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General20 February 2026

Iconic scholar Leela Aslin Dharmaratne passes away

Sri Lankan academic history mourns the loss of Vithanage Leela Aslin Dharmaratne, who famously earned a postgraduate degree at the age of 97. She passed away on the 18th while receiving treatment at the Ragama Teaching Hospital's intensive care unit.Born in 1927, she began her professional journey as an English teacher before becoming one of the first female notaries in the Baddegama and Nildandahinna areas during the 1940s. Following the untimely death of her husband, Notary Chitrasoma Jayalath, she raised four daughters and a niece independently, guiding them toward successful careers in medicine, law, and academia.Her youngest daughter serves as a lawyer, while others hold positions as a provincial health director and a university professor in Australia. Beyond her family, she contributed significantly to society by founding the Nawalapitiya Mahila Samitiya and the Sri Kantha Kalayathana. Her lifelong dedication to education culminated in her becoming the oldest person in Sri Lanka to receive a postgraduate degree from the University of Kelaniya, specializing in Buddhist Philosophy and Pali.

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Iconic scholar Leela Aslin Dharmaratne passes away
General20 February 2026

Sunil Watagala challenges allegations against energy minister

Deputy Minister of Public Security Sunil Watagala stated in Parliament today (20) that the Energy Minister has not been convicted by any court and challenged the Opposition to provide a case number if such a conviction exists.The Deputy Minister made these remarks while participating in the adjournment debate currently underway in Parliament regarding the importation of substandard coal.Key Points from the Deputy Minister's Statement:Coal Tender: He noted that if any technical issues occurred regarding the coal tender, steps have been taken to rectify them, including measures to recover compensation from the relevant company.Equality Before the Law: Watagala emphasized that the law is now applied equally to everyone. He remarked that unlike in the past when investigative bodies had to chase individuals, high-profile figures are now reporting to the Bribery Commission and the CID themselves.Recent Examples: He cited that Shiranthi Rajapaksa recently appeared before the FCID, and Maithree Wickremesinghe, wife of Ranil Wickremesinghe, was scheduled to appear at the CID today. "The law is the same for our people and for others," he added.Opposition Response:During the session, Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Ajith P. Perera rose to claim that a Labour Tribunal had previously removed the Energy Minister from a prior position. He stated that this had been reported to the Bribery Commission and offered to provide the relevant reference number in the future.Rebuttal:Responding to the MP, Deputy Minister Sunil Watagala reiterated that the Energy Minister has not been found guilty by any court of law. He urged the Opposition to refrain from spreading "utterly false" information.

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Sunil Watagala challenges allegations against energy minister
General20 February 2026

Johnston Fernando and sons further remanded

The Wattala Magistrate's Court has ordered that former Minister Johnston Fernando, his two sons, and another suspect be further remanded until March 6.Additionally, another suspect involved in the same case was ordered to remain in remand custody until February 27.

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Johnston Fernando and sons further remanded
General20 February 2026

Private tourist bus collides with motorcycle

The Yatiyantota Police stated that an accident occurred in the Thanakolawatta area within the Yatiyantota police jurisdiction when a private tourist bus collided with a motorcycle.According to the police, the motorcyclist sustained injuries and has been hospitalised. The accident took place today (20) around 4:00 PM as the private bus, carrying a group of tourists, was traveling through the area.Police noted that the road is currently slippery due to heavy rain in the region.

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Private tourist bus collides with motorcycle
General20 February 2026

Heavy rain forecast for several provinces

The Department of Meteorology has announced that heavy rains are likely across several parts of the island within the next few hours.According to the latest weather reports, heavy falls exceeding 100 mm can be expected at some places, particularly in the Central, Uva, and Sabaragamuwa provinces.Furthermore, the department notes that this heavy rain condition may also affect the North Central and Eastern provinces, specifically centering on the Batticaloa, Ampara, and Polonnaruwa districts.The Department of Meteorology also mentions the possibility of fairly heavy rains above 50 mm in certain areas across the rest of the island.

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Heavy rain forecast for several provinces
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McIlroy sets clubhouse lead at stormy Genesis

McIlroy sets clubhouse lead at stormy Genesis

The Genesis Invitational- round one leaderboard-6 A Rai (Eng); -5 J Bridgeman (US), R McIlroy (NI); -4 R Fox (Aus); -3 A Bhatia (US) P Coody (US), P Greyserman (US), SW Kim (Kor), C Morikawa (US), M Penge (Eng), A Potgieter (SA)Selected others: -2 T Fleetwood (Eng), H Hall, M Fitzpatrick; Level R MacIntyre (Sco), J Spieth (US), X Schauffele (US); +1 P Cantlay (US), R Fowler (US); +2 S Lowry (Ire); +3 J Rose (Eng); +5 S Scheffler (US)Full leaderboardRory McIlroy overcame the stormy conditions that hit the opening round of the Genesis Invitational to set the joint clubhouse lead on five under.The Northern Irishman is alongside American Jacob Bridgeman, one behind England's Aaron Rai, who had two holes left to play when darkness finally ended play at Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles.Rai is one of 30 players who will return on Friday at 07:00 (15:00 GMT) to complete their first rounds.World number one Scottie Scheffler endured another difficult start to a tournament, having struggled on day one of last week's AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.The American, who has not finished outside the top-10 since last March's Player's Championship - a run of 19 events - sits at the bottom of the 72-man field on five over with eight holes to play.Heavy rain formed puddles on the greens and led to a three-hour stoppage, with players returning to a strong and cold wind.When asked which was easier to play in, McIlroy replied: "The rain."I've started to just really enjoy this style of golf."If you had asked me 10 years ago, I didn't enjoy these conditions, but it's been a shift in mindset and maybe just a continuation of trying to build upon the skill set that I have. Then when it does get to conditions like this, I'm a lot more prepared."England's Marco Penge, in his debut year on the PGA Tour, is handily placed on three under with nine holes of his opening round to play.The tournament has returned to its regular venue of the Riviera Club this year after being relocated to Torrey Pines in 2025 following the devastating wildfire in the Pacific Palisades.-BBC

