Asian stocks begin year on cautious note

Hong Kong (AFP) – Asian stocks began 2025 mostly in the red on Thursday after worries about US interest rates, tariffs, and China’s economy gave Wall Street the holiday blues for a fourth straight session.

Wall Street has gotten off to a slow start in 2024, with Asia following suit

Andreeva, Mpetshi Perricard showcase Australian Open potential

Brisbane (Australia) (AFP) – Rising stars Mirra Andreeva of Russia and Frenchman Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard underlined their Australian Open potential with impressive wins at the Brisbane International on Thursday.

Mirra Andreeva of Russia in action in Brisbane

Saudi executes at least 338 people in 2024: AFP tally

Dubai (AFP) – Saudi Arabia has put six Iranians to death for drug trafficking, the interior ministry said Wednesday, after a year in which it carried out a record number of executions, according to an AFP tally of official reports.

Saudi Arabia carried out a record number of executions in 2024 with at least 338, according to an AFP tally of official reports

Seko Fofana joins Rennes after Saudi Arabia stint

Rennes (France) (AFP) – Ivorian international Seko Fofana has signed a four-and-a-half year deal with Rennes, the Ligue 1 club announced Wednesday, after 18 months playing in Saudi Arabia.

Ivory Coast midfielder Seko Fofana at the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) final in 2024

Milan says no to all outdoor smoking in Italy's toughest ban

Milan (Italy) (AFP) – Smokers in Italy’s financial and fashion capital of Milan risk being fined for lighting up on city streets or crowded public areas, after the country’s toughest ban came into effect on Wednesday.

Milan's tough new ban on smoking on city streets or crowded public areas does not apply to e-cigarettes