Australia's recent election has highlighted the slow vote-counting process, prompting political leaders, including Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Opposition leader Bill Shorten, to advocate for electronic voting. Despite the potential for faster results, experts like Vanessa Teague from the University of Melbourne caution against security vulnerabilities. The debate reflects a rare consensus among Australia's divided parliament, though concerns remain about the loss of traditional election day customs and the integrity of electronic systems.

The U.S. dollar remained strong against major currencies, supported by higher Treasury yields following a significant increase in U.S. private-sector jobs in February. The ADP National Employment Report indicated a larger-than-expected job growth, which has led to a high likelihood of a Federal Reserve rate hike. The dollar index was slightly up, and the 10-year Treasury yield reached its highest since December. The euro was near a one-week low, with the market anticipating the European Central Bank's policy meeting. Analysts suggest the ECB may adopt a hawkish tone due to rising economic growth and inflation. Upcoming elections in the Netherlands and France, with the rise of populist sentiment, are also influencing market volatility.

The dollar retreated after reaching one-month highs due to upbeat U.S. economic data, as Treasury yields came off their peaks. U.S. inflation and retail sales data had initially boosted expectations of an early Federal Reserve rate hike. However, some analysts noted that the data might not be as strong as it appears, with industrial output and home builder sentiment showing unexpected declines. The dollar index and its value against the yen both fell, while the euro and Australian dollar saw slight recoveries. Fed Chair Janet Yellen hinted at more rate hikes but provided no specific timeline.

The dollar steadied after hitting a five-week low against the yen and other currencies, following a news conference by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump that left investors disappointed. Chinese trade data, expected to show a growing trade surplus, is in focus. The dollar index fell to its lowest level since December 8, while the yen and euro saw gains. Analysts suggest the dollar may regain momentum with clearer details on Trump's fiscal policies. U.S. Treasuries yields are expected to rise due to increasing inflation expectations, bolstered by recent U.S. jobs data showing significant wage growth.

The dollar slipped from its 14-year high against a basket of currencies as investors took profits ahead of holidays and upcoming U.S. economic data. The Federal Reserve's signal for more frequent rate hikes in 2017 limited the dollar's decline. The euro rebounded slightly but faces pressure due to the troubled Monte dei Paschi di Siena bank in Italy, which is likely to require a state rescue. The Swedish crown saw significant gains after Sweden's central bank extended its bond purchase program.

The article provides a comprehensive update on the progress of various coronavirus vaccine candidates. It highlights the involvement of several companies and institutions in developing genetic, viral vector, and whole-virus vaccines. Key collaborations include those between Fosun Pharma and Pfizer, Osaka University and Takara Bio, and the University of Oxford. Notable developments include the publication of trial results in reputable journals and the Chinese government's approval of a vaccine for military use. The article emphasizes the anticipated timelines for vaccine availability and production capacities.

Samumed, a leading health tech unicorn, is gaining attention for its innovative approach to reversing aging through the regulation of adult stem cells, particularly via the Wnt pathway. The company is developing treatments for knee arthritis, hair loss, Alzheimer's disease, and oncology. A notable collaboration with L’Oreal aims to develop anti-wrinkle skincare applications. CEO Osman Kibar emphasizes the company's mission to restore youth and peak health.

Eli Lilly has begun human trials for LY-CoV555, a potential COVID-19 antibody treatment designed to neutralize the virus by blocking its entry into human cells. The White House, according to the New York Times, has selected five coronavirus vaccine candidates, with an official announcement expected soon. There are currently ten vaccine candidates in clinical trials, with efforts focused on using existing drugs, discovering new drugs, and developing vaccines.

Moderna's CEO, Stephane Bancel, discusses the interim Phase 1 results of their COVID-19 vaccine, highlighting its safety and efficacy in eliciting neutralizing antibodies. The company plans to advance to Phase 2 with 600 participants and aims to start Phase 3 in July. Moderna has partnered with Lonza to significantly increase manufacturing capacity, targeting up to 1 billion doses per year. Bancel addresses stock sales by executives, emphasizing pre-planned transactions. The interview underscores the importance of manufacturing partnerships and the potential for mRNA vaccines.

