A deadly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tens-of-thousands-evacuated-as-california-wildfires-rage-255379">wind-driven wildfire</a> that raged across the northern edge of Los Angeles last week started near the base of high-voltage transmission tower owned by electric utility Southern California Edison, company and fire officials said on Monday.

The company, a unit of Edison International, said through a spokeswoman that it had notified the California Public Utility Commission on October&nbsp;11, the day after the fire started, that "our system was impacted near the reported time of the fire."

The "electric safety incident" report, a copy of which the utility provided to Reuters, identified the facility involved as a company-owned transmission tower near a traffic intersection in the foothills where the Saddleridge fire is thought to have erupted.

Los Angeles Fire Department spokesman Captain Erik Scott said Monday that the cause of the fire was uncertain. But he said investigators had traced the fire's origin to a slope beneath the high-voltage tower near Saddle Ridge Road.

The Southern California Edison report does not state whether the tower is suspected of sparking the blaze, or whether the tower or the power lines were damaged by high winds that quickly spread the flames over thousands of acres. But the Edison spokeswoman, Susan Cox, confirmed that the tower in question belonged to the utility.

Edison had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unacceptable-power-cuts-blasted-as-california-fire-risk-spreads-south-255202">turned off power</a> to some customers across the region as a precaution last week after extreme winds and dry weather raised the risk of wildfire. But a utility spokeswoman was quoted as telling the Los Angeles Times on Sunday that Edison "did not de-energize any power for the Saddleridge fire area."

In Northern California, utility Pacific Gas and Electric Co (PG&amp;E) faced increasing criticism from the governor and state regulators on Monday for its own wide-scale precautionary power shutdown, which preceded Edison's by about a day but was seen as being poorly managed and communicated.

The Public Utility Commission on Monday ordered PG&amp;E to undertake immediate "corrective actions," and Newsom called for the company to provide credits or rebates to affected customers.

PG&amp;E Corp CEO Bill Johnson defended his company's actions, conceding "areas where we fell short" during the power cutoff but insisting PG&amp;E made "the right decision." He also noted that there were "no catastrophic wildfires" in the utility's service area last week.

The Saddleridge fire was the latest in a string of severe California wildfires for which electrical utility equipment has been scrutinized as a possible flashpoint.

The blaze scorched nearly 8,000 acres, threatening more than 17,000 homes and triggered the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/firefighters-battle-southern-california-wildfires-100000-evacuated-255548">evacuation of 100,000 </a>people before a change in the weather helped firefighters subdue the conflagration over the weekend.

At last count, 75 homes or other structures were damaged or destroyed, and a man suffered a fatal heart attack while trying to defend his property from the flames.

Edison's power lines were determined to have been the ignition source for a much larger fire in December 2017 that killed two people and destroyed more than 1,000 structures in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, northwest of Los Angeles.

PG&amp;E equipment was found to have sparked a flurry of wildfires that swept through wine country north of San Francisco Bay in 2017, as well as last year's devastating Camp Fire, which killed 85 people in and around the Northern California town of Paradise.

PG&amp;E, the state's largest investor-owned utility, filed for bankruptcy in January, citing more than $30 billion in potential liabilities from the fires.

A deadly wind-driven wildfire that raged across the northern edge of Los Angeles last week started near the base of high-voltage transmission tower owned by electric utility Southern California Edison, company and fire officials said on Monday.

A deadly wind-driven wildfire that raged across the northern edge of Los Angeles last week started near the base of high-voltage transmission tower owned by electric utility Southern California Edison, company and fire officials said on Monday. The company, a unit of Edison International, said through a spokeswoman that it had notified the California Public Utility Commission on October 11, the day after the fire started, that "our system was impacted near the reported time of the fire." The "electric safety incident" report, a copy of which the utility provided to Reuters, identified the facility involved as a company-owned transmission tower near a traffic intersection in the foothills where the Saddleridge fire is thought to have erupted. Los Angeles Fire Department spokesman Captain Erik Scott said Monday that the cause of the fire was uncertain. But he said investigators had traced the fire's origin to a slope beneath the high-voltage tower near Saddle Ridge Road. The Southern California Edison report does not state whether the tower is suspected of sparking the blaze, or whether the tower or the power lines were damaged by high winds that quickly spread the flames over thousands of acres. But the Edison spokeswoman, Susan Cox, confirmed that the tower in question belonged to the utility. Edison had turned off power to some customers across the region as a precaution last week after extreme winds and dry weather raised the risk of wildfire. But a utility spokeswoman was quoted as telling the Los Angeles Times on Sunday that Edison "did not de-energize any power for the Saddleridge fire area." In Northern California, utility Pacific Gas and Electric Co (PG&E) faced increasing criticism from the governor and state regulators on Monday for its own wide-scale precautionary power shutdown, which preceded Edison's by about a day but was seen as being poorly managed and communicated. The Public Utility Commission on Monday ordered PG&E to undertake immediate "corrective actions," and Newsom called for the company to provide credits or rebates to affected customers. PG&E Corp CEO Bill Johnson defended his company's actions, conceding "areas where we fell short" during the power cutoff but insisting PG&E made "the right decision." He also noted that there were "no catastrophic wildfires" in the utility's service area last week. The Saddleridge fire was the latest in a string of severe California wildfires for which electrical utility equipment has been scrutinized as a possible flashpoint. The blaze scorched nearly 8,000 acres, threatening more than 17,000 homes and triggered the evacuation of 100,000 people before a change in the weather helped firefighters subdue the conflagration over the weekend. At last count, 75 homes or other structures were damaged or destroyed, and a man suffered a fatal heart attack while trying to defend his property from the flames. Edison's power lines were determined to have been the ignition source for a much larger fire in December 2017 that killed two people and destroyed more than 1,000 structures in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, northwest of Los Angeles. PG&E equipment was found to have sparked a flurry of wildfires that swept through wine country north of San Francisco Bay in 2017, as well as last year's devastating Camp Fire, which killed 85 people in and around the Northern California town of Paradise. PG&E, the state's largest investor-owned utility, filed for bankruptcy in January, citing more than $30 billion in potential liabilities from the fires.

