From the Editors: Dubai Run is a massive success

DUBAI RUN A SUCCESS: Fitness enthusiasts gathered by the thousands on Friday for the Dubai Run, which is being held as part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge. Over 100,000 people took part in the event, turning parts of the city into veritable race tracks. As the world continues its battle against COVID-19, it is critical that we maintain strong levels of fitness, as this boosts our immunity, which remains essential to fight the disease, since the vaccine is still some time away. The month-long Dubai Fitness Challenge has helped boost awareness, and will go a long way in our fight. [COMMENT BY: Somshankar Bandyopadhyay, Assistant Editor]

INDIA IN RECESSION, YET WHY MARKETS ARE BUOYANT? India entered an unprecedented recession with the GDP contracting7.5 per cent in the second quarter ended September, according to the government statistics, a milder than expected contraction excess of 8 per cent and a significant improvement from a record 23. 5 per cent contraction the previous quarter. The stimulus, along with festival season pent-up demand, has helped spur economic activity. Foreign portfolio inflows into equities are seen holding up as investors’ appetite for risk increases with news on vaccine, but going beyond the headlines, the market’s ability to hold on to the rally will ultimately be dictated by the spread of infections, investment spending, job creation and the impact on consumer demand. [COMMENT BY: Babu Das Augustine, Busines Editor]

PENNSYLVANIA RULING MAJOR SETBACK FOR TRUMP: A three-judge panel in Pennsylvania has unanimously rejected President Donald Trump’s attempt to block Joe Biden from being declared winner in the state. The Pennsylvania ruling is another major setback for Trump and his campaign’s attempts to overturn the November 3 election results. The problem seems to be that charges being levelled by the campaign are not very specific, and when they are, they appear to lack proof. Increasingly, it looks like the legal avenues are steadily closing. The fact that the transition has officially begun also indicates that it may all be over. So what will Trump’s next move be? [COMMENT BY: Omar Shariff, International Editor]

INTERNATIONAL CRICKET BACK IN THE SWING: New Zealand v West Indies, Australia v India, South Africa v England ... Friday finally felt like a return to a sense of normality in the world of cricket as three thrilling matches took place on the same day. It has been nine months since we have had an international day like this and it was warmly welcomed around the globe. Firstly New Zealand claimed T20 victory over a West Indies side that saw a five-for-one collapse, then Australia claimed first blood in their ODI series against India in Sydney. England saved the best for last with their last-over victory over South Africa at Newlands, with Jonny Bairstow smashing an ODI personal best. Welcome back to international cricket ... We have missed you. [COMMENT BY: Matthew Smith, Sport Editor]

FESTIVE SHOPPING: Hollywood stars such as Issa Rae and Reese Witherspoon have urged people to shop locally during the Black Friday weekend, which typically sees numerous crazy sales happening. “You're seeing the pandemic shut down so many businesses and businesses are struggling. I think now is the best time to shoutout some of the places that literally need you to keep their doors open,” Rae said. In the UAE, there are plenty of local business – selling everything such as clothes, skincare and jewellery – to buy from instead of just sticking to international retailers. They’re also a great way to prepare unique gifts for the upcoming festive season! [COMMENT BY: Jennifer Barretto, Assistant Editor - Features]