Tech
Widely considered the largest auto show in the world, the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show highlighted significant shifts in the global automotive landscape. Chinese automakers, including BYD, Chery, and Leapmotor, showcased advanced electric vehicles (EVs), emphasizing rapid innovation and domestic market dominance. BYD introduced ultra-fast charging systems and plans for expansive charging infrastructure across China. However, rising U.S. and EU tariffs pose challenges for global expansion, prompting manufacturers to adapt by localizing production in markets like Vietnam and Latin America. Additionally, following a fatal accident involving Xiaomi’s SU7 EV, Chinese regulators urged automakers to temper claims about autonomous driving capabilities, focusing on safety and responsible marketing.
Apple has partnered with Anthropic to integrate the Claude Sonnet AI model into an enhanced version of its Xcode development platform. This collaboration introduces a “vibe-coding” approach, where AI assists in writing, editing, and testing code. The updated Xcode features a chat interface, enabling developers to request code snippets, perform UI testing, and identify bugs. Currently, the tool is being rolled out internally at Apple, with no confirmed plans for a public release. This move reflects Apple’s strategy to leverage external AI expertise, complementing its existing AI initiatives and addressing previous challenges with in-house tools like Swift Assist.
JetZero, a California-based aerospace startup, is developing the Z4, the world’s first blended-wing-body (BWB) passenger aircraft. Unlike traditional tube-and-wing designs, the Z4 integrates the wings and fuselage into a single lifting surface, resembling a manta ray. This innovative design aims to reduce drag and increase lift, allowing for up to 50% lower fuel consumption compared to conventional aircraft. The Z4 is designed to carry 250 passengers in a spacious cabin, offering a “living room in the sky” experience. United Airlines has expressed interest in purchasing up to 200 units. JetZero plans to conduct its first full-scale test flight by late 2027, with commercial service anticipated by 2030. The project has garnered support from NASA, the U.S. Air Force, and industry leaders.
Global
On April 28, 2025, Spain and Portugal experienced their most severe power outage in history, affecting nearly 60 million people. The blackout began around 12:30 PM local time when Spain’s grid lost approximately 15 gigawatts of electricity—about 60% of its demand—in just five seconds. Initial reports suggest that two significant power generation losses, possibly from solar plants in southwestern Spain, led to grid instability and a breakdown in the interconnection with France. The outage halted public transportation, including subways and trains, and disrupted phone and internet services across both countries. Hospitals, airports, and ATMs were also affected, leaving thousands stranded and causing widespread chaos. Power was gradually restored, with over 90% of Spain’s electricity supply back online by early Tuesday morning. Authorities have ruled out cyberattacks and are continuing investigations to determine the exact cause.
On May 3, 2025, Singaporeans cast their votes in a general election that served as a significant test for the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) amid rising living costs and global economic uncertainties. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who succeeded Lee Hsien Loong in 2024, led the PAP’s campaign, emphasizing the need for stable governance to navigate challenges such as U.S.-China trade tensions and inflation. The opposition, particularly the Workers’ Party, sought to expand their parliamentary presence, advocating for greater political diversity and addressing issues like housing affordability and income inequality. Preliminary results indicated that the PAP secured all but one of the 15 contested constituencies, maintaining its long-standing dominance .
Starting May 7, 2025, the U.S. will enforce the REAL ID Act, requiring travelers aged 18 and older to present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or an alternative acceptable form of identification—such as a valid passport—at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights and when accessing certain federal facilities. Previously, a standard state-issued driver’s license sufficed for these purposes. However, in response to the 9/11 attacks, the REAL ID Act was enacted in 2005 to enhance security standards for identification, aiming to prevent identity fraud and terrorism. A REAL ID-compliant license is typically marked with a star in the upper-right corner. If a traveler’s current ID lacks this designation, he/she can use a passport or another approved ID for travel.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has extended an invitation to scientists and researchers worldwide to establish themselves in Europe. Addressing the European People’s Party Congress in Valencia, she emphasized Europe’s commitment to freedom of science and open academic debate, contrasting it with the current climate in the United States under President Trump’s administration. Von der Leyen highlighted that recent funding cuts and policy shifts in the U.S. have created an environment of uncertainty, prompting many researchers to seek more stable and supportive settings for their work. In response, European institutions are enhancing support for international talent, including increased funding and streamlined relocation processes.
