Markets

Barton Gold Holdings (OTCQB:BGDFF) completed soil sampling across 1.9km² at its Tarcoola Gold Project’s Tolmer silver discovery, following an expanded RC drilling program. Approximately 380 samples were collected, with results expected in September 2025. The sampling aims to identify a larger mineralized footprint, building upon previously discovered high-grade silver mineralization, including assays up to 4,747 g/t Ag. The Tolmer project is considered a potential high-risk, high-reward venture.

A man in Xilinhot, Inner Mongolia, has been arrested for indecent assault against a female lawyer in a taxi. The victim, Ms. Cheng, had previously provided pro bono legal advice to the perpetrator, Man Moumou, regarding unpaid wages. During the taxi ride, Man Moumou took advantage of her sleeping state. Ms. Cheng alerted the taxi driver, who drove directly to the police station. Man Moumou, 48, is now in administrative detention.

Dalian University of Technology is considering expelling a student, Li Xinshi, for “inappropriate behavior” involving a relationship with a Ukrainian CS player, Zeus. The university cites regulations against “improper interactions with foreigners.” The case, sparked by a leaked photo, has ignited online debate, with some supporting the university’s stance for upholding morals and others criticizing the harshness of potential expulsion and the public disclosure of Li’s name. Critics argue that the university’s actions could damage her future prospects. The situation prompts a discussion on student rights versus institutional authority.

Ki Corporation and Public Storage, operating as a Consortium, have made a revised non-binding offer to acquire Abacus Storage King for A$1.65 per security. Both parties agreed to due diligence, signaling progress. Public Storage sees growth potential in the Australian self-storage market. The deal is non-binding and subject to conditions, including regulatory and securityholder approval. Public Storage will not provide further updates unless a definitive agreement is reached.

Amylyx Pharmaceuticals presented new data on avexitide, a GLP-1 receptor antagonist for post-bariatric hypoglycemia (PBH), at ENDO 2025. A Phase 2b trial showed avexitide 90mg daily significantly reduced hypoglycemic events. Population PK/PD data confirmed sustained therapeutic exposure for 24 hours. The Phase 3 LUCIDITY trial evaluating this dose is underway, with recruitment expected to complete in 2025 and topline data anticipated in H1 2026. Avexitide has FDA Breakthrough Therapy designation for PBH.

A security flaw in the U.S. rail system, identified in 2012, allows remote activation of emergency brakes using readily available technology. The vulnerability lies in the End-of-Train (EoT) modules, which lack robust security. The Association of American Railroads (AAR) reportedly dismissed the initial warnings. Only after a recent advisory from CISA did the AAR announce an upgrade plan, expected to be fully deployed by 2027, fifteen years after the flaw was first discovered.

HMD Global recalibrates US strategy due to geopolitical trade pressures, signaling an operational pullback from the hypercompetitive smartphone market. The Finnish company confirms scaling down US operations while committing to honor warranties through global support. This strategic shift aligns with HMD’s accelerated brand transition ahead of its Nokia licensing expiry in 2026. Evidence includes discontinued online sales and restricted inventory, though analysts note minimal financial impact given HMD’s European/Indian foothold. The move reflects strategic prioritization toward regions with stronger margin potential and fewer trade frictions.

Charles Zhang and Nobel laureate David Gross discussed physics and AI hype. Gross clarified the 2024 Physics Nobel (John Hopfield) recognized neuroscience work using physics models, not direct AI. He emphasized: “AI is not science; it is a tool.” Gross criticized excessive AI hype, noting it lacks true creativity. He predicted AI would displace people skilled in “just talk[ing] a good game,” not scientists. Zhang agreed about the prevalent hype and fervor surrounding AI. (87 words)

At BiliBili World 2024, Korean cosplayer @Yasal delivered a meticulously crafted showcase of “Brown Dust 2,” drawing acclaim but facing regulatory issues requiring operational adjustments. She urged positive fan engagement, highlighting the event’s evolution into a premier cultural expo supporting the creator economy since 2017.

Jay Chou ignited social media by launching a Douyin account as “Student Jay,” amassing over 10 million followers in 24 hours with no content posted. His AI-powered first video attracted 18.7 million likes. Concurrently, he altered his Kuaishou bio from “only official platform” to “first Chinese social media account.” Analysts interpret these moves as a strategic shift in allegiances within China’s competitive short-video market, leveraging Chou’s star power for platform user acquisition wars. His Douyin followers now exceed 19.5 million.