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I want Guardiola to stay at Man City - Rooney

I want Guardiola to stay at Man City - Rooney

Former Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney hopes Pep Guardiola will stay at Manchester City beyond this season because he has set "a benchmark" for all other managers.The 55-year-old has been in charge of City since 2016 and led them to six Premier League titles, while they are in with a chance of a seventh this season.However, there is uncertainty over whether Guardiola will still be manager next season, with the expectation that a decision on his future will be made towards - or after - the end of this campaign."Some players will want him to leave, some will want him to stay, it depends whether you are in the team or not and that is the same for any manager," said Rooney on the latest episode of The Wayne Rooney Show."I hope he stays because he is brilliant for the Premier League and you want the best managers in the Premier League."He has set a benchmark over the past 10 years for everyone else."In December, former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca was heavily linked with a return to City, where he previously worked as a coach under Guardiola.However, Rooney believes a club legend who previously played under Guardiola would be better suited to take charge."If Pep does go, they have to go and get [current Bayern Munich boss] Vincent Kompany," he added."He knows the club, he has been successful with Bayern in a similar way. It looks like he has learned from Pep."Pep will probably choose the next manager. If he is going, he will probably be part of the process to choose the next one."I just think in terms of Pep, he looks at himself as a bit of a teacher and he has been at the club for 10 years, he will want to leave the club in a good place."'I think Arsenal will just win Premier League'Leaders Arsenal suffered a blow in their bid to win the Premier League on Wednesday when they let slip a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 at bottom club Wolverhampton Wanderers.That put them five points clear of second-placed Manchester City, who have a game in hand.Should they win that, it will set up a pivotal meeting at Etihad Stadium on 18 April when City host Arsenal.The two rivals also face each other in the Carabao Cup final on 22 March, and could potentially face each other in the Champions League knockouts."I think a big factor will be if Manchester City and Arsenal meet in the Champions League," added Rooney, who was speaking before Arsenal's draw at Wolves."The emotions around the League Cup final, the Champions League games, if that is the case, and then the game at the Etihad. The emotion around those games and what that will bring, whoever comes out on top in those I think will win the league."I would prefer Arsenal to win it. I played for Manchester United for 13 years! For me, Liverpool are the ones I wouldn't want to win it and then it would be City. I think Arsenal will just win it."-BBC

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Alysa Liu wins Olympic gold

Alysa Liu wins Olympic gold

Alysa Liu delivered a dazzling performance to win the gold at the Milano Cortina Games on Thursday as she capped a remarkable comeback journey to snap a 20-year Olympic medal drought for Americans in the women's figure skating event.Japan's Kaori Sakamoto took silver, finishing ahead of her 17-year-old teammate Ami Nakai, who claimed bronze.Skating with joyful confidence, Liu nailed jump after jump in her Donna Summer disco-themed free skate to bring the sold-out crowd to their feet."When I was skating, hearing the cheers, I felt so connected with the audience. I want to be out there again," she said."The way I felt out there was calm, happy and confident. I've been having fun. This experience is really cool."COMEBACK QUEENLiu stunned the skating world when she retired from the sport aged just 16 after the Beijing Games in 2022, citing burnout and the desire to pursue other interests.The Californian returned two years later with a new perspective - and more creative control - taking charge of her music choices, programmes and costumes. That reset helped spark a resurgence that included a world title in Boston last year.Aptly dressed in a shimmering gold outfit, the 20-year-old joyously celebrated her flawless display by playfully flicking back her striped ponytail at the end of her routine.Her performance left her teammate Ilia Malinin punching the air in delight as he cheered on from the stands and earned Liu a season's best score of 150.20 for her free skate and a total of 226.79.It was Liu's second gold medal in Milan following the United States' triumph in the team competition earlier in the Games.She came into Thursday's competition as the U.S.'s last realistic hope for gold after teammates and fellow "Blade Angels" Amber Glenn and Isabeau Levito put themselves out of contention in Tuesday's short programme.Liu pulled off seven soaring triple jumps on Thursday to become the first American woman to win an individual medal since Sasha Cohen captured silver in 2006 and the first U.S. gold medallist since Sarah Hughes triumphed in Salt Lake City in 2002.SAKAMOTO DISAPPOINTEDSakamoto, a favourite coming into the competition, was looking to win her first gold medal in her final Olympics but it was not to be as the three-time world champion and Beijing bronze medallist paid the price for failing to deliver one of her jump combinations.As she skated off the ice with a bloodied knee, the pain was both physical and mental for Sakamoto, who burst into tears as realisation hit that her gold medal hopes had disappeared with that one jumping mishap.She finished second with a total of 224.90."My goal was to get the gold medal, and now I feel so disappointed,” the 25-year-old said as the tears kept flowing even after the medals ceremony.Nakai came into Thursday's free skate leading both Sakamoto and Liu. While she nailed her opening triple Axel, her next element did not go to plan as she mistimed the expected triple loop-triple toeloop combination and had to settle for a triple-double effort -- which effectively cost her the gold.The 17-year-old surprisingly finished a lowly ninth in the free skate but secured bronze with a total of 219.16.She said she never thought she would make the Olympic team, much less earn a medal, and hopes she can successfully take over the mantle from Sakamoto."It's my first and last time and at the Olympics with her," Nakai said of Sakamoto."I feel sad about that, but I think this means that moving forward, I am carrying the weight of the Japan team, so I'd like to do well for the next Olympics as well."Japan's Mone Chiba finished fourth on her Olympic debut. American Amber Glenn rebounded from 13th spot following the short programme to finish fifth overall, while Russia's Adeliia Petrosian fell on a quad attempt and placed sixth.They were all left looking up at Liu, who said she felt unburdened by the pressure of the sport's biggest stage."The most important part of my story is human connection," she said."That's all I want in my life, is human connection. And damn now I connect with a hella ton of people. So that's my dream, and I am glad that I have my creative ideas and can share those as well."I think my story is more important than anything (results or medals), and that's what I will hold dear. And this journey has been incredible."The women's event closed the figure skating programme at the Milano Cortina Games. Musician Megan Thee Stallion and tennis great Maria Sharapova were among those in attendance.- Reuters

