John Hinckley, the man who shot at former US president Ronald Reagan in 1981 was given full freedom on Wednesday (June 15). This step was taken six years after he was released from a psychiatric hospital. A court in Washington had ruled earlier this month that after decades of treatment and psychiatric reviews, Hinckley no longer presented a threat

"After 41 years 2 months and 15 days, FREEDOM AT LAST!!!" he tweeted in celebration on Thursday.

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After 41 years 2 months and 15 days, FREEDOM AT LAST!!!
— John Hinckley (@JohnHinckley20) <a href="https://twitter.com/JohnHinckley20/status/1537105834571976704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Hinckley, now 67, shot Reagan and three others with a revolver outside a Washington hotel on March 30, 1981. Hinckley said he wanted to impress actress Jodie Foster, with whom he became obsessed after watching her in the film "Taxi Driver."

All four people he shot survived, although Reagan press secretary James Brady was left partially paralyzed and forced to use a wheelchair.

Hinckley was declared not guilty on grounds of insanity. He was then admitted to St. Elizabeth Hospital, &nbsp;a psychiatric institution in Washington, for 34 years

He was released in September 2016 but required to live with his elderly mother in a gated community in Williamsburg, Virginia under a long list of restrictions.

Those included controls on his movements and monitoring of his electronic devices and online accounts.

He was also forbidden to contact Foster or travel to any area where a current or former president, vice president or member of Congress would be present.

Nor could Hinckley speak to the media or post any writings or memorabilia on the internet, or display them in person without authorization.&nbsp;

A government report on his status filed to the court on May 19 said his mental health had "remained stable" and that his psychiatric illness had been in "full and sustained remission for decades."

(With inputs from agencies)

John Hinckley, the man who shot at former US president Ronald Reagan in 1981 was given full freedom on Wednesday (June 15). This step was taken six years after he was released from a psychiatric hospital.

John Hinckley, the man who shot at former US president Ronald Reagan in 1981 was given full freedom on Wednesday (June 15). This step was taken six years after he was released from a psychiatric hospital. A court in Washington had ruled earlier this month that after decades of treatment and psychiatric reviews, Hinckley no longer presented a threat "After 41 years 2 months and 15 days, FREEDOM AT LAST!!!" he tweeted in celebration on Thursday. After 41 years 2 months and 15 days, FREEDOM AT LAST!!! — John Hinckley (@JohnHinckley20) June 15, 2022 × Hinckley, now 67, shot Reagan and three others with a revolver outside a Washington hotel on March 30, 1981. Hinckley said he wanted to impress actress Jodie Foster, with whom he became obsessed after watching her in the film "Taxi Driver." All four people he shot survived, although Reagan press secretary James Brady was left partially paralyzed and forced to use a wheelchair. Hinckley was declared not guilty on grounds of insanity. He was then admitted to St. Elizabeth Hospital, a psychiatric institution in Washington, for 34 years He was released in September 2016 but required to live with his elderly mother in a gated community in Williamsburg, Virginia under a long list of restrictions. Those included controls on his movements and monitoring of his electronic devices and online accounts. He was also forbidden to contact Foster or travel to any area where a current or former president, vice president or member of Congress would be present. Nor could Hinckley speak to the media or post any writings or memorabilia on the internet, or display them in person without authorization. A government report on his status filed to the court on May 19 said his mental health had "remained stable" and that his psychiatric illness had been in "full and sustained remission for decades." (With inputs from agencies)

'Freedom at last': Man who shot at Ronald Reagan granted full freedom

The US&nbsp;Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Wednesday urged the chief executives of major US&nbsp;airlines to move quickly to address risks from a 5G wireless rollout, in a bid to avoid potential disruptions at key airports from next month.

Acting FAA Administrator Billy Nolen said in a letter reviewed by Reuters that AT&amp;T and Verizon want to boost C-Band 5G services around some airports starting in July after previously delaying their rollout.

Concerns that the 5G service could interfere with airplane altimeters, which give data on a plane's height above the ground and are crucial for bad-weather landing, led to disruptions at some US&nbsp;airports earlier this year.

Nolen urged airlines to urgently press ahead with retrofitting radio altimeters, saying "there are no guarantees that all large markets will retain the current (safeguards)."

He warned that as wireless carriers boost signals some "less capable aircraft" may be unable to access certain airports without altimeter retrofits.

Airlines CEOs on Jan. 17 had warned of an impending "catastrophic" aviation crisis that could have grounded almost all traffic because of the 5G deployment.

Under White House pressure, AT&amp;T and Verizon days later in January agreed to delay through July 5 switching on some wireless towers and depowering others near airports just hours before the planned Jan. 19 deployment.

That date, Nolen wrote Wednesday "is rapidly approaching."

In recent months, the FAA has been urging airlines to complete retrofits of some airplane radio altimeters that could face interference from C-Band 5G wireless service by the end of 2022.

The FAA said it is in the early stages of working with AT&amp;T and Verizon "to identify markets where either a new tower or an increase in signal power will cause the least disruption."

