US stocks were rocked by hot economic data and worries about an escalation of tensions in the Middle East, with the Dow swinging through 600 points Monday. The Dow fell 248 points, or 0.7%, giving up earlier gains. The S&P 500 fell 1.2% and the Nasdaq Composite lost 1.8%. CNN’s Fear & Greed Index, which measures seven barometers of market sentiment, fell to a “fear” reading for the first time since November.

Oil prices cooled on Monday, despite Iran launching an unprecedented attack on Israel over the weekend. The price of Brent crude fell to settle at $90.10, while US WTI crude dropped to settle at $85.41 a barrel on Monday. Traders are waiting to see what Israel does next. That comes after oil prices hit their highest levels since October on Friday in anticipation of retaliation by Tehran for a suspected Israeli strike on an Iranian diplomatic complex in Syria. US crude futures have risen roughly 19% this year. Brent crude, the global oil benchmark, has surged about 17%. Elsewhere, Treasury yields spiked after US retail sales data showed that spending rose in March for the second-straight month, underscoring the US consumer’s resilience despite interest rates perched at a 23-year high. Investors have worried in recent weeks that inflation remains too sticky and the economy too strong for the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates anytime soon. Europe’s benchmark Stoxx 600 index ticked up 0.1%, while Germany’s DAX and France’s CAC 40 gained 0.5% and 0.4% respectively. London’s FTSE 100 fell 0.4%. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index closed down 0.7%. Japan’s Nikkei 225 closed 0.7% lower, but China’s Shanghai Composite Index finished 1.3% higher. Gold futures rose to settle at roughly $2,383 a troy ounce on Monday. They are up 16% this year.

The Middle East was plunged into uncharted waters after Iran launched scores of missiles toward Israel late Saturday. Israel’s military said “99%” of the more than 300 projectiles were intercepted by Israel and its partners. Before Iran’s attack, US stocks ended Friday sharply lower, as Wall Street worried about escalating tension in the Middle East. But US stocks started Monday cautiously higher after US President Joe Biden and his national security team, seeking to contain the risk of a wider regional war, told their counterparts the US will not participate in any counter-strike against Iran.

• Deepa Adhikari

Nepal, a country tucked away among the high peaks of the Himalayas, faces a formidable challenge: maintaining sustainable development in the face of frequent natural calamities. Even with its recent economic expansion, the country is locked in a never-ending conflict with nature’s devastating powers. Due to its location, it is extremely vulnerable to various natural disasters, including earthquakes, avalanches, and landslides.

Nepal experiences the worst of nature’s wrath year after year; fatalities and the destruction of vital infrastructure are the results. These concerning numbers highlight the scope of the catastrophe engulfing the country and feed a vicious cycle of destruction and reconstruction that depletes resilience and resources.

Organizations and authorities are working nonstop to improve response and preparedness systems in an effort to lessen the effects of these disasters. However, the magnitude of the task continues to be overwhelming as Nepal struggles to reconstruct broken lives and shattered communities in the wake of every disaster.

The Nepalese people exhibit incredible tenacity and bravery in the face of such hardship, coming together as a united front to face the trials brought on by nature’s indiscriminate wrath. In the face of the harsh reality of their situation, they are resolute in their efforts to move forward, to rebuild stronger, and to blaze a trail through the treacherous Himalayas towards a more resilient and sustainable future.

These catastrophes have a cost that goes well beyond numbers; they cause great human pain and obstruct the country’s efforts to progress. Livelihoods are destroyed, families are split apart, and communities are left to struggle with the impossible job of rebuilding amid the rubble.

The nation’s attempts to build resilience are severely hampered by a lack of funding, poor infrastructure, and institutional capacity issues. Moreover, the threat of climate change is quite real and is making extreme weather events more often and intense in the area. Nepal’s susceptibility to increasing temperatures, unpredictable rainfall patterns, and melting glaciers increases the likelihood of floods, droughts, and glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs).

The COVID-19 pandemic has surfaced as a powerful reminder of the interdependence of global crises amidst these difficulties. Like many other countries, Nepal struggled to both stop the virus’s spread and lessen its socioeconomic effects. The epidemic exposed weaknesses in the nation’s healthcare system, underscoring the necessity of making significant investments in strong public health infrastructure.

Moreover, strengthening Nepal’s ability to endure and recover from natural disasters would depend on promoting increased international cooperation and utilizing cutting-edge funding structures. Nepal can lead the way in sustainable development that ensures no one is left behind by addressing the needs of marginalized groups, encouraging eco-friendly livelihoods, and investing in resilient infrastructure.

The tenacity and inventiveness of Nepal’s people provide a glimmer of hope for a better future as the country negotiates the perilous terrain of sustainable development in the face of natural disasters and economic uncertainty. Nepal can achieve its vision of a more prosperous, egalitarian, and sustainable future by surmounting the great difficulties ahead with unity, solidarity, and unflinching dedication.

