China maintained its benchmark lending rates at current levels through September, signaling a cautious approach to monetary policy. The one-year loan prime rate (LPR) persisted at 3.0%, with the over-five-year rate remaining at 3.5%. These longer-term rates are frequently used by banks as the basis for mortgage pricing. The September setting kept both rates steady at August’s levels, continuing to serve as key benchmarks for loan costs across China’s banking sector.
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Indonesia restarted operations at Jakarta’s primary airport along with several regional hubs on Tuesday after volcanic ash from Anak Krakatau caused widespread interference with air travel. Nearly 3,000 flights and over 340,000 passengers across the nation were affected by the volcanic activity. Soekarno-Hatta International Airport resumed its services once authorities confirmed the ash levels had decreased. On Tuesday morning, monitoring teams recorded three smaller eruptions. The volcano remains at Level III, the second-highest alert status in Indonesia.
Travelers navigate modern airport terminal corridors carrying personal luggage and hand baggage. The expanded schedule complements the airline’s existing route to Thailand, which includes 21 weekly non-stop flights from Sharjah to Phuket. With the new fourth daily Bangkok flight, Air Arabia will operate a total of 49 weekly non-stop flights connecting its main hub in Sharjah with destinations in Thailand. This route expansion enhances air links between the Arabian Gulf and key Southeast Asian tourism and trade hubs. Based on official fleet disclosures, the route will be served by the airline’s Airbus A320 and Airbus A321 aircraft. These single-aisle planes feature cabin configurations designed to maximize passenger comfort while maintaining low-cost operational efficiency. Passengers on the nonstop route can enjoy amenities such as the SkyTime complimentary in-flight streaming entertainment system and SkyCafe catering service.
The number of international visitors arriving in South Korea reached 2,093,223 in July 2026, reflecting a significant rebound in global tourism. This figure represents a 20.8% increase compared to the 1,733,199 arrivals recorded in July 2025. Furthermore, it is 44.6% higher than the pre-pandemic July 2019 level. The Korea Tourism Organization announced these latest monthly tourism statistics on August 25.
Sports
Spain sent Portugal out of the FIFA World Cup with a late 1-0 win, ending Ronaldo’s sixth tournament and long pursuit of the title.
Norway reached the FIFA World Cup last eight after a 2-1 win over Brazil, with Haaland scoring twice and Neymar netting late.
Australia exited the FIFA World Cup 2026 after Egypt won 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 Round of 32 draw in Arlington at Dallas Stadium.
Spain kept a clean sheet and advanced from the World Cup Round of 32 after goals by Oyarzabal and Porro ended Austria’s run in Los Angeles.
Congo DR led early through Brian Cipenga before Harry Kane scored twice to lift England into the World Cup round of 16.
Mexico reached the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 with a 2-0 victory over Ecuador, keeping its unbeaten run and clean-sheet record intact.