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90a34ee441abccb7b3b516d893d9aaa24f50c19e38ab0583f9c47552254325e8
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Mathieu Control of the Effective Coupling in Superconducting Qubits
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arXiv:2512.24992v1 Announce Type: new Abstract: A common challenge in superconducting quantum circuits is the trade-off between strong coupling and computational subspace integrity. We present Mathieu control, which uses a non-resonant two-photon drive to create a selective nonlinear frequency shift. This shift modifies interactions while preserving qubit states, enabling continuous tuning of the ZZ coupling, including full suppression, and integrating single- and two-qubit gates with low leakage. For a qubit-coupler-qubit device, it allows independent ZZ control, facilitating a programmable Heisenberg (XXZ) Hamiltonian. Extended to a five-qubit chain, the system can be reconfigured to simulate dynamics of quantum magnetic phases. Mathieu control thus provides a framework for high-fidelity quantum logic and programmable simulation.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.24992
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Academic Papers
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d665394d8048708f8b03592d4092b0d5956ed1716f8450c89dacc48da25c3d17
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Strategies for Overcoming Gradient Troughs in the ADAPT-VQE Algorithm
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arXiv:2512.25004v1 Announce Type: new Abstract: The adaptive derivative-assembled problem-tailored variational quantum eigensolver (ADAPT-VQE) provides a promising approach for simulating highly correlated quantum systems on quantum devices, as it strikes a balance between hardware efficiency, trainability, and accuracy. Although ADAPT-VQE avoids many of the shortcomings of other VQEs, it is sometimes hindered by a phenomenon known as gradient troughs. This refers to a non-monotonic convergence of the gradients, which may become very small even though the minimum energy has not been reached. This results in difficulties finding the right operators to add to the ansatz, due to the limited number of shots and statistical uncertainties, leading to stagnation in the circuit structure optimization. In this paper, we propose ways to detect and mitigate this phenomenon. Leveraging the non-commutative algebra of the ansatz, we develop heuristics for determining where to insert new operators into the circuit. We find that gradient troughs are more likely to arise when the same locations are used repeatedly for new operator insertions. Our novel protocols, which add new operators in different ansatz positions, allow us to escape gradient troughs and thereby lower the measurement cost of the algorithm. This approach achieves an effective balance between cost and efficiency, leading to faster convergence without compromising the low circuit depth and gate count of ADAPT-VQE.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.25004
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1b61c0d6c289c2b83c37a885c6dc029552b45e47c1ad9d4dd2544c93d8e7c99f
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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No-cost Bell Nonlocality Certification from Quantum Tomography and Its Applications in Quantum Magic Witnessing
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arXiv:2512.25068v1 Announce Type: new Abstract: Tomographic measurements are the standard tool for characterizing quantum states, yet they are usually regarded only as means for state reconstruction or fidelity measurement. Here, we show that the same Pauli-basis measurements (X, Y, Z) can be directly employed for the certification of nonlocality at no additional experimental cost. Our framework allows any tomographic data - including archival datasets -- to be reinterpreted in terms of fundamental nonlocality tests. We introduce a generic, constructive method to generate tailored Bell inequalities and showcase their applicability to certify the non-locality of states in realistic experimental scenarios. Recognizing the stabilizer nature of the considered operators, we analyze our inequalities in the context of witnessing quantum magic - a crucial resource for quantum computing. Our approach requires Pauli measurements only and tests the quantum magic solely through the resources present in the state. Our results establish a universal standard that unifies state tomography with nonlocality certification and its application to quantum magic witnessing, thereby streamlining both fundamental studies and practical applications.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.25068
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5a13bedce721a03c8e954ccbcca22ffc2dafe56bd0d5604e319d580109837e4b
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Ergodicity breaking meets criticality in a gauge-theory quantum simulator
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arXiv:2512.23794v1 Announce Type: cross Abstract: Recent advances in quantum simulations have opened access to the real-time dynamics of lattice gauge theories, providing a new setting to explore how quantum criticality influences thermalization and ergodicity far from equilibrium. Using QuEra's programmable Rydberg atom array, we map out the dynamical phase diagram of the spin-1/2 U(1) quantum link model in one spatial dimension by quenching the fermion mass. We reveal a tunable regime of ergodicity breaking due to quantum many-body scars, manifested as long-lived coherent oscillations that persist across a much broader range of parameters than previously observed, including at the equilibrium phase transition point. We further analyze the electron-positron pairs generated during state preparation via the Kibble-Zurek mechanism, which strongly affect the post-quench dynamics. Our results provide new insights into nonthermal dynamics in lattice gauge theories and establish Rydberg atom arrays as a powerful platform for probing the interplay between ergodicity breaking and quantum criticality.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.23794
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54f28112422090a5a6fc70eae85c1b9ccb4eae9e37d7c99baa1d31d1370c3bdd
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Gedanken Experiments of Entanglement in Particle Physics: Interactions, Operators and Bell Inequalities in Flavor Space
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arXiv:2512.23855v1 Announce Type: cross Abstract: In this article we explore ideas from quantum entanglement which can be meaningfully formulated and tested in the collider environment. We propose Bell-type inequalities as operator-level diagnostics of quantum incompatibility in particle-physics systems. We construct flavor operators associated with mass identification, flavor change, and charged-current weak mixing which arise from fundamental interactions in the Standard Model. We treat these interactions as alternative measurement settings in a Gendanken experiment. For entangled two-particle states, these operators generate nontrivial correlations that violate Bell-type bounds, excluding non-contextual local descriptions under the stated assumptions. These violations arise from the algebraic structure of the operators rather than from kinematic correlations or exotic dynamics. We discuss how the predicted correlation patterns may be probed with experimental data, clarifying the scope and limitations of Bell-type reasoning in particle physics.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.23855
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Academic Papers
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cacbe7e518db036a2cff044aba8772e09111a85472569260b236011a48fe3f31
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Decoherence as detector of the Unruh effect, II
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arXiv:2512.23888v1 Announce Type: cross Abstract: The Unruh effect remains a central topic in quantum field theory, although its direct experimental verification continues to be challenging. Recent efforts have therefore focused on indirect detection strategies in which the Unruh effect emerges through measurable physical processes. In this work, we extend a previously introduced detector model, originally formulated for a massless scalar field, to the electromagnetic field. We show that the decoherence decay rates differ between inertial and accelerated frames. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the characteristic exponential decay associated with the Unruh effect can be observed at lower accelerations than those considered in earlier studies.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.23888
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ee644ecdd599532ef751544cd33727866713e6ae2e0181a006b7445c5dd9faad
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Unruh effect and quantum entanglement for the non-uniform Rindler spacetime
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arXiv:2512.23892v1 Announce Type: cross Abstract: While the Unruh effect has traditionally been studied under the assumption of uniform acceleration, a simplification motivated by experimental considerations, it is not necessarily true for all non-inertial motions. We propose a novel approach for the indirect detection of the Unruh effect without relying on the former restriction. Previous studies have shown that probing the decoherence of an Unruh-DeWitt detector can significantly reduce the acceleration required for observing the effect by several orders of magnitude compared to earlier proposals. Building on this idea, we develop a theoretical framework describing a non-inertial observer equipped with a detector undergoing non-uniform, time-dependent acceleration. We show that, in a non-uniformly accelerated Rindler spacetime, the particle distribution perceived in the Minkowski vacuum acquires a time-dependent modification of the standard Unruh spectrum. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the inclusion of quantum entanglement leads to a deformation of the Minkowski vacuum into squeezed states.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.23892
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Academic Papers
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e47aaf3f66f6fe773403a2039b1678162a67d9ab941cc2570c8f84330c6cbc43
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Non-Hermitian higher-order topological insulators enabled by altermagnet engineering
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arXiv:2512.23951v1 Announce Type: cross Abstract: We show that proximitizing an altermagnet to a non-Hermitian topological insulator provides a powerful mechanism for engineering non-Hermitian higher-order topological phases. The altermagnetic order opens a gap at the topological edge states and drives a topological phase transition from a first-order to a second-order topological phase. When combined with nonreciprocal hopping, the system exhibits both the non-Hermitian skin effect and a hybrid skin-topological effect, whereby first-order edge states and second-order corner states accumulate at selected corners of the lattice. We demonstrate that the spectral winding number of the edge states under cylindrical geometry dictates this corner localization and can be reversed by tuning the altermagnetic order. Consequently, both edge and corner modes become directionally controllable. Our results establish altermagnets as a versatile platform for realizing and tuning skin-topological phenomena in non-Hermitian higher-order topological systems.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.23951
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b77199dc9bb967aaa337786e370982b902a6954886b7b4fcc1c8ad0363c62b77
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Linear exciton Hall and Nernst effects in monolayer two-dimensional semiconductors
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arXiv:2512.24153v1 Announce Type: cross Abstract: This paper focuses on the study of linear exciton Hall and Nernst effects in monolayer two-dimensional (2D) semiconductors, employing the semi-classical transport theory. By deriving the exciton Berry curvature in momentum space for a general inhomogeneous 2D system, we establish its dependence on the Berry curvature and the effective mass of electron and hole. As illustrative examples, the exciton Hall effect in monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) and black phosphorus (BP) are calculated. For these materials, we demonstrate that a linear Hall (Nernst) exciton current with the non-zero Berry curvature is strictly forbidden by the symmetries. This finding aligns with earlier experimental observations on the exciton Hall effect in MoSe$_2$. In contrast, a strong anisotropy in BP leads to a net linear Hall current of excitons, exhibiting a relatively large value and resembling an anomalous Hall effect rather than a valley Hall effect. Our work reveals that the specific symmetry of 2D materials can induce a significant linear exciton Hall (Nernst) effect even without Berry curvature, which is normally forbidden with non-zero Berry curvature in the monolayer 2D material. This observation holds promise for future optoelectronic applications and offers exciting possibilities for experimental exploration.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.24153
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Academic Papers
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0892ecae75bfb131241b745bb287f59560b2437d7c2a6d27535affa946ddab96
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Entropic order parameters and topological holography
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arXiv:2512.24225v1 Announce Type: cross Abstract: We show that the symmetry topological field theory (SymTFT) construction, also known as the topological holography, provides a natural and intuitive framework for the entropic order parameter characterising phases with (partially) broken symmetries. Various examples of group and non-invertible symmetries are studied. In particular, the origin of the distinguishability of the vacua resulting from spontaneously broken non-invertible symmetries is made manifest with an information-theoretic perspective, where certain operators in the SymTFT are excluded from observation.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.24225
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Academic Papers
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ea856207507489f377a8b99e314e8f3f11307f9ec3494e29d4043f8b8f74547f
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Quantifying the advantage of vector over scalar magnetic sensor networks for undersea surveillance
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arXiv:2512.24250v1 Announce Type: cross Abstract: Magnetic monitoring of maritime environments is an important problem for monitoring and optimising shipping, as well as national security. New developments in compact, fibre-coupled quantum magnetometers have led to the opportunity to critically evaluate how best to create such a sensor network. Here we explore various magnetic sensor network architectures for target identification. Our modelling compares networks of scalar vs vector magnetometers. We implement an unscented Kalman filter approach to perform target tracking, and we find that vector networks provide a significant improvement in target tracking, specifically tracking accuracy and resilience compared with scalar networks.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.24250
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Academic Papers
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5c9d3bcd5640081235b43f6364776b089f61fed1b7a4d3e44cc2e79d908c5f48
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Benasque Lectures on Gaussian Bosonic Systems and Analogue Gravity