Deadly Los Angeles wildfire began near base of electrical tower: Officials

External Affairs Minister S Jaishnakar on Monday met King of The Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima and held "fruitful discussions" on expanding India and Dutch relationship.

"Building upon the strategic trust EAM @DrSJaishankar called upon HM King Willem-Alexander &amp; HM Queen Maxima @koninklijkhuis of the Netherlands and had fruitful discussions on expanding our relationship," tweeted Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar.

The royal couple is on a five-day visit to India. Earlier in the day, they met President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Upon their arrival on Sunday night, Willem-Alexander and Maxima were given a traditional welcome at the airport where several officials lined up to receive them.

Apart from the official programme in Delhi, the King and the Queen will also visit Mumbai and Kerala.

The royal couple will attend the inaugural session of 25th Technology Summit in New Delhi.

The Netherlands is the partner country for the event. India and The Netherlands have a bilateral trade turnover of $12.87 billion (2018-2019).

TheNetherlands is the 5th largest investor in India with a cumulative investment of $23 billion between 2000 and 2017.

The Netherlands is home to a 235,000 strong Indian diaspora, the largest in mainland Europe. The visit is expected to boost economic and political cooperation between the two countries.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishnakar on Monday met King of The Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima and held "fruitful discussions" on expanding India and Dutch relationship.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishnakar on Monday met King of The Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima and held "fruitful discussions" on expanding India and Dutch relationship. "Building upon the strategic trust EAM @DrSJaishankar called upon HM King Willem-Alexander & HM Queen Maxima @koninklijkhuis of the Netherlands and had fruitful discussions on expanding our relationship," tweeted Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar. The royal couple is on a five-day visit to India. Earlier in the day, they met President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Upon their arrival on Sunday night, Willem-Alexander and Maxima were given a traditional welcome at the airport where several officials lined up to receive them. Apart from the official programme in Delhi, the King and the Queen will also visit Mumbai and Kerala. The royal couple will attend the inaugural session of 25th Technology Summit in New Delhi. The Netherlands is the partner country for the event. India and The Netherlands have a bilateral trade turnover of $12.87 billion (2018-2019). TheNetherlands is the 5th largest investor in India with a cumulative investment of $23 billion between 2000 and 2017. The Netherlands is home to a 235,000 strong Indian diaspora, the largest in mainland Europe. The visit is expected to boost economic and political cooperation between the two countries.

Foreign Minister Jaishankar meets Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima

Singapore announced the addition of India to its&nbsp;Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) tech startup network, which will connect the island nation`s fledgeling tech companies as well as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to India`s technology ecosystem.

This collaboration was launched by S Iswaran, Singapore's Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations in Bangalore at 10th edition of TechSparks last week. Launched in 2017, GIA is an initiative led by three Singapore government bodies - the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), Ministry of Education (MOE) and Enterprise Singapore.

It aims to strengthen Singapore`s connections to major innovation hubs around the world, thereby creating an exchange of ideas and knowledge to promote innovation. Through this, it is envisaged that more opportunities will be available to students, entrepreneurs and businesses, to gain experience and to connect and collaborate with their overseas counterparts.

GIA further works with various in-market partners such as accelerators, incubators, co-working space providers and universities to set-up innovation launchpads overseas. Startups can expand their businesses to GIA cities by connecting to mentor networks and relevant ecosystem players.

With Bangalore onboard, the GIA network will cover 12 cities in nine countries - China (Beijing, Shanghai, Suzhou), France (Paris), Germany (Berlin and Munich), India (Bengaluru), Indonesia (Jakarta), Japan (Tokyo), Thailand (Bangkok), Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City) and the US (San Francisco).

TechSparks 2019 is a technology event organised by YourStory, India`s foremost media technology platform which brings together startups, entrepreneurs, policymakers, business leaders, innovators, investors and media houses to discuss and debate ideas. It is also an event rich with networking opportunities.