Nolen said in three recent rounds of talks, industry officials identified a pathway to retrofit the first two groups of aircraft with the most vulnerable radio altimeters by the end of 2022. Another round of talks are set for Friday.

"We are working toward an equally aggressive schedule that would necessitate the completion of retrofits for the third and largest group in 2023," Nolen said.

He added that "as the situation stands, Verizon and AT&amp;T plan to pursue a full rollout of their networks by the end of 2023."

Another 19 companies "are expected to enter the market during that timeframe, hopefully employing some level of the voluntary mitigations that have enabled our progress so far," he added.

Verizon said it was working with the FAA, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and aviation industry, and was confident it would achieve "robust deployment of C-Band without significant disruptions to the traveling public."

Airlines for America, an industry trade group representing American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and others, said the industry recognized the need "to implement a permanent solution, while continuing to ensure the highest level of safety."

AT&amp;T did not comment.

Some airlines have raised concerns about paying to retrofit altimeters only to face paying for a replacement in a few years.

Nolen said "without additional action by the FCC to cap transmissions at currently attainable power levels, the prospect of additional disruption remains and we are not in any position to offer assurances."

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The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Wednesday urged the chief executives of major US airlines to move quickly to address risks from a 5G wireless rollout, in a bid to avoid potential disruptions at key airports from next month.

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Wednesday urged the chief executives of major US airlines to move quickly to address risks from a 5G wireless rollout, in a bid to avoid potential disruptions at key airports from next month. Acting FAA Administrator Billy Nolen said in a letter reviewed by Reuters that AT&T and Verizon want to boost C-Band 5G services around some airports starting in July after previously delaying their rollout. Concerns that the 5G service could interfere with airplane altimeters, which give data on a plane's height above the ground and are crucial for bad-weather landing, led to disruptions at some US airports earlier this year. Nolen urged airlines to urgently press ahead with retrofitting radio altimeters, saying "there are no guarantees that all large markets will retain the current (safeguards)." He warned that as wireless carriers boost signals some "less capable aircraft" may be unable to access certain airports without altimeter retrofits. Airlines CEOs on Jan. 17 had warned of an impending "catastrophic" aviation crisis that could have grounded almost all traffic because of the 5G deployment. Under White House pressure, AT&T and Verizon days later in January agreed to delay through July 5 switching on some wireless towers and depowering others near airports just hours before the planned Jan. 19 deployment. That date, Nolen wrote Wednesday "is rapidly approaching." In recent months, the FAA has been urging airlines to complete retrofits of some airplane radio altimeters that could face interference from C-Band 5G wireless service by the end of 2022. The FAA said it is in the early stages of working with AT&T and Verizon "to identify markets where either a new tower or an increase in signal power will cause the least disruption." Nolen said in three recent rounds of talks, industry officials identified a pathway to retrofit the first two groups of aircraft with the most vulnerable radio altimeters by the end of 2022. Another round of talks are set for Friday. "We are working toward an equally aggressive schedule that would necessitate the completion of retrofits for the third and largest group in 2023," Nolen said. He added that "as the situation stands, Verizon and AT&T plan to pursue a full rollout of their networks by the end of 2023." Another 19 companies "are expected to enter the market during that timeframe, hopefully employing some level of the voluntary mitigations that have enabled our progress so far," he added. Verizon said it was working with the FAA, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and aviation industry, and was confident it would achieve "robust deployment of C-Band without significant disruptions to the traveling public." Airlines for America, an industry trade group representing American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and others, said the industry recognized the need "to implement a permanent solution, while continuing to ensure the highest level of safety." AT&T did not comment. Some airlines have raised concerns about paying to retrofit altimeters only to face paying for a replacement in a few years. Nolen said "without additional action by the FCC to cap transmissions at currently attainable power levels, the prospect of additional disruption remains and we are not in any position to offer assurances." You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

FAA urges airlines to act as wireless carriers plan 5G signal boost

Team building exercises as often carried out by companies to increase camaraderie among employees, instill a sense of team spirit. We have heard of many activities which make the employees come together and try to find solution to a particular problem.

But what if such an exercise sends the team to the&nbsp;hospital?

Ouch indeed!

A team-building exercise in Switzerland sent most of the team to hospital as members suffered burns due to walking on coal. Twenty five people received treatment for burns while thirteen of them were sent to hospital for more severe injuries, reported BBC.

A large emergency response reportedly resulted in 10 ambulances at the scene

The police said that the group walked on a bed of coals several metres long. It is not yet clear what was the problem, whether the coal wasn't arranged properly or those who walked on it didn't follow techniques that may have saved them from receiving burns.

The incident occurred in the Au penisular, south of city of Zurich.

Walking on coal is used as a rite of passage in many corners of the world.

In order to prevent your feet from getting nasty burns, it is often said that a person needs to manage walking in a way that would ensure his/ her feet do not touch the embers for more than two to three seconds at a time. 
&nbsp;

Team building exercises as often carried out by companies to increase camaraderie among employees, instill a sense of team spirit. We have heard of many activities which make the employees come together and try to find solution to a particular problem.