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arXiv:2512.24344v1 Announce Type: cross Abstract: These notes are adapted from six lectures that I delivered at Analogue Gravity in Benasque 2023. They present the unified Gaussian (phase-space) framework to describe linear bosonic quantum systems, the standard tool in quantum optics and continuous-variable quantum information, emphasizing its simplicity and platform independence, with applications to semi-classical black holes and analogue gravity. Parts (I-III) develop the formalism: from harmonic dynamics and Gaussian transformations to state characterization via moments, Wigner functions, and entanglement measures. Part (IV) applies these tools to semi-classical black holes, discussing Hawking radiation and quantum superradiance in rotating black holes, and laboratory analogues in light-matter systems via toy models.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.24344
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6a6652c451be5edd8a55f29059662db1b4282220c94c691256c2a4e43c654d57
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Necessary and sufficient conditions for entropy vector realizability by holographic simple tree graph models
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arXiv:2512.24490v1 Announce Type: cross Abstract: We prove that the ``chordality condition'', which was established in arXiv:2412.18018 as a necessary condition for an entropy vector to be realizable by a holographic simple tree graph model, is also sufficient. The proof is constructive, demonstrating that the algorithm introduced in arXiv:2512.18702 for constructing a simple tree graph model realization of a given entropy vector that satisfies this condition always succeeds. We emphasize that these results hold for an arbitrary number of parties, and, given that any entropy vector realizable by a holographic graph model can also be realized, at least approximately, by a stabilizer state, they highlight how techniques originally developed in holography can provide broad insights into entanglement and information theory more generally, and in particular, into the structure of the stabilizer and quantum entropy cones. Moreover, if the strong form of the conjecture from arXiv:2204.00075 holds, namely, if all holographic entropy vectors can be realized by (not necessarily simple) tree graph models, then the result of this work demonstrates that the essential data that encodes the structure of the holographic entropy cone for an arbitrary number of parties, is the set of ``chordal'' extreme rays of the subadditivity cone.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.24490
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bf5f6c586f48022b06ac0f2e3f28d94a25a062986308f728c264014a3741fbfd
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Matter with apparent and hidden spin physics
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arXiv:2512.24579v1 Announce Type: cross Abstract: Materials with interesting physical properties are often designed based on our understanding of the target physical effects. The physical properties can be either explicitly observed ("apparent") or concealed by the perceived symmetry ("hidden") but still exist. Both are enabled by specific symmetries and induced by certain physical interactions. Using the underlying approach of condensed matter theory of real materials (rather than schematic model Hamiltonians), we discuss apparent and hidden physics in real materials focusing on the properties of spin splitting and spin polarization. Depending on the enabling symmetries and underlying physical interactions, we classify spin effects into four categories with each having two subtypes; representative materials are pointed out. We then discuss the electric tunability and switch of apparent and hidden spin splitting and polarization in antiferromagnets. Finally, we extend "hidden effects" to views that are farsighted in the sense of resolving the correct atomistic and reciprocal symmetry and replaced by the incorrect higher symmetry. This framework could guide and enable systematic discovery of such intriguing effects.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.24579
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Academic Papers
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1bb7d7fb94a9f435dc3f02dac89dafe81a235f55a46f2ec38578f5372fdfc730
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Quasiparticle Dynamics in the 4d-4f Ising-like Double Perovskite Ba2DyRuO6 Probed by Neutron Scattering and Machine-Learning Framework
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arXiv:2512.24778v1 Announce Type: cross Abstract: Double perovskites containing 4d--4f interactions provide a platform to study complex magnetic phenomena in correlated systems. Here, we investigate the magnetic ground state and quasiparticle excitations of the fascinating double perovskite system, Ba$_2$DyRuO$_6$, through Time of flight (TOF) neutron diffraction (TOF), inelastic neutron scattering (INS), and theoretical modelling. The compound Ba$_2$DyRuO$_6$ is reported to exhibit a single magnetic transition, in sharp contrast to most of the other rare-earth (R) members in this family, A$_2$RRuO$_6$ (A = Ca/Sr/Ba), which typically show magnetic ordering of the Ru ions, followed by R-ion ordering. Our neutron diffraction results confirm that long-range antiferromagnetic order emerges at $T_\mathrm{N} \approx 47$~K, primarily driven by 4d--4f Ru$^{5+}$--Dy$^{3+}$ exchange interactions, where both Dy and Ru moments start to order simultaneously. The ordered ground state is a collinear antiferromagnet with Ising character, carrying ordered moments of $\mu_{\mathrm{Ru}} = 1.6(1)~\mu_\mathrm{B}$ and $\mu_{\mathrm{Dy}} = 5.1(1)~\mu_\mathrm{B}$ at 1.5~K. Low-temperature INS reveals well-defined magnon excitations below 10~meV. SpinW modelling of the INS spectra evidences complex exchange interactions and the presence of magnetic anisotropy, which governs the Ising ground state and accounts for the observed magnon spectrum. Combined INS and Raman spectroscopy reveal crystal-electric-field (CEF) excitations of Dy$^{3+}$ at 46.5 and 71.8~meV in the paramagnetic region. The observed CEF levels are reproduced by point-charge calculations consistent with the $O_h$ symmetry of Dy$^{3+}$. A complementary machine-learning approach is used to analyse the phonon spectrum and compare with INS data. Together, these results clarify the origin of phonon and magnon excitations and their role in the ground-state magnetism of Ba$_2$DyRuO$_6$.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.24778
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c6701a437efddde7183b00b95bdb9a51f924ef87d95aa31a3f03ffff9ce369e2
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Numerical study of boson mixtures with multi-component continuous matrix product states
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arXiv:2512.24998v1 Announce Type: cross Abstract: The continuous matrix product state (cMPS) ansatz is a promising numerical tool for studying quantum many-body systems in continuous space. Although it provides a clean framework that allows one to directly simulate continuous systems, the optimization of cMPS is known to be a very challenging task, especially in the case of multi-component systems. In this work, we have developed an improved optimization scheme for multi-component cMPS that enables simulations of bosonic quantum mixtures with substantially larger bond dimensions than previous works. We benchmark our method on the two-component Lieb-Liniger model, obtaining numerical results that agree well with analytical predictions. Our work paves the way for further numerical studies of quantum mixture systems using the cMPS ansatz.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.24998
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Academic Papers
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5400a757b99d92d607a196cff9470d11d642351fbd3f8d12bb201a532e5aede3
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Parity order as a fundamental driver of bosonic topology
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arXiv:2512.25011v1 Announce Type: cross Abstract: Symmetry-protected topological (SPT) phases in interacting bosonic systems have been extensively studied, yet most realizations rely on fine-tuned interactions or enlarged symmetries. Here we show that a qualitatively different mechanism--parity order coupled to bond dimerization--acts as a fundamental driver of bosonic topology. Using density matrix renormalization group simulations, we identify two distinct topological phases absent in the purely dimerized model: an SPT phase at half filling stabilized by positive parity coupling, and a topological phase at unit filling stabilized by negative coupling that can be adiabatically connected to a trivial phase without breaking any symmetry. Our results establish parity order as a new organizing principle for correlation-driven bosonic topology.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.25011
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Academic Papers
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4de7f6e79615b019fd368b5279aeba378d0cb83bff355edc100b52baf68c631a
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Randomization Times under Quantum Chaotic Hamiltonian Evolution
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arXiv:2512.25074v1 Announce Type: cross Abstract: Randomness generation through quantum-chaotic evolution underpins foundational questions in statistical mechanics and applications across quantum information science, including benchmarking, tomography, metrology, and demonstrations of quantum computational advantage. While statistical mechanics successfully captures the temporal averages of local observables, understanding randomness at the level of higher statistical moments remains a daunting challenge, with analytic progress largely confined to random quantum circuit models or fine-tuned systems exhibiting space-time duality. Here we study how much randomness can be dynamically generated by generic quantum-chaotic evolution under physical, non-random Hamiltonians. Combining theoretical insights with numerical simulations, we show that for broad classes of initially unentangled states, the dynamics become effectively Haar-random well before the system can ergodically explore the physically accessible Hilbert space. Both local and highly nonlocal observables, including entanglement measures, equilibrate to their Haar expectation values and fluctuations on polynomial timescales with remarkably high numerical precision, and with the fastest randomization occurring in regions of parameter space previously identified as maximally chaotic. Interestingly, this effective randomization can occur on timescales linear in system size, suggesting that the sub-ballistic growth of Renyi entropies typically observed in systems with conservation laws can be bypassed in non-random Hamiltonians with an appropriate choice of initial conditions.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.25074
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0068d5ec2b9eba17f7443a7d3c4fec9279a77c1abe2d8a7982adf65953a0065a
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Contextuality witness inspired by optimal state discrimination
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arXiv:2310.12716v3 Announce Type: replace Abstract: Many protocols and tasks in quantum information science rely inherently on the fundamental notion of contextuality to provide advantages over their classical counterparts, and contextuality represents one of the main differences between quantum and classical physics. In this work we present a witness for preparation contextuality inspired by optimal two-state discrimination. The main idea is based on finding the accessible averaged success and error probabilities in both classical and quantum models. We can then construct a noncontextuality inequality and associated witness which we find to be robust against depolarising noise and loss in the form of inconclusive events.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2310.12716
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Academic Papers
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3c85197ed9e9278c5eccc5354eb390060abfc44771a6bdc56701553e96693103
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Stories in the two-state vector formalism
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arXiv:2409.04396v2 Announce Type: replace Abstract: The two-state vector formalism of quantum mechanics is a time-symmetrized approach to standard quantum theory. In our work, we aim to establish rigorous foundations for the future investigation within this formalism. We introduce the concept of a story - a compatible pair consisting of a two-state vector and an ideal measurement. Using this concept, we examine the structure of the space comprising all two-state vectors. We analyze the problem of distinguishability and confirm that some pairs of two-state vectors or their statistical mixtures cannot be physically distinguished. In particular, we discuss an example of a two-state vector that is indistinguishable from a statistical mixture of separable two-state vectors and provide an example of a two-state vector that can be distinguished from every such mixture. This leads us to formulate the definition of a strictly non-separable two-state vector as a genuine manifestation of entanglement between the past and the future.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2409.04396
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cd5773254f12230f3ce85cf734658c624f6524ad67d8e62628643d82469c492b
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Single-shot detection limits of quantum illumination with multi-qudit states
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arXiv:2501.14178v3 Announce Type: replace Abstract: Quantum illumination is a protocol for detecting a low-reflectivity target by using two-mode entangled states composed of signal and idler modes, which can outperform unentangled states. We study multi-qudit states for single-shot detection limits of quantum illumination under white noise environment. Using three-qubit states, we obtain that the performance is enhanced by the entanglement between signal and idler qubits, whereas it is degraded by the entanglement between signal qubits. The similar behaviors are also observed for three-qutrit, four-qubit, and four-ququart states. In particular, the optimal state is not a maximally entangled multipartite state but a combination of a maximally entangled bipartite state. Moreover, we show that quantum correlation can explain the quantum advantage of three-qubit, three-qutrit, and four-qubit states, with exception of a four-ququart state.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2501.14178
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be52d9c9998980868163ee288d8db62bb83c5e4139676b86582bf819d8a577cc
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Decoherence-induced self-dual criticality in topological states of matter
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arXiv:2502.14034v4 Announce Type: replace Abstract: Quantum measurements performed on a subsystem of a quantum many-body state can generate entanglement for its remaining constituents. The whole system including the measurement record is described by a hybrid mixed state, which can exhibit exotic phase transitions and critical phenomena. We demonstrate that generic measurement-induced phase transitions (MIPTs) can be cast as decoherence-induced critical mixed states in one higher dimension, by constructing a projected entangled pair state (PEPS) prior to decoherence or measurement. In this context, a deeper conceptual understanding of such mixed-state criticality is called for, particularly with regard to algebraic symmetry as an advanced organizing principle for such entangled states of matter. Integrating these connections we investigate the role of self-dual symmetry -- a fundamental notion in theoretical physics -- in mixed states, showing that the decoherence of electric (e) and magnetic (m) vortices from the 2D bulk of the toric code, or equivalently, a 2D cluster state with symmetry-protected topological order, can leave a (1+1)D quantum critical mixed state protected by a weak Kramers-Wannier self-dual symmetry. The corresponding self-dual critical bulk is described by the N->1 limit of the 2D Non-linear Sigma Model in symmetry class D with target space SO(2N)/U(N) at $\Theta$-angle $\pi$, and represents a "measurement-version" of the Cho-Fisher network model subjected to Born-rule randomness...