During the event, the Singapore Minister, S Iswaran said: "We hope that this will not only pave the way for more partnerships between enterprises from both countries but also drive the growth of our startup ecosystems to benefit both our economies."

Mr Iswaran also witnessed the signing of four memoranda of understanding (MOUs), three of which involve business partnerships Enterprise Singapore has with Indian platforms. One of them is with Indian speed scaling platform Anthill Ventures. Anthill Ventures which has offices in Singapore, Hyderabad and New York, specialises in helping early-growth stage startups with among other things connecting with industry experts, mentoring, market reach and finding investors.

In the agreement with Enterprise Singapore, they will facilitate the entry of Singapore-based startups into the Indian market through Bangalore. A programme, which begins in November, will include a three-day boot camp in Singapore and a two-week immersion programme in Bangalore where participants will meet Indian enterprises and participate in field trips.

Another partnership is with The Indus Entrepreneurs Global (TiE), a non-profit startup network founded in Silicon Valley by Indian-American businessmen Kanwal Rekhi. The TiE will connect Singapore startups to mentors and venture capitalists in the Indian startup scene. Its mission is to nurture the next generation of entrepreneurs through mentoring, networking, education, funding and incubation.

Enterprise Singapore`s third MOU is with YourStory, the organisers of the event, with the aim to foster collaboration between the startups and entrepreneur communities of Singapore and India and to increase business opportunities.

The final MOU signed during the event was between Anthill Ventures and Singapore property giant CapitaLand's coworking space BRIDGE+ to provide a conducive environment for tech startups and companies to collaborate. The launchpad in CapitaLand`s International Tech Park Bengaluru&nbsp;is also where the GIA Acceleration Programme will be conducted.

Tan Soon Kim, assistant chief executive officer of Enterprise Singapore in comments to The Business Times of Singapore emphasised the bilateral nature of GIA adding that Indian startups are encouraged to come to Singapore and tap on Singapore`s rich ecosystem and thereafter to branch out into Southeast Asia.

According to a study by the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia published recently, the digital economy of ASEAN is expected to grow by 6.4 times, from $31 billion in 2015 to $197 billion by 2025.

Bilateral trade between Singapore and India stood at $19.2 billion&nbsp;in 2018 according to Singapore`s Ministry of Trade and Industry figures. This is an increase of 15 per cent from 2015 where two-way trade stood at SGD 23.07 billion. Of this, about 65 per cent is of goods imported into India from Singapore.

Singapore was the largest foreign investor in India in the last Indian fiscal year with Singapore-based companies committing over $16.2 billion in investments.

Singapore Minister Iswaran added in a Facebook post, "The innovation ecosystems in Singapore and India have many synergies, and Bangalore has an established technology scene, along with a strong startup and innovation ecosystem. I`m encouraged that with the GIA, Singaporeans and Singapore companies will have more opportunities to collaborate with their counterparts in India to create innovative solutions."

Singapore announced the addition of India to its Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) tech startup network, which will connect the island nation`s fledgeling tech companies as well as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to India`s technology ecosystem.

