chinese AI developers, facing limited access to these chips, have shared research and explored alternative approaches that demand less computational power. This has led to the creation of AI models that are significantly cheaper to produce, challenging industry norms and threatening to disrupt the market.

Nvidia, the leading provider of advanced chips used in many AI applications, was hit hardest by the market selloff. Its share price dropped 17% on Monday, erasing nearly $600 billion from its market value.

Analysts, including Janet Mui of RBC Brewin Dolphin, explained that investors typically respond with caution to groundbreaking developments due to uncertainty. However, she noted that the cheaper AI models could benefit tech giants such as Apple and other firms, who have faced scrutiny over their high AI investments.

After the initial shock, US stock markets stabilized on Tuesday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.3%, the S&P 500 gained nearly 1%, and the Nasdaq saw a 2% increase. In the UK, the FTSE 100 closed 0.35% higher. Meanwhile, AI-related stocks in Japan, including Advantest, SoftBank, and Tokyo Electron, saw sharp declines, contributing to a 1.4% drop in the Nikkei 225. Several Asian markets remained closed for the Lunar New Year holiday, with mainland China's markets set to reopen on February 5.

DeepSeek's Founder: Liang Wenfeng

DeepSeek was founded in 2023 by Liang Wenfeng in Hangzhou, China. The 40-year-old, an engineering graduate, also established the hedge fund that financed the development of the AI app. Liang recently attended a meeting with industry leaders and Chinese Premier Li Qiang. In a July 2024 interview, he expressed surprise at the sensitivity surrounding the pricing of his AI models, stating that the company had simply focused on cost-efficient development and pricing without anticipating such a reaction from the market.

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Dev Pragad: Reflecting on Indian-Origin Success in the West and India’s Global Rise

Dev Pragad, CEO of the renowned American news magazine Newsweek, has consistently highlighted the hardworking and resilient nature of people of Indian origin, which he attributes to their success in the West. During his visit to India, Pragad was honored as the Guest of Honour at the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention, held by the Indian government in Odisha to celebrate the contributions of the Indian diaspora.

In an exclusive interview with WION’s Sidhant Sibal, Pragad shared his insights on the challenges faced by Indian Americans, the evolving media landscape, and India's growing influence on the global stage.

Hard Work and Leadership: The Indian-American Journey Born in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, in 1984 and raised in the UK, Dev Pragad understands the challenges of the Indian diaspora. He reflected on the resilience and talent that have defined Indian Americans, particularly over the past two decades. "Twenty years ago, being Indian-American in the United States wasn’t easy," he shared. Pragad credited early pioneers in technology and business for paving the way for future generations.

He emphasized how India’s unique mix of order and chaos equips its people to navigate complex environments, a crucial skill in leadership roles. Indian-origin leaders excel at people management and achieving results, focusing on execution rather than self-promotion.

Overcoming Challenges and Expanding Representation While acknowledging the achievements of Indian Americans, Dev Pragad noted that challenges persist, especially in underrepresented industries like media. He highlighted how a lack of Indian-American leaders in media decision-making roles can lead to simplified narratives about India. Pragad emphasized the need for greater diversity and inclusion across industries to reshape global perceptions and opportunities.

India’s Influence on the Global Stage Dev Pragad also celebrated India’s contributions through its diaspora, from CEOs to scientists and academics. He believes India’s democratic values and emphasis on decentralization play a key role in its rising global influence. Pragad pointed out similarities between India and the U.S. in their commitment to democracy, underlining the importance of shared values in shaping geopolitics.

Trust in Media: Navigating a Changing Landscape As CEO of Newsweek, Pragad discussed the media industry’s evolution, emphasizing trustworthiness in an era of AI-driven content and misinformation. Under his leadership, Newsweek has focused on delivering transparent, fact-checked journalism. Today, the publication reaches millions globally, with a strong commitment to unbiased reporting and representing diverse perspectives.