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2502.14034
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199ed64aa02aa8997a634a4af1ac271437e789d03782a0d1ed31b74f910ac2c0
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Logical channels in approximate Gottesman-Kitaev-Preskill error correction
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arXiv:2504.13383v2 Announce Type: replace Abstract: The GKP encoding is a top contender among bosonic codes for fault-tolerant quantum computation. Analysis of the GKP code is complicated by the fact that finite-energy code states leak out of the ideal GKP code space and are not orthogonal. We analyze a variant of the GKP stabilizer measurement circuit using damped, approximate GKP states that virtually project onto the ideal GKP code space between rounds of error correction even when finite-energy GKP states are used. This allows us to identify logical maps between projectors; however, due to finite-energy effects, these maps fail to resolve completely positive, trace-preserving channels on the logical code space. We present two solutions to this problem based on channel twirling the damping operator. The first twirls over the full stabilizer group motivated by standard binning (SB) decoding that converts small amounts of damping into Gaussian random noise. The second twirls over a set of representative Pauli shifts that keeps the energy in the code finite and allow for arbitrary decoding. This approach is not limited to small damping, can be applied when logical GKP unitaries or other sources of CV noise are present, and allows us to study general decoding, which can be optimized to the noise in the circuit. Focusing on damping, we compare decoding strategies tailored to different levels of effective squeezing. While our results indicate that SB decoding is suboptimal for finite-energy GKP states, the advantage of optimized decoding over SB decoding shrinks as the energy in the code increases, and moreover the performance of both strategies converges to that of the stabilizer-twirled logical channel. These studies provide stronger arguments for commonplace procedures in the analysis of GKP error correction:(i) using stochastically shifted GKP states in place of coherently damped ones, and(ii) the use of SB decoding.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2504.13383
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3c92bf52b2db82fb8f5592931a3eb79ecdee00fc3e86adeb003cc781391015a0
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Ultracoherent superconducting cavity-based multiqudit platform with error-resilient control
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arXiv:2506.03286v3 Announce Type: replace Abstract: Superconducting radio-frequency (SRF) cavities offer a promising platform for quantum computing due to their long coherence times, yet integrating nonlinear elements like transmons for control often introduces additional loss. We report a multimode quantum system based on a 2-cell elliptical shaped SRF cavity, comprising two cavity modes weakly coupled to an ancillary transmon circuit, designed to preserve coherence while enabling efficient control of the cavity modes. We mitigate the detrimental effects of the transmon decoherence through careful design optimization that reduces transmon-cavity couplings and participation in the dielectric substrate and lossy interfaces, to achieve single-photon lifetimes of 20.6 ms and 15.6 ms for the two modes, and a pure dephasing time exceeding 40 ms. This marks an order-of-magnitude improvement over prior 3D multimode memories. Leveraging sideband interactions and novel error-resilient protocols, including measurement-based correction and post-selection, we achieve high-fidelity control over quantum states. This enables the preparation of Fock states up to $N = 20$ with fidelities exceeding 95%, the highest reported to date to the authors' knowledge, as well as two-mode entanglement with an estimated coherence-limited fidelities of 99.9% after post-selection. These results establish our platform as a robust foundation for quantum information processing, allowing for future extensions to high-dimensional qudit encodings.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2506.03286
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577626d7aba4394903d70e379529e18ff97d3a4bd52950cca26bc2f5faf1c39d
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Absolutely maximally entangled pure states of multipartite quantum systems
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arXiv:2508.04777v2 Announce Type: replace Abstract: Absolutely maximally entangled (AME) pure states of a system composed of $N$ parties are distinguished by the property that for any splitting at least one partial trace is maximally mixed. Due to maximal possible correlations between any two selected subsystems these states have numerous applications in various fields of quantum information processing including multi-user teleportation, quantum error correction and secret sharing. We present an updated survey of various techniques to generate such strongly entangled states, including those going beyond the standard construction of graph and stabilizer states. Our contribution includes, in particular, analysis of the degree of entanglement of reduced states obtained by partial trace of AME projectors, states obtained by a symmetric superposition of GHZ states, an orthogonal frequency square representation of the "golden" AME state and an updated summary of the number of local unitary equivalence classes.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2508.04777
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031993499444f2e1d02f389b3e125b5936f8748a09a17ac1ce3efdfb8c0a6371
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Logical Error Rates for the Surface Code Under a Mixed Coherent and Stochastic Circuit-Level Noise Model Inspired by Trapped Ions
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arXiv:2508.14227v2 Announce Type: replace Abstract: With fault-tolerant quantum computing (FTQC) on the horizon, it is critical to understand sources of logical error in plausible hardware implementations of quantum error-correcting codes (QECC). In this work, we consider logical error rates for the surface code implemented on a hypothetical grid-based trapped-ion quantum charge-coupled device (QCCD) architecture. Specifically, we construct logical channels for the idling surface code and examine its diamond error under a mixed coherent and stochastic circuit-level noise model inspired by trapped ions. We include the coherent dephasing noise that is known to accumulate during physical qubit idling and transport in these systems, determining idling and transport durations using the time-resolved output of the trapped-ion surface code compiler (TISCC). To estimate expectation values of logical Pauli observables following hardware circuits containing non-Clifford sources of noise, we utilize a Monte Carlo technique to sample from an underlying quasi-probability distribution of Clifford circuits that we independently simulate in a phase-sensitive fashion. We verify error suppression up to code distance $d=11$ at coherent dephasing rates near and below those of current-generation trapped-ion quantum computers and find that logical error rates align with those of analogous fully stochastic simulations in this regime. Exploring higher dephasing rates at $d=3-5$, we find evidence for growing coherent rotations about all three logical Pauli axes, increased diagonal logical error process matrix elements relative to those of stochastic simulations, and a reduced dephasing rate threshold. Overall, our work paves a way toward realistic hardware emulation of small fault-tolerant quantum processes, e.g., members of a FTQC instruction set.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2508.14227
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2b401244e8da611f6bd87b778be50671d75cb44fedf6200eb4161e7a614e2ae3
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Resolving Microscopic Correlated Electron Dynamics via 2000-Qubit Quantum Simulation
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arXiv:2508.20028v2 Announce Type: replace Abstract: Understanding how quantum materials return to equilibrium after being driven into excited states is a fundamental problem in condensed matter physics. A prototypical material, 1T-TaS$_2$, exhibits complex electronic textures made up of domain walls, which slowly reorganize into a more uniform structure as the system relaxes. At low temperatures, this process becomes dominated by quantum rather than thermal effects. In this work, we use large-scale noise-driven quantum simulations-spanning more than 2000 qubits-to study this relaxation process through an effective model known as the transverse-field Ising model in a longitudinal field. By mathematically transforming this model into a simpler form, we identify the basic microscopic steps involved: rather than moving collectively, the domain walls evolve through a sequence of noise-driven single-particle tunneling events. A detailed analysis of how the relaxation rate depends on temperature and model parameters confirms this picture. Our findings show that quantum simulation can provide rare, predictive insight into the inner workings of real quantum materials, and establish a practical pathway for studying complex non-equilibrium processes using current-generation quantum hardware.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2508.20028
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7fd22bef431026dcaed3fcba0c9420a4e32bf7cdec19ad965ba50f25c7055104
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Quantum Telegraph Behavior Without Photons
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arXiv:2508.20837v2 Announce Type: replace Abstract: We show that a simple model of non-Hermitian noise gives rise to the telegraph switching behavior seen in experiments with single qubits, without any reference to the existence of photons as corpuscles. This lends support to a continuous collapse interpretation of quantum mechanics, but can also be viewed as a model of continuous detection of a steady-state process in the incoherent limit. We show explicitly that such a system obeys the Born rule for particle counting statistics, even though no particle behavior has been invoked at any point in the calculation.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2508.20837
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baa84e04050c4490fb6a413d21f34e913c72a437e9b0ea972d96a97f763806e2
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Empty-Signal Detection and the Principle-Level Feasibility of Arbitrarily Long-Distance Repeaterless Quantum Communication
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arXiv:2509.15884v3 Announce Type: replace Abstract: Practical repeaterless quantum communication (PRQC) is fundamentally constrained by the divergence of the quantum bit error rate (QBER) arising from the interplay between channel loss and single-photon detector (SPD) dark counts. As the channel transmission rate decays exponentially with distance, vacuum-induced dark counts inevitably dominate detection events beyond a finite range, driving the QBER toward 50\% and rendering PRQC infeasible. Here, a theoretical framework termed empty-signal detection (ESD) is established to address this long-standing limitation at the level of principle. By encoding particle-existence information (PEI) onto an auxiliary degree of freedom (DOF) and employing controlled operations together with multi-copy analysis, the ESD paradigm enables vacuum-induced detection events to be identified and filtered without disturbing the encoded quantum information. Consequently, the non-empty signal rate (NESR) of the accepted signals can be stabilized at a distance-independent level under physically reasonable conditions, thereby suppressing the fundamental QBER within the secure bounds of PRQC, irrespective of channel attenuation. As a result, PRQC can, in principle, remain feasible over arbitrarily long distances, with the fundamental limitation shifting from distance-dependent QBER divergence to resource-dependent efficiency trade-offs. By providing a rigorous theoretical resolution of the fundamental QBER-induced distance limitation, this work clarifies the principle-level scalability of PRQC. Furthermore, the vacuum-filtering framework developed here may also be of interest in a broader class of loss-sensitive or detection-based quantum tasks.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2509.15884
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f730e5abebf18e0cf798d64a15c6787d6d85131d07e83015bea27711fbb2e597
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Multipartite quantum entanglement in $\mathcal{PT}$-symmetric molecular optomechanics: Nonreciprocal enhancement and thermal resilience to \SI{500}{\kelvin}
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arXiv:2509.16675v2 Announce Type: replace Abstract: We present a theoretical framework for a $\mathcal{PT}$-symmetric double-cavity molecular optomechanical system demonstrating nonreciprocal enhancement of multipartite quantum entanglement at elevated temperatures. All bipartite entanglement channels ($E_{ac}$, $E_{aB_1}$, $E_{cB_2}$, $E_{B_1B_2}$) simultaneously maximize at optimal nonreciprocal asymmetry $J_1/J_2 \approx 5$, with entanglement persisting to $T \sim \SIrange{400}{500}{\kelvin}$ (material-limited ceiling) two orders of magnitude beyond conventional optomechanical systems. This thermal resilience and balanced enhancement across all channels arise from synergistic combination of ultra-high-frequency molecular vibrations ($\omega_m/2\pi = \SI{30}{\tera\hertz}$), collective $\sqrt{N}$ coupling enhancement with $N=\num{e6}$ molecules, and directional nonreciprocal coupling shielding entanglement-generating interactions from backaction noise. Unlike optical parametric amplifier schemes where vibration-vibration enhancement suppresses optical-vibration correlations, our $\mathcal{PT}$-symmetric architecture circumvents this fundamental trade-off, validated through rigorous stability analysis via Routh-Hurwitz criterion.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2509.16675
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55071b710286e0fe36376c30825bc574f637dbcb386238ffd733e169bb88bfaa
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Navigating entanglement via Ruderman-Kittel-Kasuya-Yosida exchange: Snake, bouncing, boundary-residing, pulse, and damping-stabilized time-frozen trajectories
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arXiv:2509.16751v2 Announce Type: replace Abstract: Entanglement dynamics are fundamental to quantum technologies, yet navigating their temporal profiles (trajectories) remains challenging. Here, we propose a scalable solid-state platform based on RKKY exchange, where two spin qubits couple to a central spin qudit that oscillatorily spin-polarizes the surrounding conduction electrons. We introduce the exchange-time integral (ETI), which maps the spatial motion of the qubits to a time-dependent exchange interaction and serves as an effective "trajectory clock" governing the system evolution. We focus specifically on entanglement trajectories initially near the entanglement-unentanglement boundary, with the distance to this boundary quantified by concurrence extended to include negative values. By alternating the sign changes of the exchange, implemented through vibrational motion of qubits, the ETI enables programmable entanglement trajectories. For in-phase and antiphase vibrations, including scenarios with controlled stopping at the RKKY exchange-free nodes, we identify distinctive trajectories: snake (repeatedly crossing the boundary), bouncing (immediately reversing upon reaching the boundary), boundary-residing (remaining at the transition point), and pulse (controllable entanglement intervals). The vibration phase creates asymmetric shifts to the trajectories. The proposed device offers built-in error correction against dephasing by utilizing both ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic regimes. Out-of-phase vibrations drive trajectories away from the boundary, accessing larger entanglement values but with irregular/unsteady final states. To stabilize these trajectories, we introduce a damping mechanism. Our framework offers a systematic method for navigating and engineering entanglement dynamics in quantum systems, with potential applications in quantum computation, cryptography, and metrology.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2509.16751
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8837c2df0a87f462feb634958eb97179da6b808a769f9871fbdc3f22d45c67f3
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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On a discrete version of the position-momentum commutation relation
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arXiv:2509.22753v4 Announce Type: replace Abstract: The usual position-momentum commutation relation plays a fundamental role in the mathematical description of continuous-variable quantum systems. In the case of a qudit described by a Hilbert space of a high enough dimension, there exists a discrete version of the position-momentum commutation relation approximately satisfied by a large part of the pure quantum states. Our purpose is to explore in more details the set of these states. We show that it contains a family of discrete-variable Gaussian states depending on a continuous parameter and certain discrete coherent states. It also contains various discrete-variable versions of the Hermite-Gauss states, defined either as eigenstates of certain discrete versions of the harmonic oscillator Hamiltonian or generated by using a discrete version of the creation or annihilation operator. As a direct consequence, a discrete version of the incertitude relation is satisfied by the considered quantum states.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2509.22753
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c7febf9e7d123596a402f7e1bf78ce179e026c087c9faa14b69a212240c448f2
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Barnett Effect-Induced Nonreciprocal Entanglement and Gaussian interferometric power in Magnomechanics with Optical Parametric Amplifier
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arXiv:2509.25389v3 Announce Type: replace Abstract: Nonreciprocity is a powerful tool in quantum technologies. It allows signals to be sent in one direction but not the other. In this article, we propose a method for achieving non-reciprocal entanglement and Gaussian interferometric power (GIP) via the Barnett effect. The YIG is coupled to a microwave cavity that interacts with an optical parametric amplifier (OPA). Due to the Barnett effect, giant nonreciprocal entanglement can emerge. By fine-tuning the cavity detuning, the GIP can exhibits nonreciprocal behavior. All entanglements with ideal nonreciprocity can be achieved by tuning the photon frequency detuning, appropriately choosing the cavity-magnon coupling regime, the nonlinear gain, and the phase shift of the OPA. Interestingly, the amount of entanglement nonreciprocity and its resilience to thermal occupation are remarkably enhanced by increasing the gain of the OPA. This nonreciprocity can be significantly enhanced even at relatively high temperatures. Our research offers a pathway for the realization of nonreciprocal single-phonon devices, with potential applications in quantum information processing and quantum communication. This proposed scheme could pave the way for the development of novel nonreciprocal devices that remain robust under thermal fluctuations.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2509.25389
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6d6677d818d3a292cb81f06b9fb8b6a0e9547a0f0d25a33384ee8c7141d5f194
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Dynamical error reshaping for dual-rail erasure qubits
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arXiv:2510.08416v2 Announce Type: replace Abstract: Erasure qubits -- qubits designed to have an error profile that is dominated by detectable leakage errors -- are a promising way to cut down the resources needed for quantum error correction. There have been several recent experiments demonstrating erasure qubits in superconducting quantum processors, most notably the dual-rail qubit defined by the one-photon subspace of two coupled cavities. An outstanding challenge is that the ancillary transmons needed to facilitate erasure checks and two-qubit gates introduce a substantial amount of noise, limiting the benefits of working with erasure-biased qubits. Here, we show how to suppress the adverse effects of transmon-induced noise while performing erasure checks or two-qubit gates. We present control schemes for these operations that suppress erasure check errors by two orders of magnitude and reduce the logical two-qubit gate infidelities by up to three orders of magnitude.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2510.08416
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52a094b0bafa14a17b6d42b3f6d023c9b3de39c1b8f3999e4c296697561485e2
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Crystalline Spectral Form Factors
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arXiv:2512.11054v2 Announce Type: replace Abstract: We investigate crystalline-like behavior of the spectral form factor (SFF) in unitary quantum systems with extremely strong eigenvalue repulsion. Using a low-temperature Coulomb gas as a model of repulsive eigenvalues, we derive the Debye-Waller factor suppressing periodic oscillations of the SFF and estimate the order of its singularities at multiples of the Heisenberg time. We also reproduce this crystalline-like behavior using perturbed permutation circuits and random matrix ensembles associated with Lax matrices. Our results lay a foundation for future studies of quantum systems that exhibit intermediate level statistics between standard random matrix ensembles and permutation circuits.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.11054
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e2b08e117425a820234c427e900b63cd40c0f7fa81331bd2c0a9aa22a9769415
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Applying Grover-mixer Quantum Alternating Operator Ansatz Algorithm to High-order Unconstrained Binary Optimization Problems
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arXiv:2512.23026v2 Announce Type: replace Abstract: The Quantum Approximate Optimization Algorithm (QAOA) is among leading candidates for achieving quantum advantage on near-term processors. While typically implemented with a transverse-field mixer (XM-QAOA), the Grover-mixer variant (GM-QAOA) offers a compelling alternative due to its global search capabilities. This work investigates the application of GM-QAOA to Higher-Order Unconstrained Binary Optimization (HUBO) problems, also known as Polynomial Unconstrained Binary Optimization (PUBO), which constitute a generalized class of combinatorial optimization tasks characterized by intrinsically multi-variable interactions. We present a comprehensive numerical study demonstrating that GM-QAOA, unlike XM-QAOA, exhibits monotonic performance improvement with circuit depth and achieves superior results for HUBO problems. An important component of our approach is an analytical framework for modeling GM-QAOA dynamics, which enables a classical approximation of the optimal parameters and helps reduce the optimization overhead. Our resource-efficient parameterized GM-QAOA nearly matches the performance of the fully optimized algorithm while being far less demanding, establishing it as a highly effective approach for complex optimization tasks. These findings highlight GM-QAOA's potential and provide a practical pathway for its implementation on current quantum hardware.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.23026
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9be90a6ca809d6abb83904534641138fabf4a84334559d479d4b93f1c50ded36
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Relation between time- and spacelike entanglement entropy
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arXiv:2402.00268v2 Announce Type: replace-cross Abstract: In this study, we establish a connection between timelike and spacelike entanglement entropy. We show that timelike entanglement entropy is closely related to spacelike entanglement entropy and its temporal derivative. For a broad class of states, it can be uniquely determined by a linear combination of spacelike entanglement entropy and its first-order temporal derivative. This relation holds, for instance, in states conformally equivalent to the vacuum in two-dimensional conformal field theories. For more general states, we demonstrate that the relation can be constructed perturbatively. Our results suggest that timelike entanglement entropy is constrained by causality. Moreover, this relation provides a unified framework for timelike and spacelike entanglement entropy, within which the imaginary component of timelike entanglement entropy can be understood as arising from the non-commutativity between the twist operator and its first-order temporal derivative.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2402.00268
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0e503f2a8d5e74c58663530b1c6c933d7fe3d5e4bdf18f539506ee8a2f2cce15
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Circular Dichroism on the Edge of Quantum Hall Systems: From Many-Body Chern Number to Anisotropy Measurements
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arXiv:2407.04639v3 Announce Type: replace-cross Abstract: Quantum Hall states are characterized by a topological invariant, the many-body Chern number, which determines their quantized Hall conductivity. This invariant also emerges in circular dichroic responses, namely, by applying a circular drive and comparing excitation rates for opposite orientations. This work explores the dichroic response of confined, isolated quantum Hall systems, where bulk and edge contributions cancel exactly:~When the edge response is properly isolated, the circular dichroic signal becomes quantized, serving as a direct and elegant probe of the many-body Chern number encoded in the edge physics. We demonstrate that this quantized edge response is entirely captured by low-energy chiral edge modes, allowing for a universal description of this effect based on Wen's edge theory. Its low-energy nature implies that the quantized edge response can be distinguished from the bulk response in the frequency domain. The edge response is also shown to be a sensitive diagnostic of geometric features. This opens the possibility of characterizing the shape of quantum Hall droplets through edge spectroscopic measurements, without requiring knowledge of the system's boundary profile. We illustrate our findings using realistic models of integer and fractional Chern insulators, with different edge geometries, and propose detection schemes suitable for ultracold atoms.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2407.04639
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9c935b445737dcb53cf42987c9bb67247649562164c8ee7dedde8dc3c45ad564
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2026-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
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Coupled-wire construction of non-Abelian higher-order topological phases
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arXiv:2512.21179v2 Announce Type: replace-cross Abstract: Non-Abelian topological charges (NATCs), characterized by their noncommutative algebra, offer a framework for describing multigap topological phases beyond conventional Abelian invariants. While higher-order topological phases (HOTPs) host boundary states at corners or hinges, their characterization has largely relied on Abelian invariants such as winding and Chern numbers. Here, we propose a coupled-wire scheme of constructing non-Abelian HOTPs and analyze a non-Abelian second-order topological insulator as its minimal model. The resulting Hamiltonian supports hybridized corner modes, protected by parity-time-reversal plus sublattice symmetries and described by a topological vector that unites a non-Abelian quaternion charge with an Abelian winding number. Corner states emerge only when both invariants are nontrivial, whereas weak topological edge states of non-Abelian origins arise when the quaternion charge is nontrivial, enriching the bulk-edge-corner correspondence. The system further exhibits both non-Abelian and Abelian topological phase transitions, providing a unified platform that bridges these two distinct topological classes. Our work extends the understanding of HOTPs into non-Abelian regimes and suggests feasible experimental realizations in synthetic quantum systems, such as photonic or acoustic metamaterials.