Team building exercises as often carried out by companies to increase camaraderie among employees, instill a sense of team spirit. We have heard of many activities which make the employees come together and try to find solution to a particular problem. But what if such an exercise sends the team to the hospital? Ouch indeed! A team-building exercise in Switzerland sent most of the team to hospital as members suffered burns due to walking on coal. Twenty five people received treatment for burns while thirteen of them were sent to hospital for more severe injuries, reported BBC. A large emergency response reportedly resulted in 10 ambulances at the scene The police said that the group walked on a bed of coals several metres long. It is not yet clear what was the problem, whether the coal wasn't arranged properly or those who walked on it didn't follow techniques that may have saved them from receiving burns. The incident occurred in the Au penisular, south of city of Zurich. Walking on coal is used as a rite of passage in many corners of the world. In order to prevent your feet from getting nasty burns, it is often said that a person needs to manage walking in a way that would ensure his/ her feet do not touch the embers for more than two to three seconds at a time.

Team-building exercise of walking on burning coal sends people to hospital

McDonald's is going to pay USD 1.3 billion (1.25 billion euros) to avoid a tax evasion case in France. The money is being paid as per an agreement approved by a Paris court for tax evasion between 2009 and 2020.

This is the second biggest tax settlement in French history.

The settlement includes 508-million-euro fine and 737 million euros in back taxes already agreed in May, years after McDonald's was accused of reporting artificially low profits to reduce its tax bill.

"On condition of payment of the fine, the validation of the agreement means the end of the prosecution," chief financial prosecutor Jean-Francois Bohnert said in a statement. He was quoted by AFP.

Hailing the fine as the "maximum amount possible" under such a deal, he added that McDonald's would pay "2.5 times the amount of tax avoided".

Investigators had since 2014 been probing whether fees paid by McDonald's French operation to its European parent company in Luxembourg for use of the chain's brand in fact served to artificially slash its profits.

Judge Noel said that this let the company "soak up a large amount of the profits made by restaurants in France."

A source familiar with the case told AFP this week that such practices within the same group are "used exclusively to avoid taxes".

They added that the brand fees "could double" from one McDonald's branch to the next "without any justification at all, which made it possible to prove that it was done 'exclusively' for tax reasons".

Prosecutors had opened an official probe in 2016 after union officials reported the company for covering up tax evasion.

In a statement, McDonald's said it had already paid 2.2 billion euros in taxes over the period in question.

"This agreement ends a tax case and a judicial investigation without acknowledging fault," the company added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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McDonald's is going to pay USD 1.3 billion (1.25 billion euros) to avoid a tax evasion case in France. The money is being paid as per an agreement approved by a Paris court for tax evasion between 2009 and 2020.

McDonald's is going to pay USD 1.3 billion (1.25 billion euros) to avoid a tax evasion case in France. The money is being paid as per an agreement approved by a Paris court for tax evasion between 2009 and 2020. This is the second biggest tax settlement in French history. The settlement includes 508-million-euro fine and 737 million euros in back taxes already agreed in May, years after McDonald's was accused of reporting artificially low profits to reduce its tax bill. "On condition of payment of the fine, the validation of the agreement means the end of the prosecution," chief financial prosecutor Jean-Francois Bohnert said in a statement. He was quoted by AFP. Hailing the fine as the "maximum amount possible" under such a deal, he added that McDonald's would pay "2.5 times the amount of tax avoided". Investigators had since 2014 been probing whether fees paid by McDonald's French operation to its European parent company in Luxembourg for use of the chain's brand in fact served to artificially slash its profits. Judge Noel said that this let the company "soak up a large amount of the profits made by restaurants in France." A source familiar with the case told AFP this week that such practices within the same group are "used exclusively to avoid taxes". They added that the brand fees "could double" from one McDonald's branch to the next "without any justification at all, which made it possible to prove that it was done 'exclusively' for tax reasons". Prosecutors had opened an official probe in 2016 after union officials reported the company for covering up tax evasion. In a statement, McDonald's said it had already paid 2.2 billion euros in taxes over the period in question. "This agreement ends a tax case and a judicial investigation without acknowledging fault," the company added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Unhappy bill: McDonald's to pay more than USD 1 billion to avoid tax evasion case

US President Joe Biden on Wednesday (June 15) signed an executive order that was aimed at providing federal support to LGBTQ rights. White House sees that these rights are under attack from Republican state-level leaders. In Florida potential presidential candidate Governor Ron DeSantis has put combating "woke" culture at the heart of his agenda.

The executive order addresses "discriminatory legislative attacks against LGBTQI+ children and families, directing key agencies to protect families and children."

The order signed by Biden seeks to prevent the so-called "conversion therapy," boost health care programs against youth suicide, support LGBTQ foster families and protect against homelessness in the community.

A senior official was quoted by AFP as saying that the high profile intervention by Biden was aimed at countering an "onslaught of hateful... legislation that we're seeing in the states."

