The messaging feature will allow users to chat and share music with people they have interacted with on Spotify
International News via Reuters:
Spotify Technology will start rolling out a messaging feature to both free and premium subscription tiers as the music streaming giant seeks to attract more users and fend off competition.
The messaging feature will allow users to chat and share music with people they have interacted with on Spotify, the Swedish firm said on Tuesday. It will be available on mobile devices of users aged 16 and older in select markets starting this week.
Spotify had a similar messaging feature earlier, but had removed it in 2017 over low engagement. This time, the company is banking on the sharp growth in subscribers over the past few years to revive the feature and grab market share.
The company has been focused on boosting margins through price hikes while balancing user growth amid intensifying competition from rivals such as Apple Music, Amazon Music and YouTube.
The music streamer, which had 696 million monthly active users in the second quarter, is investing in new features as it targets 1 billion, according to a Financial Times report on Sunday.
It has been expanding its video content library, including through a partner program that offers monetization options for podcast creators.
Reporting by Zaheer Kachwala in Bengaluru; Editing by Leroy Leo
The event will be held at the Steve Jobs Theater at Apple’s headquarters in Cupertino, California
International News via Reuters:
Apple will host its annual fall event on September 9, according to an invite on Tuesday, where the company is expected to unveil new iPhones, watches and other devices.
The event will be held at the Steve Jobs Theater at Apple’s headquarters in Cupertino, California and serve as a showcase of the company’s efforts to integrate artificial intelligence into its devices.
It will be closely watched by investors worried about the company ceding ground to faster-moving rivals in the race to deploy AI technology.
Media reports have said Apple will also unveil a slimmer version of its latest iPhone, possibly branded as the iPhone Air, echoing its iPad Air and MacBook Air lines.
The company is also expected to showcase new entry-level, high-end Apple Watches, upgraded iPad Pros and a faster version of the Vision Pro headset, Bloomberg News has reported recently.
Under pressure from the Trump administration, Apple has boosted its already hefty investment in the U.S. to $600 billion over the next four years, creating jobs and shifting some work there in the hopes of sidestepping potential import duties.
Apple faces pressure from tariffs imposed on U.S. imports from countries including its production hubs, China and India.
In June, Apple announced a slew of AI and software features, along with an overhaul of its operating system — redesigning its icons and menu to resemble what it calls “liquid glass.”
However, Apple’s delay in embracing the AI market has left it trailing Big Tech stalwarts. Smartphone maker Samsung and Chinese firms Honor and Huawei have taken advantage of the gap Apple left in the industry, luring customers with their own AI offerings.
Reporting by Zaheer Kachwala in Bengaluru; Editing by Alan Barona and Maju Samuel
Chrysler-parent Stellantis paid $190.6 million in penalties this year for not meeting U.S. fuel economy requirements, according to a government report and the Italian-U.S. automaker.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said in an annual report that Stellantis paid $112.3 million in June and $78.3 million in March in payments for shortfalls from the 2019 and 2020 model years. In total, Stellantis has paid $773.5 million since 2018.
Last month, NHTSA told automakers they face no fines for failures to meet fuel efficiency rules dating back to the 2022 model year under a law signed by President Donald Trump.
Stellantis confirmed the figures to Reuters Tuesday but declined further comment.
Trump’s tax and budget bill ends penalties for not meeting Corporate Average Fuel Economy rules under a 1975 energy law.
Rivian said in a court filing this month that because NHTSA has not processed end-of-year reports or compliance notifications for the 2022 model year and later, it cannot finalize previously negotiated transactions worth $100 million in credit revenue.
The fuel economy penalty change is one of a number made by Washington to make it easier for automakers to build gasoline-powered vehicles.
GM previously paid $128.2 million in penalties for 2016 and 2017.
Last year, Tesla said it received $2.8 billion in global revenue from regulatory credits it earns from selling zero-emission EVs and sells to other automakers seeking to meet vehicle emissions targets.
In June, NHTSA paved the way for looser U.S. fuel economy standards by declaring that former President Joe Biden’s administration exceeded its authority by assuming high uptake of electric vehicles in calculating rules.
In 2023, under Biden’s administration, NHTSA said its fuel economy proposal would cost the industry $14 billion in projected fines including $6.5 billion for GM, $3 billion for Stellantis, and $1 billion for Ford through 2032.