Singapore announced the addition of India to its Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) tech startup network, which will connect the island nation`s fledgeling tech companies as well as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to India`s technology ecosystem. This collaboration was launched by S Iswaran, Singapore's Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations in Bangalore at 10th edition of TechSparks last week. Launched in 2017, GIA is an initiative led by three Singapore government bodies - the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), Ministry of Education (MOE) and Enterprise Singapore. It aims to strengthen Singapore`s connections to major innovation hubs around the world, thereby creating an exchange of ideas and knowledge to promote innovation. Through this, it is envisaged that more opportunities will be available to students, entrepreneurs and businesses, to gain experience and to connect and collaborate with their overseas counterparts. GIA further works with various in-market partners such as accelerators, incubators, co-working space providers and universities to set-up innovation launchpads overseas. Startups can expand their businesses to GIA cities by connecting to mentor networks and relevant ecosystem players. With Bangalore onboard, the GIA network will cover 12 cities in nine countries - China (Beijing, Shanghai, Suzhou), France (Paris), Germany (Berlin and Munich), India (Bengaluru), Indonesia (Jakarta), Japan (Tokyo), Thailand (Bangkok), Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City) and the US (San Francisco). TechSparks 2019 is a technology event organised by YourStory, India`s foremost media technology platform which brings together startups, entrepreneurs, policymakers, business leaders, innovators, investors and media houses to discuss and debate ideas. It is also an event rich with networking opportunities. During the event, the Singapore Minister, S Iswaran said: "We hope that this will not only pave the way for more partnerships between enterprises from both countries but also drive the growth of our startup ecosystems to benefit both our economies." Mr Iswaran also witnessed the signing of four memoranda of understanding (MOUs), three of which involve business partnerships Enterprise Singapore has with Indian platforms. One of them is with Indian speed scaling platform Anthill Ventures. Anthill Ventures which has offices in Singapore, Hyderabad and New York, specialises in helping early-growth stage startups with among other things connecting with industry experts, mentoring, market reach and finding investors. In the agreement with Enterprise Singapore, they will facilitate the entry of Singapore-based startups into the Indian market through Bangalore. A programme, which begins in November, will include a three-day boot camp in Singapore and a two-week immersion programme in Bangalore where participants will meet Indian enterprises and participate in field trips. Another partnership is with The Indus Entrepreneurs Global (TiE), a non-profit startup network founded in Silicon Valley by Indian-American businessmen Kanwal Rekhi. The TiE will connect Singapore startups to mentors and venture capitalists in the Indian startup scene. Its mission is to nurture the next generation of entrepreneurs through mentoring, networking, education, funding and incubation. Enterprise Singapore`s third MOU is with YourStory, the organisers of the event, with the aim to foster collaboration between the startups and entrepreneur communities of Singapore and India and to increase business opportunities. The final MOU signed during the event was between Anthill Ventures and Singapore property giant CapitaLand's coworking space BRIDGE+ to provide a conducive environment for tech startups and companies to collaborate. The launchpad in CapitaLand`s International Tech Park Bengaluru is also where the GIA Acceleration Programme will be conducted. Tan Soon Kim, assistant chief executive officer of Enterprise Singapore in comments to The Business Times of Singapore emphasised the bilateral nature of GIA adding that Indian startups are encouraged to come to Singapore and tap on Singapore`s rich ecosystem and thereafter to branch out into Southeast Asia. According to a study by the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia published recently, the digital economy of ASEAN is expected to grow by 6.4 times, from $31 billion in 2015 to $197 billion by 2025. Bilateral trade between Singapore and India stood at $19.2 billion in 2018 according to Singapore`s Ministry of Trade and Industry figures. This is an increase of 15 per cent from 2015 where two-way trade stood at SGD 23.07 billion. Of this, about 65 per cent is of goods imported into India from Singapore. Singapore was the largest foreign investor in India in the last Indian fiscal year with Singapore-based companies committing over $16.2 billion in investments. Singapore Minister Iswaran added in a Facebook post, "The innovation ecosystems in Singapore and India have many synergies, and Bangalore has an established technology scene, along with a strong startup and innovation ecosystem. I`m encouraged that with the GIA, Singaporeans and Singapore companies will have more opportunities to collaborate with their counterparts in India to create innovative solutions."

Singapore adds Bengaluru to its Global Innovation Alliance

Postpaid mobile services were restored in the remaining parts of Jammu and Kashmir after two months&nbsp;on Monday.

Mobile network and landlines connections were suspended across Jammu and Kashmir on August 5, in view of security concerns in the region following Centre's decision to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/people-happy-with-abrogation-of-article-370-in-jammu-and-kashmir-g-kishan-reddy-243741">abrogate Article 370</a>.

Although the landline network was restored in phases, restrictions remained on the usage of mobile devices in various parts of the Kashmir Valley.

The decision to restore mobile phone services comes days after Jammu and Kashmir Governor announced the withdrawal of security advisory for tourists from October 10.

The government had time and again reiterated that restrictions on mobile services were imposed in the valley to prevent misuse of these services for flaring tensions.

Postpaid mobile services were restored in the remaining parts of Jammu and Kashmir after two months on Monday. Mobile network and landlines connections were suspended across Jammu and Kashmir on August 5, in view of security concerns in the region following Centre's decision to abrogate Article 370.

Postpaid mobile services were restored in the remaining parts of Jammu and Kashmir after two months on Monday. Mobile network and landlines connections were suspended across Jammu and Kashmir on August 5, in view of security concerns in the region following Centre's decision to abrogate Article 370. Although the landline network was restored in phases, restrictions remained on the usage of mobile devices in various parts of the Kashmir Valley. The decision to restore mobile phone services comes days after Jammu and Kashmir Governor announced the withdrawal of security advisory for tourists from October 10. The government had time and again reiterated that restrictions on mobile services were imposed in the valley to prevent misuse of these services for flaring tensions.

Postpaid mobile services restored in Jammu and Kashmir after two months

The King of The Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima met President Ramnath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

The Royal couple arrived here on Sunday and are on a for a five-day state visit. They were given a traditional welcome at the airport where several officials lined up to receive them.

This is Willem-Alexander's first state visit to India following his ascension to the throne in 2013.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will also call on the Dutch King.

Apart from the official programme in Delhi, the King and the Queen will also visit Mumbai and Kerala.

The royal couple will attend the inaugural session of 25th Technology Summit in New Delhi.

The Netherlands is the partner country for this summit. India and The Netherlands have a bilateral trade turnover of $12.87 billion (2018-2019).&nbsp;

The Netherlands is the 5th largest investor in India with a cumulative investment of $23 billion between 2000 and 2017.

The Netherlands is home to a 235,000 strong Indian diaspora, the largest in mainland Europe.

The visit is expected to boost economic and political cooperation between the two countries.

