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LIVE: FIVB Men’s World Championship quarterfinals – September 25

Action continues in the knockout quarterfinals of the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship, taking place in Manila, Philippines.

The last two spots in the semifinals will be fiercely contested by Czechia, Iran, USA, and Bulgaria.

**Quarterfinals Schedule:**
**September 25, Thursday**
– 3:30 PM – Czechia vs Iran
– 8:00 PM – USA vs Bulgaria

Stay tuned for more updates as the teams battle it out for a place in the semifinals.
https://sports.inquirer.net/641618/live-fivb-mens-world-championship-quarterfinals-september-25

European growth faces pressure from US tariffs, China – EBRD

LONDON, United Kingdom — Economic growth in southeast Europe is expected to be strained next year by US tariffs, increased competition from China, and government budget pressures, Europe’s development bank forecast Thursday.

The London-based European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) slightly downgraded its growth forecast for its regions in 2026, while revising upwards its expectations in other areas.

https://business.inquirer.net/549145/european-growth-faces-pressure-from-us-tariffs-china-ebrd

MacroAsia’s food business expands to Visayas

MANILA, Philippines — Lucio Tan-led MacroAsia Corp., an aviation support and food services provider, is expanding its food business in the Visayas region through a partnership with a Cebu-based company.

The firm announced on Tuesday that Princess Jolliant Corp., a commissary serving the quick service restaurant sector, has sought to collaborate with MacroAsia. This partnership aims to support Princess Jolliant Corp.’s plans to increase its operations and presence in the region.
https://business.inquirer.net/548666/macroasias-food-business-expands-to-visayas

Android is coming to your PC next year

**Android is Coming to Your PC Next Year**
*By Mudit Dube | Sep 25, 2025, 11:30 AM*

Google is set to bring Android to personal computers, a move that could significantly impact the tech industry. The announcement was made by Rick Osterloh, Google’s Senior Vice President of Devices and Services, during the Snapdragon Summit.

Osterloh explained that traditionally, Google has been using different platforms for different devices — Android for smartphones and Chrome OS for PCs. Now, in collaboration with Qualcomm, they are working on a new project to create a unified platform that combines elements of both systems.

### Merging Mobile and PC Platforms

The goal of this initiative is to develop a common technical foundation that supports their products across PCs and desktop computing systems. Osterloh hinted at the potential for Android to serve all computing categories, signaling a major step towards seamless integration between mobile and PC experiences.

Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon expressed equal enthusiasm for the development, describing it as “incredible” and a significant move toward merging mobile and PC platforms.

### AI Integration with Gemini Model

In addition to platform unification, Google plans to integrate its Gemini AI model with Android PCs. Osterloh noted, “This is another way we can leverage all of the great work we’re doing together on our AI stack, our full stack,” highlighting the company’s focus on enhancing AI capabilities across devices.

### When Can We Expect Android PCs?

While Google has yet to announce a specific launch date for their first Android laptops, the official acknowledgment of this project suggests that these devices could arrive sooner rather than later. Stay tuned for more updates as Google continues to innovate at the intersection of mobile and PC technology.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/google-reveals-android-for-pc-launch-in-2026/story

Jannik Sinner says ‘changing a lot’ after US Open loss to Alcaraz

Jannik Sinner said on Wednesday that he has been making changes to his game and “reflecting a lot” ahead of his first appearance since losing the US Open final to Carlos Alcaraz.

The Italian failed to defend his title in New York this month after Alcaraz emphatically overpowered him in four sets and snatched back the world number one ranking.
https://sports.inquirer.net/641628/jannik-sinner-says-changing-a-lot-after-us-open-loss-to-alcaraz

Frances Tiafoe smashes racket in first-round loss at Tokyo Open

TOKYO — Frances Tiafoe experienced a frustrating defeat in the first round of the Japan Open on Wednesday, falling to qualifier Marton Fucsovics. The eighth-seeded American struggled with his first serve throughout the match, ultimately losing 3-6, 6-1, 7-5.

In a moment of frustration, Tiafoe smashed his racket against the court after the loss.

Denis Shapovalov also faced an upset loss in the tournament, adding to the surprises on the day.
https://sports.inquirer.net/641622/frances-tiafoe-smashes-racket-in-first-round-loss-at-tokyo-open

Vikrant Massey confirms he has replaced Kartik in ‘Dostana 2’

**Vikrant Massey Confirms He Has Replaced Kartik Aaryan in ‘Dostana 2’**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | Sep 25, 2025, 10:14 AM*

Bollywood actor Vikrant Massey has officially confirmed his participation in the highly anticipated film *Dostana 2*, marking his first collaboration with the renowned Dharma Productions. In a recent interview with Times Now, Massey revealed that the film will showcase him in a fresh and stylish avatar.