In addition, the economic effects of the epidemic have increased inflationary pressures in Nepal, making matters worse for vulnerable groups that are already suffering from the effects of natural calamities. Rising costs for basic goods combined with stagnating incomes have made inequality and food insecurity worse, creating significant obstacles to the country’s efforts to achieve equitable and sustainable development.

Nepal needs to take a comprehensive, multi-sectoral strategy to disaster risk reduction and sustainable development. Building a more resilient future requires bolstering early warning systems, boosting community resilience, and integrating climate adaption strategies into development planning.

In 2019, music executive Scooter Braun acquired Swift’s previous record label Big Machine, taking ownership of her back catalogue before selling the Master tapes to an investment fund for a reported $300m. Embroiled for several years in a subsequent dispute, Swift decided to take back control by embarking on the project to re-record her entire back catalogue. Having worked through 2008’s Fearless and 2010’s Speak Now, and with the release in 2022 of 2012’s Red, her fans are revisiting this integral moment of Taylor Swift’s career – which saw the emergence of her “pop era”, and the reinvention of herself.

In a controversial move, Swift had chosen to step away from her country roots towards a more “alt-pop” direction on 2012’s Red. She brought in Swedish pop mega-producer Max Martin as collaborator, and singles I Knew You Were Trouble and We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together combined her traditional guitar sound with a more diverse set of influences, from EDM to dubstep. When the album was released, she faced a Dylan-esque backlash from her core, US country fanbase, but the move also found her an entirely new audience, in scores of pop music fans around the world.

In a news release issued by his Office, Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, denounced “constant shrinkage” in Cambodia’s democratic space in recent years, which he said is undermining citizen’s fundamental freedoms and their right to participate in the public square. In the lead up to the elections, Cambodia’s National Election Committee disqualified two leading opposition political parties and, immediately prior to polling day, authorities ordered internet service providers to block social media accounts of three media organizations which they deemed critical of the Government, OHCHR said.  “Opposition political parties, activists, members of the media and others have faced numerous restrictions and reprisals that appear intended to curb political campaigning and to hinder the exercise of fundamental freedoms essential for free and fully participatory elections,” said Mr. Türk.

Mr. Türk called on the Government to address the shortcomings and hold dialogue with all political parties and civil society actors to create an enabling and inclusive civic space for all Cambodians. “A vibrant strong and inclusive democracy that nurtures and respects a plurality of voices and opinions is fundamental to ensuring the respect and protection of human rights and is key to peaceful social and economic development,” he said. He also urged Cambodian authorities to boost participation of marginalized groups, including women, indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and youth, to foster a more inclusive and representative democracy.

The UN rights chief also expressed concerns that the restrictions and other intimidatory measures, including some physical attacks, created a “chilling effect”, depriving people of credible news and information sources needed to make informed choices. According to media reports, Cambodia’s longtime ruling party, led by incumbent Prime Minister Hun Sen, won an overwhelming number of seats in what was practically an uncontested election. Multiple news outlets also reported on Wednesday that Hun Sen had announced he will resign and hand over power to his son, who is also the country’s army chief, in early August.

Kathmandu, Nepal – July 14, 2023 – In a grand ceremony held at the & quot; STANDARD
CHARTERED PRESENTS NEWBIZ BUSINESSWOMEN SUMMIT AND AWARDS
2023," Ms. Sewa Pathak Bohra, CEO of Vianet Communication Ltd., was honored with
the popular Professional Woman of the Year award. This recognition reflects Ms.
Bohra's outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to driving innovation and
empowering women in the ISP industry.
Ms. Bohra's incredible journey from being a chartered accountant to spearheading one
of Nepal's leading ISP companies is a testament to her resilience, dedication, and
exceptional leadership abilities. As an integral part of the pioneering team that
introduced Fiber to the Home (FTTH) technology for the first time in Nepal back in 2011,
she has been instrumental in revolutionizing the way Nepalese households experience
internet connectivity.
Under Ms. Bohra's visionary guidance, Vianet Communication Ltd. has expanded its
footprint across 90 cities, establishing 51 branches and employing over 1500 talented
professionals. Beyond spearheading technological advancements, she has fostered an
inclusive work environment that prioritizes collaboration and talent development. Her
commitment to women's empowerment serves as an inspiration, encouraging
individuals to break through barriers and embrace their limitless potential with both
strength and grace.
At Vianet Communication Ltd., Ms. Bohra's leadership has driven a relentless pursuit of
innovation and customer satisfaction. The company is dedicated to providing cutting-
edge products and services that cater to the evolving needs of its customers. With a
wide range of reliable and high-speed internet solutions, Vianet ensures seamless
connectivity, enabling individuals and businesses to thrive in the digital age.

[Kathmandu], Vianet Communication Ltd., Nepal’s one of the leading internet service provider, has introduced Renewal Offer for its valued customers. By renewing their yearly subscriptions for any Vianet Internet package, customers will receive a bonus of 2 Months FREE internet service. This limited-time offer is available until Ashadh 2080. Renewal Offer highlights Vianet’s commitment to customer satisfaction and appreciation for their support. Existing customers can save more while enjoying a seamless online experience.

