US Fed rate move and Abu Dhabi traffic advisory, Gulf News Editors comment on September 21 trending news

IS THE FED DONE WITH RATE HIKES? Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell on Wednesday highlighted the US central bank's approach, signalling a gradual halt to rate increases. Following a period of rapid interest rate hikes, Powell reiterated a cautious stance in a post-rate decision press conference. Although 12 of 19 Fed officials still foresee another rate hike this year, the central message is their reduced anticipation of rate reductions in 2024, attributed to a strengthened job market. Projections also indicate an imminent drop in inflation, nearing the 2 per cent target by 2026. Although the next rate hike is ambiguous, all economic indicators have one thing to show — the global economy is finally moving past the Covid-19-induced slowdown. (Nivetha Dayanand, Web Editor)

A MATTER OF ROAD SAFETY: The Abu Dhabi Directorate of Traffic and Patrols appeal to drivers involved in minor traffic crashes to swiftly move their vehicles off the road will help in safer and more efficient traffic management. Ensuring the smooth traffic flow and preventing unnecessary obstructions are not just a matter of convenience; it’s a matter of safety. Promptly clearing accident scenes can significantly reduce the risk of additional accidents, especially when vehicles are stranded in traffic lanes. Moreover, the Director of Traffic and Patrols highlights that this practice should not hinder the investigation process. The use of scientific systems for accident analysis ensures that investigations remain accurate. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

POLLUTION AFFECTS MORE PEOPLE: Global smoke pollution is affecting more people today than it has over the past 10 years. A new study has shown that more than 2 billion people are exposed to at least one day of health-impacting environmental hazard annually. This figure has increased by 6.8 per cent over a decade. The study highlights the severity of fire-sourced air pollution and associated rise in public health risk, leading to global worsening of cardiorespiratory conditions. While reports on pollution paint a grim picture, this one is all the more serious because of the rising number of people who are affected. (By Alex Abraham, Senior Associate Editor)

ANIL KAPOOR’S WIN, A BIG WIN FOR ALL CELEBRITIES: In a significant legal development, the Delhi High Court has ruled in favour of Indian actor Anil Kapoor, protecting his personality rights. Kapoor sought protection against the unauthorised use of his name, image, voice, and catchphrase, ‘jhakaas.’ The court’s interim order restrains 16 entities from exploiting these facets of Kapoor’s persona for commercial gain, effectively ending activities like the sale of non-sanctioned merchandise and forged autographs. The ruling recognises the downsides of fame for public figures and strikes a balance between free speech and individual rights. It sets a crucial legal precedent for safeguarding the identities and reputations of celebrities and public figures, emphasising the need to protect their image and brand. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)

CRICKET ON A PERFECT PITCH: Cricket is spreading fast. The announcement of three venues — New York, Florida and Dallas — as the hosts for the Twenty20 World Cup next year, co-hosted by the West Indies and the USA, will generate more interest in cricket in North America. Inclusion of cricket in the Asian Games has also brought in countries like Mongolia to test their mettle with the best. Cricket now seems to be on a perfect pitch. (By A.K.S. Satish, Sports Editor)