Conclusion Dev Pragad’s journey from Coimbatore to leading Newsweek is a testament to perseverance and excellence. His leadership highlights the potential of Indian-origin professionals to shape global narratives while inspiring future generations of the diaspora. As India continues to rise, Pragad’s story exemplifies the resilience, intelligence, and dedication that define the Indian spirit.

This article underscores the growing influence of Dev Pragad and India’s diaspora, celebrating their significant contributions to the West and the world.

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Conservatives Criticize Carney's Leadership Bid, Call Him a Liberal Insider

The Conservative Party has expressed skepticism about Mark Carney’s bid for the Liberal Party leadership, arguing there is little distinction between him and current Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. In a statement released Thursday, the Conservatives noted Carney’s extensive ties to the Liberal establishment, saying, “As a long-time Liberal insider, advisor at least as early as 2020, Carney is the furthest thing possible from an outsider.”

Carney, who worked for Goldman Sachs before joining the Canadian finance ministry in 2004, served as the Bank of Canada’s governor from 2007. He took on the role of Bank of England governor in 2013, becoming the first person to lead two major central banks.

After leaving the Bank of England in 2020, Carney was appointed as the United Nations Special Envoy for Climate Action and Finance, while also holding senior roles at Brookfield Asset Management and serving on boards of companies like PIMCO and Stripe.

Carney confirmed that he had resigned from all his positions, including his U.N. role and commercial posts, before launching his leadership bid. "I resigned all my roles… cut all my ties. I am all in," he declared.

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Thai Prime Minister Steps Up Security to Reassure Chinese Tourists Ahead of Lunar New Year

Thailand is enhancing security measures for tourists in a bid to restore the confidence of Chinese visitors, following concerns sparked by the recent alleged kidnapping of a Chinese actor. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced the increased security efforts on Friday, emphasizing the importance of tourism to the country’s economy. China remains Thailand’s largest single market for tourism.

“Tourism is the country’s main source of income, and I do not want it to be affected,” Paetongtarn stated. “I have instructed security agencies to increase protection for tourists.”

In addition to heightened security, the Prime Minister also announced plans to record a message in Chinese to reassure visitors about their safety.

Last year, over 6.7 million Chinese tourists visited Thailand, accounting for nearly 20% of the total 35.5 million international arrivals. However, safety concerns emerged earlier this month when Chinese actor Wang Xing went missing near the Thai-Myanmar border. Authorities speculated that he may have been a victim of human trafficking by criminal groups. Wang has since been found and returned to China.

The incident, widely discussed on Chinese social media, raised concerns that it could lead to a decline in Chinese tourism during the upcoming Lunar New Year holidays, which begin in late January. Despite some cancellations, Paetongtarn assured that the number of Chinese tourists has not significantly decreased.

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Donald Trump's Inauguration: A Star-Studded Day with Celebrities and Tech Titans

On January 20, President-elect Donald Trump will be inaugurated for his second, nonconsecutive term as the 47th president of the United States in Washington, D.C. The event, set to unfold amid freezing temperatures, is expected to be the coldest inauguration in 40 years, with temperatures in the low twenties and wind chills nearing 10 degrees.

The inauguration day promises to be one of the most talked-about in recent memory, with a star-studded lineup that includes world leaders, tech moguls, and A-list celebrities. Several high-profile performers have been confirmed for the occasion, adding to the excitement.

Here’s a look at the celebrities and tech moguls attending Trump’s big day:

Carrie Underwood: The country music sensation will sing "America the Beautiful" during the swearing-in ceremony. "I love our country and am honored to have been asked to sing at the Inauguration and to be a small part of this historic event," Underwood shared.

Christopher Macchio: The renowned opera tenor will perform the national anthem.

Rascal Flatts: The country band will take the stage at the Commander-in-Chief Ball, honoring military service members.

Gavin DeGraw: The singer-songwriter will perform at the Starlight Ball.

Kid Rock: The rock star will perform at various inaugural events, including the Make America Great Again Rally on Sunday.

Jason Aldean: The country music star will headline The Liberty Ball on Monday night.

Billy Ray Cyrus and Lee Greenwood: Both will perform at the Make America Great Again Rally alongside Kid Rock and The Village People. Greenwood expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "I’m excited to sing yet again for President of the United States and particularly my friend Donald J. Trump."

