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UAE Golden VISA

In a major clarification, Dubai-based Rayad Group has publicly apologised for its earlier claims that Indians could obtain a lifetime UAE Golden Visa by paying ₹23.3 lakh (AED 100,000) — a statement the UAE government has now officially denounced as false and misleading.

What Happened?

  • Earlier Claim: Rayad Group’s Managing Director, Rayad Kamal Ayub, suggested in multiple media reports (including PTI) that UAE was offering lifetime Golden Visas to Indians under a simplified nomination-based process.
  • Now Retracted: The company admits these statements were inaccurate and not coordinated with the UAE government. The ₹23.3 lakh cited was merely Rayad’s service fee, not an official visa fee, and no such lifetime Golden Visa scheme exists.

Official UAE Government Response

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) issued a stern statement:

“These claims have no legal basis and were made without coordination with the relevant authorities in the UAE.”

  • The ICP confirmed:
    • No lifetime Golden Visa exists.
    • All visa applications must go through official UAE government channels.
    • No third-party agency can guarantee or issue UAE Golden Visas.
    • Legal action will be taken against any fraudulent or misleading parties.

Rayad Group’s Full Apology

Rayad Group, in a statement to Khaleej Times, said:

“We apologise unreservedly for the public confusion… and take full responsibility for ensuring future communications are clear and accurate.”

They have also withdrawn from offering any private Golden Visa advisory services, acknowledging that previous public comments by the MD were misplaced.

Expert Opinion: A Scam Targeting Indian Aspirants

Immigration attorney Prashant Ajmera called the offer “fake,” stating:

“Such schemes are often created to scam Indians who aspire to live abroad — especially in destinations like the UAE.”

What You Should Know About the Real Golden Visa

  • The UAE Golden Visa does exist but is:
    • Valid for 5 or 10 years, not a lifetime.
    • Requires specific eligibility (high investment, business ownership, professionals, etc.).
    • Processed only through official UAE portals, such as ICP or the Federal Authority.
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bill gates

Bill Gates No Longer Among World’s Top 10 Richest: $52 Billion Wiped Out in a Week

Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates has experienced one of the steepest weekly drops in personal wealth in recent history, losing $52 billion in just 7 days, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. Once a staple in the top 5 wealthiest individuals globally, Gates has now slipped to 12th position, with his net worth standing at $124 billion as of July 8.

How Much Did Gates Lose—and Why?

  • Previous Net Worth (July 1): $172 billion
  • Current Net Worth (July 8): $124 billion
  • Total Weekly Loss: $52 billion
  • Single-Day Loss (Most Recent): $351 million

Primary Reason: Massive Philanthropic Commitments

Gates’ plummet is not due to poor stock performance or failed investments—it’s because of his extraordinary charitable contributions.
In a blog post from May 2025, he revealed:

“I have $108 billion in personal wealth and have committed to give nearly all of it away within the next 20 years.”

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is expected to spend over $200 billion and wind down by 2045, dramatically accelerating its philanthropic mission. As Gates shifts wealth into charitable trusts and initiatives, those assets are no longer counted toward his net worth.

Who Overtook Gates?

The most surprising shift is the entry of Steve Ballmer, Gates’ longtime colleague and successor at Microsoft, who now holds the 5th spot with $172 billion in wealth. Ballmer’s fortune is closely tied to his Microsoft shares, which have surged due to the company’s strong performance and AI investments.

Top 10 Richest People (as of July 8, 2025)

RankNameNet Worth
1Elon Musk$361 billion
2Mark Zuckerberg$254 billion
3Larry Ellison$253 billion
4Jeff Bezos$244 billion
5Steve Ballmer$172 billion
6Larry Page$163 billion
7Bernard Arnault$161 billion
8Sergey Brin$152 billion
9Warren Buffett$146 billion
10Jensen Huang$139 billion

What This Means for Gates and Philanthropy

Despite the drop in net worth rankings, Gates remains one of the most influential and impactful billionaires globally. His decision to prioritise impact over personal fortune reinforces his long-standing belief that wealth should serve humanity.

This also signals a redefinition of legacy for billionaires—shifting focus from accumulation to purpose-driven giving.

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uae

In a major shift to its residency policy, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a revamped Golden Visa programme, now allowing foreign nationals—including Indian investors—to obtain lifetime residency by paying a fixed fee of AED 1,00,000 (approximately ₹23.3 lakh). Industry experts, especially from the real estate sector, are calling this a paradigm shift in the country’s immigration and investment landscape.

