Category: business

Long-Term Interest Rates in Japan Rise to 17-Year High

Long-term interest rates in Japan, which influence fixed mortgage rates, rose to their highest level in 17 years. The yield on 10-year government bonds briefly reached 1.665 percent during trading on September 22nd, marking the highest level since 2008.

In an innovative approach to electricity demand control, frozen tuna stored at minus 60 degrees Celsius are now being used as a cooling agent. By temporarily shutting down refrigeration units and utilizing the fish itself to maintain storage temperatures, companies are beginning to reduce power consumption effectively.

The Consumer Affairs Agency has announced that Ajinomoto and Inglewood are suspected of engaging in stealth marketing practices related to their frozen home-delivery meal brand, “Aete.” The companies allegedly asked individuals to post on social media in exchange for free products and later republished those posts on their sales sites.

Seven-Eleven Japan has completed a large-scale overhaul of the store system used by approximately 21,000 outlets nationwide. This milestone comes five years after the project was first conceived. The new system marks a significant step in digital transformation, replacing the company’s traditional infrastructure with a cloud-based model designed to enhance efficiency and service.

On September 19th, the Bank of Japan decided to maintain its policy interest rate at 0.5 percent, marking the fifth consecutive meeting without a rate change. This decision, supported by a majority of the Policy Board, comes as the central bank closely monitors the impact of U.S. tariffs, commonly referred to as the Trump tariffs.
https://newsonjapan.com/article/146971.php

India`s GST reforms ignite clash between PM Modi and Congress

Congress Rajya Sabha MP Pramod Tiwari on Monday took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his recent speech on Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms implementation, suggesting that the PM should have issued an apology to the nation.

Accusing the Narendra Modi-led central government of “looting” poor and middle-class citizens, Tiwari stated that Congress and the opposition had been demanding a single GST slab based on the concept of ‘One Nation, One Tax’.

“The question that needs to be asked is who increased the GST? Who put a burden on the country by increasing it for eight years? You (PM Modi) should have apologised to the nation yesterday. Congress and the Opposition had been demanding only one slab on the basis of ‘one nation, one tax’. However, you looted the poor and middle-class citizens,” Tiwari told ANI.

The Congress MP further criticized PM Modi for referring to the GST rate rationalisation as a “festival,” pointing out that it was the government who had imposed GST at midnight.

“Yesterday, the Prime Minister said that this is a festival. He said that we should celebrate because GST has been reduced. You imposed GST at 12:00 in the night in Parliament. You spoke similarly then. People of this country have paid over Rs 50 lakh crore in GST. The MSMEs have almost shut down,” Tiwari added.

“Now, you (PM Modi) have the courage to ask people to celebrate the ‘Utsav’. Only you could have shown this courage. Your face was telling that your words lacked self-confidence and courage,” he further remarked.

Meanwhile, Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri commented on the GST reforms, saying they have brought a wave of happiness and celebration among people and could potentially boost the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 0.8%.

The new GST reforms came into force from Monday. Puri stated, “Apart from Navratri, the budget utsav has begun. There is a wave of happiness and celebration among people wherever you see. GST rates have been reduced, which will benefit all sections of society. But we are celebrating something else. These reforms can boost the GDP by 0.8%.”

He emphasized that the country’s journey towards a Viksit Bharat (developed India) depends on self-reliance.

“It has been welcomed by all sections of society,” Puri added. He noted that all groups, particularly the lower middle class and economically weaker sections, will benefit as GST rates on various consumption items have been reduced.

From the very first day of Navratri, the nation is taking a significant step forward in the Aatmanirbhar Bharat campaign.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted that the implementation of Next Generation GST reforms marks the beginning of a “GST Bachat Utsav” (Savings Festival) across India. He emphasized that this celebration will enhance savings and make it easier for people to purchase their preferred items.

PM Modi noted that the benefits of this savings festival will reach the poor, middle class, neo middle class, youth, farmers, women, shopkeepers, traders, and entrepreneurs alike.

*This story is sourced from a third-party syndicated feed and agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or the data in the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete, or remove (without notice) the content at its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/indias-gst-sparks-political-row-as-congress-pramod-tiwari-says-pm-modi-should-have-apologised-23595243

Department of War Puts the Pentagon Press on Notice: ‘Follow the Rules or Go Home’

**Pentagon Implements New Restrictions on Press Access and Reporting**

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced new restrictions Friday on how members of the press may operate inside the Pentagon, significantly tightening rules for access and reporting. The measures require all journalists to work through established public affairs channels, display press credentials at all times, and accept that possession of unauthorized information may result in the loss of press credentials.