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https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.21179
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2ad381da4dd03052bcf38d5e862b23896817e215b47ba32740341d9e190af1f9
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2026-01-01T05:00:19+00:00
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SpaceX, OpenAI and Anthropic prepare to launch landmark IPOs
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Three biggest US private tech groups plan listings as early as this year, raising hopes of windfall for banks, lawyers and investors
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https://www.ft.com/content/bf607829-dca5-497d-b1a1-ca945d32a8c6
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Business & Finance
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6f08ab2643d2e8de3d1dbdcb0cb46ffe0580e330f1ba8e70d6ecc4625d9763d1
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2026-01-01T01:54:52+00:00
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Chip shortages threaten 20% rise in consumer electronics prices
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Manufacturers and analysts warn AI data centre build-out is crowding out market for semiconductors
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https://www.ft.com/content/1f471189-2277-4d5d-822b-78eba6060755
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Business & Finance
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43f6d1728d7c2ecd9f0d47f04044e02e156824b5f4571129c96cfe0a2307a3c3
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2026-01-01T03:27:00+00:00
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Is the Times Square New Year’s Eve ball drop on your bucket list? Here’s why life goals like that aren’t worth the time or money.
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And you can skip swimming with the dolphins, too.
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https://www.marketwatch.com/story/is-the-times-square-new-years-eve-ball-drop-on-your-bucket-list-heres-why-life-goals-like-that-arent-worth-the-time-or-money-c4b20b87?mod=mw_rss_topstories
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Business & Finance
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https://images.mktw.net/im-20100685
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b9c238581eda6fdb34820b8f46044a4ef270b0753ff55a070526df26761a5adc
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2026-01-01T04:04:16+00:00
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Tuberville on Mamdani using Quran at his swearing-in: ‘Enemy is inside the gates’
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Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville on Wednesday slammed incoming New York mayor Zohran Mamdani for being sworn in with the Quran, the sacred scripture of Islam. “The enemy is inside the gates,” Tuberville wrote in a post on X, where he also posted a screenshot of a New York Times piece on Mamdani’s historic decision. Mamdani, who will be…
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https://thehill.com/homenews/state-watch/5668878-tuberville-criticizes-mamdani-oath/
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World & Politics
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528221de25b77e16b79cdfa105dcfe60e6b7521a51e5f1605c4173cb992a9c3e
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2026-01-01T02:43:32+00:00
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Trump briefed on intelligence regarding Ukraine’s alleged plot on Putin’s residence
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President Trump was briefed by CIA Director John Ratcliffe at the White House on Wednesday, where he was informed that there is that there is no evidence Ukraine launched an attack on Putin’s residence, NewsNation’s Kellie Meyer and Kevin Bohn have learned. The briefing happened two days after Russia accused Ukraine of trying to attack…
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https://thehill.com/homenews/5668819-trump-briefed-ukraine-russia-attack/
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World & Politics
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2026-01-01T01:42:59+00:00
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US military blows up 2 alleged drug boats, killing 5 ‘narco-terrorists’
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The U.S. military blew up two alleged drug-trafficking boats in the U.S. Southern Command (Southcom) area of responsibility on Wednesday, continuing the Trump administration counternarcotics campaign in the Western Hemisphere. The forces killed five “narco-terrorists” in two boats operated by a designated terrorist organization. Three people were killed in the first boat and two were…
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https://thehill.com/policy/defense/5668816-us-military-blows-up-2-alleged-drug-boats-killing-5-narco-terrorists/
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World & Politics
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473647ccab529c7fdaffe8059c4ab0b16db79d0d8b0fc979aab1fb0362746f1b
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2026-01-01T00:28:47+00:00
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Trump gives up on National Guard deployments in Chicago, LA, Portland
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Welcome to The Hill’s Defense & NatSec newsletter {beacon} Defense &National Security Defense &National Security   The Big Story  Trump gives up on National Guard deployments in Chicago, LA, Portland President Trump said Wednesday that his administration will end its deployment of the National Guard in Chicago; Los Angeles; and Portland, Ore., vowing to return…
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https://thehill.com/homenews/5668788-trump-gives-up-on-national-guard-deployments-in-chicago-la-portland/
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World & Politics
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643b28b0f76c12ba308ac930138f661cf7d799ea5bbaa4248815d6550e112adc
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2025-12-31T23:56:46+00:00
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Minnesota day care center reports ‘extensive vandalism,’ blames YouTube video
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A Minnesota day care center on Wednesday said they’ve faced “extreme vandalism” after Nick Shirley’s viral YouTube video shared allegations of fraud. Employees of Nokomis DayCare Center in Minneapolis told police they were broken into on Tuesday morning after Shirley claimed they were using public funding for a child care facility where kids were not…
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https://thehill.com/homenews/state-watch/5668747-somali-daycare-targeted-fraud-claims/
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World & Politics
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2026-01-01T00:15:57+00:00
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Happy new year: what’s happening in physics in 2026?
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Until then, on behalf of everyone at Physics World, I wish all readers – wherever you are – a happy and successful 2026. Your continued support is greatly valued. The post Happy new year: what’s happening in physics in 2026? appeared first on Physics World.
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https://physicsworld.com/a/happy-new-year-so-what-will-happen-in-physics-in-2026/
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Space & Physics
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2026-01-01T02:21:37+00:00
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Gaia Spots Worlds Being Born
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ESA’s Gaia space telescope has achieved something astronomers thought nearly impossible, detecting planets while they’re still forming inside the dusty discs surrounding newborn stars. By measuring the subtle gravitational wobbles that unseen companions induce on their host stars, Gaia has found hints of planets, brown dwarfs, and companion stars in 31 young stellar systems out of 98 surveyed.
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https://www.universetoday.com/articles/gaia-spots-worlds-being-born
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Space & Physics
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2026-01-01T00:06:28+00:00
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Scientists Race to Film Black Holes in 3D
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The iconic 2019 and 2022 photographs of black holes M87* and Sagittarius A* captivated astronomers worldwide with their fuzzy orange doughnut shapes. Now, scientists are preparing to take the next giant leap by creating the first ever 3D movies of black holes that could fundamentally reshape our understanding of gravity and the universe’s most violent phenomena.
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https://www.universetoday.com/articles/scientists-race-to-film-black-holes-in-3d
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Space & Physics
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887c30ad83177f63cf816ec0cfeddee6fd537cc643e0f86d64f13c0df58b8125
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2025-12-31T21:04:28
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Astronomers ring in the new year with a stunning galaxy collision
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The Champagne Cluster is a rare and beautiful example of two galaxy clusters smashing together. Its festive name comes from both its New Year’s Eve discovery and its bubbly appearance in space. Images reveal superheated gas and galaxies spread across a massive collision zone. Astronomers believe this system could help explain how dark matter responds when giant structures collide.
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https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251231203753.htm
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Science
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svg
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63a9fc6345cdb3c6c2923b718924790416bca8eeb3e8aa9e23ef0c8946488334
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2025-12-31T16:22:51
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New images reveal what really happens when stars explode
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New high-resolution images show that novae are anything but simple stellar fireworks. One exploded with multiple gas streams colliding almost immediately, while another shockingly delayed its eruption for more than 50 days before unleashing a powerful blast. These complex outflows create shock waves that produce intense gamma rays, confirming long-standing theories with direct visual evidence. The findings reveal novae as evolving, multi-stage events rather than single, instant explosions.
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https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251227082708.htm
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Science
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svg
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8e2d16a00a65dd2c3afae0b24f977ff90a83dae400ae19cac288480d65e4a041
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2025-12-31T22:23:07
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Nearly 70% of U.S. adults could now be classified as obese
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A major update to how obesity is defined could push U.S. obesity rates to nearly 70%, according to a large new study. The change comes from adding waist and body fat measurements to BMI, capturing people who were previously considered healthy. Many of these newly included individuals face higher risks of diabetes and heart disease. The findings suggest that where fat is stored may be just as important as overall weight.
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https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251227004140.htm
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Science
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svg
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d56f3f152153c4f45cf7e51398064ffdb48ac78c8635ab81d75adf167f9b9112
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2025-12-31T22:49:21
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MIT study shows high-fat diets give liver cancer a dangerous head start
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A high-fat diet does more than overload the liver with fat. New research from MIT shows that prolonged exposure to fatty foods can push liver cells into a survival mode that quietly raises the risk of cancer. Faced with ongoing metabolic stress, these cells abandon their normal roles and revert to a more primitive state that helps them endure harsh conditions. Over time, that shift leaves the liver less functional and far more vulnerable to tumor formation, helping explain why fatty liver disease so often precedes liver cancer.
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https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251225035344.htm
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Science
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svg
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df8e6b96f25389c7d5a666dcbc0a2b2e738d55cf331b720ecf65b78247343798
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2025-12-31T21:01:00-05:00
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Cremation or casket? Here’s the most eco-friendly burial option.
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The post Cremation or casket? Here’s the most eco-friendly burial option. appeared first on Popular Science.
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https://www.popsci.com/technology/cremation-burial-most-eco-friendly/
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Science
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ec11ab59efb206373fa80966a224160a667d8352d63d8c16f3327303f00c0f56
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2026-01-01T02:44:02+00:00
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‘College dropout’ has become the most coveted startup founder credential
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AI founders are increasingly using their "dropout" status as a credential during YC pitches.
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https://techcrunch.com/2025/12/31/college-dropout-has-become-the-most-coveted-startup-founder-credential/
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Technology
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svg
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1222a706c0fc03345d80ed9610316758e43d6c3d53ae37eac02465aea49bb1b3
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2026-01-01T01:00:51+00:00
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Bid Farewell to ‘Stranger Things’ With io9’s Finale Episode Spoiler Zone
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What happened in the Abyss—and how are Hawkins' heroes and villains faring in the aftermath of their greatest battle?