The King of The Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima met President Ramnath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday at Rashtrapati Bhawan. The Royal couple arrived here on Sunday and are on a for a five-day state visit.

The King of The Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima met President Ramnath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday at Rashtrapati Bhawan. The Royal couple arrived here on Sunday and are on a for a five-day state visit. They were given a traditional welcome at the airport where several officials lined up to receive them. This is Willem-Alexander's first state visit to India following his ascension to the throne in 2013. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will also call on the Dutch King. Apart from the official programme in Delhi, the King and the Queen will also visit Mumbai and Kerala. The royal couple will attend the inaugural session of 25th Technology Summit in New Delhi. The Netherlands is the partner country for this summit. India and The Netherlands have a bilateral trade turnover of $12.87 billion (2018-2019). The Netherlands is the 5th largest investor in India with a cumulative investment of $23 billion between 2000 and 2017. The Netherlands is home to a 235,000 strong Indian diaspora, the largest in mainland Europe. The visit is expected to boost economic and political cooperation between the two countries.

Dutch King and Queen meet President Ram Nath Kovind, PM Modi at Rashtrapati Bhawan

Oil prices eased on Monday as scant details on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-announces-partial-trade-deal-with-china-255358">first phase of a trade deal </a>between the United States and China undercut last week's optimism over the thaw that helped to lift crude markets by 2 per cent.

Brent crude futures&nbsp;edged down by 25 cents to $60.26 a barrel by 0436 GMT, while US&nbsp;West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures&nbsp;was at $54.45 a barrel, down 25 cents.

Both contracts rose more than 3 per cent&nbsp;last week, their first weekly gain in three.

"There is an argument that the oil market trading during US&nbsp;hours on Friday have already had a chance to price (in) the news on the trade dispute and the better outlook for global demand," said CMC Markets chief strategist Michael McCarthy.

"So traders are reluctant to push it further given those very strong gains."

Most of the gains posted on Friday, however, had come after an Iranian oil tanker was attacked off Saudi Arabia's coast in the Red Sea. Investigations are under way to determine if the tanker was hit by missiles, which could ratchet up tensions between Tehran and Riyadh if confirmed.

The emergence of a "Phase 1" trade deal between the United States and China and a goodwill move by Washington to suspend threatened tariffs on Chinese products also helped to lifted global financial markets on Monday.&nbsp;

But investors remained cautious given that few details emerged from the talks.

"Traders view the deal in a tentative light ... This baby-step agreement could take weeks to iron out," said Stephen Innes, Asia Pacific market strategist at AxiTrader in a note.

The trade war has pressure China's trade, with its exports to the United States falling 10.7 per cent&nbsp;from a year earlier in dollar terms over January-September, Chinese customs spokesman Li Kuiwen told reporters.

China's imports from the United States, on the other hand, have fallen 26.4 per cent&nbsp;in dollar terms during the first nine months.

China's demand for oil remains strong, however, with its September imports reflecting a 10.8 per cent&nbsp;rise from a year earlier as refiners ramped up output amid stable profit margins and solid fuel demand.

Oil prices eased on Monday as scant details on the first phase of a trade deal between the United States and China undercut last week's optimism over the thaw that helped to lift crude markets by 2 per cent.

Oil prices eased on Monday as scant details on the first phase of a trade deal between the United States and China undercut last week's optimism over the thaw that helped to lift crude markets by 2 per cent. Brent crude futures edged down by 25 cents to $60.26 a barrel by 0436 GMT, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures was at $54.45 a barrel, down 25 cents. Both contracts rose more than 3 per cent last week, their first weekly gain in three. "There is an argument that the oil market trading during US hours on Friday have already had a chance to price (in) the news on the trade dispute and the better outlook for global demand," said CMC Markets chief strategist Michael McCarthy. "So traders are reluctant to push it further given those very strong gains." Most of the gains posted on Friday, however, had come after an Iranian oil tanker was attacked off Saudi Arabia's coast in the Red Sea. Investigations are under way to determine if the tanker was hit by missiles, which could ratchet up tensions between Tehran and Riyadh if confirmed. The emergence of a "Phase 1" trade deal between the United States and China and a goodwill move by Washington to suspend threatened tariffs on Chinese products also helped to lifted global financial markets on Monday. But investors remained cautious given that few details emerged from the talks. "Traders view the deal in a tentative light ... This baby-step agreement could take weeks to iron out," said Stephen Innes, Asia Pacific market strategist at AxiTrader in a note. The trade war has pressure China's trade, with its exports to the United States falling 10.7 per cent from a year earlier in dollar terms over January-September, Chinese customs spokesman Li Kuiwen told reporters. China's imports from the United States, on the other hand, have fallen 26.4 per cent in dollar terms during the first nine months. China's demand for oil remains strong, however, with its September imports reflecting a 10.8 per cent rise from a year earlier as refiners ramped up output amid stable profit margins and solid fuel demand.