The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said there had been more than 300 laws introduced at state level this year alone that infringe on LGBTQ people and their parents.

Among those invited to the White House were "kids and families from across the country who have been personally impacted by these discriminatory bills," the official said.

These included 18-year-old Javier Gomez, who gained renown as an activist while still at school in Florida and also joined Biden on the stage at the White House.&nbsp;

Recounting the bullying he suffered in school, he said an early teacher had been key in providing "the support I needed to understand my identity."

(With inputs from agencies)

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US President Joe Biden on Wednesday (June 15) signed an executive order that was aimed at providing federal support to LGBTQ rights. White House sees that these rights are under attack from Republican state-level leaders.

US President Joe Biden on Wednesday (June 15) signed an executive order that was aimed at providing federal support to LGBTQ rights. White House sees that these rights are under attack from Republican state-level leaders. In Florida potential presidential candidate Governor Ron DeSantis has put combating "woke" culture at the heart of his agenda. The executive order addresses "discriminatory legislative attacks against LGBTQI+ children and families, directing key agencies to protect families and children." The order signed by Biden seeks to prevent the so-called "conversion therapy," boost health care programs against youth suicide, support LGBTQ foster families and protect against homelessness in the community. A senior official was quoted by AFP as saying that the high profile intervention by Biden was aimed at countering an "onslaught of hateful... legislation that we're seeing in the states." The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said there had been more than 300 laws introduced at state level this year alone that infringe on LGBTQ people and their parents. Among those invited to the White House were "kids and families from across the country who have been personally impacted by these discriminatory bills," the official said. These included 18-year-old Javier Gomez, who gained renown as an activist while still at school in Florida and also joined Biden on the stage at the White House. Recounting the bullying he suffered in school, he said an early teacher had been key in providing "the support I needed to understand my identity." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Biden signs executive order aimed against LGBTQI+ discrimination

Revlon Inc filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Wednesday after struggling to compete with online-focused upstart brands in recent years.

The nail polish and lipstick maker, controlled by billionaire Ron Perelman's MacAndrews &amp; Forbes, listed assets and liabilities between $1 billion and $10 billion, according to a filing with the US&nbsp;Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York.

The bankruptcy filing comes days after the Wall Street Journal reported Revlon had begun talks with lenders ahead of looming maturities of debt to avoid bankruptcy.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/wall-street-stocks-crash-sp-500-enters-bear-market-amid-recession-fears-487905">&nbsp;Wall Street stocks crash; S&amp;P 500 enters 'bear market' amid recession fears</a>

Revlon's sales have struggled amid supply bottlenecks and a failure to swiftly switch to in-demand skincare, losing shelf space in US&nbsp;stores to startups backed by celebrities such as Kylie Jenner's Kylie Cosmetics and Fenty Beauty by Rihanna.

In contrast, rival Coty Inc has gained market share by investing heavily to improve supplies and cater to a post-pandemic rebound in demand for mascara and lipsticks.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Is a global recession coming?

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Revlon, which has been helmed by Perelman's daughter Debra Perelman since mid-2018, had long-term debt of $3.31 billion as of March 31.

Formed in 1932 by brothers Charles and Joseph Revson and Charles Lachman, Revlon was sold to MacAndrews &amp; Forbes in 1985 and went public 11 years later. The company bought Elizabeth Arden in an $870 million deal in 2016 to strengthen its skincare business.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wall-street-stocks-sank-after-inflation-hit-a-40-year-high-487149">Wall Street stocks sank after inflation hit a 40-year high</a>

But Revlon's net sales in 2021 declined 22 per cent&nbsp;from its 2017 levels amid rising competition. The company also made headlines two years ago when Citigroup Inc accidentally sent nearly $900 million of its own money to Revlon's lenders, rather than a small interest payment. A U.S. federal judge, however, ruled it was not entitled to recoup the money.

Revlon, which started off selling nail enamel nearly 90 years ago, also houses several brands including Britney Spears Fragrances and Christina Aguilera Fragrances.

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Revlon Inc filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Wednesday after struggling to compete with online-focused upstart brands in recent years. The nail polish and lipstick maker, controlled by billionaire Ron Perelman's MacAndrews & Forbes, listed assets and liabilities between $1 billion and $10 billion, according to a filing with the US Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York.

