Buzzed Out: How Mosquitoes Are Winning the Urban War One City at a Time
Mosquitoes are making a strong comeback—and it’s not just summer evenings being disrupted. A new report from Terminix reveals that these persistent pests are spreading rapidly across urban areas in the United States. Topping the list for 2025 is Los Angeles, followed closely by Dallas, New York City, Atlanta, and Houston. What once seemed like an occasional annoyance has evolved into a widespread and persistent issue across the country.
The rankings come from 2024 service data gathered by more than 300 Terminix branches nationwide. Beyond being a curious statistic, the list highlights a growing public health concern. Mosquitoes don’t just bite—they transmit dangerous diseases such as West Nile virus and dengue. Warmer temperatures and expanding cities have created ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes to thrive year-round.
Dr. Sydney Crawley, Principal Vector Scientist at Terminix, notes that mosquito activity is starting earlier in the year and lasting longer than ever before. These insects are finding more opportunities to reproduce in overlooked places: stagnant water in driveways, forgotten backyard toys, birdbaths, and clogged rain gutters all offer prime mosquito real estate.
Fortunately, there are effective ways to push back. Terminix recommends a few key actions: regularly empty containers holding water, apply EPA-registered mosquito repellents, and consult with trained pest control professionals for a comprehensive management approach. These steps can significantly reduce mosquito populations when used consistently.
This isn't just about minor irritation—it’s about protecting public spaces and community health. Cities and neighborhoods must work together to stop the spread before it becomes an even greater threat. Through awareness, consistent action, and prevention, people can reclaim outdoor spaces and push back against the swarm before it takes over entirely.
Back Financial Crime Is Getting Smarter—And 177 Countries Are at Risk
Financial crime is no longer just about stolen cash or shady deals—it’s gone digital, global, and dangerously advanced. Secretariat’s Global Financial and Economic Crime Outlook 2025 reveals how 177 countries are being affected by rising threats like money laundering, fraud, bribery, and high-tech scams. Central to the report is the Secretariat Economic Crime Index (SECI), a new tool that ranks each country based on its level of risk, from top performers like Finland and Denmark, to those struggling the most, such as Venezuela and Myanmar.
With financial crime projected to hit over $6 trillion by 2030, criminals are using artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency, and decentralized finance in increasingly complex ways, making it hard for outdated systems to keep up.
The report also explores how global sanctions, behavioral biometrics, and even ESG rules are being used to fight back. But according to Secretariat leaders Bhavin Shah and Ralph Stobwasser, the biggest danger is not the crime itself—it’s the slow response from governments and institutions still using old methods in a fast-changing world. Their message is simple: adapt now, or risk being left behind by smarter, faster criminal networks.
Back The AI Revolution: Why Global Executives Are Betting on Artificial Intelligence for Business Success
The business world is in the midst of a profound transformation, with artificial intelligence (AI) now at the center of corporate strategy. According to the latest "AI at Work Report" from G-P (Globalization Partners), an overwhelming 91% of global executives affirm that AI is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s a core element of their operational blueprint. The focus has shifted from whether AI should be integrated into businesses to determining the best ways to seamlessly embed it into everyday work.
The data highlights a key trend: AI is no longer a novelty but an essential tool in the workplace. A significant 74% of executives report using AI for at least a quarter of their daily tasks, demonstrating that the technology has moved beyond experimentation to a vital asset that drives productivity and fosters innovation. The willingness to go even further is evident, as nearly half of the surveyed leaders (46%) stated they would be open to changing jobs if it meant gaining better access to AI capabilities. This shift reveals how AI is now a critical factor in talent retention and organizational competitiveness.
While AI’s productivity-boosting potential is well-documented, its role extends beyond simply enhancing output. AI is proving to be a game-changer for addressing some of the most complex business challenges, particularly in human resources (HR) and compliance. As companies navigate increasingly intricate global regulations, AI is playing a pivotal role in automating legal compliance, improving compensation frameworks, and optimizing HR operations. For HR leaders, AI is rapidly becoming an indispensable ally in streamlining tasks and reducing costs, ultimately transforming how businesses manage their workforce and regulatory obligations.