Highlights of the New UAE Golden Visa Rule:

  • Lifetime Residency: A one-time payment of AED 1,00,000 now grants lifetime residency status.
  • No Need for Real Estate Investment: Previously, investors had to commit at least AED 2 million (~₹4.7 crore) in UAE property for a 10-year renewable visa.
  • Inclusive & Nomination-Based: The programme aims to broaden access and align with the UAE’s long-term development vision.
  • First Phase Includes India & Bangladesh: Over 5,000 applications expected in three months.

Impact on Indian Real Estate Investors

According to Akash Puri, Director – International at India Sotheby’s International Realty, the change brings a “two-pronged impact” on Indian investor behaviour:

  1. Reduced Pressure for Residency-Driven Investment:
    “With lifetime visas now accessible via direct payment, many Indian investors may no longer feel compelled to purchase UAE property solely for immigration benefits,” says Puri.
    This could lead to:
    • A cool-down in speculative buying, particularly in the mid-market and entry-level real estate segments.
    • A recalibration of strategy towards long-term value creation rather than short-term residency goals.
  2. Increased Focus on Strategic Investment:
    For serious investors, especially those eyeing rental yields, lifestyle upgrades, or portfolio diversification, attention will now shift to:
    • Location quality
    • Developer credibility
    • Asset appreciation potential

“Ultra-HNWIs will likely continue buying luxury and trophy properties,” Puri adds, as their motivations extend beyond the visa.

From Residency-Led to Value-Led Approach

This visa policy reform, if confirmed officially, is expected to de-risk the property market from speculative surges and make it more resilient. Indian investors are now encouraged to focus on:

  • Fundamentals over fast-tracks
  • Long-term rental performance
  • Asset diversification

“This is a cue for Indian investors to transition from residency-led transactions to value-led strategies,” Puri noted. “Over time, this will lead to a more stable, mature UAE property market.”

Awaiting Official Notification

While the policy has already made headlines, an official government notification from the UAE is still awaited. Early reports indicate that India and Bangladesh are part of the initial rollout, with over 5,000 slots available in the first three months of launch.

For Indian investors, this new Golden Visa regime marks a dramatic easing of entry into the UAE. No longer limited by high real estate investment thresholds, the door is now open to a broader base of professionals, entrepreneurs, and long-term strategic investors. The shift from a visa-driven to a value-driven real estate strategy may redefine how Indian capital flows into the UAE—potentially setting the tone for a more rational and resilient market ahead.

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Elon musk

Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has officially launched a new political party in the United States — the America Party. The announcement came via his platform X on Saturday, signaling his departure from both the Trump administration and the nation’s entrenched two-party structure. The move follows Musk’s growing criticism of bipartisan waste and corruption, as well as a highly publicised fallout with former President Donald Trump.

“To Give You Back Your Freedom”
Musk’s declaration was accompanied by strong language directed at the existing political order. “Today, the America Party is formed to give you back your freedom,” Musk posted, citing the results of a July 4th public poll in which over 65% of X users supported the creation of a new political alternative. Musk framed the two-party system as a “uniparty,” claiming both Democrats and Republicans are complicit in driving wasteful spending and corruption.

He elaborated further, stating:

“When it comes to bankrupting our country with waste and graft, we live in a one-party system, not a democracy.”

Referencing Ancient Strategy to Challenge the Political Order
In characteristic fashion, Musk drew historical parallels to ancient warfare:

“The way we’re going to crack the uniparty system is by using a variant of how Epaminondas shattered the myth of Spartan invincibility at Leuctra: Extremely concentrated force at a precise location on the battlefield.”

This metaphor suggests a focused and strategic disruption of the current political structure, hinting at selective interventions in elections or policy spaces where the “America Party” could make maximum impact.

Public Support and Independence Day Symbolism
The formation of the America Party was timed with Independence Day celebrations and a poll Musk launched on July 4. The results, which showed 65.4% voting “Yes” to creating a new political party, were cited as the foundation for the party’s launch. Musk argued that Americans are eager for genuine change and are disillusioned by both Democrats and Republicans.

The Fallout with Trump and DOGE Shutdown
The party’s launch follows escalating tensions between Musk and Donald Trump, especially after the controversial “One Big Beautiful Bill” was signed into law on July 4. The legislation, which Musk claims could add over $3.3 trillion to the national debt over the next decade, drew immediate backlash from Musk. Previously, he had served in the now-defunct Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), where he led initiatives to cut spending and shrink the federal workforce.

Following their fallout, Musk left both his advisory position and DOGE, paving the way for his break from the administration and eventual political pivot.