Revlon Inc filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Wednesday after struggling to compete with online-focused upstart brands in recent years. The nail polish and lipstick maker, controlled by billionaire Ron Perelman's MacAndrews & Forbes, listed assets and liabilities between $1 billion and $10 billion, according to a filing with the US Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York. The bankruptcy filing comes days after the Wall Street Journal reported Revlon had begun talks with lenders ahead of looming maturities of debt to avoid bankruptcy. Also read | Wall Street stocks crash; S&P 500 enters 'bear market' amid recession fears Revlon's sales have struggled amid supply bottlenecks and a failure to swiftly switch to in-demand skincare, losing shelf space in US stores to startups backed by celebrities such as Kylie Jenner's Kylie Cosmetics and Fenty Beauty by Rihanna. In contrast, rival Coty Inc has gained market share by investing heavily to improve supplies and cater to a post-pandemic rebound in demand for mascara and lipsticks. Watch | Gravitas: Is a global recession coming? Revlon, which has been helmed by Perelman's daughter Debra Perelman since mid-2018, had long-term debt of $3.31 billion as of March 31. Formed in 1932 by brothers Charles and Joseph Revson and Charles Lachman, Revlon was sold to MacAndrews & Forbes in 1985 and went public 11 years later. The company bought Elizabeth Arden in an $870 million deal in 2016 to strengthen its skincare business. Also read | Wall Street stocks sank after inflation hit a 40-year high But Revlon's net sales in 2021 declined 22 per cent from its 2017 levels amid rising competition. The company also made headlines two years ago when Citigroup Inc accidentally sent nearly $900 million of its own money to Revlon's lenders, rather than a small interest payment. A U.S. federal judge, however, ruled it was not entitled to recoup the money. Revlon, which started off selling nail enamel nearly 90 years ago, also houses several brands including Britney Spears Fragrances and Christina Aguilera Fragrances. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Cosmetics company Revlon files for bankruptcy protection

The Swiss National Bank (SNB) raised its policy interest rate for the first time in 15 years in a surprise move on Thursday and said it was ready to hike further, joining other central banks in tightening monetary policy to fight resurgent inflation.

The central bank increased its policy rate to -0.25% from the -0.75% level it has deployed since 2015, sending the safe-haven franc sharply higher. Nearly all the economists polled by Reuters had expected the SNB to keep rates steady.

It was the first increase by the SNB since September 2007, and followed a 0.75% rate hike by the U.S. Federal Reserve on Wednesday.

&nbsp;Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-federal-reserve-announces-historic-interest-rate-hike-wall-street-stocks-surge-488585">US Federal Reserve announces historic interest rate hike; Wall Street stocks surge</a>

Other central banks are also raising interest rates as they attempt to cool inflation driven higher by surging fuel and food prices that are straining budgets for households and businesses.

The Bank of England looks set to raise interest rates again on Thursday as it tries to tackle an inflation rate on course for double digits.

The European Central Bank signalled last week it would raise its rates in July to check euro zone inflation that hit 8.1% last month.

SNB Chairman Thomas Jordan said the inflation situation with Switzerland seeing its highest price rises in nearly 14 years during May - meant the SNB may have to act again.

"The new inflation forecast shows that further increases in the policy rate may be necessary in the foreseeable future," he told a news conference.

Thursday's rate increase was necessary to check rising prices in Switzerland, which had spread to goods and services not previously affected by the impact of the war in Ukraine and supply chain bottlenecks linked to the pandemic.

Watch |&nbsp;Bank of England to raise interest rates as UK inflation heads for 10%

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"In the current environment, price increases were being passed on more quickly, and are also being more readily accepted, than was the case until recently," Jordan said.

"There is the threat of second-round effects becoming entrenched if inflation remains above 2% for a long period."

He said recent depreciation meant the Swiss franc was no longer highly valued on currency markets long a concern for the SNB and that the SNB was ready to intervene in markets to check excessive appreciation or weakening of the franc.

The safe-haven franc's strength had dampened the impact of inflation in Switzerland by reducing price rises for fuel and food imports, but this was less the case following its recent weakening, Jordan said.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ukraine-jacks-up-key-rate-to-25-in-first-hike-since-russian-invasion-484895">&nbsp;Ukraine jacks up key rate to 25% in first hike since Russian invasion</a>

"Thus the inflation imported from abroad has increased," he said. "Another consequence of this depreciation coupled with significantly higher inflation abroad is that the franc is no longer highly valued."

The SNB raised its inflation forecasts for 2022 to 2.8% from the 2.1% it gave in March. It also expects inflation of 1.9% and 1.6% in 2023 and 2024, up from its previous view for prices rising by 0.9% in both years.

The SNB still expects the Swiss economy to grow by around 2.5% in 2022.

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The Swiss National Bank (SNB) raised its policy interest rate for the first time in 15 years in a surprise move on Thursday and said it was ready to hike further, joining other central banks in tightening monetary policy to fight resurgent inflation.