The inauguration promises a mix of patriotic performances, celebrity appearances, and a palpable sense of historical significance. It will certainly be a day to remember.

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Newsweek CEO Welcomes Marcus Weldon as Trusted Advisor for Innovation

It’s a privilege to welcome Marcus Weldon, former Bell Labs President and Nokia CTO, as a trusted advisor to Newsweek CEO. His expertise will guide us in navigating modern journalism and the AI landscape, enhancing our commitment to delivering cutting-edge content.

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Lost Waltz by Chopin Discovered After Nearly 200 Years

A newly uncovered waltz, believed to be composed by the renowned Polish musician Frederic Chopin, has been found nearly 200 years after its creation. The manuscript, dated between 1830 and 1835, was discovered in the vault of the Morgan Library and Museum in New York City.

Curator Robinson McClellan stumbled upon the rare piece while cataloging new collections. He later collaborated with a prominent Chopin expert to verify its authenticity. Although the manuscript is not signed, it features Chopin’s distinctive bass clef handwriting.

While the waltz contains some minor rhythmic and notational errors, McClellan expresses confidence that it originates from Chopin. "What we're most certain about is that it is written in Chopin's hand, on paper he used himself," he stated in an interview with BBC's Newshour. He added, "I'm about 98% sure, and many who have heard it instinctively feel it sounds like Chopin."

The piece features a somewhat surprising stormy opening, but McClellan believes the melody strongly reflects Chopin's style. Acclaimed pianist Lang Lang has recorded the waltz for the New York Times, which first reported the discovery.

Chopin, who primarily composed for piano, passed away at the age of 39 in France in 1849. His life was marked by struggles with hallucinations and likely epilepsy, as suggested by Spanish researchers.

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Accidental Discovery Reveals Lost Maya City in Mexican Jungle

A remarkable ancient Maya city, now named Valeriana, has been uncovered deep in the jungles of Campeche, Mexico, centuries after it vanished beneath the foliage.

Using Lidar technology, which employs laser mapping to reveal structures hidden under vegetation, archaeologists discovered pyramids, sports fields, causeways, and amphitheaters. Valeriana, believed to be one of the most densely populated Maya sites after Calakmul, showcases the advanced urban planning of the ancient civilization.

The discovery, which spans an area comparable to Edinburgh, was made almost by chance. Luke Auld-Thomas, a PhD student at Tulane University, stumbled upon a laser survey conducted by a Mexican environmental organization while browsing online. Intrigued, he analyzed the data and uncovered the remnants of a vast city that may have supported a population of 30,000 to 50,000 during its peak from 750 to 850 AD.

Named after a nearby lagoon, Valeriana challenges preconceived notions that the tropical regions of Latin America were devoid of thriving civilizations. Professor Marcello Canuto, a co-author of the research, emphasizes that this area was home to sophisticated cultures, contrary to the belief that it was where “civilizations went to die.”

While the exact reasons for Valeriana's decline remain unclear, climate change is suspected to have played a significant role. The city features distinct elements of a capital, with its buildings concentrated in two main centers about 2 km apart, linked by residential areas and causeways.

Despite its proximity to a major road near Xpujil, the site had never been documented before; locals may have suspected ruins existed beneath the earth mounds. Valeriana encompasses 16.6 square kilometers and includes plazas with temple pyramids, ancient ball courts, and evidence of reservoirs, indicating a well-supported population.

In total, the researchers identified 6,764 structures across three distinct sites, highlighting the densely settled landscape of the ancient Maya. This finding supports the idea that Maya societies were complex urban centers rather than isolated villages.

The study suggests that the Maya civilization's collapse from 800 AD onward may have been exacerbated by overpopulation and climate challenges. Auld-Thomas notes that this landscape was densely populated just as drought conditions began, leading to societal strain.

Furthermore, the region’s history of warfare and Spanish conquest in the 16th century contributed to the downfall of Maya city-states.