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Le Mans 24 2026 entry list revealed

Le Mans 24 2026 entry list revealed

The 94th edition of the Le Mans 24 Hours will feature a capacity grid of 62 cars, but there will be fewer contenders fighting for the overall win in the Hypercar class.Porsche’s departure from the top division of the World Endurance Championship has contributed to a decline in the number of Hypercar entries to 18 in 2026, down from 21 last year.The German manufacturer had helped propel the top class to a record tally in 2025, fielding three 963s on a factory basis, with privateer Proton Competition entering a fourth example of the Multimatic chassis.Although the Volkswagen Group brand was eligible to participate in Hypercar this year courtesy of its 2025 IMSA GTP title, its exit from the eight-round WEC prevented it from taking up its auto-invite.Another notable absence from this year’s Le Mans is Action Express Racing, which had been racing at La Sarthe every year since the introduction of the LMDh ruleset in 2023.AXR’s surprise exit leaves three Cadillac V-Series.R LMDh cars in Hypercar: the two full-season factory cars entered by Jota, plus an additional entry fielded by Wayne Taylor Racing. WTR, which raced at Le Mans for the first time last year after rejoining Cadillac’s fold, will carry an unchanged driver line-up comprising Filipe Albuquerque, Ricky Taylor and Jordan Taylor.The departures of Porsche and AXR have been partially offset by the arrival of Hyundai’s luxury marque Genesis, which will field a pair of Oreca-based GMR001 LMDh cars in the full WEC.Otherwise, the Hypercar field remains largely stable, with eight manufacturers present on the grid: Aston Martin, Toyota, Cadillac, BMW, Genesis, Ferrari, Alpine and Peugeot.Of those eight brands, Ferrari will head into Le Mans on the back of three consecutive victories, while WEC stalwart Toyota will debut its rebranded TR001 Hybrid after completing a major overhaul of its LMH contender over the winter. Alpine, meanwhile, is set for its final Le Mans appearance for the time being, following its decision to withdraw from the WEC at the end of the season.A larger LMP2 fieldA total of 19 LMP2 cars will contest the secondary prototype division, including 10 in the Pro-Am sub-category. This represents a modest increase over 2025, when the class featured 17 cars.Reigning LMP2 champion Inter Europol will return with a pair of Oreca 07s, both entered under the standard P2 sub-category this time, while the likes of United Autosport and Proton Competition will also field two cars each.Several teams are joining or returning to Le Mans this year, including DKR Engineering, IMSA regular CrowdStrike Racing by APR, Vector Sport, Duqueine Team, CLX Motorsport and RD Limited. On the other hand, RLR M Sport and CLR Pure Rxing are absent from this year’s field.Most LMP2 teams didn’t announce their full driver line-ups, but it has been revealed that new McLaren Hypercar signing Mikkel Jensen will drive the #22 United Autosports Oreca alongside Rasmus Lindh and Gregoire Saucy. Other notable names in the LMP2 class include Doriane Pin (Duqueine), Pietro Fittipaldi (Vector), Tom Dillmann and Nick Yelloly (Inter Europol), Louis Deletraz and Dane Cameron (AO by TF), and Oliver Jarvis (United Autosports).Expanded LMGT3 grid.The LMGT3 has grown to 25 entries with both Aston Martin and Corvette adding an extra car compared to last year, but with Porsche's attack depleted after Iron Dames's decision to pull out of the WEC.The Heart of Racing’s two Aston Martin Vantage GT3s entered for the full WEC season will be supplemented by an additional Vantage, run under the Racing Spirit of Leman banner. The last-named team ran one car under its name in the full WEC last year, but is absent from this year’s grid as THOR takes over both entries.Corvette will also increase its presence, with TF entering a third car under the Racing Team by Turkey moniker and Orey Fidani’s 13 Autosport taking over the entry previously held by AWA.Elsewhere, Kessel Racing will expand to a second Ferrari 296 GT3 Evo, effectively replacing Ziggo Sport Tempesta in the Italian marque’s roster.Further, Garage59 will enter a pair of McLaren 720s GT3 Evos, having taken over the running of the British manufacturer’s LMGT3 programme from United Autosports, which is directing its attention to its 2027 Hypercar programme. In all, nine manufacturers will be represented in the LMGT3 class at Le Mans: Corvette, McLaren, Ferrari, Aston Martin, BMW, Mercedes, Ford, Lexus and Ferrari.Of those, only BMW, Ford and Lexus will stick to their regular two-car WEC entries, while the remaining manufacturers expand their presence for Le Mans.Porsche will head to La Sarthe as the reigning LMGT3 champion, having been unbeaten since the introduction of the class at Le Mans in 2024.There are also nine cars on the reserve list, split between five LMP2s and four LMGT3s.-Autosport