Disrupting the System Like Tesla and SpaceX
In another post, Musk embraced the challenge ahead, comparing the founding of the America Party to his earlier ventures:

“Elon starting a 3rd party is closely akin to Tesla & SpaceX. Low probability of success, but if successful, it will completely change the game.”

Supporters of Musk see this as a bold, albeit uncertain, move — just as his technological ventures were once viewed as improbable yet transformative.

Elon Musk’s formation of the America Party represents a significant and controversial step in US political discourse. By challenging both the Republican and Democratic establishments, Musk seeks to harness public discontent and offer an alternative that, in his words, returns freedom to the people. Whether this third-party experiment succeeds will depend not just on public sentiment, but also on Musk’s ability to deliver focused political disruption — much like his revolutions in the auto and space industries.

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Trump

In an unprecedented move blending politics, spectacle, and sport, President Donald Trump announced that the White House will host a UFC fight in 2026 as part of America250, the grand celebration marking 250 years of U.S. independence. The plan was revealed during a rally at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines ahead of this year’s July 4th festivities.

A UFC Fight on White House Grounds

Speaking to an enthusiastic crowd, Trump said,

“It’s going to be a championship fight, full fight, like 20,000 to 25,000 people, and we’re going to do that as part of ‘250’ also.”

Trump emphasized that the event will be “epic,” highlighting his long-standing friendship with UFC President Dana White, who has publicly supported Trump since 2001. Trump added,

“Does anybody watch UFC? The great Dana White? We’re going to have a UFC fight — think of this — on the grounds of the White House. We have a lot of land there.”

According to Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, Trump is “dead serious” about the fight plans. She confirmed the announcement on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “its going to be EPIC!”

Trump and UFC: A Longstanding Alliance

Trump’s connection to the UFC dates back to 2001 when the now-closed Trump Taj Mahal hosted early UFC events. UFC President Dana White has remained a vocal supporter of Trump, calling him

“the legitimate, ultimate, American badass of all time,”
following the recent assassination attempt against the former president.

White also endorsed Trump in his 2016 presidential run, calling him a “fighter” both politically and personally.

What This Means for America250

The announcement has stirred national attention, marking a bold fusion of tradition and entertainment. While critics may question the appropriateness of a UFC bout at the White House, supporters view it as a creative celebration of American culture and strength.

Trump’s vision for America250 is shaping up to be one of the most unconventional and attention-grabbing independence celebrations in U.S. history — blending statecraft, showmanship, and spectacle into a high-octane national milestone.

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japan

A 5.5 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of the Tokara island chain in Kagoshima Prefecture, southwestern Japan, on Thursday, July 3, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA). While no tsunami warning was issued, authorities urged residents in high-risk areas to evacuate as a precautionary measure.

Epicentre and Intensity:
The earthquake’s epicentre was located off the coast near Akuseki Island, nearly 1,200 kilometers from Tokyo. The JMA reported a seismic intensity of ‘6 lower’ on Japan’s 1-7 intensity scale at Akuseki Island — a level strong enough to potentially cause structural damage and trigger landslides in mountainous regions.

“In areas where the tremors were strong, there is an increased risk of collapsed houses and landslides,” warned Ayataka Ebita, Director of the Earthquake and Tsunami Observation Division at the JMA.

Evacuation and Risk Assessment:
Following the tremor, authorities issued evacuation advisories to the 89 residents of Akuseki Island. Although Japan is equipped with one of the world’s most sophisticated earthquake detection systems, the density of recent seismic activity has raised alarms. In September 2023, the Tokara region experienced a surge of 346 quakes in a short span — a sign of potential geological unrest in the area.

Seismic History and Public Anxiety:
The region is no stranger to tectonic disturbances, with over 1,000 earthquakes recorded recently along the Tokara chain. In parallel, anxiety over a so-called “megaquake” — a term popularised by a fictional comic book — has contributed to public unease. The viral narrative has even led to flight cancellations from Hong Kong, impacting Japan’s rebounding tourism sector.

Government Response:
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba addressed the concerns, emphasizing the need for nationwide preparedness.

“It is necessary for the nation, municipalities, companies and non-profits to come together and take measures in order to save as many lives as possible,” he stated, highlighting the looming threat of a future catastrophic event, with potential casualties projected as high as 300,000.

Conclusion:
While the immediate threat from the July 3 earthquake appears contained, Japan’s seismic volatility remains a point of national concern. Authorities are calling for coordinated efforts to enhance infrastructure resilience and ensure the safety of communities in vulnerable zones.