The policy, laid out in a memo released Friday, follows restrictions introduced earlier this year. In May, Hegseth directed the Pentagon to impose tighter controls on press activity after a series of leaks he said endangered military operations.

The new regulations cover not only classified national security information, known as CNSI, but also controlled unclassified information, or CUI. This category includes a wide range of materials. For example, planning documents for the Army’s 250th anniversary parade in June—such as how many tanks would participate in the event viewed by President Donald Trump—were initially labeled as CUI. Under the new rules, information designated as CUI is also barred from public release.

Reporters accustomed to broad access within the Pentagon will also see limits on where they can move. In past years, credentialed journalists were permitted to walk throughout most of the building, outside of secured areas. Now, according to Pentagon officials, escorts will be required for reporters seeking access to restricted sections.

“Up until now, the press could wander all around the Pentagon with no oversight,” spokesman Sean Parnell said in May when earlier restrictions were announced. “Even outside of sensitive/classified areas. So moving forward, they’ll need an escort to access those areas. They still have access to the entire defense press office, the press secretary & my office, as well as much of the rest of the building. These are pragmatic changes to protect operational security & ultimately brings the Pentagon in line with other government buildings.”

Hegseth explained the reasoning behind the new requirements, stating, “The press does not run the Pentagon—the people do. The press is no longer allowed to roam the halls of a secure facility. Wear a badge and follow the rules or go home.”

Media outlets have raised concerns about the implications of the changes. The Washington Post described the requirement as a demand that journalists pledge not to obtain unauthorized material. NPR reported that Hegseth was requiring a new pledge for Pentagon reporters, and Politico noted that access would be limited unless journalists agreed not to publish certain information.

Pentagon officials, however, emphasized that the restrictions are focused on activities inside the building. Reporters remain free to publish information obtained through other means, but under the new policy, access to the Pentagon itself will require adherence to the rules.

The restrictions will also make it more difficult for informal exchanges to take place inside the building. Reporters will no longer be able to freely walk hallways, encounter staff, or overhear conversations. These conditions, combined with visible badge requirements and designated press areas, are expected to limit unsanctioned contact between reporters and Pentagon personnel.

Hegseth has emphasized operational security as the driving factor behind the measures. With leaks continuing to pose challenges for the Department of Defense, officials said the new rules are intended to bring the Pentagon in line with other secure federal facilities where press activity is tightly controlled.

The implementation of these restrictions marks a shift in the longstanding relationship between the Pentagon and the defense press corps, where open access has historically been viewed as part of routine coverage of the U.S. military. Now, with the new rules in effect, Pentagon reporters face tighter oversight and potential penalties for violations.
https://www.lifezette.com/2025/09/department-of-war-puts-the-pentagon-press-on-notice-follow-the-rules-or-go-home/

Apple’s next MacBook Pro may feature these 5 upgrades

**Apple’s Next MacBook Pro May Feature These 5 Major Upgrades**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 21, 2025*

Apple is reportedly working on a major redesign of its MacBook Pro, marking the first significant update since 2021. The revamped model is expected to launch sometime in 2026, bringing a range of exciting new features and improvements.

**1. OLED Display for Enhanced Visuals**

One of the standout changes in the new MacBook Pro will likely be the introduction of an OLED display. This upgrade promises better brightness and more accurate color reproduction, enhancing the overall viewing experience for users. Additionally, Apple may remove the controversial notch and replace it with a smaller camera hole cutout, offering a cleaner and more modern look.

**2. Thinner Design**

The 2026 MacBook Pro is expected to sport a thinner chassis, making the laptop more sleek and portable. While specific details about the exact dimensions are still scarce, this design evolution aligns with Apple’s trend of making their devices progressively lighter and more compact.

**3. Touchscreen Integration**

Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has predicted that Apple might introduce touchscreen capabilities to its Mac lineup as early as 2026. This would mark a significant shift for Macs, which have traditionally relied on keyboard and trackpad input. Evidence suggests Apple is actively exploring touchscreen technology for future devices, hinting at enhanced interactivity and versatility for users.