Economy & Finance
Tesla’s European sales have significantly declined, with April 2025 marking the fourth consecutive month of downturns.Notably, Sweden experienced an 81% drop, while the Netherlands and Denmark saw reductions of 74% and 67%, respectively. In France, sales fell by 59%, and in Germany, they plummeted by 62% during the first quarter. These declines contrast with a 28% increase in overall electric vehicle (EV) sales across Europe, highlighting Tesla’s underperformance. Contributing factors include intensified competition from Chinese EV manufacturers like BYD, Chery, and SAIC, as well as Tesla’s aging vehicle lineup. Additionally, CEO Elon Musk’s political affiliations and role in the Trump administration have led to protests and vandalism of Tesla properties, further damaging the brand’s reputation.
China’s May Day holiday, spanning from May 1 to May 5, 2025, has witnessed a significant surge in travel, marking a post-pandemic peak. On May 1 alone, inter-regional passenger trips reached 332.7 million, a 6.2% increase from the previous year, with road travel comprising the majority of these journeys. Railway travel also saw a record high, handling 23.12 million passengers, an 11.7% rise year-on-year. Air travel experienced an 8.9% increase, with 2.34 million passengers on May 1. This surge is attributed to favorable spring weather, the easing of pandemic restrictions, and a growing interest in both domestic and international tourism. Notably, outbound travel orders soared by over 130%, with destinations like Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia leading the demand.
On May 2, 2025, President Donald Trump ended the U.S. “de minimis” exemption for low-value imports from China and Hong Kong, which had allowed shipments under $800 to enter duty-free. This move, part of a broader trade strategy, imposes tariffs up to 145% on such imports, aiming to curb illicit goods and unfair competition from e-commerce platforms like Shein and Temu. The policy shift has led to increased prices for consumers, disrupted supply chains, and forced companies to adjust their business models, potentially impacting the broader US economy.
Science
Years ago, scientists found that certain kinds of bacteria appear to breathe by generating electricity, rather than taking in oxygen, but how they did so was a mystery. A new study published in the journal Cell identifies how this happens: the microbes are using a group of chemicals called naphthoquinones in a manner similar to the way a battery discharges electricity. This is what enables bacteria to thrive in oxygen-deprived areas like deep sea vents. Armed with this knowledge, it may be possible for scientists to adapt these bacteria for use in a wide variety of applications, such as wastewater treatment or developing bioelectronic sensors. It could even be used as a method to turn atmospheric carbon dioxide into useful chemicals–a sustainability twofer.
Nature & Environment
A devastating wildfire on the Isle of Arran, Scotland, destroyed approximately 27,000 trees, including rare whitebeams endemic to the island. The blaze, which occurred from April 10 to 13 in the Glen Rosa valley, also claimed the lives of hundreds of reptiles and amphibians, such as adders, slow worms, and frogs. Kate Sampson, a National Trust for Scotland ranger, described the loss as a decade of conservation efforts going up in flames. The fire, likely ignited by a discarded glass bottle reflecting sunlight, underscores the escalating wildfire risks due to drier, warmer springs in Scotland.
Entertainment & Culture
Victory in Europe (VE) Day, observed on May 8, marks the formal end of World War II in Europe. On this day in 1945, Germany’s unconditional surrender was officially accepted by the Allies. The day is commemorated annually to honor the immense sacrifices made during the war and to celebrate the restoration of peace in Europe. The 80th anniversary of VE Day in 2025 is being marked with significant events across Europe. In the UK, celebrations include a reenactment of Winston Churchill’s victory speech, a grand military procession, and cultural tributes such as a special two-part episode of “The Archers”.