“I think this news is already out. I don’t know why I’m not talking. I’m doing *Dostana 2*. I’m doing my first Dharma movie,” he said confidently.

### Character Details and Style

Vikrant Massey promises to bring a fashionable flair to his role in *Dostana 2*. He shared that his character will sport “good designer clothes” and added, “Karan (Johar) sir will make sure that I wear good clothes and I wear those fancy sunglasses. Shooting somewhere in Europe.” Fans can look forward to a chic and trendy look from the actor in this upcoming project.

### Co-Star and Casting Updates

When asked about the female lead, Massey chose to keep the details under wraps, mentioning that it is a “big announcement” and should come directly from Karan Johar.

However, he did confirm his male co-star will be Lakshya, who recently gained recognition for his role in Aryan Khan’s directorial debut series *The Ba***ds of Bollywood*. “Lakshya is a part of the movie. But let the girl be a surprise,” he added.

Originally, the film was set to star Kartik Aaryan and Janhvi Kapoor alongside Lakshya, but the project has undergone a complete casting overhaul with Vikrant Massey stepping in to replace Kartik Aaryan.

### Film Details and Production Plans

According to earlier media reports, *Dostana 2* will launch a debutante female lead opposite Vikrant Massey and Lakshya. The makers are reportedly planning to begin shooting in January 2026, with a target to release the film by the end of the same year.

The project has been in development at Dharma Productions for some time, with a script crafted to carry the successful franchise forward in a progressive and contemporary manner.

Stay tuned for more updates on *Dostana 2* as the star-studded film gears up for its exciting new chapter.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/vikrant-massey-announces-role-in-dharma-s-dostana-2/story

Vikrant Massey confirms he has replaced Kartik in ‘Dostana 2’

**Vikrant Massey Confirms He Has Replaced Kartik Aaryan in ‘Dostana 2’**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | Sep 25, 2025*

Bollywood actor Vikrant Massey has officially confirmed his participation in the much-anticipated film *Dostana 2*, marking his first collaboration with the prestigious Dharma Productions. In a recent interview with Times Now, Massey revealed that the project will showcase him in a fresh and stylish avatar.

“I think this news is already out. I don’t know why I’m not talking. I’m doing *Dostana 2*. I’m doing my first Dharma movie,” he stated.

### Stylish New Look

Massey hinted at a glamorous transformation for his role, promising a wardrobe filled with designer clothes curated by Karan Johar himself. “Karan sir will make sure that I wear good clothes and those fancy sunglasses,” he shared. The actor also mentioned that filming will take place in scenic locations in Europe, adding to the film’s high-gloss appeal.

### Co-star Confirmation

When asked about his co-stars, Massey confirmed that Lakshya, recently seen in Aryan Khan’s directorial debut series *The Ba***ds of Bollywood*, will star alongside him in *Dostana 2*. However, he chose to keep the identity of the female lead under wraps, emphasizing that the announcement should come directly from Karan Johar.

“Lakshya is a part of the movie. But let the girl be a surprise,” he said.

### Casting Changes and Film Details

Originally, the film was set to feature Kartik Aaryan and Janhvi Kapoor alongside Lakshya. However, a complete revamp of the cast has taken place, with Vikrant Massey stepping in to replace Kartik Aaryan.

According to earlier reports, Dharma Productions plans to launch a debutante as the female lead opposite Massey and Lakshya, keeping audiences eager for the big reveal. Production is expected to commence in January 2026, with the film slated for release by the end of the same year.

The makers have been developing *Dostana 2* carefully, aiming to carry forward the beloved franchise in a progressive and contemporary manner.

Stay tuned for more updates on *Dostana 2* as the project unfolds.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/vikrant-massey-announces-role-in-dharma-s-dostana-2/story

Rock climbing in Morocco: Top routes to explore

**Rock Climbing in Morocco: Top Routes to Explore**
*By Simran Jeet | Sep 25, 2025 | 10:51 AM*

Marrakech, Morocco, is not just a cultural hub but also a gateway to some of the most thrilling rock climbing routes in Africa. The Atlas Mountains, located just a short drive from the city, offer climbers an array of challenges and breathtaking views. Whether you are a seasoned climber or a beginner looking for adventure, these routes promise an unforgettable experience amidst stunning landscapes and rich history.