Moderna's Phase 1 trial data for its COVID-19 vaccine indicates it is generally safe and elicits an immune response, with neutralizing antibodies observed in participants. However, the long-term efficacy, appropriate dosage, and large-scale manufacturing capabilities remain uncertain. The company plans to proceed with Phase 2 and Phase 3 trials, aiming for potential vaccine availability by late 2020 or early 2021. The World Health Organization notes that there are currently 10 vaccine candidates in human trials.

M3, a Japanese medical IT company, boasts a market cap of $23 billion, surpassing major companies like Panasonic and Nissan. Their core business, a medical platform launched in 2000, continues to grow, contributing significantly to revenue and operating income. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, M3's online solutions for medical professionals have seen increased demand, with a notable rise in portal site visits and interest in telemedicine. The company is also exploring AI for diagnostic platforms, projecting substantial growth in revenue and operating income for FY2020.

The article discusses the global race to develop a COVID-19 vaccine, highlighting the importance of achieving herd immunity through vaccination. It mentions that there are 108 candidate vaccines, with eight under clinical evaluation. Companies like Moderna and CanSino are leading the trials, with Moderna aiming to make experimental vaccines available to healthcare workers by fall. The article also explains different vaccine development approaches, including traditional inactivated vaccines and newer RNA/DNA vaccines, and notes the accelerated timeline for vaccine availability.

Yuzuha Oka, a Japanese tech journalist, introduces their weekly newsletter focused on the intersection of health and technology, especially relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic. The newsletter aims to cover crucial and light-hearted topics within the health and wellness industry.

Bubble tea, a popular drink among Japanese teenagers in the 1990s, has made a comeback, especially among women in their 20s and 30s. Brands like Gong cha and The Alley are leading the resurgence, with Gong cha expanding significantly in 2018. The renewed popularity is attributed to the authentic taste of the tea, often sourced from Taiwan. Gong cha Japan's CEO, Ryosuke Kuzume, outlines their strategic approach to targeting customers and selecting store locations, emphasizing the importance of brand recognition and customer preferences.

A Japanese ministry revoked a high compensation package for executives at the government-backed investment fund JIC, fearing public disapproval. The Ministry of Trade, Economy and Industry (METI) apologized and held a meeting with JIC executives to discuss the package and fund management. JIC’s CEO Masaaki Tanaka left the meeting abruptly, leading to METI's anger and an official press release.

Kenyatta Cheese, co-founder of Know Your Meme and Everybody at Once, discusses the dynamics of viral content on the internet. He emphasizes that virality is not inherent in the content itself but in the network through which it spreads. Cat videos, for example, go viral due to a well-connected community of cat lovers across multiple platforms. Cheese explains that successful viral content often contains 'mini-moments' that can be easily shared and optimized for different platforms. He also highlights the importance of building strong relationships with audiences to navigate changes in social media platforms.

Dr. Jennifer Doudna, a key figure in the discovery of CRISPR, discusses the latest applications of the gene-editing tool, her journey into the field of science, and her concerns about the future of CRISPR technology. She compares the potential public backlash to CRISPR with that experienced by GMOs and emphasizes the importance of public education on genome editing. Doudna is currently focused on understanding what makes us human and exploring which parts of the human genome could potentially be removed.

A new law in Japan requires Airbnb hosts to obtain a license, leading to the cancellation of many bookings and the removal of up to 80% of listings. Compliance with regulations like the Fire Service Act poses challenges for hosts, potentially reducing Airbnb's presence in Japan. Airbnb's co-founder, Nathan Blecharczyk, discusses the company's strategy to navigate these changes.