**4. Cellular Connectivity**

Another groundbreaking feature rumored for the new MacBook Pro is built-in cellular connectivity. Apple is said to be developing its own in-house modem for Macs, which could enable constant internet access without the need for Wi-Fi. This would make the MacBook Pro a true on-the-go device, perfect for professionals who require seamless connectivity everywhere.

**5. Next-Generation M6 Chip**

Powering the 2026 MacBook Pro will be Apple’s next-generation M6 chip family, reportedly manufactured using TSMC’s cutting-edge 2nm technology. This advancement is expected to deliver significant improvements in both performance and energy efficiency compared to previous models, ensuring faster processing speeds and longer battery life.

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With these anticipated upgrades, the 2026 MacBook Pro could redefine what users expect from a professional laptop. From an OLED display and touchscreen support to cellular connectivity and the powerful M6 chip, Apple seems poised to bring a fresh wave of innovation to its Mac lineup. Fans and professionals alike should keep an eye out for official announcements in the coming months.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/oled-to-cellular-connectivity-macbook-pro-may-feature-these-upgrades/story

Apple’s next MacBook Pro may feature these 5 upgrades

**Apple’s Next MacBook Pro May Feature These 5 Major Upgrades**

Apple is reportedly working on a significant redesign of its MacBook Pro, marking the first major update since 2021. According to rumors, the revamped MacBook Pro is expected to launch sometime in 2026, bringing several exciting new features and improvements.

**1. OLED Display**

One of the most anticipated upgrades is the introduction of an OLED display for the first time in a MacBook Pro. This change promises improved brightness and better color accuracy, enhancing the overall visual experience for users. Additionally, the new model could eliminate the notch, opting instead for a smaller camera hole cutout for a cleaner look.

**2. Thinner Design**

The 2026 MacBook Pro is expected to boast a thinner design, contributing to a more sleek and portable device. While specific details on the slimmer profile remain scarce, this evolution aligns with Apple’s ongoing commitment to refining the form factor of its devices.

**3. Touchscreen Integration**

Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has predicted that Apple may introduce touchscreen capabilities to its Mac lineup as early as 2026. This speculation is supported by increasing evidence of Apple’s interest in incorporating touchscreen technology into future Macs, potentially transforming user interaction.

**4. Cellular Connectivity**

In a notable advancement, the upcoming MacBook Pro could become Apple’s first cellular-enabled Mac. Reports suggest that an in-house modem is in development, which would allow the device to offer cellular connectivity, providing users with internet access on the go without relying on Wi-Fi networks.

**5. Next-Generation M6 Chip**

Powering the new MacBook Pro will be the next-generation M6 chip family, expected to be Apple’s first to utilize TSMC’s cutting-edge 2nm technology. This chip upgrade is set to deliver significant improvements in both performance and energy efficiency compared to previous models.

With these anticipated upgrades, Apple’s 2026 MacBook Pro aims to redefine professional laptop performance and user experience. Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the official launch.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/oled-to-cellular-connectivity-macbook-pro-may-feature-these-upgrades/story

H-1B visa fee hike: Beneficiaries like Musk, Nadella, Pichai silent

**H-1B Visa Fee Hike: Beneficiaries Like Musk, Nadella, Pichai Remain Silent**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 21, 2025, 06:25 PM*

Silicon Valley’s tech giants, including Elon Musk, Sundar Pichai, and Satya Nadella, have remained notably silent following the announcement of a new $100,000 fee on H-1B visa petitions. The fee hike was introduced by the Trump administration last Saturday, sparking surprise given that some of these leaders, notably Musk, have previously expressed strong opposition to changes in the H-1B visa system.

**Musk’s Previous Stance on H-1B Visa Changes**

Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, has been vocal about the importance of the H-1B visa program. In December, Musk took to X (formerly Twitter) to highlight that many critical contributors to his companies are beneficiaries of the H-1B visa. He went as far as threatening to “go to war” if the system was altered in a way that could harm these professionals.

**Details of the New Rule**

The recent regulation, signed by President Trump, imposes a hefty $100,000 fee on H-1B visa petitions. According to the administration, the goal is to ensure that only “extraordinarily skilled” individuals enter the U.S. workforce, preventing companies from using foreign professionals to replace American workers.

This fee hike predominantly affects Indian professionals, who make up approximately 71% of all H-1B visa holders.