Vianet is the first in the country to start bringing fiber internet to homes, to launch the first multi-gig internet service, and as an internet and IPTV service provider for the past 23 years, it is famous for its reliable service and active customer support.

To learn more about the Renewal Offer and other exciting promotions, please visit www.vianet.com.np

On Wednesday, May 24, Tyoyo Education Consultancy organized the Tyoyo Info Session at its office premises located at Devkota Sadak, Mid-Baneshwor, Kathmandu (opposite Apex College). The purpose of the event was to provide information to students interested in studying abroad. Representatives from educational institutions in the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia were present at the event. During the session, Mr. Sanjaya Tamang, the Marketing Officer of Edu Group, discussed the numerous opportunities and benefits available to students who choose to study abroad. He highlighted the advantages of gaining a global education experience. Mr. Bishal Poudel, Marketing Specialist of Skyline International College – Australia, served as another speaker and presented information about the college’s courses. He emphasized the quality education provided by the institution, which helps students achieve their personal best and develop the self-confidence necessary to succeed in their chosen fields. Mr. Abhimanyu Devkota, Regional Recruitment Manager of Stanley College, spoke about the colleges located in Adilet and Perth, Australia. He discussed the opportunities available to international students in these locations, highlighting the advantages of studying there. Ms. Geeta Rajbahak, the Marketing Manager of NAPS College, shared details about the college’s exceptional education system, which focuses on student-centered learning and promotes professional readiness and an international perspective. She also highlighted the scholarships available to deserving international students. The event concluded with a closing speech by Mr. Bidit Acharya, the Managing Director of Tyoyo Education Consultancy. He expressed gratitude to the college representatives and all the participating students for their valuable time and contribution to the event’s success.

The victory of Nepali PUBG Mobile team DRS Gaming, who earned a runner-up finish in the
2022 PMGC grand finals, was celebrated at Vianet Communication's office premises. Vianet is
the ISP Partner, sponsor, and long-time supporter of DRS. Deepesh Gurung, Shahas Bhandari,
Subin Kumar Prajapati, and Sammer Gurung, members of the DRS team, were acknowledged by
Vianet CEO Sewa Pathak Bohra at an event organized by the company.
DRS spoke at the event about their inspirational journey to the final of the global championship
and how Nepal's internet connectivity enabled them to advance in the global PMGC arena. They
mentioned how Nepal’s Internet connectivity has come a long way to meet International
standards allowing the Nepalese esports industry to evolve and allow professional gamers to
compete Worldwide. Mr. Sangin Bhattarai, Head of Operations of DRS Gaming, further noted
how Vianet has been their first preference for the Internet due to its low ping, stable connection,
and prompt service.
Vianet CEO Sewa Pathak Bohra assured the DRS team that the company is committed to
continue being the preferred Internet of choice for gamers and is further aiming to enhance
Vianet’s product portfolio curated for gaming. The company will continue to support the esports
industry in Nepal.
On January 8, DRS Gaming, one of the most popular PUBG teams in Nepal made history by
becoming the first runner-up in the biggest PUBG gaming tournament featuring 51 teams
worldwide hosted in Jakarta, Indonesia. The team members shared a cash prize of $200,000 for
their historic performance.
The historic win demonstrates the potential of gaming in Nepal. Despite the limitations of a
developing country, internet connectivity has improved, and modern technologies promise plenty
for passionate gamers willing to follow their passions.
Vianet Communication Ltd. is one of the leading internet and IPTV service provider in
Nepal. Established in 1999, Vianet has always remained at the forefront of providing reliable and
affordable Broadband Internet Services. In 2011, Vianet pioneered Fiber Optics Internet more
commonly known as FTTH internet service and became the first ISP in Nepal to provide
dedicated speeds without any sharing ratio thus paving the way for the gaming industry in the
country.

After the Nepal Telecommunication Authority instructed to block access to websites, apps and online networks where illegal transactions are conducted, including cryptocurrency and bitcoin, the virtual currency has started to be debated again in Nepal.

It is mentioned in the instructions of the authority that the business done through digital technology including virtual currency and network marketing has been increasing in Nepal recently.

All internet service providers to prevent the use, operation and management of virtual media including cryptocurrency, bitcoin, hyper-networking, online gambling and other illegal activities and financial crimes within Nepal and to prevent access to such websites, apps or online networks. Instructions have been issued.”

Cryptocurrency is said to be completely banned in Bangladesh, China, Qatar, Morocco, Iraq, Egypt, Algeria and Tunisia, just like in Nepal.

According to the CoinDesk website, based on the Global Crypto Adoption Index of 2022, Nepal has been ranked 16th in the world in terms of cryptocurrency transactions. Countries like UK and Indonesia are below Nepal.

This indicates that there is a lot of cryptocurrency-related activity in Nepal, even though it is restricted.

The couple at the centre of Lady Chatterley’s Lover dared to defy societal norms as they embarked on a steamy affair. The latest film adaptation of DH Lawrence’s novel retains that spirit, and dares to present a tender love story where one might expect a raunchy period redo of Fifty Shades of Grey.