### Discovering the Atlas Mountains

The Atlas Mountains are a climber’s paradise, boasting diverse terrain and varying difficulty levels. From limestone cliffs to sandstone formations, the mountains have it all. Known for their rugged beauty, the area offers routes that cater to all skill levels. Climbers can enjoy both traditional and sport climbing routes, making it an ideal destination for those looking to test their limits.

### Popular Climbing Spots Near Marrakech

One of the most popular climbing spots is Todra Gorge, famous for its dramatic cliffs and narrow passageways. The gorge provides over 400 climbing routes, ranging from easy to extremely difficult, suitable for all types of climbers.

Another favorite destination is Jebel Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak, which offers challenging ascents and breathtaking panoramic views from the summit. Both Todra Gorge and Jebel Toubkal are easily accessible from Marrakech, making them perfect options for day trips or extended climbing excursions.

### Essential Tips for Climbers

Before embarking on your climbing adventure near Marrakech, make sure you are well-prepared. Carry all necessary gear including ropes, harnesses, helmets, and climbing shoes. Weather conditions in mountainous regions can change rapidly, so always check forecasts before you go.

Hiring a local guide is highly recommended, as they can provide valuable insights into the terrain and help ensure your safety during climbs.

### Cultural Experiences in Marrakech

While visiting the area for rock climbing, don’t miss the chance to experience Marrakech’s rich culture. Explore the local markets, or souks, where you can find traditional crafts and souvenirs to take home as mementos of your trip.

Additionally, be sure to try authentic Moroccan cuisine at local restaurants or cafes. Many dishes are made with fresh ingredients sourced from nearby farms and markets, offering a true taste of the region.

—

Explore the best of both adventure and culture in Morocco, where every climb is complemented by the warmth and vibrancy of Marrakech.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/rock-climbing-in-morocco-top-routes-to-explore/story

Why Japan Trails the US in Hectocorns

The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry will revise its investment contract guidelines by the end of September to explicitly allow mergers and acquisitions (M&A) as an exit option alongside initial public offerings (IPOs). This marks a significant shift from the traditional approach in Japan, where venture capital firms have primarily required startups to pursue IPOs, shaping the country’s startup ecosystem.

Akiyo Iriyama, a professor at Waseda University specializing in corporate strategy, explained that while startups worldwide generally exit through either IPOs or M&A, Japan has long relied almost exclusively on IPOs. In contrast, more than 90 percent of U.S. startups are acquired through M&A, with IPOs accounting for less than 10 percent.

As a result, Japanese startups often go public at much smaller valuations—sometimes as low as a few billion yen in market capitalization—long before reaching unicorn scale. This partly explains why Japan has so few unicorns compared with the U.S., where startups often raise multiple funding rounds and delay IPOs until valuations reach 1 trillion yen or more.

One structural reason for this difference is the relative ease of listing in Japan. The Tokyo Stock Exchange has historically maintained lenient conditions, allowing relatively young startups with modest valuations to go public. While this system has provided early returns to founders and investors, it has also led to the phenomenon known as “IPO goal”—startups going public early and then stalling in growth.

Many founders, after securing wealth through IPOs, lose the incentive to aggressively scale their companies. Iriyama stressed that while IPOs are not inherently negative—having produced visible role models for aspiring entrepreneurs—Japan needs more pathways to sustain growth beyond early listing. If listing requirements remain too easy, startups tend to stop growing at an early stage. He argued for stricter standards and more diversified exit strategies.

Another factor influencing this dynamic is the scale of funding. Japanese venture capital tends to offer smaller amounts with shorter investment horizons, often pushing startups to list quickly. By contrast, in the U.S., startups may raise round after round—sometimes even through Series H—without listing.

To compete globally, Japanese startups require not only longer-term domestic capital but also greater inflows of overseas investment. Iriyama expressed cautious optimism, noting that foreign venture capital funds have previously invested in Japan at a much larger scale, often with one extra zero compared with domestic firms. Such capital could enable the growth of deep-tech companies requiring years of development.

However, he also warned that overseas funds can be quick to pull back when markets turn. “Foreign investors can bring in large amounts of capital, but their exit can be just as fast,” he said, recalling a period when international funds rapidly withdrew from Japan.

As the government pushes reforms and venture capital practices evolve, the central question remains whether Japan can foster startups that not only go public but also scale into the kind of global giants increasingly defining the modern economy.
https://newsonjapan.com/article/147018.php