That said, a cautious note persists. Despite AI’s undeniable benefits, many executives remain wary of fully trusting AI for high-stakes decisions. More than half (51%) of leaders still hesitate to rely on AI for critical financial or legal choices, highlighting the importance of maintaining human oversight in key areas. This cautious approach signals that while AI is seen as a powerful tool, its integration into strategic decision-making requires careful consideration of risk, data accuracy, and ethical implications.
One area where AI is already making a notable impact is in the realm of global HR compliance. With the ever-changing landscape of international labor laws, businesses are turning to AI tools like G-P Gia™ for expert guidance on navigating complex legal terrain. These AI solutions are not only reducing administrative burdens and legal costs but also offering businesses a 95% reduction in time spent managing compliance. As AI continues to evolve, its ability to provide real-time, accurate insights will be key to ensuring that businesses remain agile and compliant in a fast-changing regulatory environment.
Ultimately, the findings from G-P’s report make it clear: AI is no longer a passing trend. It has become an essential pillar of modern business strategy. Executives are embracing AI not just for its productivity enhancements but for its ability to revolutionize business processes across all sectors. As companies continue to adapt to this technological shift, the challenge will not be whether to implement AI, but how to leverage it effectively and responsibly to ensure long-term success in an increasingly AI-driven world. The future of work is here—and AI is leading the charge.
Back The Global Trade Shifts: Tariff Impact of Trump on the Economic Landscape of India
In the fast-changing dynamics of global commerce, the United States' decision under President Donald Trump to impose higher tariffs on Indian imports has triggered major economic repercussions. While the U.S. government asserts that these tariffs are aimed at fixing trade imbalances, their actual effects are far more profound. What initially seemed like a short-term trade policy adjustment has revealed deeper challenges, shaking not only the structure of India’s economy but also its diplomatic ties with the U.S. As Indian businesses face new hurdles to access one of their largest export markets, the true extent of these economic consequences is beginning to unfold.
The consequences of these rising tariffs are far-reaching, extending well beyond simple price increases. One of the first results is the direct rise in the cost of Indian products within the U.S. market, such as textiles, electronics, and agricultural products. These goods are now more expensive, diminishing their attractiveness to U.S. consumers. As a result, American buyers are likely to turn to cheaper alternatives from countries unaffected by such tariffs, thus weakening India's competitiveness in this critical market. But the damage isn’t just economic—it is political, too. The imposition of these tariffs has escalated tensions, opening the door for retaliatory actions from India and possibly other nations, further complicating global trade dynamics and threatening overall economic stability.
Certain key sectors within India’s economy are feeling the impact of these new trade barriers more acutely. For instance, the electronics and gems & jewelry sectors, which are major contributors to India’s export revenues, are facing a sharp decline in competitiveness. With the U.S. being a primary market for products like smartphones, televisions, and consumer electronics, Indian manufacturers are likely to see reduced demand as the new tariffs drive up prices. Similarly, India’s lucrative gems and jewelry sector, worth billions annually, may see its exports suffer as U.S. consumers turn to cheaper options from nations not impacted by these tariffs.
India’s textile and apparel industry, which has historically enjoyed duty-free access to the U.S. under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), is also under threat. Higher tariffs on textiles make it harder for Indian products to compete with those from countries like China, Bangladesh, or Vietnam, who are not subject to the same tariff hikes. As a result, millions of jobs in India’s labor-intensive textile industry are at risk. The agriculture and processed food sectors also face significant challenges, as higher tariffs make Indian products, such as seafood, meat, and spices, more expensive for U.S. consumers, potentially reducing demand and forcing India to look for new markets.
In the automobile industry, while the impact of tariffs may not be as immediate or severe, Indian auto manufacturers still face challenges. The U.S. is a significant market for Indian vehicles and auto components, and the increase in tariffs could potentially reduce sales. Given the interconnectedness of global supply chains in the automotive sector, even modest changes in tariffs can significantly affect production costs, undermining India’s competitive advantage in this market.
These tariff hikes are also having broader economic implications for India. Reduced export revenues are likely to slow the nation’s overall economic growth as industries lose market share and face shrinking profitability. This could lead to job losses, particularly in regions that depend heavily on export-driven industries. Furthermore, the pressure on domestic markets may lead to a surplus of goods that would have been sold to the U.S., causing further economic strain. Indian businesses may struggle to absorb these unsold products, potentially lowering prices and affecting profits in the domestic economy.