**Clarifications on the Fee**

The administration clarified that this new rule only applies to *new* visa petitions and does not impact existing H-1B visa holders who are re-entering the country. Karoline Leavitt, White House spokesperson, explained on X that “this is NOT an annual fee. It’s a one-time fee that applies only to the petition.”

A petition refers to a company’s request to bring a skilled foreign worker to the U.S. workforce.

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The response—or lack thereof—by influential tech leaders continues to draw attention as the industry assesses the impact of this significant policy change on talent acquisition and innovation.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/h-1b-visa-s-100-000-fee-what-are-silicon-valley-ceos-saying/story

VinFast India taps Hyundai executive as its CEO

**VinFast India Taps Hyundai Executive as Its CEO**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 21, 2025, 02:58 PM*

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**Vietnamese EV Maker VinFast Appoints New CEO in India**

Vietnamese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer VinFast is set to appoint Tapan Ghosh, currently Vice President and Head of Sales at Hyundai India, as the CEO of its Indian operations. Ghosh has already submitted his resignation to Hyundai and is expected to join VinFast India on October 16.

This leadership change comes shortly after VinFast launched its two new electric SUVs, the VF6 and VF7, in the Indian market.

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**VinFast’s Growing Presence in India**

So far, VinFast’s strategy in India has been overseen by Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia. The company has established an assembly plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, with plans to initially produce 50,000 cars. Production capacity is expected to scale up to 300,000 units over time.

VinFast has also committed to investing nearly $2 billion in India over the next few years to strengthen its operations and expand its local footprint.

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**Tapan Ghosh’s Industry Experience**

Tapan Ghosh brings extensive automotive industry expertise to VinFast. Beginning his career with Hindustan Motors in 1995, Ghosh has worked with several major companies, including Honda Cars, Mahindra & Mahindra, Maruti Suzuki India, and Tata Motors. Since joining Hyundai in 2013, he has played a key role in driving sales growth.

His appointment as CEO is expected to add significant value to VinFast’s ambitions in India by leveraging his deep understanding of the local market.

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**VinFast’s Market Entry Strategy vs Tesla**

VinFast’s approach to entering India contrasts with Tesla’s. Tesla entered the Indian market in July with showrooms in Mumbai and Delhi but maintains limited operations and remote leadership.

VinFast, on the other hand, is focusing on local manufacturing and leadership, a strategy experts believe is vital for success in India’s competitive EV segment.

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**Challenges Ahead for VinFast in India**

While VinFast has surprised many by pricing its cars competitively alongside established Indian brands like Tata and Mahindra, gaining consumer trust remains a significant challenge.

According to Puneet Gupta from S&P Global Mobility, “Customers already have inhibitions about EVs, so an added uncertainty about a relatively unknown brand in the Indian market will not make things easy for VinFast.”

The appointment of a seasoned Indian automotive leader like Ghosh is seen as a critical step in overcoming these challenges and building confidence among Indian buyers.

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**Conclusion**

VinFast’s aggressive investment and localization efforts, combined with Tapan Ghosh’s leadership, mark a pivotal moment in the company’s journey to establish itself as a strong player in India’s rapidly evolving electric vehicle market.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/vinfast-to-appoint-hyundai-s-tapan-ghosh-as-india-ceo/story

NASCAR legend Kurt Busch shares explanation about 23XI Racing’s new tire plan

Kurt Busch Shares Insights on 23XI Racing’s Tire Strategy for New Hampshire Race

Kurt Busch recently provided details about 23XI Racing’s tire strategy ahead of this week’s NASCAR race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. The 2004 NASCAR Cup Series champion explained that the team conducted a 40-lap practice session to analyze the new Goodyear Racing Eagle tires—a process known within the sport as a “decode.”

Although Busch no longer competes as a driver for 23XI Racing, he now serves as a mentor and consultant for the Toyota-backed team co-owned by six-time NBA champion Michael Jordan. Currently, the organization fields three full-time entries: Bubba Wallace in the #23, Riley Herbst in the #35, and Tyler Reddick in the #45.

This weekend, NASCAR will utilize the same Goodyear tire package recently run at tracks including Bowman Gray Stadium, Martinsville Speedway, North Wilkesboro Speedway, and Richmond Raceway. The soft compound tires are designed to provide extra grip but come with quicker performance fall-off. This dynamic sets up intriguing tire strategies throughout the 301-lap race.