The dollar maintained its gains on Tuesday due to the anticipated Federal Reserve rate increase in March, while the euro was affected by the French presidential election's political uncertainties. The dollar's rise was supported by Fed Chair Janet Yellen's statement on the appropriateness of a rate hike this month, contingent on jobs and inflation data. The euro fell amid scandal surrounding Francois Fillon and the backing he received from his party, despite allegations of misusing public funds. The yen saw a slight increase due to geopolitical tensions, including North Korea's missile launch and allegations by President Trump of wiretapping by former President Obama.

The dollar steadied as investors anticipate a near-certain interest rate hike by the Federal Reserve next week, with attention on upcoming U.S. jobs data. The dollar index rose slightly, and the yen saw minor gains amid geopolitical uncertainties. Analysts suggest the dollar's further rally depends on detailed economic policies from President Trump. In France, Francois Fillon secured his party's backing for the presidential race despite allegations of misusing public funds.

The dollar steadied as investors anticipate a near-certain interest rate hike by the Federal Reserve next week, with attention on upcoming U.S. job data. The dollar index rose slightly, and the yen saw minor gains due to geopolitical uncertainties. Analysts suggest the dollar's further rally depends on detailed economic policies from President Trump. The euro remained stable, and the Australian dollar inched higher following the Reserve Bank of Australia's decision to keep interest rates unchanged.

The dollar rose as Federal Reserve officials hinted at a potential rate hike in March, overshadowing President Trump's speech to Congress, which lacked detailed economic policies. The greenback gained against the yen and euro, with U.S. Treasury yields also increasing. Analysts noted mixed reactions to Trump's speech, with some viewing it positively despite the lack of specifics. The Mexican peso remained stable, while the New Zealand dollar weakened. Key figures from financial institutions provided insights on the market movements.

The dollar surged in Asian trade as Federal Reserve officials hinted at a potential rate hike in March, overshadowing President Trump's speech to Congress, which lacked detailed economic policies. The dollar rose against the yen and euro, while the dollar index increased slightly. Fed officials William Dudley and John Williams indicated a stronger case for tightening monetary policy. Market expectations for a March rate hike rose significantly. Trump's speech, though lacking specifics, was perceived positively by some analysts. The Mexican peso remained stable despite Trump's protectionist stance.

The dollar retreated from a one-month high due to profit-taking after strong U.S. economic data raised expectations of an early Federal Reserve rate hike. U.S. consumer prices saw their largest increase in nearly four years, and retail sales exceeded expectations. However, some analysts, including Shin Kadota from Barclays, noted that the retail sales boost might be due to higher prices rather than increased consumption. Fed Chair Janet Yellen hinted at more rate hikes but provided no specific timeline. The euro and yen showed slight recoveries, while the Australian dollar held onto gains following positive employment data.

The dollar strengthened following Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen's indication of potential interest rate hikes during her testimony before Congress. Yellen highlighted the need for rate increases amid economic policy uncertainties under the Trump administration. The dollar index reached a 3-1/2-week high, and market expectations for rate hikes in March increased. Investors are also focused on upcoming U.S. economic data, including CPI and retail sales. The euro weakened due to political risks in France and Greece, with Marine Le Pen leading in French presidential polls.

The dollar maintained gains near a 3-1/2-week high following Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen's testimony, signaling a faster pace of U.S. interest rate hikes. Yellen expressed caution due to uncertainty over President Donald Trump's economic policies. The dollar index was slightly up, and the possibility of three rate hikes in 2017 increased. The euro faced pressure from French election concerns and Greek bailout talks, with no expected agreement by the upcoming Eurogroup meeting. Upcoming U.S. economic data releases are anticipated for further market direction.

The dollar rebounded from a seven-week low due to optimism over the U.S. economic outlook and corporate earnings, while the Mexican peso fell following the White House's proposal of a 20 percent tax on Mexican goods to fund a border wall. Analysts expressed concerns over the potential negative impact of protectionist trade policies on the U.S. economy. The Bank of Japan's bond purchases contributed to the dollar's strength against the yen. Investors are now focused on upcoming U.S. GDP estimates.