The risk of retaliation remains one of the most concerning aspects of this trade dispute. India may retaliate by imposing tariffs on U.S. goods, escalating the conflict and leading to wider global trade disruptions. A full-scale trade war between two major economies would reverberate across international supply chains, creating challenges for businesses and consumers worldwide. The uncertainty introduced by this escalating trade tension makes it difficult for companies to plan ahead, adding to the instability in global markets.
In response to these challenges, India needs a strategic approach to mitigate the adverse effects of the tariffs. One of the most effective strategies would be to diversify its export markets, reducing reliance on the U.S. as a primary trading partner. By building stronger relationships with other countries, India can protect itself from the risks of protectionism. Additionally, enhancing domestic competitiveness through innovation, technology upgrades, and improved productivity will help Indian industries navigate the complexities of global trade more effectively. Diplomatic efforts to resolve the dispute through trade negotiations with the U.S. should also be a priority to avoid further escalation.
Ultimately, while the higher tariffs imposed by President Trump pose significant challenges for India, they also present an opportunity for the nation to rethink its approach to international trade. By focusing on diversifying its markets, improving domestic competitiveness, and engaging in diplomatic efforts, India can mitigate the effects of these tariffs and emerge stronger in the global economic landscape. While the path ahead may be fraught with uncertainty, with careful planning and strategic action, India can transform these challenges into stepping stones toward a more resilient and sustainable economic future.
Back Hublot Celebrates 20 Years of Big Bang with a Bold Vision for the Future
In an evening brimming with excitement and high-class elegance, Hublot marked the 20th anniversary of its iconic Big Bang timepiece. More than just a celebration of two decades, this grand event held at the Geneva Arena during the Watches & Wonders fair demonstrated the brand's commitment to constant innovation, pushing boundaries in the worlds of luxury, art, and craftsmanship. It was an experience that reflected Hublot's ethos—transforming the way time is perceived.
Since its debut, the Big Bang has been a force that has redefined luxury watchmaking. Through a unique blend of cutting-edge materials, groundbreaking design, and exceptional mechanical innovation, it has reshaped the Swiss watch industry. The anniversary celebration brought these revolutionary elements to life, proving that for Hublot, the passage of time is a dynamic process—one that constantly evolves and inspires.
The event came alive through the collaboration of Hublot's ambassadors, including legendary figures from sport, music, and cuisine. A special moment of the night was the historic collaboration between two of the world’s greatest athletes: Kylian Mbappé and Usain Bolt. This iconic pairing on stage symbolized the fusion of excellence, energy, and performance that Hublot strives to encapsulate, reflecting the brand’s blend of precision and prestige.
But the evening was not confined to sports alone. Hublot expanded its celebration to the culinary world, inviting five Michelin-starred chefs—Anne-Sophie Pic, Clare Smyth, Yannick Alléno, Eneko Atxa, and Andreas Caminada—each a titan in their own right with 43 stars between them. Together, they created a gastronomic experience that was as much about artistry as it was about flavor, treating guests to dishes as masterfully crafted as Hublot’s timepieces.
The entertainment that followed only heightened the atmosphere. Mentalist Lior Suchard wowed the audience with feats of magic that seemed to defy logic, leaving everyone in awe. The energy reached new heights with DJ Alissia, who brought the house down with a mix of funk, R&B, and pop, while Mika’s performance took the event to an unforgettable crescendo, turning the evening into a celebration of sound and rhythm that left everyone dancing until dawn.
At its core, the Big Bang anniversary was a perfect representation of Hublot's philosophy of the "Art of Fusion." The event beautifully blended different cultural expressions—art, music, food, and fashion—showcasing the brand's ability to push the boundaries of what defines luxury. As CEO Julien Tornare shared, the Big Bang has not only changed the aesthetics of watchmaking but has also influenced the wider luxury industry, leaving a lasting imprint on design and innovation.
As the night drew to a close, it was evident that Hublot is looking ahead with the same boldness that defined its first 20 years. The Big Bang is more than a timepiece—it is a symbol of reinvention and creative exploration. With this anniversary, Hublot has not only celebrated its past but has laid the foundation for the next chapter in its journey. The future of timekeeping is now more exciting than ever, and Hublot is leading the way.
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