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https://gizmodo.com/stranger-things-finale-episode-spoilers-discussion-netflix-2000703981
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Technology
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79dc51fe741318e281a52e6e74188033c33f45861e535c5d1e0d97bb2fa12740
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2026-01-01T00:00:00
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Science in 2026: what to expect this year
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Nature, Published online: 01 January 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-025-04114-0
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https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-025-04114-0
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Academic Papers
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svg
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05b50245d97fd2ea037dddb93b614b89d7f5d5884bf31c1ccfa861aa97814f57
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2026-01-01T05:00:07+00:00
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How Nokia went from iPhone victim to $1bn Nvidia deal
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Finnish company that brought the world the 3310 has reinvented itself for the AI revolution
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https://www.ft.com/content/0a07cbc3-dac4-4b89-9f26-038deb833060
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Business & Finance
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80e61d96fb044ea4d920d3beb1a954f3464c8f3e1f0d28a35b1ba0e4d9aa6c8d
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2026-01-01T15:00:09+00:00
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Business trends, wild cards and companies to watch in 2026
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Where power, profits and pressure points are likely to lie across five key sectors
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https://www.ft.com/content/c2832e0f-d858-4479-b341-def386e5cf0d
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Business & Finance
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9699de78f5d3a06b972b2d793155642f780593019fdf144a2a6fece506324eab
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2026-01-01T05:00:20+00:00
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Bethlehem’s former steelworkers watch as Trump promises revival
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In eastern Pennsylvania, vanished industry still shapes identity and politics
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https://www.ft.com/content/ea40cdc0-99fc-465c-806e-b34f14472735
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Business & Finance
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1bd77426fd7f915ba2d306e0f8c5bb03269f32c86926d035d72537847aeb41ec
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2026-01-01T11:00:09+00:00
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Trump’s momentous second year
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2026 will test his limits and the extent of America’s pushback
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https://www.ft.com/content/5d82c2ef-f7d1-406a-9e0d-c031c23c3448
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Business & Finance
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3cfb02836bed08a846cdfb2894460e99123f59bc07921e06e0d81953df4bb4ba
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2026-01-01T15:00:09+00:00
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Iran offers to sell advanced weapons systems for crypto
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Overture from Ministry of Defence Export Center comes as heavily sanctioned states turn to digital assets
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https://www.ft.com/content/d1ceb1a4-3493-4776-ae22-c94d76dc478f
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Business & Finance
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99889f2dfd4d1b206bf035997e06fa48575528515e373e05215827d93fd0ea08
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2026-01-01T15:10:52+00:00
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‘Several dozen’ killed in Swiss ski resort fire
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Authorities say about 100 injured after blaze at bar during new year celebrations in upmarket Crans-Montana
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https://www.ft.com/content/b2cd91db-1b7b-422f-9d8c-5908a5a1a44b
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Business & Finance
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279d71cb37de2e23801f9b90bc4d30548ec1128ae50769ca63f066ae1d807aec
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2026-01-01T05:00:19+00:00
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Apple cuts Vision Pro production and marketing after weak sales
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High prices, limited apps and comfort issues expose difficulty of turning futuristic hardware into a mass-market product
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https://www.ft.com/content/ab817ba1-15ec-473f-b609-5b5016b3258d
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Business & Finance
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a6df538eec701f12a66ac63c4831cfde0fdf3653812d057238cb93cd9b909c9d
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2026-01-01T16:03:00+00:00
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‘I experienced a catastrophic financial loss’: How options trader ‘Captain Condor’ led his followers to a $50 million wipeout
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Captain Condor’s rise coincided with a boom in retail investors trading risky “0DTE” options.
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https://www.marketwatch.com/story/i-experienced-a-catastrophic-financial-loss-how-options-trader-captain-condor-led-his-followers-to-a-50-million-wipeout-5cd1addd?mod=mw_rss_topstories
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Business & Finance
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https://images.mktw.net/im-82067569
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2597eb0e471b30c3d9d57c2ef6bc934fab03920161ec0d463301a87729691b3c
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2026-01-01T16:03:00+00:00
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Trump to spare homeowners from higher tariffs on cabinets and furniture till 2027. Here are the stocks to watch.
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A troubled U.S. housing market, coupled with fear of tariff costs passed on to inflation-weary consumers, weighed on home-furnishing stocks in 2025.
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https://www.marketwatch.com/story/trump-will-spare-homeowners-a-50-tariff-on-cabinets-and-certain-furniture-in-2026-here-are-the-stocks-to-watch-fab3a237?mod=mw_rss_topstories
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Business & Finance
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https://images.mktw.net/im-42498031
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6edf75241283adeb53fc76ae811c7d6ef4290492b4493a70e9759136ba8a669d
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2026-01-01T15:54:00+00:00
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Wall Street is starting 2026 with echoes of 2000’s dot-com woes
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So-called small-cap value stocks have almost never been.
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https://www.marketwatch.com/story/wall-street-is-starting-2026-with-echoes-of-2000s-dot-com-woes-1accb670?mod=mw_rss_topstories
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Business & Finance
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https://images.mktw.net/im-68801854
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67f50939367bbb6d685fc5859d8f74b578610d40407f98b8affa33f25a45a019
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2026-01-01T11:29:00+00:00
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20 stocks in the S&P 500 that gained the most in 2025
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Companies that added to huge gains the previous year included Robinhood, Palantir, Carvana and GE
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https://www.marketwatch.com/story/20-stocks-in-the-s-p-500-that-gained-the-most-in-2025-98be5881?mod=mw_rss_topstories
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Business & Finance
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https://images.mktw.net/im-23051093
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c54eb904d4a934163e9b165dd54263686fd32e70cbe04eff77e57ea152ddc1a9
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2026-01-01T14:31:44+00:00
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A 5 million percent return in 60 years leaves Warren Buffett’s legacy unmatched
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Warren Buffett has handed over the reins after a six-decade run that turned an unremarkable textile mill into one of the most powerful compounding engines in history.
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https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/01/warren-buffetts-legacy-a-5-million-percent-return.html
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Business & Finance
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svg
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309c4f6b1f513e27f2fa03764a513e94ea527ae3f1ae4a73925067d7306edf32
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2026-01-01T15:39:54+00:00
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Bernie Sanders and Ron DeSantis speak out against data center boom. It's a bad sign for AI industry
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Sen. Bernie Sanders has called for a data center moratoriu, while Gov. Ron DeSantis has pushed back on the AI industry in Florida.
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https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/01/ai-data-centers-bernie-sanders-ron-desantis-electricity-prices.html
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Business & Finance
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svg
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ed4c9223bd40213e1008a76aa01b54373b6080069ca07368321bc0546367f492
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2026-01-01T15:00:02+00:00
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Stellantis resurrects $100,000 Ram TRX V-8 pickup truck amid industry deregulation
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The 2027 Ram 1500 SRT TRX will be available late next year after a roughly three-year hiatus for around $100,000.
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https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/01/ram-trx-v8-pickup-truck.html
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Business & Finance
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svg
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cb398d7ed86072312ff5b6db2e6697e5da5c3afb411640b133c571b63b30c614
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2026-01-01T15:10:39+00:00
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Dust to data centers: The year AI tech giants, and billions in debt, began remaking the American landscape
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Big Tech is remaking the U.S. map into an AI empire — kingdom-scale data centers, unprecedented debt, power constraints, and a near-religious belief in scaling.
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https://www.cnbc.com/2025/12/31/ai-data-centers-debt-sam-altman-elon-musk-mark-zuckerberg.html
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Business & Finance
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svg
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629328d2b355f9d54cd00c0005f371a93530de081fbab22f9f3cac94616adc03
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2026-01-01T15:00:02+00:00
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New Year's resolutions rarely work, neuroscientist says: Here's a smarter way to build new habits
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To build better habits this year, start by cultivating an "experimental mindset," according to neuroscientist Anne-Laure Le Cunff.
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https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/01/new-years-resolutions-rarely-work-neuroscientist-says-try-this-smarter-method.html
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Business & Finance
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svg
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ebb48c52df698182aadbf9ce9d6f8608ed7332cc56eea46a4d09aca75a587524
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2026-01-01T06:00:01+00:00
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Novo Nordisk enters 2026 on the defense as it faces a ‘must-win’ battle in the U.S. market
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The FDA approval of the Wegovy pill highlights many of the key themes Novo Nordisk will have to face in 2026.
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https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/01/novo-nordisk-faces-must-win-battle-over-us-wegovy-ozempic-in-2026.html
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Business & Finance
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svg
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365fdd4d2817a18ff35ef2420b5b50571be8332429fbdffa7bd4c956e9aa2cc4
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2026-01-01T15:10:01+00:00
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Student loan forgiveness is taxable again: Start planning for the 'tax bomb,' CFP says
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Some student loan borrowers who get their debt canceled in 2026 may be hit with a tax bill now that a law protecting the relief from levies has expired.
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https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/01/student-loan-forgiveness-taxes.html
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Business & Finance
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svg
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65f07d1ccbc31e45a1fcfa29e9d1c886d8c91172782de54245ebe2b124c63958
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2026-01-01T13:30:01+00:00
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Minimum wage just went up in 19 states—workers in one state are getting a $2 an hour raise
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More than 8.3 million workers are expected to benefit from minimum wage hikes in 19 states including Arizona, California, Michigan, New Jersey and New York.
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https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/01/minimum-wage-just-went-up-in-these-us-states-starting-january-2026.html
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Business & Finance
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svg
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d30b9937c3967be37a6fec8a2ac74da18751178e901974522636d0803812c4a3
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2026-01-01T14:00:01+00:00
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Warren Buffett is stepping down as CEO after 60 years. For a successful career, 'don't worry' about your salary early on, he says
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Investing legend Warren Buffett's advice for building a successful career and life.
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https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/01/warren-buffett-dont-worry-about-your-salary-when-early-on.html
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Business & Finance
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svg
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a3a7499cbd24d292e344c74279a2f54e0e601b2f73a48042931e96b8379e720d
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2026-01-01T11:39:54+00:00
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China eyes stricter Scarborough Shoal measures, accuses PHL of reef damage
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By Kenneth Christiane L. Basilio, Reporter CHINA will impose “strict protection measures” at the disputed Scarborough Shoal to prevent further environmental damage there, according to a Chinese government report, which also accused the Philippines of damaging the maritime feature’s ecosystem. Chinese authorities will enhance their monitoring of the shoal while carrying out conservation work to strengthen its nature reserve in the feature, based on the report compiled by research groups under Beijing’s Ministry of Natural Resources, a copy of which was obtained by BusinessWorld. “China will further improve the regular alerting and monitoring mechanism on Huangyan Dao, and consistently carry out surveys, studies, conservation and restoration to maintain and enhance the diversity, stability and sustainability of the coral reef ecosystem,” it said, referring to the shoal by its Chinese name, which the Philippines calls Panatag. The Philippines and China both claim Scarborough Shoal, which is prized for its rich ecosystem and proximity to key shipping lanes. The dispute over its ownership is part of the wider South China Sea tensions that have strained ties between Beijing, Manila and their allies. In September, China approved the creation of a 3,500-hectare reserve at the northeast rim of Scarborough Shoal, which it said is intended to preserve the ecological diversity of one of the waterway’s most contested areas. Manila has called the plan a “clear pretext for occupation.” China has built man-made islands featuring runways, hangars, radar systems and ports on numerous submerged features in the South China Sea to strengthen its naval presence in the resource-rich waters. The report said “rigorous conservation management” would be introduced at Scarborough Shoal to counter threats to its coral reef ecosystem, including climate change and rising sea temperatures, while partly blaming the Philippines for harmful activities. “Illegal fishing activities and frequent intrusions by the Philippines have also induced a great stress on the ecosystem,” it said. “Unsustainable illegal fishing activities and frequent intrusions have brought about abandoned materials and pollutant discharge, adversely affecting the health of Huangyan Dao ecosystem.” China took control of the shoal in 2012 after a standoff with Philippine forces. It has since stationed its coast guard and fishing vessels there, blocking Filipino fishermen despite a 2016 ruling by a United Nations-backed tribunal that declared it a traditional fishing ground. The Philippine government has rolled out schemes to aid fishermen in the South China Sea, offering incentives, fuel subsidies, food and equipment to encourage their presence in the disputed waters. The Philippines’ Defense department did not immediately reply to a Viber message seeking comment. BusinessWorld also sought comment from National Security Adviser Eduardo M. Año and Presidential Assistant for Maritime Concerns Andres C. Centino, who did not immediately reply. SHIFTING BLAME Manila’s Maritime Council Spokesman Alexander S. Lopez said China’s claim of reef damage at the contested shoal was propaganda, pointing out that previous Chinese maritime activities in the area had harmed the area. “As part of the 2016 ruling, it was determined that China was the one responsible for the ecological damage of Bajo de Masinloc,” he told BusinessWorld in a Viber message on Monday, referring to another Filipino name for Scarborough Shoal and citing the decision that invalidated Beijing’s sweeping sea claim. Chinese fishermen’s “illegal harvesting” of giant clams at the feature has caused ecological damage, he said. “They are the ones depleting the giant clams.” Sherwin E. Ona, an international fellow at Taiwan’s Institute for National Defense and Security Research, said China’s nature reserve plan in Scarborough Shoal and the recent report gives it “legal cover” to occupy the feature. “This is a ‘lawfare’ approach from China… as the natural marine reserve gives them legal cover for eventual occupation,” he said in a Viber message, adding that the ecological report could provide Beijing with justification to assert authority over Scarborough. He said Philippine authorities should bolster their presence near the shoal by conducting regular patrols to hinder Beijing from asserting greater control over the feature. “This should be combined with constant information-sharing and diplomatic efforts to deter China,” said Mr. Ona.