The dollar rebounded from a seven-week low due to optimism over the U.S. economic outlook and corporate earnings, despite uncertainties raised by President Donald Trump's protectionist policies. The dollar index rose to 100.47, recovering from a low of 99.793. U.S. Treasury yields and equities supported the dollar, although concerns over new trade barriers and a proposed 20% tax on Mexican goods weighed on it. The Mexican peso fell following the border tax news. The yen showed limited response to Japan's CPI data, while the euro remained stable against the dollar.

The dollar hovered near seven-week lows due to concerns over President Trump's protectionist policies, including the construction of a U.S.-Mexican border wall. Despite gains in U.S. shares and the Dow Jones Industrial Average surpassing 20,000, the dollar index fell to its lowest since December 8. Trump's business-friendly actions, such as reducing regulatory burdens and advancing oil pipelines, contrasted with his divisive immigration and national security plans, unsettling investors. The correlation between U.S. Treasury yields and the dollar weakened, reminiscent of the U.S.-Japan trade conflicts in the 1990s. The pound saw a slight dip but remained buoyed by hopes for a U.S.-UK trade deal.

The dollar fell to a seven-week low amid investor concerns over U.S. protectionism following President Donald Trump's approval of a U.S.-Mexican border wall and potential immigration restrictions. Despite a Wall Street rally, the dollar index dropped, reflecting fears about the impact of Trump's policies on foreign capital and the U.S. current account deficit. Analysts expressed skepticism about the extent of Trump's protectionist actions. Meanwhile, the Mexican peso strengthened, and the British pound rose on hopes for a swift UK-US trade deal and clarity on Brexit plans.

The dollar weakened as Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen's comments on a gradual pace of rate hikes were less hawkish than expected. Investors are cautious ahead of President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration, with potential impacts on the dollar depending on his speech. The dollar index fell, influenced by strong U.S. job and housing data, while the euro gained following the European Central Bank's decision to maintain its negative interest rate policy. China's economic growth slightly exceeded expectations, driven by government spending and record bank lending.

The dollar maintained its gains on Friday as the market anticipated the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, while the euro saw a rebound after the European Central Bank decided to keep its negative interest rate policy and asset purchases unchanged. The dollar index was at 101.17, having risen on positive U.S. job and housing data. Investors are looking for Trump's inauguration speech for market direction, with concerns about potential protectionist rhetoric. The euro recovered after initially falling during ECB President Mario Draghi's speech, which highlighted ongoing inflation issues and the need for monetary stimulus in Europe. The dollar also held gains against the yen, with attention turning to upcoming economic data from China.

The dollar index hovered near six-week lows, influenced by President-elect Donald Trump's comments on the currency's strength. Sterling edged down after a significant gain following British Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit plan announcement. The dollar's decline deepened post-Martin Luther King Jr Day, with Trump's remarks on U.S. companies' competitiveness against China playing a role. The dollar had previously surged on expectations of Trump's fiscal policies but faced pressure from his protectionist rhetoric. The yen strengthened for seven consecutive sessions, while the euro and sterling saw fluctuations influenced by recent political developments.

The dollar rebounded slightly after hitting a seven-week low against the yen, as investors awaited Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen's speech on monetary policy. The dollar index rose, while the euro and sterling slipped. Yellen's speech at the Commonwealth Club in San Francisco is expected to provide policy direction. San Francisco Fed President John Williams and Fed Governor Lael Brainard commented on potential rate hikes and inflation risks. British Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit plans caused a temporary surge in sterling, but analysts remain cautious about the UK's economic outlook. President-elect Donald Trump's comments on the strong dollar and trade with China also influenced market sentiment.

