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Europe Scorched by Record Heatwave: France and Italy Take Emergency Measures

As a blistering heatwave tightens its grip on Europe, countries are scrambling to protect citizens from soaring temperatures and mounting health risks. France has shuttered over 1,350 schools  and closed the top floor of the Eiffel Tower as temperatures surged past 40°C (104°F)  in several regions. Sixteen French departments are now under the highest heat alert, with authorities urging people to stay hydrated and indoors during peak hours. Meanwhile, Italy has imposed restrictions on outdoor work , particularly in agriculture and construction, during the hottest parts of the day. Cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice are under red alerts, with hospitals reporting a spike in heat-related illnesses. The Mediterranean Sea has also hit record highs, with waters in Spain’s Balearic Sea reaching 30°C , up to 6 degrees above average. Scientists warn that Europe—already warming at twice the global average —is facing increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves due to climate change. New ...

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China’s Central Bank Cuts Reserve Requirement Ratio for Banks to Boost Slowing Economy

 

China’s central bank has announced a cut in the reserve requirement ratio for banks to help boost the slowing economy. The move is expected to provide 1 trillion yuan ($141 billion) in long-term liquidity to the market. The deposit reserve requirement will be cut by 0.5 percentage points as of February 5th, 2024. 

The decision comes as the world’s second-largest economy faces multiple challenges, including a faltering recovery from the shocks of the COVID-19 pandemic. The central bank’s moves appear to be part of a concerted effort to stabilize the markets and instill greater confidence in the outlook for the economy.


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