The final rule adopted last year eased requirements and the agency said the industry would face no more than $1.83 billion in fines through 2031.
Reporting by David ShepardsonEditing by Tomasz Janowski
The ship will serve as NCL’s flagship vessel for Bermuda itineraries, sailing weekly from New York City to Dockyard during the 2026 season
Images supplied
Government press release:
The Government of Bermuda is pleased to welcome Norwegian Cruise Line’s (NCL) newest ship, Norwegian Aqua, on her inaugural call to the island. Norwegian Aqua, launched in March 2025, is the first of NCL’s Prima Plus Class vessels and represents a significant enhancement in the cruise experience for visitors to Bermuda.
Norwegian Aqua will serve as NCL’s flagship vessel for Bermuda itineraries, sailing weekly from New York City to the Royal Naval Dockyard during the 2026 season. The 2025 cruise ship schedule has six (6) more calls this year. With capacity for over 4,000+ guests, Aqua introduces groundbreaking features, including the world’s first Aqua Slidecoaster and innovative entertainment such as “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince.”
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH) has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Bermuda, extending its operating agreement through 2037. This partnership includes investment in infrastructure, such as the planned 200-foot extension of King’s Wharf Pier. This will ensure Bermuda can continue to welcome the world’s newest cruise vessels, underscoring Bermuda’s importance as a premier destination.
Looking Ahead with Norwegian Aqua is leading the way, and Bermuda is set to enjoy a vibrant cruise tourism season in 2026, enhanced visitor experiences, and sustained economic benefits for the local community.
On August 25, Acting Minister of Tourism & Transport, Culture & Sport, The Hon. Diallo V. Rabain JP, MP, escorted a delegation onboard the Norwegian Aqua to welcome the ship to Bermuda and presented a ceremonial plaque on behalf of the Government of Bermuda, along with the Chairman of the Host Port, Mr. Neville Tyrrell, of Bermuda Land Management Corporation, who also presented a plaque on behalf of the Royal Naval Dockyard. Also in attendance were representatives from the Ministry of Transport, Meyer Agencies Limited, Department of Marine & Ports, Department of Customs, and Bermuda Land Management Corporation.
Acting Minister Rabain said, “It was my distinct pleasure to be invited aboard such a magnificent ship for the inaugural celebration. The ship’s Officers and crew were proud and excited to share all the nuances and amazing amenities that make the Norwegian Aqua so special. I can see why this ship is Norwegian Cruise Lines’ New Flagship, and we are honoured to have her dedicated to the Bermuda market during our 2025 end-of-season and the 2026 summer season from New York.”
Norwegian Aqua’s first call was scheduled for August 20, but it was unfortunately rerouted due to Hurricane Erin, so her inaugural call was on August 25, 2025.
A June 2025 law makes it a criminal offence in France to provide an illicit online platform
International News via Reuters:
Paris prosecutors have launched an investigation into the Australian-owned video platform Kick following the online death of Frenchman Raphael Graven who endured days of livestreamed abuse.
They said they would examine whether Kick knowingly provided illegal services by broadcasting videos of deliberate attacks and whether Kick complied with European digital services regulations to report any risk of harm to life or personal safety.
A June 2025 law makes it a criminal offence in France to provide an illicit online platform. The offence carries a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment and a fine of 1 million euros when committed by an organised gang, the Paris prosecutor’s office statement said.
Last week, prosecutors in Nice opened a separate investigation into the 46-year-old’s death in the village of Contes, in southern France.
An autopsy showed Graven, known online as Jean Pormanove, did not die from impact trauma and that the probable causes of death appeared to be medical or toxicological in origin.
A spokesperson for Kick said on Tuesday the company had been informed of further developments in France in relation to its platform and would cooperate with the relevant authorities with any ongoing investigation.
French digital communication regulator Arcom has also launched a probe into the case and the government has said it would tighten regulations if necessary.
Reporting by Geert De Clercq; Editing by Sudip Kar-Gupta, Makini Brice, Ros Russell and Alison Williams
Essential renovations will begin starting September 12th with re-opening scheduled for March 2026.
Full press release from the Government of Bermuda:
The Bermuda Post Office announces that Mangrove Bay Post Office will be temporarily closed for essential renovations from Friday, September 12, 2025, with reopening anticipated in late March 2026.