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Aprilia wants to sign Pecco

Aprilia wants to sign Pecco

Aprilia CEO Massimo Rivola is pushing hard to convince two-time champion Francesco Bagnaia to join the Noale factory alongside Marco Bezzecchi next season.Ducati is expected to announce Marc Marquez’s contract renewal for the 2027 and 2028 MotoGP seasons in the coming days, a move that would pave the way for the confirmation of Pedro Acosta’s arrival for the same period.Such a reshuffle would leave Marquez’s current team-mate, Bagnaia, without a seat in Ducati’s factory garage next season.With it increasingly clear that his future lies away from Bologna, Bagnaia has begun exploring alternative options. Through his agent, Gianluca Falcioni, the two-time MotoGP champion has been holding discreet talks with potential suitors.One of the first approaches came from Aprilia. Initially, Bagnaia parked that possibility, having spent much of his career with Ducati and appearing more inclined to move to a Japanese manufacturer.Honda has effectively been ruled out, with the Japanese giant set to invest heavily in Fabio Quartararo while also targeting a young rider for its second seat. That left Yamaha as the frontrunner in negotiations, and until recently all signs pointed towards the Iwata factory pairing the two most recent MotoGP champions prior to Marquez’s Ducati resurgence — Jorge Martin and Bagnaia — for 2027 and 2028.During the Sepang test, Bagnaia made it clear he would not consider a satellite ride.“I believe I am a frontrunner rider, so my ambitions must always lead me to stay at the forefront,” he said. “There are many opportunities, and the good work I have done in recent years certainly helps at this moment."In doing so, he effectively ruled out a move to VR46, the team owned by his long-time mentor Valentino Rossi.Aprilia renews its pushWhile Yamaha remains Bagnaia’s priority, Autosport understands that Aprilia has recently returned with an improved proposal, backed by the persuasive efforts of Rivola.Aprilia’s racing budget, under the Piaggio Group, is considerably smaller than Yamaha’s. However, Jorge Martin’s departure to the factory Yamaha squad at the end of the season will free up an estimated €4million in salary.Part of that allocation has already gone towards Marco Bezzecchi’s new contract, but around €3m is believed to be available as a starting point in negotiations with Bagnaia.For Aprilia, assembling what it sees as the two leading Italian riders of the moment – Bezzecchi and Bagnaia – would represent a dream scenario. The fact that the pair are friends and members of the VR46 Rider Academy adds an emotional element to the pitch Rivola is making.Sporting arguments also support Aprilia’s case. At present, the RS-GP is widely regarded as a more competitive package than Yamaha’s new M1 V4, strengthening Noale’s appeal.Another factor that could weigh in negotiations is Yamaha’s apparent preference for Martin before intensifying discussions with Bagnaia – a detail that may not have gone unnoticed by the Italian.“Renewing Marco was our main priority,” Rivola said in early February after confirming Bezzecchi’s extension. “Once that priority was set, we will see how the market evolves.”Asked about the prospect of fielding two Italian riders, the former Ferrari Formula 1 executive was deliberately cautious.“I’m not saying yes or no. There are interesting scenarios,” Rivola said. “But I believe that if Aprilia continues to demonstrate its growth and shows it can build fast bikes, the top riders will come.”Time, however, may be Aprilia’s biggest obstacle. Once Marquez’s Ducati renewal is officially announced, the rider market is expected to move quickly. Yamaha is pushing Bagnaia to finalise an agreement, even as Aprilia attempts to sway him — not only with sporting arguments, but also with sentiment.-Autosport

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Bitcoin prices decline sharply

Bitcoin prices decline sharply

Bitcoin declined on Wednesday, extending its recent losses, amid caution ahead of key US economic data and expected comments from the Federal Reserve, which kept investors largely away from high-risk assets such as cryptocurrencies.The world’s largest cryptocurrency received little support from a disclosure by Strategy Inc. — the largest institutional holder — of additional purchases, while dip buyers remained cautious after Bitcoin fell about 50% from its record high reached in October.Bitcoin fell about 1% to $67,746.6 as of 01:19 ET (06:19 GMT).Strategy buys $168 million worth of Bitcoin Strategy said on Tuesday that it purchased 2,486 Bitcoin for $168.4 million over the past week, bringing its total holdings to 717,131 coins.The purchase was made at an average price of $67,710 per coin, slightly below current price levels.The deal marks the company’s third Bitcoin purchase in February, with the latest acquisition funded through additional share issuances.The company had said earlier this week that it can withstand a Bitcoin price drop to $8,000 and still meet its debt obligations.However, those statements — made after a prolonged decline in Bitcoin prices — drew criticism over potential shareholder dilution, especially if the company continues issuing new shares to fund further coin purchases.Strategy has become a key concern for Bitcoin investors, amid fears that continued price declines could force it to sell part of its large holdings to cover financial obligations.Altcoins trade in a narrow rangeBroader cryptocurrency prices moved in a narrow range on Wednesday, while most altcoins continued to post sharp losses in recent sessions, with sentiment toward the sector remaining weak.Market caution also increased ahead of a batch of key US economic indicators, most notably the minutes of the Federal Reserve’s January meeting due later today.Industrial production data are due Wednesday, trade data on Thursday, and the Personal Consumption Expenditures price index — the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge — on Friday.These releases, along with the meeting minutes, will be closely examined for further clues on the interest rate path.Cryptocurrency markets are sensitive to US rate expectations due to their speculative nature and reliance on a loose monetary environment.US President Donald Trump’s nomination of Kevin Warsh to lead the Federal Reserve triggered sharp sector losses earlier in February, as he is viewed as less inclined toward monetary easing.In trading, Ethereum — the second-largest cryptocurrency — rose 1.1% to $2,003.20, while XRP gained 0.2% to $1.4814.-economies.com