The advent of Lidar technology has transformed archaeological practices in densely forested areas, allowing for the discovery of lost civilizations. Prof. Canuto remarks that the use of Lidar has mapped significantly more area in recent years than traditional methods achieved in a century.

Auld-Thomas expresses excitement about the potential for more undiscovered sites, noting that the sheer number of newfound locations exceeds current archaeological resources. “I have to visit Valeriana; it’s so accessible, but whether we can conduct a project there remains uncertain,” he adds.

The findings from this groundbreaking research have been published in the academic journal Antiquity.

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Elon Musk Reportedly Pledges $45M Per Month To Pro-Trump Super PAC

Tech billionaire Elon Musk is planning to contribute approximately $45 million per month to a newly established super PAC supporting former President Donald Trump's bid for the White House, according to a report.

As of the end of June, Musk had not yet made any donations to the super PAC, named America PAC, according to a quarterly financial filing submitted to the Federal Election Commission (FEC) on Monday evening. It remains unclear whether he has made any contributions in July.

America PAC, created in late May, has already attracted donations from other big entrepreneurs. The FEC filing revealed contributions from Palantir co-founder Joe Lonsdale and cryptocurrency billionaires Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss.

Lonsdale contributed $1 million through his entity, Lonsdale Enterprises, as reported by several outlets. The Winklevoss twins each donated $250,000 to the super PAC.

Between its inception and the end of June, America PAC raised $8.8 million and spent $7.8 million, leaving just under $1 million in cash on hand, according to the FEC filing.

The reports of Musk's substantial financial pledge to support Trump came as the Republican National Convention kicked off in Milwaukee, where Trump secured the necessary delegates to officially become the GOP nominee for the 2024 presidential election.

Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX and one of the world's wealthiest individuals, officially endorsed Trump on Saturday, shortly after the Republican presidential nominee survived an assassination attempt at a campaign rally. This marked a shift from Musk's earlier commitment to remain uninvolved in the 2024 presidential race.

According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, Musk will begin his donations this month, breaking his previous promise to stay out of the electoral fray.

Musk's fortune is worth about $252 billion, according to Forbes. Recently, in a post on his social media platform, X, Musk voiced his full endorsement of Trump and expressed hope for his swift recovery, sharing a video of the Republican presidential nominee raising his fist following a recent assassination attempt.

Musk said earlier this year he is "leaning away" from Biden, while not explicitly supporting Trump.

He has been increasingly aligning himself with the former president, with reports from late May indicating discussions about a potential advisory role for Musk in a prospective second Trump administration.

In the past, Musk has donated to members of both parties, and has said he voted for President Joe Biden.

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Russia antivirus firm Kaspersky quits US after ban

Russian antivirus giant Kaspersky Labs has told BBC News that it is leaving the US after the Biden administration banned sales and distribution of the firm's software.

Kaspersky said it had made the "sad and difficult decision" to leave "as business opportunities in the country are no longer viable".

It comes after Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said last month that Moscow's influence over the company posed a significant risk to US infrastructure and services.

Kaspersky, which had been operating in the US for two decades, has denied the allegations.

"Starting from July 20, 2024 Kaspersky will gradually wind down its US operations and eliminate US-based positions," the firm said in a statement.

Its US website has already stopped selling its antivirus and cybersecurity tools, with a message reading "purchase is unavailable for US customers".

The announcement came after sales and distribution of Kaspersky products were banned in the US.

Ms Raimondo said the US was compelled to take action due to Russia's "capacity and… intent to collect and weaponise the personal information of Americans".

"Kaspersky will generally no longer be able to, among other activities, sell its software within the United States or provide updates to software already in use," the Commerce Department said.

The ruling used broad powers created by the Trump administration to ban or restrict transactions between US firms and technology companies from "foreign adversary" nations like Russia and China.

It effectively barred downloads of software updates, resales and licensing of the products from 29 September, while new business was to be restricted within 30 days of the announcement.

Sellers and resellers who violate the restrictions will face fines from the Commerce Department.

According to the Commerce Department, the Moscow-headquartered multinational company has offices in 31 countries around the world, servicing more than 400 million users and 270,000 corporate clients in more than 200 countries.