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https://www.bworldonline.com/the-nation/2026/01/01/721866/china-eyes-stricter-scarborough-shoal-measures-accuses-phl-of-reef-damage/
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Business & Finance
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6d417ab5d51653179bcdfbd3e3c3fb6e31327b1e3d9f44cfa3d12b439fbaa022
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2026-01-01T11:38:09+00:00
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Philippines ‘concerned’ over China’s drills near Taiwan, says they undermine regional stability
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THE Philippine Defense department on Wednesday said it was “deeply concerned” over China’s massive military drills off Taiwan, warning that they undermine regional peace and stability. In a statement, Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. said China’s coercive activities around Taiwan have implications beyond the region and could affect stability in the Indo-Pacific. “This heightened scale of coercion has implications that extend beyond cross-strait relations and into the broader Indo-Pacific community,” he said, adding that the military exercises risked “further creating cracks in an already fragile geopolitical environment.” China fired dozens of rockets toward Taiwan and deployed warships and jets near the island in a show of force simulating an encirclement of the self-ruled island and aimed at deterring foreign intervention in the event of conflict. The exercise, named “Justice Mission 2025,” was the largest by area so far and the closest yet to Taiwan, which deployed jets and warships to monitor them. It began just 11 days after the US announced a record $11.1-billion arms package for Taipei that included missile and communications systems; and concluded on Wednesday as China pulled its ships back. Despite this, Taiwan remained on high alert, a Reuters report noted. Taiwan’s ex-Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng in 2021 said China could be ready to mount a full-scale invasion of the island state by this year, while former US Indo-Pacific Commander John C. Aquilino said indications point to the possibility of a Taiwan invasion by 2027. Philippine officials have said the country could be involved in any conflict over Taiwan. In April, Military Chief Romeo S. Brawner, Jr. directed the armed forces to prepare for a possible invasion of the island, while President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. warned in August the Philippines would be dragged “kicking and screaming” into any confrontation, with Taiwan lying less than 200 kilometers from its northernmost islands. Manila’s National Security Policy 2023-2028 identified a possible Taiwan conflict as a potential flashpoint due to the Philippines’ proximity from the island, which could not only affect Filipinos in Taiwan but also lead to an influx of refugees. “Basic principles of self-restraint must be observed, and the rule of international law must not be distorted,” Mr. Teodoro said. “The Philippines underscores the importance of upholding international law and regional norms, including the principles of peaceful management of disputes. “ “We reaffirm our support for a free, open, stable, and rules-based Indo-Pacific, where differences are resolved through peaceful means without deception, coercion, or intimidation,” he added. — Kenneth Christiane L. Basilio
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https://www.bworldonline.com/the-nation/2026/01/01/721925/philippines-concerned-over-chinas-drills-near-taiwan-says-they-undermine-regional-stability/
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Business & Finance
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465c97f48662979f5e6bd823462bcd5574bf9f07ecffd6308d79000fe3dc6d37
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2026-01-01T11:37:40+00:00
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Budget reforms fall short in absence of participatory, accountability mechanisms
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By Adrian H. Halili, Reporter THE country’s budget process remained “opaque” even as the government introduced several transparency reforms last year, analysts said, as the recently ratified 2026 national budget awaits President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s approval. “The general condition of the budget process remains opaque. Only a portion was televised. No efforts to enable participation and accountability in any part of the budget process,” Joy G. Aceron, convenor-director of transparency group G-Watch, said in a Facebook Messenger chat. Lawmakers ratified the P6.793-trillion national budget for 2026 last Dec. 29, with critics noting that government aid and unprogrammed funding remained prone to misuse and politization due to weak accountability mechanisms. Ederson DT. Tapia, a political science professor at the University of Makati, said that last year’s process showed more transparency, noting an increase in disclosures, stronger public messaging, and repeated invocations of openness. “Yet transparency is not just about visibility alone. It is also about explainability,” he said in a Messenger chat. “While procedures became more open, the rationale behind late-stage changes remained difficult for the public to fully grasp,” he added. The deliberations for the 2026 budget have been marked by the implementation of several transparency measures, as a reaction from public outrage over a corruption scandal involving congressional insertions and opaque budget allocations. These measures included the uploading of budget documents on online platforms, the livestreaming of bicameral proceedings, and the involvement of civil society in budget deliberations. “In that sense, we saw improvements in procedural transparency, but deliberative transparency, such as clear articulation of trade-offs and policy priorities, remains incomplete,” Mr. Tapia said. Ms. Aceron added transparency alone remains meaningless without responsiveness and accountability in budget deliberations. “Transparency is only a means or tool,” she said, noting that transparency mechanisms serve only as tools if they don’t pave the way for civil society to influence decisions or hold legislators to account. She added that last year’s budget process offered little room for public accountability, with allocations still prone to patronage and corruption. “The budget continues to have allocations that perpetuate patronage, like the ayuda (social aid) programs and those prone to corruption, like the unprogrammed allocations,” she said. Social aid programs like the Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients remained funded under the 2026 national spending plan, at P51.65 billion. The program was previously flagged as it required patients to secure guarantee letters from politicians to avail of assistance. Unprogrammed allocations are now set at P243.4 billion close to the P250-billion funding under the National Expenditure Plan. These standby funds for pre-planned government projects or emergency contingencies have been flagged for potential sources of corruption.
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https://www.bworldonline.com/the-nation/2026/01/01/721924/budget-reforms-fall-short-in-absence-of-participatory-accountability-mechanisms/
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Business & Finance
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7f84f7b5df8e22e6bbb6101dfdc0daf3d19db0f60b9fb537bd0d5167c60dda84
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2026-01-01T11:36:53+00:00
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Selective accountability threatens to undercut Philippine anti-graft push
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By Chloe Mari A. Hufana, Reporter PHILIPPINE anti-corruption efforts risk losing their deterrent effect unless investigations begin to reach senior political and business figures, a failure that could further erode public trust and shape behavior within the government in the years ahead, an analyst said. The public is less unsettled by the absence of arrests than by a pattern in which enforcement actions appear to stop short of individuals with real political or economic weight, political science professor at the University of Makati Ederson DT. Tapia said. Unless that boundary shifts, accountability will continue to be perceived as conditional, he warned, raising doubts about how far future probes will go. “People feel that, even if they don’t always articulate it in sophisticated and legal terms. There’s a quiet question that hangs in the air: up to where does accountability actually go?” he said via Facebook Messenger. The country is probing a multibillion-peso flood control scandal after President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. exposed that high-ranking public officials have been colluding with private contractors to receive kickback money in return. Only former Public Works officials and government contractors have so far been jailed since the President flagged anomalous flood control projects in August. As climate risks intensify and infrastructure spending rise, Mr. Tapia said unresolved questions about responsibility could fuel deeper public skepticism. That perception, if left unaddressed, may gradually alter how citizens and officials engage with institutions. Mr. Tapia said confidence may not collapse abruptly, but its slow erosion is expected, in which anti-corruption campaigns are increasingly viewed as symbolic. Over time, this risks weakening their ability to deter misconduct as the government rolls out larger and more complex public works programs. Mr. Tapia said political patronage and elite networks are likely to remain decisive factors, unless reforms disrupt the advantages of delay and distance from accountability. Those with political and economic capital often do not need to interfere directly, he said, as prolonged investigations and procedural complexity can be enough to diffuse urgency and public pressure. Looking ahead, Mr. Tapia warned that predictable enforcement outcomes could reshape incentives within the bureaucracy. Lower-level officials may continue to face immediate exposure, while those closer to power remain insulated, reinforcing an uneven risk landscape. “Once that pattern becomes predictable, it stops deterring behavior,” he said. “It starts shaping it.” For the government, Mr. Tapia said, the credibility of future anti-corruption drives will hinge on whether accountability visibly extends beyond familiar limits. Without that shift, he warned, integrity may remain part of official rhetoric, but proximity to power will continue to be seen as the safer long-term strategy.
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https://www.bworldonline.com/the-nation/2026/01/01/721865/selective-accountability-threatens-to-undercut-philippine-anti-graft-push/
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Business & Finance
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f09b5be24b0964ae8c16df4d8f1d6f78c992c2d0ff5ca391c9050d1ff277c2e4
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2026-01-01T11:35:30+00:00
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Marcos calls for discipline, unity
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PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. urged Filipinos to approach 2026 with discipline, unity and a shared sense of purpose, framing the new year as a test of collective resolve as his administration probes a massive corruption scandal. In his New Year’s message on Thursday, Mr. Marcos said the months ahead will require both personal discipline and national solidarity to translate lessons from the past year into progress, calling on citizens to see their choices as shaping the country’s direction. “As we step into the unfolding days ahead, may we move forward with a clearer understanding of our role in each other’s lives and a renewed commitment to building a future shaped not by circumstance but by the strength of our will and the clarity of our collective purpose,” he said. The President signaled that his government would press on with policies aimed at fostering unity and social cohesion, casting empathy and service as pillars of nation-building at a time when public trust and economic expectations remain under strain. “A society thrives when its people choose empathy over indifference, service over self-interest, and hope over despair,” he said. “It is thus our commitment in the government to be relentless in pursuing a Bagong Pilipinas that nurtures unity, fosters compassion, and showcases the greatness of our kababayans.” — Chloe Mari A. Hufana
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https://www.bworldonline.com/the-nation/2026/01/01/721927/marcos-calls-for-discipline-unity/
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Business & Finance
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da6ed574cf59884725c822d94006d8fa43173ad26d1d3075e884a9659a6dff2c
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2026-01-01T11:34:32+00:00
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235 firework-related injuries logged
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THE Philippines logged 235 fireworks-related injuries during the latest New Year period, according to its Health department on Thursday, a sharp decline from a year earlier. The Department of Health (DoH) said the cases were recorded from Dec. 21, 2025, to 4 a.m. on Jan. 1, 2026, including 62 injuries reported during New Year’s Eve celebrations. The tally is 42% lower than the 403 cases recorded during the 2025 year-end festivities. Health Spokesman Albert Francis E. Domingo said the lower number is encouraging but not final, as nationwide surveillance will continue until Jan. 5 to capture late hospital submissions. “Even as we see today a lower [count] than last year’s count for fireworks-related injuries, the DoH anticipates that late reports will come in from today Jan. 1 all the way to Jan. 5. We hope the lower count will stay,” he said in a statement. He warned that even minor burns or wounds caused by fireworks can lead to tetanus, a potentially fatal infection whose symptoms typically appear about eight days after injury and, in some cases, as late as three weeks. Mr. Domingo urged those injured to seek immediate medical consultation, noting that tetanus vaccination is available at hospitals nationwide. — Chloe Mari A. Hufana
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https://www.bworldonline.com/the-nation/2026/01/01/721923/235-firework-related-injuries-logged/
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Business & Finance
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7c19041d3c4b8ad31db4aa1a857e9612d7cecc9891d1ce0955518a1b783944f1
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2026-01-01T11:33:42+00:00
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35 scam hub victims return to PHL
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THE Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said that 35 Filipinos who fell victim to scam hubs in Cambodia have safely returned to the Philippines. “Their safe repatriation was achieved through the coordinated efforts of the Philippine Embassy in Phnom Penh and the Migrant Workers Offices in Singapore and Thailand,” the DMW said in a statement. The returnees arrived in three batches at Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Dec. 31. Two of the batches flew through Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, while the third batch went through Phnom Penh, Cambodia. “The DMW reiterated its warning to Filipinos to remain alert to fraudulent job offers, especially those shared on social media platforms,” the agency said. It also urged jobseekers to verify the legitimacy of overseas employment opportunities and to ensure they are properly approved and registered with the DMW before accepting any offer. The agency noted the repatriation forms part of an ongoing inter-agency effort to assist Filipino victims of illegal recruitment, human trafficking, and scam hub operations. — Adrian H. Halili
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https://www.bworldonline.com/the-nation/2026/01/01/721922/35-scam-hub-victims-return-to-phl/
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Business & Finance
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27cb2ee02f61fa953f8a103d7d956e67705f03a9ad0012932b4dc2455c994f47
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2026-01-01T11:33:16+00:00
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Mayon Volcano raised to Alert Level 2
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THE state seismology agency raised Mayon Volcano’s alert status to Level 2 on Thursday amid increased seismic activity and rockfall in the volcano, warning citizens of potential eruption. In a 6 a.m. bulletin, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said that Mayon was showing increasing unrest and heavy rockfall shedding at its summit since November. “This means that there is current unrest driven by shallow magmatic processes that could lead to hazardous magmatic eruption,” it added. Phivolcs said that it had recorded 599 rockfall events in the last two months of 2025, noting the highest incidence occurred on Dec. 31 with 41 rockfall events. “Increased rockfall at Mayon has been a precursory sign of magmatic dome growth within the upper edifice preceding an eruption,” the agency said, citing the same conditions before the volcano’s 2023 eruption. The seismology agency also noted rising cases of ground swelling, mainly caused by rising magma and gas pressurization. It added that the persistent rockfall coupled with ground swelling “may indicate increased chances of an eruption occurring at the summit of Mayon, generating life-threatening volcanic hazards that may impact surrounding communities.” Phivolcs called on the public to remain vigilant and refrain from entering within six-kilometer radius of the volcano to minimize risks from sudden explosions, pyroclastic density currents (PDC), rockfall, landslides and ballistic projectiles. “Local government units must prepare communities within the PDC hazard zone for subsequent evacuation in case unrest suddenly escalates and the Alert Level is further raised,” it added. Civil aviation authorities are also advised to warn pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano’s summit, noting that ash and ballistic fragments from any sudden eruption can be hazardous to aircraft. — Adrian H. Halili
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https://www.bworldonline.com/the-nation/2026/01/01/721920/mayon-volcano-raised-to-alert-level-2/
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Business & Finance