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trump

Tensions between former allies Donald Trump and Elon Musk have taken a dramatic turn. Following the tech billionaire’s fierce criticism of Trump’s proposed “Big Beautiful Bill,” the former US president suggested he might consider deporting Musk — a naturalised citizen originally from South Africa. The unexpected threat underscores growing divisions over electric vehicle (EV) subsidies, national debt, and political loyalty.

The Trigger: Trump’s ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ vs. Musk’s EV Advocacy
Elon Musk has publicly slammed Trump’s flagship legislative proposal, the “Big Beautiful Bill,” for eliminating federal support for electric vehicles. Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has not only criticised the bill’s economic impact but also warned that it would undermine the U.S. EV industry, inflate national debt, and restrict innovation.

“He’s losing his EV mandate,” Trump said in a sharp response, adding, “Elon can lose a lot more than that.”

Musk has gone so far as to threaten political retaliation, vowing to back electoral challenges against any lawmakers who support the bill. In a growing show of resistance, he has even floated the idea of founding a new political faction — the “America Party” — if the bill passes.

Trump’s Retort: Deportation and DOGE Threats
When asked by reporters whether Musk’s citizenship status could be reconsidered due to his vocal opposition, Trump replied cryptically:

“I don’t know. We’ll have to take a look.”

He then made a bizarre reference to turning the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a satirical agency Musk once led, against the billionaire:

“We might have to put DOGE on Elon… DOGE is the monster that might have to go back and eat Elon.”

The comments appeared to be half-joking but were immediately picked up by media outlets and political commentators as a sign of escalating tensions.

Musk Responds: “So Tempting to Escalate”
Musk, who is known for his quick retorts on X (formerly Twitter), acknowledged Trump’s comments with restraint. Sharing a clip of the President’s remarks, he replied:

“So tempting to escalate this. So, so tempting. But I will refrain for now.”

Despite his measured tone, the post suggested Musk is weighing his next move carefully amid political pressure and media attention.

From Political Allies to Adversaries
Ironically, Musk was one of Trump’s largest donors in the 2024 election cycle and even served as a close adviser during the early days of the administration. He also led DOGE as a special government employee, tasked with cutting wasteful federal spending.

But as policy divides deepen, the rift between Trump and Musk appears to be widening into a full-scale public fallout.

What began as a policy disagreement over EV subsidies has morphed into a political power struggle between two of the most high-profile figures in American public life. Whether Trump’s deportation threat is serious or symbolic, it marks a significant fracture in a once-powerful alliance — and may shape the course of future debates around clean energy, national policy, and the political ambitions of Elon Musk.

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ukraine-russia

In what Ukrainian officials have called the “most massive air strike” since the start of the war, Russia launched 537 aerial weapons overnight—including 477 drones and 60 missiles—targeting key infrastructure and residential areas across Ukraine. The unprecedented aerial assault left six civilians injured and claimed the life of a heroic F-16 pilot who downed seven enemy targets before crashing.

Aerial Barrage Unleashed
According to Ukraine’s air force, 249 enemy weapons were intercepted, and 226 were lost likely due to electronic jamming. However, the scale of the attack—utilising roughly 500 different types of aerial weapons including Iranian-made Shahed drones, ballistic, cruise, and glide missiles—was unparalleled.

“The Russians were targeting everything that sustains life,” said President Volodymyr Zelensky on X.

Heroic F-16 Pilot Dies in Action
Ukraine confirmed the tragic death of pilot Maksym Ustymenko, who destroyed seven aerial threats before his F-16 was hit and lost altitude. He was unable to eject in time.

“Today, he destroyed 7 aerial targets. My condolences to his family and brothers-in-arms,” Zelensky said, ordering a full investigation into the crash.

This marks the third F-16 loss for Ukraine since the war began.

Widespread Damage Across Regions
The assault impacted cities far from the frontline. In Cherkasy, six civilians, including a child, were wounded. In Kherson, one civilian died. Industrial facilities were targeted in Mykolaiv and Dnipropetrovsk. In Lviv, a fire broke out in Drohobych, damaging power infrastructure and residential buildings.

Three multi-storey buildings, a college, and critical infrastructure were damaged across multiple regions, including Smila, where a child was among the injured.

Poland Scrambles Jets, Regional Fallout
Poland’s air force scrambled aircraft to secure national airspace amid the chaos, indicating the potential for wider regional consequences.

Ukraine’s Call for Enhanced Defence
President Zelensky reiterated the urgent need for enhanced air defences, especially American systems.

“This war must be brought to an end — pressure on the aggressor is needed, and so is protection,” he emphasized.

He revealed that in just the past week, Russia had launched over 114 missiles, 1,270 drones, and nearly 1,100 glide bombs.