The dollar slightly recovered from a five-week low against the yen and stabilized against other major currencies, despite weaker-than-expected Chinese export data. The market's reaction was subdued to President-elect Donald Trump's recent press conference, which lacked details on fiscal stimulus plans. Analysts suggest the dollar may strengthen once Trump's policies become clearer. U.S. Treasury yields are expected to rise with inflation expectations, and upcoming U.S. retail sales data could influence the dollar's trajectory. The euro reached a two-week high, while the Chinese trade surplus decreased. The Mexican peso remains weak amid concerns over Trump's proposed trade policies.

The article discusses the perspective of Professor Sato on the differences in parent-child relationships between Japanese and Western cultures. Professor Sato suggests that while Western parents view their children as independent individuals, Japanese parents are more likely to consider their children as extensions of themselves, almost like possessions. This viewpoint implies that Japanese parents feel a sense of ownership over their children's actions, including their misbehaviour.

The dollar rose against the yen following strong U.S. economic data, reinforcing expectations for economic growth under Donald Trump's administration and more rate hikes by the U.S. Federal Reserve. U.S. consumer confidence hit a 15-year peak, and house prices continued to recover. The dollar index, which measures the greenback against a basket of six major peers, stood at 102.97. The euro and the Australian and New Zealand dollars also saw movements influenced by U.S. economic data. The Italian government is expected to rescue Monte dei Paschi, the country's third-largest lender.

The dollar edged up against the yen, nearing a 10-1/2 month high, driven by strong U.S. economic data that bolstered expectations of a more hawkish U.S. Federal Reserve. U.S. consumer confidence reached a 15-year peak in December, and house prices continued to recover, although rising borrowing costs could pose challenges. The Fed's projection of three rate hikes next year, compared to two predicted in September, further supported the dollar. Market strategist Ayako Sera noted potential volatility in yen trade due to the thinning Japanese market ahead of the New Year holiday.

The dollar retreated from its 14-year high against a basket of currencies as investors took profits ahead of U.S. economic data releases. The Federal Reserve's signal for more frequent rate hikes in 2017 limited the dollar's decline. The euro rebounded slightly but remains under pressure due to concerns over the future of Italy's Monte dei Paschi di Siena bank, which is likely to require a state rescue. The yen showed little movement ahead of a national holiday in Japan, while the Australian and New Zealand dollars remained near seven-month lows against the U.S. dollar.

The dollar remains strong, nearing a 14-year high against the euro, driven by expectations of rising U.S. interest rates under the Trump Administration. The euro and yen have weakened, with the latter influenced by the Bank of Japan's policies. The Federal Reserve's recent rate hike and projections for further increases have bolstered U.S. Treasury yields. The British pound has fallen due to uncertainties surrounding Brexit.

The dollar surged to a 14-year high against major currencies, driven by expectations of faster rate hikes by the Federal Reserve following Donald Trump's election. The Fed raised interest rates by 25 basis points and projected three more hikes in 2017. The 10-year Treasury note yield rose to its highest level since September 2014. The dollar's rise impacted the yen and euro, with the yen falling 11% against the dollar since Trump's election. The Bank of England and Swiss National Bank kept their interest rates unchanged, citing global uncertainties.

The euro has seen an increase, trading near a three-week high against the dollar ahead of the European Central Bank's policy decision. The currency's focus was heightened after Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi announced his resignation following a referendum defeat. The ECB is anticipated to extend its quantitative easing program while maintaining its asset purchases at 80 billion euros. The dollar index fell near a three-week low, influenced by a decline in U.S. bond yields. The New Zealand dollar also strengthened, supported by positive economic outlook comments from the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. Moody's has shifted its outlook on Italy's bond rating to negative, highlighting financial risks and reduced prospects for economic reform.

Australians have elected a divided parliament, but political leaders are united on the need for electronic voting to address the slow vote-counting process. The July 2 election's count has extended into its 10th day, drawing unfavorable comparisons with quicker counts in Japan, Iceland, Spain, and the UK's Brexit vote. Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Opposition leader Bill Shorten support e-voting despite security concerns and the potential loss of traditional election day activities. Experts warn that the risks of e-voting might outweigh the benefits, citing vulnerabilities found in previous trials.