Oil prices ease on scant details of US-China trade deal

Asian share markets firmed on Monday as signs of progress in the Sino-US&nbsp;trade standoff whetted risk appetite, though investors were wary of the damage already done to the global economy.

Indeed, data out from China underlined the pain felt with dollar-denominated exports and imports both falling by more than expected in September.

Liquidity was also lacking with Japan off and a partial market holiday in the United States for Columbus Day. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan rose 1.1 per cent&nbsp;in light trade.

Australia's main index gained 0.7 per cent and South Korea 1.3 per cent. Shanghai blue chips&nbsp;added 1.6 per cent.

While Tokyo was on holiday, Nikkei futures were trading at 22,075 compared with a Friday close of 21,798 in the Nikkei cash index. E-Mini futures for the S&amp;P 500 nudged up 0.2 per cent&nbsp;after jumping on Friday.

Sentiment had been boosted when US&nbsp;President Donald Trump outlined the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-announces-partial-trade-deal-with-china-255358">first phase of a deal </a>to end a trade war with China and suspended a threatened tariff hike, though officials on both sides said much more work needed to be done.

The emerging deal, covering agriculture, currency and some aspects of intellectual property protections, would represent the biggest step by the two countries in 15 months.

Analysts, however, advised caution.

"We have seen a truce established, and then broken, before," said Tai Hui, chief market strategist for Asia at JPMorgan Asset Management.

"The threat to global growth is weak corporate capex, and potentially spilling over into the consumer sector," Hui added. "CEOs are not going to restart investing again merely because of the latest round of agreement between the two sides."

The drag from the trade war was a major reason Singapore's central bank eased monetary policy on Monday for the first time in three years as data showed the city-state's economy had only narrowly dodged recession.

The progress on trade was still enough to slug safe-haven bonds with yields on US&nbsp;10-year Treasury notes climbing 23 basis points last week to stand at 1.74 per cent.

The yield curve also steepened as short-term rates were held down by news the Fed would start buying about $60 billion per month in Treasury bills to ensure "ample reserves" in the banking system.

The rally in risk assets had seen the yen ease across the board, leaving the dollar holding at 108.32 on Monday after hitting a 10-week top around 108.61 on Friday.

The dollar fared less well elsewhere, partly due to a jump in sterling, and was last at 98.435 against a basket of currencies&nbsp;after losing 0.5 per cent last week.

The dollar also slipped on the Chinese yuan to stand at 7.0646.

The pound was trading cautiously at $1.2598 having surged to a 15-week high around $1.2705 on Friday on optimism Britain could reach a deal on Brexit with the European Union.

However, officials from Downing Street and the EU said on Sunday a lot more work would be needed to secure an agreement on Britain's departure from the bloc.

The two sides will hold more talks on Monday ahead of a summit of EU leaders in Brussels on Thursday and Friday.

The general improvement in risk sentiment saw spot gold ease another 0.2 per cent&nbsp;to $1,486.85 per ounce.

Oil prices pared gains made on Friday when reports surfaced that an Iranian state-owned oil tanker had been attacked in the Red Sea.&nbsp;

Investors were also anxiously watching<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/day-5-of-turkeys-military-operation-in-syria-255702"> Turkey's incursion into Syria</a> as the White House threatened to impose heavy sanctions on Ankara.

Brent crude&nbsp;futures eased 31 cents at $60.20, while US&nbsp;crude&nbsp;lost 30 cents to $54.40 a barrel.

Asian share markets firmed on Monday as signs of progress in the Sino-US trade standoff whetted risk appetite, though investors were wary of the damage already done to the global economy.

Asian share markets firmed on Monday as signs of progress in the Sino-US trade standoff whetted risk appetite, though investors were wary of the damage already done to the global economy. Indeed, data out from China underlined the pain felt with dollar-denominated exports and imports both falling by more than expected in September. Liquidity was also lacking with Japan off and a partial market holiday in the United States for Columbus Day. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan rose 1.1 per cent in light trade. Australia's main index gained 0.7 per cent and South Korea 1.3 per cent. Shanghai blue chips added 1.6 per cent. While Tokyo was on holiday, Nikkei futures were trading at 22,075 compared with a Friday close of 21,798 in the Nikkei cash index. E-Mini futures for the S&P 500 nudged up 0.2 per cent after jumping on Friday. Sentiment had been boosted when US President Donald Trump outlined the first phase of a deal to end a trade war with China and suspended a threatened tariff hike, though officials on both sides said much more work needed to be done. The emerging deal, covering agriculture, currency and some aspects of intellectual property protections, would represent the biggest step by the two countries in 15 months. Analysts, however, advised caution. "We have seen a truce established, and then broken, before," said Tai Hui, chief market strategist for Asia at JPMorgan Asset Management. "The threat to global growth is weak corporate capex, and potentially spilling over into the consumer sector," Hui added. "CEOs are not going to restart investing again merely because of the latest round of agreement between the two sides." The drag from the trade war was a major reason Singapore's central bank eased monetary policy on Monday for the first time in three years as data showed the city-state's economy had only narrowly dodged recession. The progress on trade was still enough to slug safe-haven bonds with yields on US 10-year Treasury notes climbing 23 basis points last week to stand at 1.74 per cent. The yield curve also steepened as short-term rates were held down by news the Fed would start buying about $60 billion per month in Treasury bills to ensure "ample reserves" in the banking system. The rally in risk assets had seen the yen ease across the board, leaving the dollar holding at 108.32 on Monday after hitting a 10-week top around 108.61 on Friday. The dollar fared less well elsewhere, partly due to a jump in sterling, and was last at 98.435 against a basket of currencies after losing 0.5 per cent last week. The dollar also slipped on the Chinese yuan to stand at 7.0646. The pound was trading cautiously at $1.2598 having surged to a 15-week high around $1.2705 on Friday on optimism Britain could reach a deal on Brexit with the European Union. However, officials from Downing Street and the EU said on Sunday a lot more work would be needed to secure an agreement on Britain's departure from the bloc. The two sides will hold more talks on Monday ahead of a summit of EU leaders in Brussels on Thursday and Friday. The general improvement in risk sentiment saw spot gold ease another 0.2 per cent to $1,486.85 per ounce. Oil prices pared gains made on Friday when reports surfaced that an Iranian state-owned oil tanker had been attacked in the Red Sea. Investors were also anxiously watching Turkey's incursion into Syria as the White House threatened to impose heavy sanctions on Ankara. Brent crude futures eased 31 cents at $60.20, while US crude lost 30 cents to $54.40 a barrel.