Rockstar Games has officially delayed the release of Grand Theft Auto VI to May 26, 2026, pushing it back from its original fall 2025 launch window. The company cited the need for additional development time to meet the high-quality standards expected by fans. This decision has led to a near 7% drop in Take-Two Interactive’s stock price, Rockstar’s parent company. The game, set in a fictional version of South Florida inspired by Miami, has generated substantial excitement since a trailer debuted in December 2023. While fans are disappointed by the delay, many appreciate Rockstar’s commitment to delivering a polished experience.
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s 2025 inductees span a diverse array of musical genres, reflecting the evolving landscape of rock and its cultural impact. Among the seven performers inducted are:
OutKast: The influential Southern hip-hop duo known for blending funk, jazz, and soul with rap.
The White Stripes: Garage rock pioneers from Detroit, celebrated for their minimalist yet powerful sound.
Cyndi Lauper: The ’80s pop icon famed for her unique voice and hits like “Girls Just Want to Have Fun.”
Bad Company: The British rock band that delivered timeless hits in the 1970s.
Joe Cocker: The soulful British singer whose rendition of “With a Little Help from My Friends” became iconic.
Chubby Checker: The ’60s hitmaker who popularized “The Twist,” a dance craze that swept the nation.
Soundgarden: The grunge band that helped define the Seattle music scene in the late ’80s and ’90s.
Sports
On April 27, 2025, Liverpool secured their 20th top-flight league title with a commanding 5–1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield. This triumph equaled Manchester United’s record for the most league championships in English football history. The Reds needed at least a point to clinch the title, and goals from Luis Díaz, Alexis Mac Allister, Cody Gakpo, Mohamed Salah, and an own goal by Destiny Udogie sealed the win. Under the guidance of new manager Arne Slot, who took over from Jürgen Klopp in June 2024, Liverpool achieved this feat in his debut season. The victory also marked Liverpool’s first league title since the 2019–20 season and their second Premier League title since its inception in 1992 .
In the 2025 World Snooker Championship semi-final, Zhao Xintong defeated Ronnie O’Sullivan 17–7, marking a significant upset at the Crucible Theatre. O’Sullivan, struggling with form and equipment issues, was overwhelmed in the second session, losing all eight frames to trail 12–4. Zhao capitalized on these challenges, maintaining his composure and securing victory with breaks of 112, 115, and 87. This win propels Zhao into his first World Championship final, where he awaits the winner between Judd Trump and Mark Williams. Not only did Zhao defeat a seven-time world champion with a session to spare, but he also became only the second Chinese player to reach the Crucible final, following Ding Junhui’s appearance in 2016. Zhao’s journey is particularly remarkable considering his 20-month suspension due to a match-fixing scandal. His return to the sport and subsequent success underscore a significant personal and professional comeback.
Australian Cameron Wurf achieved a remarkable feat at the 2025 Ironman Texas, setting a new world record for the fastest bike split in Ironman history. He completed the 112-mile (180.2 km) bike leg in 3 hours, 53 minutes, and 32 seconds, averaging an impressive 28.7 mph (46.2 km/h). To fuel his performance, Wurf consumed over 200 grams of carbohydrates per hour, equivalent to approximately 28 gels, and 11,600 mg of sodium. He ingeniously stored the gels in a 700ml drink bottle mounted on his bike’s downtube. Although he finished eighth overall, over 15 minutes behind the winner, Kristian Blummenfelt, Wurf expressed no regrets about his aggressive approach. He embraced the “go big or go home” mentality, emphasizing that the experience was invaluable for his future endeavors.