Australians have elected a divided parliament with many independents and minor parties, but political leaders are united on the need for electronic voting. The prolonged vote count, now in its 10th day, has drawn unfavorable comparisons with countries like Japan, Iceland, and Spain, where elections are decided much faster.

Western Sydney is a focal point in the upcoming Australian election, with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull's plan for 30-minute cities aiming to create jobs and improve infrastructure. The region, characterized by its multicultural population and economic challenges, is crucial for both the Liberal-National coalition and the Labor Party. Turnbull's A$30 billion projects include major public transport and urban road developments, while Labor's Bill Shorten promises federal funds for a rail link and healthcare improvements. The success of these plans could reshape Australia's urban landscape, though challenges remain in attracting major service sector employers.

Mitchell Beckwith, a forklift driver from Western Sydney, exemplifies Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull's vision of 30-minute cities, where people can live and work within a short commute. This concept is a key part of Turnbull's ambitious urban development plan, which is a significant focus in the closely contested Australian election.

Western Sydney is a focal point in the upcoming Australian general election, with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull's plan for 30-minute cities aiming to improve local infrastructure and job opportunities. The region, characterized by its multicultural population and economic challenges, is crucial for both Turnbull's Liberal-National coalition and the opposition Labor Party led by Bill Shorten. Turnbull's A$30 billion infrastructure projects and Shorten's promises for federal funding highlight the intense competition for votes. The article also discusses the potential economic impact and challenges of these plans, including the involvement of major construction companies and the need for local business support.

In the lead-up to the Australian general election, Western Sydney emerges as a critical battleground with several marginal seats. Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull's plan for 30-minute cities, including a A$32 billion infrastructure and urban renewal program, aims to create local jobs and reduce commute times. The region, known for its multicultural population and currently facing higher crime and lower employment, is also the focus of Labor leader Bill Shorten's job creation plans. Major construction companies are investing in the area, but the service sector has yet to follow suit significantly.

In the upcoming Australian general election, Western Sydney is a key battleground with several marginal seats. Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull's plan for 30-minute cities, including a A$32 billion infrastructure and urban renewal program, is central to his campaign, focusing on jobs and wealth creation. The region, which has higher crime and lower employment, health, and education outcomes, is also a focus for the Labor Party, with leader Bill Shorten promising federal funds for local projects. Major construction companies are investing in the area, but there is a wage and services gap that may challenge the realization of Turnbull's vision. Some businesses, like Hugo Halliday, have already relocated to Western Sydney, anticipating growth.

Japan's Suidobashi Heavy Industry, led by Kogoro Kurata, has accepted a robot duel challenge from U.S. robotics firm MegaBots. The duel, set for next June, will feature Kurata's 4-meter-tall Kuratas robot against MegaBots' 4.6-meter-tall Megabots Mark 2. Kurata emphasized the cultural significance of giant robots in Japan and expressed confidence in winning the melee combat format. Both parties have a year to prepare and promote the highly anticipated match.

The municipal government in Yamato, Kanagawa Prefecture, has retroactively withdrawn support for a public event after the all-girl pop group Seifuku Kojo Iinkai performed a song criticizing Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's ruling Liberal Democratic Party, calling it the root of all evil and advocating for its removal from power.

The Superhuman Sports Society, a newly formed group of researchers, designers, and artists, aims to merge fantasy and reality by bringing elements of popular fantasy sports like Quidditch from Harry Potter and energy waves from Dragon Ball to life. The group envisions a future where technology enables the realization of these fantastical elements, blending the boundaries between the real world and fantasy.

Clubhouse, an audio-based social media app, has quickly become the most popular app on the Japan App Store, attracting significant attention from CEOs and celebrities. The app's rise in Japan is notable, and it has also provided a rare platform for uncensored debate in China. Meanwhile, Facebook is reportedly developing a competing product. Key figures in the discussion include Yuzuha Oka, Austin Freeman, and Oscar Boyd.