At the time Kaspersky said it intended to pursue "all legally available options" to fight the ban, and denied it engaged in any activity that threatened US security.

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T-shirts showing Trump after shooting pulled in China

Chinese e-commerce platforms have taken down t-shirts featuring an image of Donald Trump pumping his fist into the air moments after he was shot at.

The T-shirts, which went on sale within hours of the shooting, were available on popular e-commerce sites like Taobao and JD.com.

It is unclear why the listings were taken down, but the Chinese internet is heavily controlled, with content considered "sensitive" routinely taken down.

The assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally last Saturday sparked widespread discussion online, with related hashtags trending high on X-like platform Weibo.

Enterprising Chinese retailers leapt into action, with the first batch of T-shirts printed and put up for sale online less than three hours after the shooting.

A cached image on Taobao, one of China's largest e-commerce sites, shows the T-shirt priced at 39 yuan ($9; £7).

A 25-year-old Taobao retailer told South China Morning Post that she received more than 2,000 orders for the T-shirts a mere three hours after she put it up for sale.

Most were from China and the US.

Trump has been the source of online attention in China for years - for both positive and negative reasons.

The trade war he waged with Beijing during his presidency enraged the government and many Chinese people, but saw some support as well - among them a group of Chinese immigrants in the US who have been translating all of Trump's tweets via the X account @Trump_Chinese. The account, started in September 2018, has amassed more than 344,000 followers over the years.

There is also a popular online joke that plays on the Chinese translation of Trump -which is Chuan. He is often referred to as Chuan Jianguo which translates to "Trump - our nation builder" as a means of mocking what they see as his role in helping set China on the path to becoming a superpower.

Chinese entrepreneurs have been cashing in on the interest in him for years now.

Although the listings of T-shirts featuring Trump after the shooting have been pulled in China, online retailers there are still peddling a wide range of Trump merchandise including socks and mugs with his caricature, and red caps bearing his campaign slogan "Make America Great Again".

Retailers around the world have also capitalised on the assassination attempt.

Similar T-shirts have been seen available for sale on Lazada and Shopee, e-commerce platforms popular in South East Asia.

Lazada is owned by the Chinese technology giant Alibaba Group, which also owns Taobao.

Photographs online also show similar T-shirts for sale in the US. Some had captions added to them - one read "Leaders Never Die", while another said "Bullet Proof".

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Prayers and appeals for peace after Trump assassination attempt

Prayers are being said after an attempt on the life of Donald Trump at a rally on Saturday that left the former US president injured and a spectator dead.

Republican nominee was bundled away by Secret Service agents after narrowly escaping death with a gunshot wound to his ear. Footage from the scene of the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, showed Trump with blood on his face.

The gunman was shot and killed by the Secret Service at the scene. He has been named by the FBI as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks.

President Joe Biden said he had spoken to Trump as condemned the shooting.

“There is no place for this kind of violence,” he said. “It’s sick, it’s sick.”

He added, “We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this.”

Vice-President Kamala Harris said she was “relieved that he is not seriously injured”.

“We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting,” she said.

Evangelist Franklin Graham, who often spoke in support of Trump during his presidency, asked his 10 million Facebook followers to join him in praying for the presidential hopeful.

“I thank God that former President Donald J. Trump is alive,” he said.

“Our prayers are also with the others injured at the rally today and the family of the individual who was killed.”

The gunman is reported to have fired from a rooftop that was outside the security parameter.

Trump, 78, was defiant in the moments after the shooting, raising his fist in the air and mouthing the word ‘fight’ as he was ushered off the stage by Secret Service agents.

He has left hospital after being grazed in the ear.

In a statement, Trump said, “I want to thank the United States Secret Service, and all of law enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country.”

He said the bullet had pierced the upper part of his right ear.

“I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realised then what was happening. God bless America!” he said.

Christian leaders are asking for prayers and appealing for peace after the assassination attempt.