The closure is necessary to improve safety and building conditions.
This includes repairing holes, loose and rotten floorboards, concreting the floor, improving ventilation, re-plastering walls, and making other essential structural improvements.
These refurbishments have been planned for over a year, with the schedule determined by contractor availability.
During the closure:
Mail addressed to Mangrove Bay post boxes will be redirected to Southampton Post Office for customer pick-up.
Due to space constraints at Southampton, the Warwick Post Office will temporarily handle parcel deliveries usually processed at Mangrove Bay.
The Bermuda Post Office thanks the public for their patience and understanding as we complete these critical safety and infrastructure improvements.
During this period, customers are encouraged to plan accordingly and visit alternative locations for postal services.
Bermuda Post Office temporarily suspends shipments after new U.S. import duty rule takes effect
Government press release:
Effective Friday, August 29, 2025, the Bermuda Post Office joins countries including the UK, Canada, India, France, Spain, and those from the Caribbean in temporarily suspending mail shipments to the United States containing goods now subject to U.S. Customs Import Duty.
This action follows a recent Executive Order issued by the U.S. Government, which removed the duty-free “de minimis” exemption that previously allowed packages valued at $800 or less to enter the U.S. without import duties.
As a result, all packages sent to the United States are now subject to Customs import duties, with only limited exceptions. These exceptions include:
Documents and letters
Bona fide personal gifts valued at $100 or less
Postal operators worldwide are working to adapt to these new requirements. U.S. Customs has not finalised guidance on how tariffs will be assessed or collected, and systems for processing these charges are still being developed.
The Bermuda Post Office has introduced this suspension as a temporary precaution to protect customers from delays, returns, or unexpected costs. We will continue to monitor developments closely and restore full service as soon as possible.
We regret any inconvenience this may cause our customers and encourage the public to stay informed through official government notices.
The works are expected to extend the bridge’s life for another 20 years
Government press release:
The Ministry of Public Works and Environment advises that repainting of the steel structure of Watford Bridge will commence on Monday, 8 September 2025, weather permitting.
This project follows a survey carried out in 2024 by engineers, which recommended cleaning and repainting the steel beams to preserve the bridge’s structural integrity.
This project is expected to extend the bridge’s life for another 20 years.
The project will be carried out from the water using a barge and lifting equipment and is expected to take approximately six to seven weeks to complete.
Both lanes of the bridge will remain fully open to vehicular traffic for the duration of the works. However, motorists may experience occasional short delays during specific operations.
Marine traffic is advised to proceed with caution when passing beneath the bridge. Temporary restrictions or short delays may be necessary while work is being conducted directly above active navigation channels.
The Ministry thanks the public for patience and cooperation as this essential maintenance is undertaken to ensure the continued safety and service life of Watford Bridge.
The euro rose 0.37% against the dollar to $1.1664 while sterling rose 0.24% to $1.3486
International News via Reuters:
The dollar weakened against major currencies on Tuesday as President Donald Trump’s unprecedented move to fire Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook renewed concerns over the central bank’s independence.
The euro rose 0.37% against the dollar to $1.1664 while sterling rose 0.24% to $1.3486. Against the Japanese yen, the dollar fell 0.13% to 147.57 yen, and it slipped 0.24% against the Swiss franc at $0.80400.
The dollar index =USD, which measures the greenback against a basket of currencies, fell 0.33% to 98.15.
Trump said he was removing Cook over alleged improprieties in obtaining mortgage loans, a step that could test the boundaries of presidential power over the Fed. In response, Cook said Trump has no authority to fire her from the central bank, and she will not resign.
Trump’s announcement surprised markets but the reaction was relatively muted with investors caught between the concerns over politicization of policy and the payoffs for markets.
“The noise surrounding Trump’s attempt to dismiss Governor Cook has left markets largely unmoved,” said Karl Schamotta, chief market strategist at Corpay in Toronto.
The market was little changed after better-than-expected durable goods and consumer confidence data.
The U.S. president has repeatedly berated Fed Chair Jerome Powell for not lowering interest rates, though he has stopped threatening to fire him ahead of the end of his term in a little under 9 months.
Traders are currently pricing in an 86% probability of a rate cut at the Fed’s September meeting.