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Gold heads for weekly loss

Gold heads for weekly loss

Gold steadied on Friday, but was set for a weekly decline as the dollar climbed to a near one-month high, while investors awaited key U.S. inflation data to assess the Federal Reserve's monetary policy moving forward.Spot gold was steady at $5,000.40 per ounce, as of 0530 GMT, and was down about 1% for the week so far. U.S. gold futures for April delivery were up 0.4% at $5,019.10."Precious metals are consolidating with a slight downward bias at this time... We've seen the dollar picking up from its lows and that led to a bit of a pressure in precious metals," said GoldSilver Central Managing Director Brian Lan."Even during this period when there is no China market to support gold, we've seen that prices have more or less been steady, which also tells you that there is still a lot of buying in lower levels for gold."Markets in Mainland China and Taiwan were closed for the Lunar New Year holidays.The dollar was set for its strongest weekly performance since October, supported by a run of stronger-than-expected economic data, a more hawkish Federal Reserve outlook and lingering tensions between the U.S. and Iran.The Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) data, the Fed's preferred inflation gauge, for December is now in focus for clues on U.S. monetary policy.Markets currently expect the Fed to deliver its first rate of the year in June, according to CME's FedWatch Tool. FEDWATCHNon-yielding bullion tends to do well in low-interest-rate environments.Goldman Sachs said in a note that under the base case scenario, it expects central bank buying to re‑accelerate, while private investors will add exposure only in response to Fed rate cuts, driving gold higher to $5,400/troy ounce by end‑2026.It also said it continues to see the medium-term trajectory for gold prices as upward, potentially with elevated volatility.Elsewhere, spot silver edged 0.2% higher to $78.47 per ounce. Spot platinum ticked up 0.1% to $2,071.63 per ounce, while palladium gained 0.1% to $1,684.59.-Reuters

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Oil heads for first weekly gain

Oil heads for first weekly gain

Oil prices rose on Friday, headed for their first weekly gain in three, on growing concerns a conflict may erupt between the U.S. and Iran, after Washington said Tehran will suffer if it does not agree a deal on its nuclear activity in a matter of days.Brent crude futures rose 25 cents, or 0.4%, to $71.91, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude gained 31 cents, or 0.5%, to $66.74 as of 0437 GMT.Prices settled at a six-month high on Thursday after U.S. President Trump said "really bad things" would happen if Iran does not come to an agreement regarding a nuclear programme it has said is peaceful but that the U.S. believes is militaristic. Trump set a deadline of 10 to 15 days.Iran, meanwhile, has planned a joint naval exercise with Russia, a local news agency reported, days after temporarily closing the Strait of Hormuz for military drills."Crude oil prices have edged to six-month highs as concerns over potential supply risks from the Strait of Hormuz keep markets on edge," said Phillip Nova senior market analyst Priyanka Sachdeva.Iran lies opposite the oil-rich Arabian Peninsula across the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of global oil supply passes. Conflict in the area could limit oil supplies entering the global market and push up prices."Market focus has clearly shifted to escalating Middle East tensions after the failure of multiple rounds of U.S.-Iran nuclear talks, even as investors debate whether any actual disruption will materialise," Sachdeva added.Also supporting oil prices were reports of falling crude oil stocks and limited exports in the world's biggest oil producing and exporting countries.U.S. crude inventories dropped by 9 million barrels, as refining utilisation and exports climbed, an Energy Information Administration report showed on Thursday.Worries about how interest rates in the U.S.- the world's largest oil consumer - could pan out limited oil price gains."Recent Fed minutes pointing to steady rates or even the risk of further hikes if inflation stays sticky could cap demand," said Phillip Nova's Sachdeva.Low interest rates are typically seen as supportive for crude prices.Markets were also mulling the impact of ample supply on prices, with talks of OPEC+ leaning towards a resumption in oil output increases from April.The oil surplus that was evident in the second half of 2025 continued in January and "is likely to persist", JP Morgan analysts Natasha Kaneva and Lyuba Savinova said in a client note."Our balances continue to project sizable surpluses later this year," they said, adding that meant output cuts of 2 million barrels per day would be needed to prevent excess inventory builds in 2027.-Reuters

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US goods trade deficit hits record high

US goods trade deficit hits record high

Despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s global tariff policy, last year’s U.S. trade deficit remained high. Notably, the goods trade deficit, which includes automobiles and semiconductors, reached a record high. While the full economic impact of the tariffs has not yet been realized, critics argue the situation is not unfolding as the U.S. initially intended.According to data released on the 19th (local time) by the U.S. Department of Commerce, the annual trade deficit for goods and services combined last year was $901.5 billion (approximately 1,300 trillion Korean won). This marked a slight decrease from the $903.5 billion deficit recorded in 2024 under the Biden administration. In December alone, the trade deficit surged by 32.6% ($17.3 billion) to $70.3 billion compared to the previous month.The issue lies in the goods trade deficit. Last year’s goods trade deficit hit a record $1.241 trillion, a 2.1% increase from 2024. The Wall Street Journal noted, “The global tariffs implemented by the Trump administration in April last year aimed to address trade imbalances, yet the goods trade deficit has actually increased.”Some analysts suggest that the trade policy has not reduced U.S. import dependence but merely shifted trade flows to other countries. Trump claimed tariffs would boost domestic factory production and reduce reliance on foreign goods. However, many importers adjusted shipment timelines or switched purchasing countries to counter the tariffs. For instance, imports from China plummeted by nearly 30%, hitting the lowest level since 2009. Meanwhile, imports from Vietnam, Southeast Asia, India, and Taiwan increased, offsetting much of the deficit reduction. The New York Times stated, “Companies have turned to factories in other regions instead of China.” Reuters added, “Punitive tariffs failed to revive U.S. manufacturing, with manufacturers cutting approximately 83,000 jobs over the past year.”The long-term outlook remains uncertain, including whether the tariff policy will lead to reduced imports, increased exports, and a narrower trade deficit. Attention is also focused on the U.S. Supreme Court’s review of the constitutionality of the Trump administration’s tariffs. The U.S. government has indicated it will impose new tariffs using alternative authorities if the current ones are invalidated, suggesting potential volatility in the near term.-The Chosunilbo