Pastor Ed Young said, “We pray for our country. No matter your political leanings or beliefs, we do not resolve our differences in America with acts of violence. We pray for peace and protection over our nation.

“God Bless America. We earnestly pray this nation would turn back to you Lord, your truth, and your leadership.

“Please pray for the family of the innocent bystander who was killed and others injured.”

Harvest pastor Greg Laurie said it was tragic that a life had been lost in the shooting.

“It’s time for us as a nation to pray, regardless of our political affiliation. God spared Donald Trump today,” he said.

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Argentina Defeat Colombia 1-0 To Win Record 16th Copa America

Lautaro Martinez scored an extra-time winner as Argentina beat Colombia 1-0 to win a record 16th Copa America title at Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday.

A game of few chances, which had been marred by security and crowd issues, forcing a 82-minute delay, was decided by a quality finish from substitute Martinez -- who finished the tournament's top scorer with five goals.

The win was the third straight major tournament title for Argentine following their 2021 Copa victory and their triumph in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

There were tears before the celebrations though with Argentina captain Lionel Messi going off injured in the 66th minute watching the rest of the game distraught on the bench, while there was an emotional farewell for Angel Di Maria in his final game for the national team.

For Colombia, whose only title came in the 2001 Copa America and who were unbeaten in 28 games, it was a disappointing night when little seemed to work for Nestor Lorenzo's team.

There was chaos around entry to the stadium for fans, with organisers blaming supporters for trying to enter without tickets while fans blamed the lack of an efficient entry system to the venue.

The scenes were alarming with some fans needing medical attention for heat exhaustion but after the decision to suddenly throw open the gates, with no checks on those entering, the situation was largely resolved and the game went ahead.

Colombia's Jhon Corboba hit the bottom of the post with a speculative shot in the seventh minute but neither side were able to find their flow in the early stages.

Di Maria found Messi in the 20th minute with a low ball into the box and Messi's left-foot shot was saved by Colombia keeper Camilo Vargas.

Colombia had looked the more lively in the opening period and they went close in the 33rd minute when Jefferson Lerma tried his luck from 25 yards out and his low drive forced Emiliano Martinez into a diving save.

There was concern for Messi in the 36th minute when he dribbled to the byline but was halted by a sliding challenge from Santiago Arias which was ruled fair left the Argentine captain needing treatment.

Messi, who now plays his club football in Miami, then curled a free-kick in from the left flank but Nicolas Tagliafico's header was just off target.

It had been a disappointing first half and it didn't improve much after the break, when the fans had at least received some entertainment from Colombian singer Shakira.

Argentina failed to deal with a James Rodriguez corner and the ball looped to Davinson Sanchez but he was unable to keep down his header which floated over the bar.

There was finally some of the expected quality when Di Maria produced one of his trademark runs in from the left and forced Vargas into action, the Colombia keeper turning the ball wide of the post.

Then came a major blow for Argentine hopes when Messi went down, without contact, as he ran in midfield, and clearly in pain he went off to be replaced by Nicolas Gonzalez in the 66th minute.

It was too much for Messi, in what may have been his last major tournament, as he sat in tears on the bench, unable to hold back his emotions.

The Argentine fans thought they had grabbed a winner in the 75th minute when Tagliafico found Gonzalez in the box, who beat Vargas with a low drive but the effort was ruled out for offside.

Little changed in extra-time with a half-chance from Miguel Borja after a flick from Jorge Carrascal but the game was settled by a worthy winner.

Leandro Paredes won the ball in midfield for Argentina with a perfectly timed tackle, found Giovani Lo Celso whose first time pass was perfect for the on-running Martinez who confidently fired home the winner.

Di Maria, who had left the field for the last time in an Argentina shirt to huge applause, said the team's 'Triple Crown' achievement needed to be appreciated.

"It seems easy but it is very difficult. I know this because I experienced the other side for 10, 11 years as well. It's not easy to get to the finals and win them," he said.

Colombia's Argentine coach Lorenzo said his team had struggled physically.

"The boys felt the effort of the whole tournament a little, they played 6 games in 21 days," he said noting that several players had struggled with cramp in the latter stages.