Morgan Stanley on Tuesday became the latest brokerage to forecast a cut in interest rates in September, joining global peers after Powell hinted at policy-easing next month in a speech last week.
“The unpredictable actions of the administration eroding confidence in the U.S., along with the prospect of a stacked, more dovish Fed in the future, has kept the dollar in check this morning,” said Uto Shinohara, senior investment strategist at Mesirow Currency Management.
While investors may be inclined to sell the dollar, lingering economic and fiscal worries in Europe also narrow the available currencies to bet on a decline in the U.S. currency, said Kenneth Broux, head of corporate FX and rates research at Societe Generale.
France’s government bonds fell on Tuesday as the country’s minority government looked increasingly likely to be ousted next month.
The 10-year government bond yield rose to a peak of 3.53%, its highest since March and adding to Monday’s 7 basis point climb. Bond yields move inversely to prices.
Worries over renewed political instability in France added to jitters in global bond markets about the independence of the U.S. Federal Reserve, which contributed to selling in government bonds from the U.S., Britain and Japan. [US/GB/JP/]
“The broader question for the euro is whether recent French news destabilises appetite for the euro more broadly, or whether this is an isolated French issue,” analysts at ING said in a note.
In cryptocurrencies, bitcoin rose 0.57% to $110,286.43, attempting to break a three-day losing streak, while ether climbed 3.34% to $4,504.07.
Reporting by Jaspreet Kalra and Laura MatthewsEditing by Kirsten Donovan, Chizu Nomiyama and Ros Russell
Apple has trailed rivals such as Google and Samsung in terms of roll-out of AI features in its devices
International News via Reuters:
Apple has held talks internally about acquiring French AI startup Mistral as well as Perplexity, the Information reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter.
Apple has trailed rivals such as Google and Samsung in terms of roll-out of AI features in its devices.
CEO Tim Cook signaled last month that Apple was open to larger AI-related acquisitions to accelerate its roadmap, a shift from its historically conservative M&A posture.
Reuters could not immediately verify the report. Apple, Mistral and Perplexity did not immediately respond to Reuters’ requests for comment.
Nvidia-backed Mistral was valued at more than $6 billion after its Series B funding round last year and the Financial Times reported this month that the French company was in talks to raise $1 billion at a valuation of $10 billion.
Executives at the iPhone maker have held internal talks about potentially bidding for Nvidia and Jeff Bezos-backed Perplexity, Bloomberg News reported earlier this year.
Reporting by Akash Sriram in Bengaluru; Editing by Leroy Leo
Earlier this month the BoE revised up its near-term inflation forecast to 4% for September
International News via Reuters:
Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee member Catherine Mann said on Tuesday that she saw a strong case to keep Bank Rate on hold for a prolonged period but stood ready to cut rates forcefully if downside risks to growth materialise.
Mann voted against this month’s quarter-point rate cut to 4% – as she has against most of the BoE’s rate cuts over the past year – and said she believed that upside risks to inflation identified by the BoE in May were now beginning to crystallise.
“A more persistent hold on Bank Rate is appropriate right now, to maintain the tight – but not tighter – monetary policy stance needed to lean against inflation persistence persisting,” Mann said in remarks released by the BoE.
“However, I stand ready for a forceful policy action, in the form of larger, more rapid Bank Rate cuts, should the downside risks to domestic demand start materialising,” she added in the speech to be given later on Tuesday at a conference to mark the Bank of Mexico’s 100th anniversary.
Earlier this month the BoE revised up its near-term inflation forecast to 4% for September and forecast that inflation would not be back at its 2% target until the second quarter of 2027.
In March, Mann talked about U.S. research showing that households became more focused on inflation once it reached 4%, but she said on Tuesday that subsequent BoE research showed this threshold was lower in Britain at 3.0-3.6%.
Mann also highlighted how wage growth in Britain was running faster than could easily be explained by the central bank’s models of supply and demand in the labour market and that forecast pay growth of 3.5-4.0% for the end of this year was too high to bring inflation back to 2%.
Higher interest rates would bring inflation back to target sooner, but Mann said tightening monetary policy was not the right choice due to the weak growth outlook and her desire to avoid raising rates only to then have to cut them soon after.
“The trade-off between persistent inflation persistence and quite weak GDP growth remains,” she said.
Reporting by David Milliken; editing by Sarah Young and Kate Holton
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