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Dollar set for best week

Dollar set for best week

The dollar was poised on Friday to cap its strongest weekly performance since October, buoyed by a run of better-than-expected economic data, a more hawkish Federal Reserve outlook and as tensions between the U.S. and Iran kept markets on edge.Overnight, the greenback got an added lift after data showed the number of Americans filing new applications for unemployment benefits fell more than expected last week, underscoring labour market stability.It clung to gains in early Asia trade on Friday and left sterling languishing near a one-month low at $1.3457. It was headed for a weekly drop of nearly 1.5%.The euro was similarly down a touch 0.02% at $1.1768 and set to lose 0.8% for the week, with the common currency also weighed down by uncertainty over European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde's tenure.Against a basket of currencies, the dollar hovered near Thursday's one-month peak and was last at 97.89. It was on track for a weekly gain of more than 1%, which would mark its strongest performance in more than four months."It wouldn't surprise me if the U.S. dollar keeps lifting for a while longer," said Joseph Capurso, a strategist at Commonwealth Bank of Australia, citing hawkishness from this week's Fed minutes which showed several policymakers were open to rate hikes if inflation proved sticky.Concerns about a U.S.-Iran conflict have also lent the dollar some safe-haven support this week.U.S. President Donald Trump warned Iran on Thursday it must make a deal over its nuclear program or "really bad things" will happen, and set a deadline of 10 to 15 days, drawing a threat from Tehran to retaliate against U.S. bases in the region if attacked."That could really affect oil markets and currency markets if things go bad there. It'll be a test also about whether or not the U.S. dollar is still a safe haven," said Capurso."A major attack would call that into question."RATES, RATES, RATESThe focus for markets now turns to the release of the U.S. core PCE price index and advance fourth quarter GDP figures later in the day, which could drive the next move in currencies.Investors continue to price in roughly two Fed rate cuts this year, though expectations for such a move in June have dipped to a roughly 58% chance from 62% a week ago, according to the CME FedWatch tool."The big argument within the Fed is whether or not to proactively lower rates to support the job market, or to keep rates higher for longer in order to fight inflation," said Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Northlight Asset Management, adding that Friday's PCE report will "add to the debate".Elsewhere, the Australian dollar was down 0.08% at $0.7055 but set to lose just 0.2% for the week, as it continues to be buoyed by hawkish rate expectations at home.The New Zealand dollar was in a bit more of a bother, headed for a 1.2% weekly loss, undone by a dovish outlook on rates from the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. Investors wagering on tighter policy were badly wrongfooted, following a blizzard of cuts over the past year or so.The kiwi last traded 0.12% lower at $0.5967.In Japan, the yen dipped 0.05% to 155.08 per dollar, reversing slight gains from earlier in the session after data on Friday showed the country's annual core consumer inflation hit 2.0% in January, marking the slowest pace in two years."Today's data won't exactly instil a sense of urgency in the (Bank of Japan) to resume its tightening cycle, especially given the lacklustre rebound in activity last quarter," said Abhijit Surya, senior APAC economist at Capital Economics."However, if we're right that the recent slump won't prove enduring, while wage growth picks up and underlying price pressures remain relatively firm, there is still a strong case for the bank to hike rates again in June."-Reuters

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Bullring bull sketches found under bed to be sold

Bullring bull sketches found under bed to be sold

A discovery of original sketches for one of Birmingham's most recognisable public sculptures is set to be auctioned after being found tucked away under a bed in a Cambridgeshire home.The portfolio of drawings were the working designs for the 4.5m long giant bronze bull outside the Bullring.The collection was revealed by family at the home of sculptor Laurence Broderick, who died in April 2024, aged 88.Stephen Drake from Batemans Auctioneers said he was visiting to assess other related works, and it was a "fantastic moment" when the portfolio was "pulled from under the bed"."Having done this job of auctioneer and valuer for over 27 years it is moments like this that make my job the best one in the world," he said.In the collection are the original sketches for the bull, complete with handwritten notes by Broderick indicating which design he ultimately chose.The lot comprises of 14 signed A2 sketches, each dated July 2001 and individually numbered.The final sheet, with the label "14th drawing and it was the drawing I decided to make," reveals the chosen design that would go on to be transformed into the Bullring statue.The bronze, officially titled The Guardian, was erected in 2003, as the focal point of the city's then new shopping centre.Shortly after its unveiling, Mr Broderick described it as a "gateway emblem for Birmingham throughout history"."The objective of the sculpture is to reflect the characteristics of the trade and the market place that are synonymous with the bull," he said.The work would ultimately go on to inspire the city's raging bull, later named Ozzy, which thousands of people turned out to visit after it starred in the 2022 Commonwealth Games.The archive also includes 34 photographs of the maquette, the smaller-scale model used in preparation for the full sculpture."The family have decided that these items need to be shared and not kept under the bed or in a loft any more," said the auctioneer.The sale, by the artist's wife Ingrid Christa Broderick, will take place at Batemans Auctioneers in Stamford, Lincolnshire on Saturday 7 March at 10:00 GMT.-BBC

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Agatha Christie's letters up for auction

Agatha Christie's letters up for auction

A collection of items from English crime author Agatha Christie's housekeeper are set to make more than £1,000 at auction.Items from Phyllis Rice, the former housekeeper of Christie's holiday home Greenway House in Devon, will go under the hammer at Wessex Auction Rooms in Chippenham, Wiltshire, on Friday.Among the items are six letters addressed to Rice and notes with instructions on how to feed Christie's much-loved dogs.Auctioneer Bridget Meadows said: "These lots form a wonderful insight into Agatha Christie's personal life at Greenway House.""The collection has been tucked away by the family until recently, so it has been a real privilege to research and catalogue all of the items and learn a little more about one of the world's favourite authors," Meadows added.The five lot collection also includes first editions of Five Little Pigs and Star Over Bethlehem, both signed by Christie.Christie is the world's best-selling author of all time and is known for her 66 detective novels, including Murder on the Orient Express and Death on the Nile.Born in Torquay, Devon, in 1890, she died in Wallingford, Oxfordshire, aged 85 in 1976.The items up for sale include six letters to Rice detailing everything from compliments on alterations made to Christie's clothing by Rice and details of payments for said alterations.There are also details of Rice's trial period at Greenway House.The letters also contain a group of housekeeper's notes from Greenway cottage, including various contact details for her literary agent, doctor, builder, solicitor and others."We have, unsurprisingly had interest from enthusiasts around the world, so I am hoping that we exceed the top estimate of £1,000," said Meadows.The auction is set to begin at 12:00 GMT on Friday.-BBC