Asia relieved at latest trade truce, China data disappoints

Indian shares edged higher on Monday ahead of the release of key inflation data, while broader Asian peers rose on optimism from the positive tone of the Sino-US trade talks.

The broader NSE Nifty rose 0.27% at 11,336.70 as of 0415 GMT, while the benchmark BSE Sensex was up 0.24% at 38,211.46.

Indian retail inflation probably reached a 12-month high in September, but still leaving room for further interest rate cuts because it's expected to remain below the Reserve Bank of India's target, according to a Reuters poll.

However, India's industrial output shrank at its fastest rate in more than six years in August, reflecting the impact of an economic slowdown.

India's growth has been plagued by a drop in demand and flooding due to above-normal monsoon, Barclays analyst Rahul Bajoria said, but indicated that there could be a bounce-back in the second half of the year.

"The case remains strong for further support to aggregate demand, and the household sector in particular," Bajoria wrote in a note.

Metal stocks led gains as the Nifty metals rose about 1.1% as commodity prices rose due to the progress in the Sino-US trade talks.

Meanwhile, IT shares fell as India's No. 2 software exporter Infosys Ltd reported a September-quarter profit that could only meet expectations on Friday, signalling a tricky macroeconomic environment for the sector

Infosys results came after a below-par showing from larger rival Tata Consultancy Services a day earlier.

Infosys shares fell 3.44%, dragging the Nifty IT index 1%.

Meanwhile, broader Asian peers rose as US President Donald Trump outlined the first phase of a deal to end a trade war with China and suspended a threatened tariff hike, though officials on both sides said much more work needed to be done.

MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan edged up 0.5%.

Indian shares edged higher on Monday ahead of the release of key inflation data, while broader Asian peers rose on optimism from the positive tone of the Sino-US trade talks.

Indian shares edged higher on Monday ahead of the release of key inflation data, while broader Asian peers rose on optimism from the positive tone of the Sino-US trade talks. The broader NSE Nifty rose 0.27% at 11,336.70 as of 0415 GMT, while the benchmark BSE Sensex was up 0.24% at 38,211.46. Indian retail inflation probably reached a 12-month high in September, but still leaving room for further interest rate cuts because it's expected to remain below the Reserve Bank of India's target, according to a Reuters poll. However, India's industrial output shrank at its fastest rate in more than six years in August, reflecting the impact of an economic slowdown. India's growth has been plagued by a drop in demand and flooding due to above-normal monsoon, Barclays analyst Rahul Bajoria said, but indicated that there could be a bounce-back in the second half of the year. "The case remains strong for further support to aggregate demand, and the household sector in particular," Bajoria wrote in a note. Metal stocks led gains as the Nifty metals rose about 1.1% as commodity prices rose due to the progress in the Sino-US trade talks. Meanwhile, IT shares fell as India's No. 2 software exporter Infosys Ltd reported a September-quarter profit that could only meet expectations on Friday, signalling a tricky macroeconomic environment for the sector Infosys results came after a below-par showing from larger rival Tata Consultancy Services a day earlier. Infosys shares fell 3.44%, dragging the Nifty IT index 1%. Meanwhile, broader Asian peers rose as US President Donald Trump outlined the first phase of a deal to end a trade war with China and suspended a threatened tariff hike, though officials on both sides said much more work needed to be done. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan edged up 0.5%.

Sensex, Nifty rise ahead of inflation data; Infosys drops

An internet meme that depicts <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-announces-partial-trade-deal-with-china-255358">US President Donald Trump</a> shooting and stabbing media characters and political opponents was shown at a conference for his supporters, the New York Times reported Sunday.