The Swiss National Bank (SNB) raised its policy interest rate for the first time in 15 years in a surprise move on Thursday and said it was ready to hike further, joining other central banks in tightening monetary policy to fight resurgent inflation. The central bank increased its policy rate to -0.25% from the -0.75% level it has deployed since 2015, sending the safe-haven franc sharply higher. Nearly all the economists polled by Reuters had expected the SNB to keep rates steady. It was the first increase by the SNB since September 2007, and followed a 0.75% rate hike by the U.S. Federal Reserve on Wednesday. Also read | US Federal Reserve announces historic interest rate hike; Wall Street stocks surge Other central banks are also raising interest rates as they attempt to cool inflation driven higher by surging fuel and food prices that are straining budgets for households and businesses. The Bank of England looks set to raise interest rates again on Thursday as it tries to tackle an inflation rate on course for double digits. The European Central Bank signalled last week it would raise its rates in July to check euro zone inflation that hit 8.1% last month. SNB Chairman Thomas Jordan said the inflation situation with Switzerland seeing its highest price rises in nearly 14 years during May - meant the SNB may have to act again. "The new inflation forecast shows that further increases in the policy rate may be necessary in the foreseeable future," he told a news conference. Thursday's rate increase was necessary to check rising prices in Switzerland, which had spread to goods and services not previously affected by the impact of the war in Ukraine and supply chain bottlenecks linked to the pandemic. Watch | Bank of England to raise interest rates as UK inflation heads for 10% "In the current environment, price increases were being passed on more quickly, and are also being more readily accepted, than was the case until recently," Jordan said. "There is the threat of second-round effects becoming entrenched if inflation remains above 2% for a long period." He said recent depreciation meant the Swiss franc was no longer highly valued on currency markets long a concern for the SNB and that the SNB was ready to intervene in markets to check excessive appreciation or weakening of the franc. The safe-haven franc's strength had dampened the impact of inflation in Switzerland by reducing price rises for fuel and food imports, but this was less the case following its recent weakening, Jordan said. Also read | Ukraine jacks up key rate to 25% in first hike since Russian invasion "Thus the inflation imported from abroad has increased," he said. "Another consequence of this depreciation coupled with significantly higher inflation abroad is that the franc is no longer highly valued." The SNB raised its inflation forecasts for 2022 to 2.8% from the 2.1% it gave in March. It also expects inflation of 1.9% and 1.6% in 2023 and 2024, up from its previous view for prices rising by 0.9% in both years. The SNB still expects the Swiss economy to grow by around 2.5% in 2022. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Swiss National Bank ready for more rate hikes after shock move

Authroties in Chinese capital Beijing have revoked license of a bar in the city that has been epicentre of fresh wave of COVID cases in the city, reported China's state-run news outlet Global Times. The authorities have also filed criminal charges against Heaven Supermarket bar.

The report said that the recent outbreak of COVID was "triggered by a customer of the bar last week who had not taken a test for 14 days prior". The national capital has asked all the residents to undergo tests every two-three days.

At least 200 infections were traced to the single bar in the city..

Heaven Supermarket Bar is a large self-service liquor store with chairs, sofas and tables

The bar, where patrons check aisles to grab anything from local heavy spirits to Belgian beer, is known among Beijing revellers for its tables plastered with empty bottles, and customers falling asleep on sofas after midnight.

When the bar was identified as the epicentre of fresh outbreak in the city, authorities rushed to contain the spread. Millions in the city faced mandatory tests.

The bar had opened after COVID restrictions in Beijing were eased last week. Drinking and dining in Bejing establishments started on on June 6.

Authroties in Chinese capital Beijing have revoked license of a bar in the city that has been epicentre of fresh wave of COVID cases in the city, reported China's state-run news outlet Global Times.

Authroties in Chinese capital Beijing have revoked license of a bar in the city that has been epicentre of fresh wave of COVID cases in the city, reported China's state-run news outlet Global Times. The authorities have also filed criminal charges against Heaven Supermarket bar. The report said that the recent outbreak of COVID was "triggered by a customer of the bar last week who had not taken a test for 14 days prior". The national capital has asked all the residents to undergo tests every two-three days. At least 200 infections were traced to the single bar in the city.. Heaven Supermarket Bar is a large self-service liquor store with chairs, sofas and tables The bar, where patrons check aisles to grab anything from local heavy spirits to Belgian beer, is known among Beijing revellers for its tables plastered with empty bottles, and customers falling asleep on sofas after midnight. When the bar was identified as the epicentre of fresh outbreak in the city, authorities rushed to contain the spread. Millions in the city faced mandatory tests. The bar had opened after COVID restrictions in Beijing were eased last week. Drinking and dining in Bejing establishments started on on June 6.

Beijing bar, epicentre of COVID outbreak, loses license

Have aliens finally contacted us? Yes, if a Chinese claim is to be believed. China's state-backed Science and Technology Daily made the claim and then deleted it, reported Bloomberg. As per the report, the signals were detected by Sky Eye, largest radio telescope in the world. Ther news in Science and Technology Daily reportedly cited Zhang Tonjie, a scientist, who said that the signal was different from the previous ones and the team was analysing it.&nbsp;

Zhang Tonjie is a chief scientist of an extraterrestrial civilization search team co-founded by Beijing Normal University, the National Astronomical Observatory of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the University of California, Berkeley.

It is not yet clear why the report was published and then deleted. The daily is official newspaper of China's China’s science and technology ministry. The news started avid discussion on the web nonetheless. The topic was discussed on Weibo, the Chinese Twitter.

Sky Eye, the largest radio telescope on Earth is located in China's Guizhou province. It has a diameter 500 metres (1,640 feet). It officially launched a search for extraterrestrial life in September 2020.