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c40ecd14818c68b86f0b19d58860d61ff3b1c58cd2f491e9c356ac7235760e98
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2026-01-01T11:32:55+00:00
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22 hurt in Cotabato New Year’s Eve grenade attack
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COTABATO CITY — Two men riding a motorcycle together left 22 revelers, including children, wounded after a grenade attack at Barangay Dalapitan in Matalam town in Cotabato at about midnight on Wednesday. Lt. Col. Arniel C. Melocotones, Matalam police chief, and local executives separately told reporters on Thursday morning that one of the two motorcycle-riding men threw a fragmentation grenade at the victims, then setting off firecrackers and pyrotechnics along a highway in Sitio Ipil-Ipil in Barangay Dalapitan, and motored away immediately. Barangay officials and police investigators who responded to the incident said the grenade blast that ripped through the area hurting 22 revelers, among them grade school children. The incident triggered panic among villagers in Barangay Dalapitan. The victims, who sustained shrapnel wounds in different parts of their bodies, were immediately transported by policemen and emergency responders from the Matalam local government unit to different hospitals for treatment. Governor Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza, chairperson of the multi-sector Cotabato Provincial Peace and Order Council, has condemned the bombing and urged local officials in Matalam and residents of Barangay Dalapitan to help the police identify its perpetrators. “Our provincial government will provide the victims essential support that they will need for the treatment of their injuries,” Ms. Mendoza said. Brig. Gen. Arnold P. Ardiente, director of the Police Regional Office 12, said Mr. Melocotones and his subordinates in the Matalam Municipal Police Station, intelligence agents from the Cotabato Provincial Police Office and local officials are cooperating in identifying the two men behind the bombing for prosecution. Army Brig. Gen. Ricky P. Bunayog, commander of the 602nd Infantry Brigade, and his superior, Major Gen. Jose Vladimir R. Cagara, commander of the 6th Infantry Division, separately said plainclothes operatives from their intelligence units in the province are helping the police put a closure to the incident. — John Felix M. Unson
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https://www.bworldonline.com/the-nation/2026/01/01/721919/22-hurt-in-cotabato-new-years-eve-grenade-attack/
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Business & Finance
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9169489397a140a2696412caec70a26691f68bdb1c07a8ecdacde54f6781f233
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2026-01-01T11:26:45+00:00
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Colliers says housing prices may have recovered in Q4
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RESIDENTIAL property prices may have picked up in the fourth quarter after the slump a quarter earlier, Colliers Philippines said. “Similar to what we have seen previously, the fourth quarter is traditionally a strong quarter for residential take-up whether within or outside Metro Manila, whether it’s condominiums or horizontal,” Joey Roi H. Bondoc, director and head of research at Colliers Philippines, told BusinessWorld by telephone. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Residential Property Price Index indicated that housing prices nationwide posted its weakest growth ever in the third quarter at 1.9%. This was a sharp slowdown from the 7.5% growth posted in the three months to June and the year-earlier 7.6%. The BSP also reported that lower real estate investment brought banks and trust entities’ real estate exposure down to 19.54% at the end of September from 19.61% at the end of June and 19.55% a year earlier. Real estate loans climbed 8.9% year on year to P3.096 trillion at the end of September, but real estate investment slipped 5.75% to P354.749 billion. Mr. Bondoc said yearend bonuses and inflows of remittances from overseas Filipino workers could have spurred demand for residential property in the fourth quarter. He also noted that the peso’s recent weakness may prompt migrants, especially those from North America, to send more money home. The peso has been trading between P58 to P59 to the dollar since October, hitting a fresh record low of P59.22 on Dec. 9. However, Mr. Bondoc said elevated mortgage rates may still continue to dampen housing price growth in the near term, but any potential rate reduction could help property take up and price growth by this quarter next year. “I think we need to watch out for the… possible reduction in mortgage rates, given that there has been a substantial decline in basic policy rates by the central bank,” he added. “And if that happens, that will provide a better impetus for a spike in residential demand, and therefore residential prices, starting (in the) first quarter of 2026.” The BSP ended the year with a fifth straight 25 basis-point (bp) cut on Dec. 11, bringing its total reductions on key borrowing costs to 200 bps since August 2024. The benchmark policy rate is currently at an over three-year low of 4.5%. Mr. Bondoc said lowering the mortgage rate between 6% and 6.5% from the current 7.8% could help the property industry by raising confidence among buyers. “But the concern is that they have not been lowering their mortgage rates,” he added. “If they start doing that next year, 2026, I think (that will be) a very good sign that demand and then prices might recover faster because of this lower mortgage rate.” — Katherine K. Chan
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https://www.bworldonline.com/economy/2026/01/01/721911/colliers-says-housing-prices-may-have-recovered-in-q4/
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Business & Finance
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2c3eeb392029edb71d8ab00ef7f126c452ff44d32ef0d503b02d5654973a84d8
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2026-01-01T11:26:09+00:00
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Balance of CARS program funding worth P3.99 billion due for release this year — BoI
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THE Board of Investments (BoI) said it expects to fulfill its remaining P3.99-billion obligation to fund the Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy (CARS) program within the year. Under the CARS program, the government provides participating automotive firms with fixed investment support and production volume incentives. Of the P5.43-billion total commitment, P1.44 billion has been released so far. BoI Managing Head Ceferino S. Rodolfo expressed confidence that the government’s obligations will be fulfilled this year. “In 2026, it’ll be finished… it is not dependent on savings before it can be issued,” he told reporters. Mr. Rodolfo said the BoI has begun releasing tax payment certificates (TPC) to program participants. Participants can use the TPC at the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) or the Bureau of Customs (BoC) to offset their duties, Mr. Rodolfo said. The BIR and the BoC will then bill the BoI for the amount equivalent to the TPC presented, and the Department of Budget and Management will issue the necessary Special Allotment Release Order to cover the payment. — Vonn Andrei E. Villamiel
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https://www.bworldonline.com/economy/2026/01/01/721910/balance-of-cars-program-funding-worth-p3-99-billion-due-for-release-this-year-boi/
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Business & Finance
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fc9dd0d66024eb56695ec6b33d6e20caf0aaeb1d6dabd3cc5f82b783cc54c57d
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2026-01-01T11:25:38+00:00
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PPA awards contract to expand Bohol port
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THE Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) said it awarded the P501.95-million Getafe Port Expansion project in Bohol to BNR Construction and Development Corp. The regulator awarded the contract to the Mandaue-based construction company, which submitted the low bid among 11 contenders, PPA said in a notice of award dated Dec. 18. BNR Construction will have 660 calendar days to complete the project, the PPA said. The project includes construction of the port operational area. Getafe port in northern Bohol is opposite Cebu City on the Cebu Strait. In 2024, the PPA said it earmarked up to P16 billion for infrastructure projects until 2028. The funds will be allocated for enhancing port efficiency and capacity, including 14 big-ticket projects targeted for completion within the period. The PPA said cargo and passenger traffic last year have been stronger than expected, with targets expected to be exceeded due to the demand peak in the fourth quarter of 2025. The regulator had targeted cargo throughput of 301.47 million metric tons, while container volume is anticipated to top eight million twenty-foot equivalent units. — Ashley Erika O. Jose
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https://www.bworldonline.com/economy/2026/01/01/721909/ppa-awards-contract-to-expand-bohol-port/
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Business & Finance
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ced008e9aff7c6e864190386e98d1d0d6490d3b86e88f0fad446069430ffd4f2
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2026-01-01T11:25:17+00:00
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Asian airlines seen leading industry’s growth in 2026
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THE International Air Transport Association (IATA) expects the airline industry, particularly in Asia, to sustain growth in 2026, driven by strong demand across both passenger and cargo segments. “The air transport industry continues to demonstrate resilience amid persistent non-fuel cost pressures and operational constraints,” IATA said in a report. The airline trade association projects stronger revenue growth in 2026, as carriers adapt to softer yields by expanding ancillary services and sustaining high load factors through efficient fleet utilization. “Cost discipline is central to sustaining profitability in this low-margin business. While fuel prices have stabilized, non-fuel costs, particularly labor and maintenance, are rising due to pilot shortages, wage inflation, and aging fleets,” IATA said. Airlines in the Philippines continue to recover, Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort said, noting higher domestic passenger tariffs even with foreign tourist arrivals yet to return to pre-pandemic levels. Passenger fuel surcharges have remained steady, with the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) maintaining the surcharge at Level 4 for the sixth month in January. Jet fuel prices declined 3.8% to $86.73 per barrel for the week ending Dec. 26; on a year-on-year basis, the global average jet fuel price dropped 12.4%. IATA projects the Asia-Pacific to lead global growth, as regional airlines report rising passenger traffic. For the nine months ending September, the CAB said air passenger volume rose 6.247% to 46.84 million driven by growth in domestic passenger traffic. Domestic passenger volume was 24.95 million, up 5.36% from a year earlier. International passengers were up 7.25% at 21.89 million. PAL Holdings, Inc., the operator of flag carrier Philippine Airlines, reported a rise in attributable net income of 33.58% to P9.03 billion for the first nine months, supported by passenger revenue of P116.56 billion, up from P115.66 billion. Cargo and ancillary revenue contributed P6.71 billion and P12.67 billion, respectively. Meanwhile, Cebu Air, Inc., the operator of budget carrier Cebu Pacific, recorded an attributable net income of P5.03 billion for the nine months, reversing a net loss of P12.05 billion a year earlier. Consolidated revenue for the period climbed 78.3% to P66.90 billion. Passenger revenue for the first nine months rose to P46.13 billion, more than double the P22.48 billion previously. — Ashley Erika O. Jose
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https://www.bworldonline.com/economy/2026/01/01/721908/asian-airlines-seen-leading-industrys-growth-in-2026/
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Business & Finance
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741965df388557b79322ac433592a329192452292efe35b6671d0ee63a848bbd
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2026-01-01T11:24:19+00:00
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PHL food service sales seen rising 10% this year
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FOOD SERVICE sales in the Philippines are projected to increase 10% in 2026 to $15.4 billion, building on the sector’s recovery to pre-pandemic levels in 2025, according to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). In a report, the USDA said food service revenue in 2025 was estimated to have risen 8% to $14 billion from $13 billion in 2024. If realized, this would bring industry sales back to the levels recorded in 2019, before the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic. For 2026, sales of full-service restaurants are projected to increase 3.23% to $2.18 billion. The projected growth in full-service restaurant sales is attributed to the arrival of new international entrants, the development of innovative restaurant concepts, and increasing consumer demand for unique dining experiences. The sales of limited-service restaurants are also projected to rise 10.23% to $9.52 billion this year. According to the USDA, chicken-focused chains are driving growth in the limited-service sector. Asian, including Filipino, limited-service restaurants, as well as bakery, burger, and convenience store formats, are also showing strong performance. The sales of street stalls and kiosks are also expected to grow 4.68% to $1.97 billion this year. “Fueled by strong demand for quick, affordable food and beverage options, the enduring popularity of milk tea and grab-and-go coffee kiosks, and the widespread adoption of franchising models enable rapid expansion,” the USDA said. Sales of cafés and bars are projected to rise 7.13% to $1.74 billion this year. If realized, this would represent a rebound from the 5.9% decline in sales last year. According to the USDA, growth in the café and bar sector is driven by rising consumer mobility, the popularity of specialty coffee and tea shops, and the rising demand for innovative beverages and café experiences. — Vonn Andrei E. Villamiel
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https://www.bworldonline.com/economy/2026/01/01/721907/phl-food-service-sales-seen-rising-10-this-year/
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Business & Finance
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ef850a34f69afdb1412b97be465bedbda038aa6a594420213348250ea37eef94
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2026-01-01T11:23:32+00:00
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Raising quality of labor-intensive jobs in services seen as key to growth, equity
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THE Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) said the government needs to channel its support to raising the quality of labor-intensive service jobs in retail, transport and hospitality to spur growth and improve equity. In a Dec. 23 report, the government think tank said services, the largest contributor to gross domestic product and employment, have expanded mainly through subsectors with low productivity and wages. “Enhancing productivity in labor-absorbing services is an essential priority for both growth and equity,” PIDS said. The services sector expanded by 5.5% in the third quarter, against 6.3% a year earlier, the Philippine Statistics Authority said. Wholesale and retail trade, transport and storage, accommodation and food services, and other low-productivity industries account for 73.6% of total services employment. These subsectors are dominated by low- to medium-skilled jobs and pay below-average wages, it added. PIDS also noted that 68% of female workers are in services, especially in the wholesale and retail trades, accommodation and food service activities. “Improving the productivity of these sectors while ensuring women benefit from, rather than are disadvantaged by, productivity gains is essential to closing the gender gap,” it added. “Services that are not necessarily big employers, but have high forward linkages, especially to the manufacturing sector, should also be a focus of policy reforms, as productivity improvements in these subsectors have positive spillover effects to the rest of the economy,” PIDS said. In addition, the think tank said companies can lift productivity by improving management practices, investing in innovation, upgrading workforce skills and adopting new technologies. Broader structural reforms, though outside the control of individual firms, are needed to create an operating environment that supports sector-wide upgrading, it said. “A strategic framework that integrates key policy areas — labor market, enterprise and industry development, technology, innovation, and structural reform — can help maximize the impact of public interventions towards increasing productivity in services,” it said. To address these challenges, PIDS said the government should use a Theory of Change framework to map how labor productivity in services can be improved. This approach would guide the design and implementation of specific interventions. “A logic model, such as a theory of change, provides the government a strategic framework to more effectively identify pathways to connect interventions to desired outcomes, rationalize its investments to assist firms and workers, and adopt appropriate policy levers,” PIDS said. The paper “Increasing Labor Productivity in the Services Sector: Towards a Theory of Change and Some Design Options” was written by Ramonette B. Serafica, Queen Cel A. Oren, Emmanuel F. Esguerra, and Aniceto C. Orbeta, Jr. — Aubrey Rose A. Inosante
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https://www.bworldonline.com/economy/2026/01/01/721905/raising-quality-of-labor-intensive-jobs-in-services-seen-as-key-to-growth-equity/
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Business & Finance
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fed612b1608114c6348f78b367a549ebe76e95f44e827ff6cbda6512066744fd
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2026-01-01T11:23:05+00:00
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PCC opens online reporting system to boost antitrust enforcement
