TSMC led the global foundry market in 2025 with a 69.9% share and $122.54 billion in sales, thanks to surging AI demand. Samsung's foundry revenue declined 3.9%, yet late-year growth hints at a rebound.

In a sweeping operation named Octopus, French authorities arrested 42 individuals linked to the DZ Mafia in Marseille, charging 26 and detaining 15. The crackdown reveals the Mafia's deep local roots and financial clout, with assets worth millions seized, and highlights corruption risks within organized crime.

Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine has fled the country following a raid on his home and threats from Army Chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba. This development intensifies concerns over political repression as President Museveni prepares for a seventh term amid accusations of authoritarianism.

The Chicago Board of Education has named three finalists to lead Chicago Public Schools, including Meisha Porter, former NYC Schools Chancellor. The selection process faced criticism for political interference and transparency issues, affecting progress since the vacancy in June.

A JetBlue flight from Boston to Vero Beach was diverted due to a bomb threat, with authorities later determining the threat was non-credible. Passengers were eventually allowed to disembark after a thorough inspection involving multiple agencies, including the FBI and local law enforcement.

Japan faces an energy crisis as the Strait of Hormuz closure disrupts LNG and crude oil supplies amid Middle East tensions. With key imports from the region offline, Japan is turning to Australia to increase LNG production and stabilize its energy inputs.

Taiwan's President proposes a US$40 billion defense package to counter China's threats, leveraging its robust economy and aligning with U.S. burden-sharing ideals. Despite economic justification, parliamentary opposition has stalled the plan, permitting only limited U.S. arms deals to proceed for timely procurement.

Abu Dhabi Police have arrested 45 individuals for sharing unverified footage of drone or missile strikes online amid ongoing regional tensions. Authorities stress the importance of sourcing information from official channels and warn that spreading misinformation can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines, to maintain public safety and security.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature 48 teams and 104 matches, hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico in a historic joint effort. This expansion increases knockout contenders to 32 and boosts global representation, with prize money set at a record $727 million.

Japan's lower house has approved a record-breaking 122.3 trillion yen budget for fiscal 2026, pushed through by the ruling coalition's supermajority under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. The decision, criticized for its expedited process and limited debate, faces resistance from opposition parties demanding thorough scrutiny, while analysts warn of compromised democratic deliberation.