UN urges Middle East ceasefires to avert ‘major regional war’ with ‘global implications’

An unprecedented 123 million people are already displaced by conflicts, persecution, poverty and climate change, says refugee agency chief.

Chinese retail investors, battered by market winds, dial back on enthusiasm

After a frenzy in China’s stock market – and the subsequent comedown – small investors are left with losses and hopes for a turnaround.

Large fire breaks out at public cargo working area in Hong Kong’s Yau Ma Tei

Fire covers an area of 400 square metres in cargo handling area; no casualties reported.

Hong Kong school suspends staff member after hidden camera found in girl’s toilet

School says case handed over to police and that it has swept the campus, especially washrooms, to ensure its community’s safety.

Trump has stumbled upon a good idea for US climate change fight

Getting China to build electric vehicles in the US would be a boon to the country’s economy and transition away from fossil fuels.

Alibaba, JD.com, Pinduoduo launch campaigns for Singles’ Day shopping festival on same day

The e-commerce rivals’ respective promotions look to benefit from healthier consumer spending on the back of Beijing’s stimulus measures.

Beijing sanctions Taiwan tech billionaire Robert Tsao and DPP lawmaker Puma Shen

Tsao and Shen accused of supporting ‘violent pro-Taiwan independence’ activities.

Hong Kong government to hold first joint cybersecurity drill among departments, organisations

Officials at Legislative Council information technology and broadcasting panel meeting discuss mitigating ‘rising’ risk of cyberattacks in city.

Malaysia defends Chinese ships’ visit to Penang after criticism over ‘convivial’ welcome

Defence chief says the visit did not breach national regulations, despite criticism that Malaysia is sending the wrong message to its Asean peers.

Who makes China’s stimulus decisions, and what’s the procedure?

What has changed since China rolled out a 4-trillion-yuan stimulus package in 2008, and why a concrete stimulus figure now remains elusive.