Russia’s largest aerial assault yet underscores the escalating intensity of the three-year war, as Ukraine continues to defend itself with dwindling resources. With increasing pressure on Western allies for stronger support, Zelensky’s plea for advanced air defence systems reflects the dire urgency of the moment.

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A dramatic escalation in Middle East tensions unfolded as the United States conducted airstrikes on three suspected Iranian nuclear sites, prompting a fierce retaliation from Iran. Within hours, Tehran launched at least 40 missiles targeting Israel — including its most powerful Khorramshahr-4 missile — marking one of the most significant flare-ups in the ongoing conflict.

US Airstrikes Target Iranian Nuclear Facilities
According to reports, US bomber jets struck three high-value Iranian sites believed to be linked to Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. Though details remain classified, the targets are understood to include facilities central to uranium enrichment and nuclear weapons development. The strikes signaled a major shift in Washington’s posture, following weeks of deliberation over potential intervention.

Iran Responds with Khorramshahr-4 Missile Attack
The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed the launch of over 40 missiles in retaliation, including the Khorramshahr-4 — Iran’s most formidable missile with a 2,000-km range and a 1,500-kg payload capacity. Iranian state TV broadcasted footage of the missile, claiming it had been deployed in today’s assault.

Also known as Kheibar, the missile is capable of carrying multiple warheads and is named after the city of Khorramshahr, a historic site from the Iraq-Iran War. Its alternate name references a fortress seized in the 7th century — further underscoring the symbolic dimensions of the strike.

Civilian Impact: Tel Aviv Under Attack
Missiles struck several civilian areas in northern Tel Aviv, including a shopping centre, a bank, and a salon. An NDTV journalist on ground reported shattered storefronts, broken gates, and glass strewn across the streets. Rescuers confirmed at least 11 injuries so far.

One local resident recounted how his first-floor home was destroyed in the blast. Fortunately, he was unharmed, having left for his mother’s home earlier.

Emergency Response in Full Swing
Israeli security and emergency agencies have sealed off affected zones and deployed earthmovers to clear debris. Several streets remain closed as responders manage the aftermath of the attack.

The back-to-back strikes by the US and Iran mark a dangerous new phase in an already volatile region. With powerful missiles and strategic assets now in play, the risk of a full-scale war has risen significantly — making international mediation and de-escalation efforts more urgent than ever.

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As the Israel-Iran conflict intensifies, US President Donald Trump has expressed skepticism over the feasibility of a ceasefire. While voicing support for peace talks, Trump admitted that Israel’s strikes on Iran would be “very hard to stop,” highlighting the complexities surrounding diplomatic intervention in an escalating regional conflict.

Trump: Ceasefire Difficult as Israel Gains Upper Hand
Speaking to reporters, Trump emphasized that the current momentum in Israel’s military operations makes it difficult to halt hostilities. “Israel’s doing well in terms of war. And I think, you would say that Iran is doing less well,” he said. “It’s a little bit hard to get somebody to stop.”

While acknowledging that ceasefire discussions are ongoing, Trump stressed that progress is complicated by the battlefield dynamics. “If somebody is winning, it’s a little bit harder to do than if somebody is losing,” he remarked.

US Position: Support for Talks, No Immediate Military Action
The White House recently stated that Trump sees a “substantial chance of negotiations” and has requested more time to assess whether US forces should directly intervene. “We’re ready, willing and able, and we’ve been speaking to Iran, and we’ll see what happens,” he added.

Trump’s comments indicate a cautious approach, balancing diplomatic engagement with strategic hesitation on military involvement.

Contradiction on Iran’s Nuclear Intentions
Addressing comments made earlier by US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard — who claimed Iran was not actively developing nuclear weapons — Trump firmly rejected the assertion. “She’s wrong,” he said, questioning the validity of US intelligence assessments.

His remarks came amid growing concern over Iran’s Fordo nuclear facility, a heavily fortified uranium enrichment site. Trump has delayed a decision on whether to strike the facility, citing the need for further analysis and clarity on Iran’s intentions.

Israel’s “Preemptive” Strikes on Iran
Israel launched strikes on Iran on June 13, calling them “preemptive” and aimed at halting Iran’s alleged nuclear weapons development. While Iran insists its nuclear program is for civilian purposes, doubts persist in both Israeli and US strategic circles.

Trump’s latest remarks reflect a volatile and unpredictable geopolitical situation, with military dynamics, intelligence disagreements, and diplomatic complexities all at play. While the US publicly supports a ceasefire, the on-ground reality — with Israel gaining momentum — makes peace a challenging proposition in the near term.

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