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Cameron says Netflix bid could hurt film industry

Cameron says Netflix bid could hurt film industry

James Cameron has written a letter arguing that if Netflix is successful in its bid for Warner Bros.’ studio and streaming businesses, it could cause huge job loss, change the theatrical landscape and hurt the film export business.The “Avatar” filmmaker sent his letter last week to Senator Mike Lee, chair of the Senate subcommittee on antitrust, and the letter was then recently obtained by CNBC.“I believe strongly that the proposed sale of Warner Brothers Discovery to Netflix will be disastrous for the theatrical motion picture business that I have dedicated my life’s work to,” Cameron wrote in the letter. “Of course, my films all play in the downstream video markets as well, but my first love is the cinema.”Cameron predicted that if the number of big-budget films such as he makes contracts, “Theaters will close. Fewer films will be made. The job losses will spiral.”“The business model of Netflix is directly at odds with the theatrical film production and exhibition business, which employs hundreds of thousands of Americans,” he wrote. “It is therefore directly at odds with the business model of the Warner Brothers movie division, one of the few remaining major movie studios.”Lee answered with a statement saying, “We have received outreach from actors, directors, and other interested parties about the proposed Netflix and Warner Brothers merger, and I share many of their concerns. I look forward to holding a follow-up hearing to further address these issues.”Cameron also contends that exports of Hollywood films would suffer in a Netflix-Warners merger. “The U.S. may no longer lead in auto or steel manufacturing, but it is still the world leader in movies. That will change for the worse.”-Variety

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Is this the worst movie Daniel Radcliff was pitched?

Is this the worst movie Daniel Radcliff was pitched?

Daniel Radcliffe was the latest guest on “Hot Ones” and revealed one of the worst pitches he’s ever gotten in his career was for a “Wizard of Oz” remake headlined by the original “Harry Potter” film franchise trio: Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint. The idea was hatched during the heyday of the “Potter” movies.“One of the worst ideas I’ve ever heard, during Potter, somebody came to us and I think asked, like they wanted to cast all three of us, me, Emma and Rupert, in a remake of ‘Wizard of Oz,’ where Emma was Dorothy,” Radcliffe said. “I can’t remember what Rupert was, and I just remember that I was gonna be the lion but also he knew karate.”“I was like a karate kicking cowardly lion,” he continued. “And I remember I was like 14 or 15 and I was like, ‘I don’t know a lot about the world, but this is a bad idea and it should not be made.'”This “Wizard of Oz” remake never got off the ground, although Hollywood dabbled with a return trip to Oz in 2013 with Sam Raimi’s prequel movie “Oz the Great and Powerful.” James Franco headlined the film in the title role opposite Mila Kunis, Michelle Williams and Rachel Weisz as the witches of Oz. The movie was a decent box office success with nearly $500 million worldwide, although Oz truly flexed its big screen muscles with the “Wicked” movies in 2024 and 2025. The films grossed a combined $1.2 billion worldwide.As for Radcliffe, he starred with Watson and Grint in eight “Harry Potter” movies released between 2001 and 2011. The trio’s work together on screen remains exclusively in the “Potter” movies. They reunited on television for “Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts,” which streamed in January 2022 on HBO Max.Watch Radcliffe’s full interview on “Hot Ones” in the video below.- Variety

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Melissa Barrera to make Broadway debut in “Titanique”

Melissa Barrera to make Broadway debut in “Titanique”

Melissa Barrera is heading to Broadway.Variety has learned exclusively that the “Scream” and “In the Heights” star will make her Broadway debut in the campy spoof “Titanique,” stepping into the role of Rose for the musical’s upcoming Main Stem bow at the St. James Theatre in New York.The award-winning comedy reimagines James Cameron’s 1997 blockbuster “Titanic” through the perspective and song catalog of Céline Dion.Barrera takes on the role of Rose DeWitt Bukater, immortalized on screen by Kate Winslet, in a spoof that asks what “really happened to Jack and Rose on that fateful night,” all filtered through Dion’s biggest hits. The musical features songs including “My Heart Will Go On,” “Because You Loved Me,” “All by Myself” and “To Love You More,” woven into a comedic retelling that leans into broad humor and theatrical absurdity.Marla Mindelle, the show’s co-creator, will reprise her role as Céline Dion. She co-wrote “Titanique” with Tye Blue and Constantine Rousouli. Also joining the Broadway company is four-time Emmy winner and Tony Award nominee Jim Parsons, who will play Rose’s mother, Ruth DeWitt Bukater, a role originated by Frances Fisher in the film. Grammy nominee Deborah Cox will play Unsinkable Molly Brown, portrayed by Kathy Bates in the film.“Titanique” first opened off-Broadway in June 2022 at the Asylum Theatre, then transferred to the Daryl Roth Theatre, where it ran for three years, closing in June 2025. During its off-Broadway run, the production expanded internationally with engagements in Sydney, London, Chicago and Paris.With Barrera at the helm as Rose, the splashy send-up is poised to bring powerhouse vocals. Her most recent credits include Netflix’s “Your Monster.”Some of Barrera’s other recent credits include the Peacock television series “The Copenhagen Test” with Simu Liu. Her upcoming projects include roles in Renny Harlin’s action thriller “Black Tides” and the film adaptation of “The Collaboration,” directed by Kwame Kwei-Armah and starring Jeremy Pope and Paul Bettany.The production will debut on Broadway this spring for a 16-week limited engagement. Previews begin March 26, with an official opening set for April 12. The production will conclude on July 12.Barrera is repped by IAG, imPRint and Range.-Variety