The report said that the team detected two suspicious signals, one in 2020 and the other in 2022.

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Have aliens finally contacted us? Yes, if a Chinese claim is to be believed. China's state-backed Science and Technology Daily made the claim and then deleted it, reported Bloomberg.

Have aliens finally contacted us? Yes, if a Chinese claim is to be believed. China's state-backed Science and Technology Daily made the claim and then deleted it, reported Bloomberg. As per the report, the signals were detected by Sky Eye, largest radio telescope in the world. Ther news in Science and Technology Daily reportedly cited Zhang Tonjie, a scientist, who said that the signal was different from the previous ones and the team was analysing it. Zhang Tonjie is a chief scientist of an extraterrestrial civilization search team co-founded by Beijing Normal University, the National Astronomical Observatory of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the University of California, Berkeley. It is not yet clear why the report was published and then deleted. The daily is official newspaper of China's China’s science and technology ministry. The news started avid discussion on the web nonetheless. The topic was discussed on Weibo, the Chinese Twitter. Sky Eye, the largest radio telescope on Earth is located in China's Guizhou province. It has a diameter 500 metres (1,640 feet). It officially launched a search for extraterrestrial life in September 2020. The report said that the team detected two suspicious signals, one in 2020 and the other in 2022. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

China says it has received signals from aliens: Report

Kansas state authorities have said that extreme heat and humidity have killed at least 2000 cattle in Kansas. Increasing temperatures are threatening livestock.

US cattle industry is already suffering and producers have chosen to reduce herds. Russian invasion on Ukraine has meant that shortage of foodgrains has increased costs of animal feed.

Kansas is the third-largest US cattle state behind Texas and Nebraska, with more than 2.4 million cattle in feedlots.

Temperature and humidity have spiked over the weekend in western Kansas and cooling winds have disappeared.

Scarlett Hagins, spokesperson for the Kansas Livestock Association, said that the animals have not been able to acclimate to sudden change.

"It was essentially a perfect storm," said AJ Tarpoff, beef extension veterinarian for Kansas State University.

Temperatures reached 108 degrees Fahrenheit (42 degrees Celsius) in northwest Kansas by Monday, said Drew Lerner, president of World Weather Inc. This weekend, parts of western Kansas and the Texas panhandle will near 110 degrees, though stronger winds and lower humidity levels will help minimize cattle deaths, he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Kansas state authorities have said that extreme heat and humidity have killed at least 2000 cattle in Kansas. Increasing temperatures are threatening livestock. US cattle industry is already suffering and producers have chosen to reduce herds.

Kansas state authorities have said that extreme heat and humidity have killed at least 2000 cattle in Kansas. Increasing temperatures are threatening livestock. US cattle industry is already suffering and producers have chosen to reduce herds. Russian invasion on Ukraine has meant that shortage of foodgrains has increased costs of animal feed. Kansas is the third-largest US cattle state behind Texas and Nebraska, with more than 2.4 million cattle in feedlots. Temperature and humidity have spiked over the weekend in western Kansas and cooling winds have disappeared. Scarlett Hagins, spokesperson for the Kansas Livestock Association, said that the animals have not been able to acclimate to sudden change. "It was essentially a perfect storm," said AJ Tarpoff, beef extension veterinarian for Kansas State University. Temperatures reached 108 degrees Fahrenheit (42 degrees Celsius) in northwest Kansas by Monday, said Drew Lerner, president of World Weather Inc. This weekend, parts of western Kansas and the Texas panhandle will near 110 degrees, though stronger winds and lower humidity levels will help minimize cattle deaths, he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Heat and humidity kill at least 2000 cattle in Kansas

Japan passed a law on Wednesday that may become instrumental in protecting people who have been forced into appearing in porn films. This move is being hailed as "groundbreaking". The law would help to curb exploitation in multi-billion-dollar industry. The law is aimed at preventing talent scouts offering work as a model or idol performer before pushing recruits into sex and nudity.

Tokyo-based lawyer Kazuko Ito told AFP that instances when people are forced to appear in porn movies, can cause "serious trauma".

The law allows those who appear in porn&nbsp;movies to cancel their contracts within a year of the work's release for any reason and without paying penalty fees.

The law says that when this happens, the porn video must be deleted and recalled. This provision is aimed at preventing producers from blackmailing and bullying people into act in porn films which can stay online for years.

"Once the films are distributed they stay online essentially forever, to be consumed by an unspecified number of people, effectively becoming 'digital tattoos'," Ito told AFP.

The "groundbreaking" new law "aligns very closely to the interests of the victims", she added.

Initially, it will allow contracts to be cancelled up to two years after a film is released, but that period is expected to be later revised to a standard 12 months.

The law also makes it compulsory for porn makers to wait for at least a month to start the shoot after signing of the contract. It also makes mandatory a period of four months between completion of shooting and release of the work.

Lawmakers began lobbying for the new rules when Japan lowered its age of adulthood from 20 to 18 in April.