The semifinals of the 2025 BWF (The Badminton World Federation) Sudirman Cup Finals in Xiamen, China, on May 3 saw China overpower Japan 3–0, advancing to their 16th consecutive final, and South Korea triumph over Indonesia 2–1. The host nation showcased their strength with Feng Yanzhe and Huang Dongping winning the mixed doubles, Shi Yuqi dominating the men’s singles, and Chen Yufei clinching the women’s singles in straight games. The final match is scheduled for May 4, where China will face South Korea for the championship.
In Game 4 of the 2025 NBA Eastern Conference First Round, the Cleveland Cavaliers delivered a historic 138–83 victory over the Miami Heat, completing a 4–0 series sweep. This 55-point margin is the largest in NBA playoff history for a series-clinching game and the fourth-largest overall in postseason history. Donovan Mitchell led the Cavaliers with 22 points, while De’Andre Hunter, Ty Jerome, and Evan Mobley each contributed significantly. The Heat became the first team to lose back-to-back playoff games by at least 30 points and the series will go down as the most lopsided playoff series in NBA history, with Miami being outscored by 122 over the four-game series.
In Game 6 of the 2025 NBA Western Conference First Round, the Houston Rockets overcame a 3–1 series deficit to tie the series 3–3 with a 115–107 victory over the Golden State Warriors. Fred VanVleet led the Rockets with 29 points, including a pivotal four-point play in the fourth quarter that ignited a decisive 12–0 run. Alperen Şengün contributed a double-double with 21 points and 14 rebounds. The Warriors, who had a 3–1 series lead, struggled in the fourth quarter, missing 14 of their first 15 shots. Stephen Curry finished with 29 points on 9-for-23 shooting, while Jimmy Butler added 27 points. Game 7 is scheduled for Sunday, May 4, in Houston. The odds of an NBA playoff team winning three straight games to top the 7-game series from a 1-3 deficit is only 4.5%, in the history of NBA.
After 17 attempts, Rory McIlroy secured his first Masters victory, defeating Justin Rose in a dramatic playoff to complete the career Grand Slam. This win makes him the first European golfer to complete a career Grand Slam, joining an elite group of only six golfers in history to have won all four major championships that includes Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus. Tiger Woods congratulated McIlroy with a brief message: “Welcome to the club, kid.” The victory, his first major title since 2014, was a culmination of years of near-misses and personal challenges.
This Day in History
One of the leading figures of the Romantic movement, British poet Lord Byron swam across the Hellespont (now the Dardanelles) on May 3, 1810. The swim became an iconic moment in his life and was inspired by the ancient legend of Leander, who swam across the Hellespont to meet his lover, Hero. Byron’s swim was celebrated for its audacity and stamina, as he swam the 1.5-mile stretch between Europe and Asia in about one hour and ten minutes. Known to have a club foot, Byron’s mobility on land was restricted, but in the water, he transformed into a passionate and adept swimmer.
Oddities
In Rockport, Massachusetts, a pileated woodpecker has been wreaking havoc on vehicles, breaking over two dozen side mirrors and at least one window. Residents, amused by the feathered vandal, have resorted to creative solutions like covering mirrors with towels and trash bags. Experts suggest the bird’s behavior is linked to mating season, with the woodpecker mistaking its reflection for a rival. Despite the inconvenience, the community has embraced the situation with humor, viewing the woodpecker as a quirky local character rather than a menace.
Funny
Why did Spain break up with the power grid?
Because it couldn’t handle the CURRENT relationship!
From Previous Weeks
April 26, 2025, A Tale of Two Nations
April 20, 2025, Flying Dutchman Sails Away
P.S. You can download the PDF version of this issue from the below link, which is now available to all the free subscribers. Starting from July 1, 2025, PDF link will be paywalled and available only to paid subscribers (monthly, yearly, or life-time). Thank you for your support!
Hello Darkness My Old Friend By Clayton Man
38.3MB ∙ PDF file
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Last modified on 2025-05-03