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Bad Bunny dominates Premio Lo Nuestro 2026

Bad Bunny dominates Premio Lo Nuestro 2026

Premio Lo Nuestro, the longest-running Latin Music awards show in the U.S., held its 38th edition in Miami on Wednesday evening, hosted by Thalia, Nadia Ferreira and Clarissa Molina.The evening was another peak for Bad Bunny, who was the night’s big winner less than two weeks after his galvanizing performance at the Super Bowl, taking home six awards, including for Artist of the Year, Song of the Year (“DTMF”) and Album of the Year (“Debí Tirar Más Fotos”). Regional Mexican star Carín León took home five trophies, including “Crossover” Collaboration of the Year (“Lost in Translation” with Kacey Musgraves). (Full list of winners below.)Recipients of the night’s special awards included Juanes, who received a Lifetime Achievement Award; Arcángel, recognized with the Premio Lo Nuestro Urban Icon Award; Los Bukis with the Musical Legacy Award; Manolo Díaz with the Visionary Award and Paloma San Basilio with the Premio Lo Nuestro Award for Excellence.Performers for the evening included Carlos Vives performing new single “Te Dedico,” Romeo Santos and Prince Royce presenting a medley of their recent singles, Kany García and Maluma performing their hit “1+1” and Mark Anthony opening the show with the television premiere of his duet with Nathy Peluso, “Como en el Idilio.”Premio Lo Nuestro was established by Univision in 1989; the 2026 ceremony was broadcast live on Univision, Unimas and Galavisión in the United States and streamed on ViX in most countries in Latin America.-Variety

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Teaser released for Yash’s 'Toxic'

Teaser released for Yash’s 'Toxic'

A teaser for Yash‘s “Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups” has been released, offering the first comprehensive look at the scale and tone of one of 2026’s most anticipated Indian productions.Following the birthday reveal of Yash’s character Raya and character posters for Nayanthara‘s Ganga, Kiara Advani’s Nadia, Huma Qureshi’s Elizabeth, Rukmini Vasanth’s Mellisa and Tara Sutaria’s Rebecca, the teaser expands the film’s world across multiple settings and time periods. The footage moves from circus environments to East Asian-inspired backdrops, establishing a dark aesthetic anchored by action choreography.Central to the presentation is Yash’s physical transformation for the role, which the teaser showcases across a spectrum of appearances.Yash made his film debut with the Kannada film “Jambada Hudugi” in 2007 and gained widespread recognition through “Mr. and Mrs. Ramachari” in 2014. He achieved pan-India prominence with the two-part “K.G.F” franchise, with “K.G.F: Chapter 2” becoming one of the highest-grossing Indian films of all time. As actor, co-writer and co-producer on “Toxic,” he continues his pattern of pursuing ambitious large-scale projects.Written by Yash and director Geetu Mohandas, “Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups” has been shot simultaneously in the Kannada and English languages, with dubbed versions releasing in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam and additional languages.The production features cinematographer Rajeev Ravi, composer Ravi Basrur, editor Ujwal Kulkarni and production designer T.P. Abid. Action sequences are choreographed by Hollywood’s J.J. Perry, known for his work on “John Wick,” alongside action directors Anbariv and Kecha Khamphakdee.Produced by Venkat K. Narayana and Yash through KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations, “Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups” is scheduled for theatrical release March 19, the day another tentpole, “Dhurandhar: The Revenge,” opens.-Variety

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Hello Kitty is getting a comic series

Hello Kitty is getting a comic series

New “Hello Kitty” comic books will soon launch as part of a collaboration between Japan’s Sanrio and comics giant IDW Publishing.The new multi-title partnership will begin with the debut of the “Hello Kitty: Hello World” comic book series July 22 in connection with San Diego Comic Con.Per Sanrio and IDW, the new comic book is described as “a classic and lovable depiction of Sanrio’s characters as Hello Kitty and Friends go on a world tour to solve a riddle. As they discover new riddles around the globe, they will also meet new characters in every single issue!”The “Hello Kitty: Hello World” series is written by Mariko Tamaki (“This One Summer,” “Zatanna: Bring Down the House”) and animated by artist Cody Lemieux (“Despite, Despite, Despite,” “Gnome Granny”)Following the launch of “Hello Kitty: Hello World” this summer, more “Hello Kitty” comics and some “crossovers” will be released from IDW Publishing in 2027.The Hello Kitty brand has exploded in popularity since Sanrio first introduced the character in 1974, spawning an ever-growing merch line and multiple media projects, including the upcoming feature film from Warner Bros. Pictures Animation and New Line Cinema, set to release in July 2028.“It’s truly an honor to team up with Sanrio to create ‘Hello Kitty’ comics,” IDW Publishing CEO Davidi Jonas said. “We’re thrilled to craft comics that celebrate the cute and fun spirit of the franchise while uplifting readers of every age. We can’t wait for these comics to bring inspiring and joyful stories to comic shops everywhere.”“It’s time! Hello Kitty and her friends are coming to the comic world with IDW,” associate editor Bixie Mathieu said. ”These beloved characters have been delighting fans for generations, and it’s easy to see why– their joy, whimsy, and friendship make for uplifting storytelling! With so many talented people pouring their hearts into these series, we promise longtime and new fans alike that these stories will be a delight, from the core of their storytelling to the exuberant art on the page! If you’re interested in a heartfelt reading experience unlike anything else, hello!”See below for a first look at two of the “Hello Kitty: Hello World!” comic book covers, the first by artist Justine King and the second by Min Ho Kim.- Variety

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