That raised concerns that recruiters could target 18 and 19 year olds, who previously had the right to withdraw from contracts signed without a guardian's permission.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japan passed a law on Wednesday that may become instrumental in protecting people who have been forced into appearing in porn films. This move is being hailed as "groundbreaking".

Japan passed a law on Wednesday that may become instrumental in protecting people who have been forced into appearing in porn films. This move is being hailed as "groundbreaking". The law would help to curb exploitation in multi-billion-dollar industry. The law is aimed at preventing talent scouts offering work as a model or idol performer before pushing recruits into sex and nudity. Tokyo-based lawyer Kazuko Ito told AFP that instances when people are forced to appear in porn movies, can cause "serious trauma". The law allows those who appear in porn movies to cancel their contracts within a year of the work's release for any reason and without paying penalty fees. The law says that when this happens, the porn video must be deleted and recalled. This provision is aimed at preventing producers from blackmailing and bullying people into act in porn films which can stay online for years. "Once the films are distributed they stay online essentially forever, to be consumed by an unspecified number of people, effectively becoming 'digital tattoos'," Ito told AFP. The "groundbreaking" new law "aligns very closely to the interests of the victims", she added. Initially, it will allow contracts to be cancelled up to two years after a film is released, but that period is expected to be later revised to a standard 12 months. The law also makes it compulsory for porn makers to wait for at least a month to start the shoot after signing of the contract. It also makes mandatory a period of four months between completion of shooting and release of the work. Lawmakers began lobbying for the new rules when Japan lowered its age of adulthood from 20 to 18 in April. That raised concerns that recruiters could target 18 and 19 year olds, who previously had the right to withdraw from contracts signed without a guardian's permission. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Japan passes law to protect people forced into porn industry

Gazprom, the Russian gas giant announced on Wednesday (June 15) that it was cutting daily gas deliveries through Nord Stream pipeline by further 33 per cent. The step has been taken after Germany slammed an earlier cut as having been political.

"From 01:30 am Moscow time on June 16 the daily output of the Portovaya compression station will be up to 67 million cubic metres per day," Gazprom said in a statement on Telegram.&nbsp;

The company added it was halting the operation of a gas turbine due to the "technical condition of the engine".&nbsp;

Germany, meanwhile, has accused Russia of trying to 'drive up' gas prices.

Watch | Ukraine under attack: Is Severodonetsk the next Mariupol?

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"It is obviously the strategy to unsettle and drive up prices," said Germany's Economy MInister&nbsp;Robert Habeck. He stressed that&nbsp;"saving energy is the order of the day".

On Tuesday (June 14) Gazprom announced a 40 per cent cut in gas deliveries due to "repair" work on compressor units by German company Siemens.

Habeck said at the time that&nbsp;move was a "political decision and not a technically justifiable solution".&nbsp;

The minister said that while he was aware of the need to service the pipeline, it did not need such a drastic cut in gas deliveries.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/justice-for-ukraine-no-longer-the-top-concern-for-european-public-new-survey-shows-488378">‘Justice for Ukraine’ no longer the top concern for European public, new survey shows</a>

Moscow has lost several European gas clients after it demanded that all "unfriendly" countries pay for Russian natural gas in rubles in response to a barrage of Western sanctions over Ukraine.

Poland, Bulgaria, Finland and the Netherlands have had their natural gas deliveries suspended over refusing to pay in rubles.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Gazprom, the Russian gas giant announced on Wednesday (June 15) that it was cutting daily gas deliveries through Nord Stream pipeline by further 33 per cent. The step has been taken after Germany slammed an earlier cut as having been political.

Gazprom, the Russian gas giant announced on Wednesday (June 15) that it was cutting daily gas deliveries through Nord Stream pipeline by further 33 per cent. The step has been taken after Germany slammed an earlier cut as having been political. "From 01:30 am Moscow time on June 16 the daily output of the Portovaya compression station will be up to 67 million cubic metres per day," Gazprom said in a statement on Telegram. The company added it was halting the operation of a gas turbine due to the "technical condition of the engine". Germany, meanwhile, has accused Russia of trying to 'drive up' gas prices. Watch | Ukraine under attack: Is Severodonetsk the next Mariupol? × "It is obviously the strategy to unsettle and drive up prices," said Germany's Economy MInister Robert Habeck. He stressed that "saving energy is the order of the day". On Tuesday (June 14) Gazprom announced a 40 per cent cut in gas deliveries due to "repair" work on compressor units by German company Siemens. Habeck said at the time that move was a "political decision and not a technically justifiable solution". The minister said that while he was aware of the need to service the pipeline, it did not need such a drastic cut in gas deliveries. Also Read | ‘Justice for Ukraine’ no longer the top concern for European public, new survey shows Moscow has lost several European gas clients after it demanded that all "unfriendly" countries pay for Russian natural gas in rubles in response to a barrage of Western sanctions over Ukraine. Poland, Bulgaria, Finland and the Netherlands have had their natural gas deliveries suspended over refusing to pay in rubles. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Gazprom makes more cuts in Nord Stream gas supplies, Germany fumes

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