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THE Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) said it has opened its case reporting system to the public, allowing individuals and businesses to submit reports of suspected anti-competitive conduct directly through its website. In a statement, the PCC said the online platform, which opened to the public in December, allows users to file complaints and securely upload supporting documents without staff-assisted processing. Developed with support from the Korea International Cooperation Agency, the system was unveiled in April last year to replace a multi-step process that required users to request access and wait for staff assistance before submitting reports. PCC Chairman Michael G. Aguinaldo said the platform is intended to encourage public participation in competition enforcement by making reporting more accessible and secure. “This system empowers the public to take part in safeguarding competition. By making reporting faster, simpler, and more secure, we are strengthening our collective effort to ensure fair markets for all,” Mr. Aguinaldo said in a statement. The PCC enforces Republic Act No. 10667, or the Philippine Competition Act, which prohibits anti-competitive agreements, abuse of dominance, and mergers and acquisitions that substantially lessen competition. The commission said opening the system to the public is expected to improve the detection of potential violations while reducing administrative barriers for complainants. — Vonn Andrei E. Villamiel
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https://www.bworldonline.com/economy/2026/01/01/721904/pcc-opens-online-reporting-system-to-boost-antitrust-enforcement/
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Business & Finance
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c2b839cf23e1a5b0ea9237c0d49e6bbbd5032ffc5d0c685d7a9fbef4be6b80a3
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2026-01-01T11:06:13+00:00
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Choco Mucho signs up Eya Laure
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THE CHOCO MUCHO Flying Titans have caught one of the biggest, if not the biggest, fish in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) pool — Eya Laure. Ms. Laure officially signed with the Flying Titans right on the break of dawn on Thursday to usher in 2026, a year after parting ways with her former team, the disbanded Chery Tiggo. The power-hitting Alas Pilipinas standout was acquired along with Jaila Atienza, setter Alina Bicar and Choco Mucho returnee Caitlin Viray that highlighted the popular club’s complete rebuild. “A new era begins,” said the team on its social media account. Choco Mucho is also expecting the return of its most dangerous weapon in Sisi Rondina, who took a leave and won the beach volley gold in the Southeast Asian Games a month ago in Thailand. The four, along with Ms. Rondina, will join an already loaded roster headed by Maddie Madayag, Kat Tolentino, Des Cheng, Isa Molde, Deanna Wong and Tia Andaya. Their arrival came after letting go of Royse Tubino, Bia General, Cherry Nunag and Aduke Agunsanya. The retooled lineup should boost Choco Mucho’s stock as it aims to bounce back from a pair of forgettable performances — 10th in the PVL on Tour and ninth in the Reinforced. — Joey Villar
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https://www.bworldonline.com/sports/2026/01/01/721859/choco-mucho-signs-up-eya-laure/
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Business & Finance
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e359acaedb292666cd7b7fa0ec6546d0a9fc02bef27ccabd31e43afb94c34060
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2026-01-01T11:05:49+00:00
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Sister teams set to clash in either bracket of PBA semis
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THE CHASE for the coveted Philippine Cup title in the PBA’s golden season is down to four. And all that’s left are heavyweights that have taken turns ruling the centerpiece competition in the last five years. On one side, it’s San Miguel Beermen (SMB), the defending champion and also the winner in 2022, taking on Barangay Ginebra, the kings of the 2020 All-Filipino. On the other, it’s TNT, the 2021 rulers and runners-up in Season 49, and Meralco, the 2023 titlists. It’s a pair of explosive best-of-seven affairs beginning on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, pitting sister teams but fierce rivals from the MVP Group on one hand and sibling rivals from San Miguel Corp. on the other. The Final Four also features a squad that made the most of its win-once advantage in the quarterfinals against an opponent that pulled off a twice-to-win reversal to get to this stage — No. 1 SMB versus No. 5 Ginebra and No. 3 TNT against No. 7 Meralco. “In front of us is TNT. You know they’ve had their number quite a lot last year, they’ve won two championships (Season 49 Governors’ Cup and Commissioner’s Cup), very solid. It’s going to be a battle for us,” said Bolts coach Luigi Trillo after forging a date with the Tropang 5G with a 98-89 win over No. 2 Rain or Shine in the quarterfinal sudden death. “And I think this is what they (players) want, they want to go through the best. So ngayon andun ’yung TNT. And I feel it’s also going to be a good series on the other side, ’yung Ginebra-San Miguel,” he added. The Gin Kings took virtually the same path as the Bolts, beating No. 4 Converge a second time, 99-98 in overtime on Stephen Holt’s buzzer-beating winner from three-point arc, to advance. Revenge may well be added motivation for the crowd darlings with their 4-3 loss to SMB in the same stage last season still fresh. “We know them. They know us. And we took them to seven games last time. We’re going to try to flip the script this time around,” said Ginebra mentor Tim Cone. — Olmin Leyba
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https://www.bworldonline.com/sports/2026/01/01/721858/sister-teams-set-to-clash-in-either-bracket-of-pba-semis/
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Business & Finance
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c6a64074d4768bf3dbadbc22671d45059fb08617d8b31a9b882e9544f358fb64
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2026-01-01T11:04:30+00:00
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Sidelined Jokić to test Nuggets’ resilience
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https://www.bworldonline.com/sports/2026/01/01/721854/sidelined-jokic-to-test-nuggets-resilience/
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Business & Finance
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a144f723a71bb5b39e24c549fb453a4bc7ff530a516c7fa160f05264117ec978
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2026-01-01T06:50:10+00:00
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DoT denies claims over magazine cover allegations
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The Department of Tourism (DoT) said on Wednesday that the allegations surrounding a magazine cover featuring Tourism Secretary Esperanza Christina G. Frasco are false and misleading, following claims made by a photographer online. “Any claim suggesting that the Department or the Secretary used public office or resources for personal promotion is false, misleading, and expressly denied,” the department said in a statement. “The Department views the dissemination of these false claims with serious concern,” it added. In a now-deleted Facebook post by Max Abasalo, a photographer allegedly commissioned by the department to photograph “almost 320 tourist spots” nationwide, he expressed disappointment upon seeing the cover of the magazine Philippine Topics. “When you were tasked to shoot Region 1 to Region 13… Almost 320 tourist spots, 236,000 photos, and 6,500 video materials, only for them to use this,” he said in Filipino. The DoT, however, denies that it has authority over the publication in question, which is privately owned. “The DOT clarifies that it did not supply the photograph in question to Philippine Topics,” the department said. “At no time did the Department instruct, select, approve, or endorse any photograph for the magazine.” “Any implication that the DOT chose or favored the use of an image of the Secretary over destination-focused materials is entirely false and without factual basis,” it added. The department also noted that the privately run publication independently covered the World Expo Osaka 2026 and all of the activities related to the event. “The Department did not contract, pay, commission, or direct the magazine to produce its cover or feature story,” it said. “The content, including the selection of images and text, was produced entirely at the magazine’s editorial discretion.” The World Expo Osaka 2025 was a major global event held on Yumeshima Island from Apr. 13 to Oct. 13. It showcased cutting-edge innovations, global cultural experiences, and advanced technologies to millions of visitors worldwide. — Almira Louise S. Martinez
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https://www.bworldonline.com/the-nation/2026/01/01/721787/dot-denies-claims-over-magazine-cover-allegations/
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Business & Finance
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10a4e1b33d06035d0b8eaa59287bcb65f99bf73c55c0fed43c324f64d76b21d0
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2026-01-01T15:50:01+00:00
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Will the S&P 500 crash in 2026?
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The S&P 500 is the most popular stock market index around the globe. Representing the 500 largest companies in the world’s largest economy, tracker funds following the leading US benchmark are staple investments in many British investors’ portfolios. In eight out of the last 10 years, the S&P 500 produced a positive return. Last year was another success story, despite President Trump’s tariff measures and global conflicts. But are US stocks poised for a crash in 2026? Here’s my take. Every year, scores of analysts and commentators prophesise about an imminent stock market crash. Equally, many counter the doomsayers with bullish forecasts of glorious gains. The truth is, nobody knows what will happen for sure. However, we can compare where we are today with previous periods in history and draw inferences accordingly. Worryingly, there are some red flags for S&P 500 stocks as we enter the new year. One is the Shiller price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio. This valuation metric divides the current S&P 500 price by the average of the last 10 years of inflation-adjusted earnings. Currently, it’s at 40.74. To put that number in context, that’s the second-highest level in history, surpassed only by the dot-com bubble. Many fear that an artificial intelligence (AI) bubble is inflating in today’s stock market. When bubbles pop, the subsequent crash can be devastating. Capital expenditure on AI by S&P 500 companies totalled around $400bn in 2025. This year’s estimates are over $500bn. If sentiment shifts, 2026 could prove to be very painful for investors in US shares. Drawing parallels with the late 90s is tempting, but there are crucial differences between the S&P 500 then and today. Back in the dot-com era, many tech stocks lacked profits and robust cash flows. The rapid share price increases were often driven by speculative frenzy. Arguably, today’s mega-cap tech firms are in much better shape. They’re highly profitable businesses with strong fundamentals across a range of metrics. AI potential might be driving share prices higher, but concrete earnings can justify the excitement. Those expecting an S&P 500 crash this year may well find their fears are unfounded. A full-blown crash is a possibility, but I err on the side of optimism. After all, the great Benjamin Graham said: “To be an investor, you must be a believer in a better tomorrow“. But, I’m conscious of overvaluation, too. That’s why I recently invested in Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META), the owner of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. With a forward P/E multiple around 22.2, Meta’s the cheapest of the Magnificent 7 club on this metric. I think the stock could shine this year, provided the whole market doesn’t crash. Third-quarter earnings were impressive, with revenue rising 26% to $51bn and daily users increasing by 8% to 3.54bn. Precision-targeted advertising continues to be a cash machine for the company and the width of its moat in the social media world can’t be overstated. Regulation is a growing risk for the company. Australia’s social media ban for under-16s could inspire other countries to follow suit, which could hurt the Meta share price. Nonetheless, I think Mark Zuckerberg is one of the most talented and competitive S&P 500 CEOs. At today’s price, Meta could be a long-term outperformer. The post Will the S&P 500 crash in 2026? appeared first on The Motley Fool UK. When investing expert Mark Rogers has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for nearly a decade has provided thousands of paying members with top stock recommendations from the UK and US markets. And right now, Mark thinks there are 6 standout stocks that investors should consider buying. Want to see if Meta Platforms made the list? More reading Charlie Carman has positions in Meta Platforms. The Motley Fool UK has recommended Meta Platforms. Views expressed on the companies mentioned in this article are those of the writer and therefore may differ from the official recommendations we make in our subscription services such as Share Advisor, Hidden Winners and Pro. Here at The Motley Fool we believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors.
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https://www.fool.co.uk/2026/01/01/will-the-sp-500-crash-in-2026/
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Business & Finance
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svg
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46438275190773fbcf2e9a36696255822b3315e1f982e0037d9fa3f8b0941f52
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2026-01-01T15:10:00+00:00
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How much do you need in a SIPP to generate a brilliant second income of £2,000 a month?
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I love my Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP). When I retire I expect to admire it even more, because it’s set to generate a large chunk of my everyday income after I stop working. A SIPP’s attractive because HMRC tops up investor contributions with generous tax relief. I direct a large chunk of my own SIPP into dividend-paying FTSE 100 stocks, which give me both income and growth. So how much does an investor need to target a steady retirement income of, say, £2,000 a month? That adds up to £24,000 a year. Under the so-called 4% rule, which suggests an investor who withdraws that percentage of their pot each year will preserve the underlying capital, they’d need £600,000. I reckon it’s possible to generate 5.5% a year from a spread of higher-yielding FTSE 100 and FTSE 250 stocks. That would reduce the target pot to just £435,000. That’s still a fair wedge, and takes time to build. It’s doable, but there’s no time to lose. Take a 30 year-old who already has £20,000 tucked away. If they invest £200 a month and their money grows at an average of 7% a year, their total pot could hit £570,000 by retirement. Thanks to SIPP tax relief, that £200 monthly contribution only costs a 40% taxpayer £120 (£160 for 20% taxpayers). Please note that tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in future. The content in this article is provided for information purposes only. It is not intended to be, neither does it constitute, any form of tax advice. Readers are responsible for carrying out their own due diligence and for obtaining professional advice before making any investment decisions. One stock that could fit neatly into an income-focused SIPP in my view is Lloyds Banking Group (LSE: LLOY). After a bruising decade following the financial crisis, the FTSE 100 bank is re-establishing itself as an income and growth machine, this time with tighter regulation and stronger safeguards in place. Lloyds’ share price has enjoyed a remarkable run, up 78% over the last year and 150% across five. I’d expect it to slow from here though. Lately, banking profits have been boosted by higher interest rates, which have widened net interest margins, the gap between what banks pay savers and charge borrowers. With rates sliding that kicker should fade. On the other hand, lower rates could also revive the housing market, which will boost Lloyds, as it’s the UK’s biggest mortgage lender via subsidiary Halifax. It’ll face plenty of competition though. Lloyds recently lifted its interim dividend by an inflation-busting 15%. The trailing yield has slipped to just below 3.3%, due to its surging shares, but the income should climb over time. Lloyds’ shares are also more expensive than they were, with the price-to-earnings ratio creeping up to 15.4. My SIPP contains a spread of around 15 different FTSE shares, offering both income and growth potential. I certainly think Lloyds is worth considering as part of a spread of companies, even if the next few years are unlikely to repeat the recent bonanza. Diversification’s key, and so is getting stuck in early. A little effort today can potentially generate a high and rising passive income years down the line. The post How much do you need in a SIPP to generate a brilliant second income of £2,000 a month? appeared first on The Motley Fool UK. When investing expert Mark Rogers has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for nearly a decade has provided thousands of paying members with top stock recommendations from the UK and US markets. And right now, Mark thinks there are 6 standout stocks that investors should consider buying. Want to see if Lloyds Banking Group plc made the list? More reading Harvey Jones has positions in Lloyds Banking Group Plc. The Motley Fool UK has recommended Lloyds Banking Group Plc. Views expressed on the companies mentioned in this article are those of the writer and therefore may differ from the official recommendations we make in our subscription services such as Share Advisor, Hidden Winners and Pro. Here at The Motley Fool we believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors.
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https://www.fool.co.uk/2026/01/01/how-much-do-you-need-in-a-sipp-to-generate-a-brilliant-second-income-of-2000-a-month/
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Business & Finance
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