“Any time a new tire’s brought to a track, it’s called a ‘decode,’” Busch explained. “Our cars did a 40-lap run because they want a good read on the tires and brakes.”

Busch is no stranger to the 1.058-mile oval in Loudon, New Hampshire, where he has earned three NASCAR Cup Series victories. He scored back-to-back wins with Roush Racing in 2004 and added another triumph with Penske Racing (now Team Penske) in 2008.

In addition to supporting the team, the 47-year-old Busch has been named grand marshal for the Mobil 1 301, scheduled for September 21 at 2:00 p.m. ET. The race will kick off the Round of 12 in the playoffs, where two 23XI Racing drivers remain contenders: Bubba Wallace and Tyler Reddick.

Wallace currently sits eighth in the playoff standings with just a one-point buffer, while Reddick is 12th, narrowly three points below the cutoff line. A strong finish at Loudon could quickly catapult Reddick near the top of the leaderboard.

Kurt Busch Updates on His Roles at New Hampshire

Kurt Busch posted on X (formerly Twitter) that he is at New Hampshire Motor Speedway both to fulfill his grand marshal duties and to support 23XI Racing. He also shared a humorous story about the “Loudon the Lobster” trophy.

In 2008, Busch earned the very first Loudon the Lobster trophy, unique to this race. He attempted to donate the original trophy to the Boston Aquarium, but the track is now gifting him a replica instead.

Busch wrote on social media:
“Headed to (New Hampshire Motor Speedway) this weekend to cover grand marshal duties and to support (23XI Racing). In ’08, I was able to capture the 1st ever Loudon the Lobster trophy. The track is gifting me a replica because I tried to donate mine to the Boston Aquarium.”

Before taking on his mentorship role with 23XI Racing, Busch drove the #45 Toyota during the 2022 season. Unfortunately, a crash at Pocono Raceway sidelined him, leading to his official retirement announcement the following year.

As older brother to two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Busch (#8 Richard Childress Racing driver), Kurt continues to make a significant impact in the sport through his experience and guidance.

Stay tuned for race weekend updates as 23XI Racing battles for playoff position at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/nascar/news-nascar-legend-kurt-busch-shares-explanation-23xi-racing-s-new-tire-plan

Rajnath to visit Morocco, first by any Indian Defence Minister

**Rajnath Singh to Visit Morocco: First Indian Defence Minister to Do So**

*By Snehil Singh | Sep 20, 2025, 02:54 PM*

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to embark on a two-day official visit to Morocco beginning September 22. Marking a historic milestone, this will be the first visit by an Indian Defence Minister to the North African nation.

### Strengthening Strategic Ties

The visit aims to bolster strategic ties between India and Morocco, with a special emphasis on enhancing defense cooperation and industrial collaboration. One of the highlights of the trip will be the inauguration of Tata Advanced Systems Maroc’s new manufacturing facility in Berrechid, dedicated to the production of the Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP) 8×8.

### A Milestone for India’s Defence Manufacturing

The Berrechid plant stands as the first Indian defense manufacturing unit on African soil. This achievement aligns with India’s *Aatmanirbhar Bharat* initiative and underscores the growing global footprint of India’s defense industry.

Invited by Morocco’s Minister Delegate of National Defense, Abdellatif Loudiyi, Rajnath Singh’s visit cements the significance of deepening bilateral relations between the two countries.

### Key Strategic Discussions and Agreements

During the visit, Singh will engage in bilateral talks with Minister Loudiyi focusing on expanding defense cooperation and strategic partnerships. He is also likely to meet Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, to discuss avenues for enhanced industrial collaboration.

A major expected outcome of the visit is the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Defence Cooperation. This agreement will pave the way for formal exchanges, training programs, and stronger industrial linkages between India and Morocco.

### Growing Diplomatic and Maritime Cooperation

India-Morocco relations have seen significant momentum since 2015 following a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and King Mohammed VI. Rajnath Singh’s visit is anticipated to inject renewed energy into this partnership, particularly within defense and strategic sectors.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) also highlighted that Indian Navy ships have made regular port calls at Casablanca in recent years. The new agreement is expected to further consolidate maritime cooperation between the two nations.

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This landmark visit by Rajnath Singh underscores India’s expanding role in global defense partnerships and strengthens its ties with Morocco, fostering cooperation across defense, industrial, and maritime domains.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/rajnath-to-inaugurate-tasl-armored-vehicle-unit-during-morocco-visit/story

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