In the clip, the US president's head is superimposed on a man opening fire in the "Church of Fake News" at people whose faces have been replaced with the logos of outlets including CNN, the Washington Post and NBC TV.

As the rampage continues, the Trump character fends off worshippers, strikes late senator John McCain in the back of the neck and torches the head of Senator Bernie Sanders, a Democratic presidential rival.

He throws Republican senator Mitt Romney to the ground and strikes former president Barack Obama in the back and slams him against a wall.

The organizer of last week's "American Priority" event, which was held at Trump's resort in Miami, said the clip was part of a "meme exhibit."

"American Priority rejects all political violence and aims to promote a healthy dialogue about the preservation of free speech," Alex Phillips told the Times.

Tim Murtaugh, a spokesman for Trump's 2020 election campaign, told the Times that the "video was not produced by the campaign, and we do not condone violence."

Media organizations have come under regular verbal attack from Trump and his supporters.

An internet meme that depicts US President Donald Trump shooting and stabbing media characters and political opponents was shown at a conference for his supporters, the New York Times reported Sunday.

An internet meme that depicts US President Donald Trump shooting and stabbing media characters and political opponents was shown at a conference for his supporters, the New York Times reported Sunday. In the clip, the US president's head is superimposed on a man opening fire in the "Church of Fake News" at people whose faces have been replaced with the logos of outlets including CNN, the Washington Post and NBC TV. As the rampage continues, the Trump character fends off worshippers, strikes late senator John McCain in the back of the neck and torches the head of Senator Bernie Sanders, a Democratic presidential rival. He throws Republican senator Mitt Romney to the ground and strikes former president Barack Obama in the back and slams him against a wall. The organizer of last week's "American Priority" event, which was held at Trump's resort in Miami, said the clip was part of a "meme exhibit." "American Priority rejects all political violence and aims to promote a healthy dialogue about the preservation of free speech," Alex Phillips told the Times. Tim Murtaugh, a spokesman for Trump's 2020 election campaign, told the Times that the "video was not produced by the campaign, and we do not condone violence." Media organizations have come under regular verbal attack from Trump and his supporters.

US President Donald Trump violently attacks media figures in supporter's event meme: Report

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram will be produced before a Delhi Court in connection with INX media money laundering case on Monday.

This comes two days after it was reported by media&nbsp;that the probe agency is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-ed-likely-to-arrest-p-chidambaram-on-monday-255323">likely to arrest Chidambaram</a> on October 14 as a special court in Delhi had directed to produce the former union minister in connection with the case.

Judge Ajay Kumar Kuhar has ordered to produce Chidambaram in the court today at 3 pm.

During the proceedings on October 12, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the matter, had told the court that Chidambaram's custodial interrogation is required as the agency wants to seek information related to the shell company in abroad and 17 bank accounts highlighted in the case.

Even the Supreme Court had observed that his custodial interrogation is required in the case, Mehta had asserted.

Chidambaram is currently in judicial custody in Tihar jail in a corruption case related to the alleged scam being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

The case pertains to an FIR registered by the CBI for alleged irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 by Chidambaram when he was the Union finance minister.

The ED is investigating the alleged offence of money laundering that arose out of the FIR.

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram will be produced before a Delhi Court in connection with INX media money laundering case on Monday. This comes two days after it was reported by media that the probe agency is likely to arrest Chidambaram on October 14 as a special court in Delhi had directed to produce the former union minister in connection with the case.

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram will be produced before a Delhi Court in connection with INX media money laundering case on Monday. This comes two days after it was reported by media that the probe agency is likely to arrest Chidambaram on October 14 as a special court in Delhi had directed to produce the former union minister in connection with the case. Judge Ajay Kumar Kuhar has ordered to produce Chidambaram in the court today at 3 pm. During the proceedings on October 12, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the matter, had told the court that Chidambaram's custodial interrogation is required as the agency wants to seek information related to the shell company in abroad and 17 bank accounts highlighted in the case. Even the Supreme Court had observed that his custodial interrogation is required in the case, Mehta had asserted. Chidambaram is currently in judicial custody in Tihar jail in a corruption case related to the alleged scam being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The case pertains to an FIR registered by the CBI for alleged irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 by Chidambaram when he was the Union finance minister. The ED is investigating the alleged offence of money laundering that arose out of the FIR.

INX media case: Chidambaram to be produced before Delhi court today, Enforcement Directorate to seek custody

Ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Haryana, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address an election rally in Ballabhgarh on Monday.

This will be the first of the four rallies the Prime Minister is scheduled to address in Haryana. He will be in Thanesar (Kurukshetra) and Dadri on October 15 while the last rally before polls commence in the state will be in the Jat-dominated Hissar on October 18.

The Prime Minister is likely to woo the voters using Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar's clean image and the developmental works done by the Centre along with the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir.

On Sunday, the BJP released its manifesto and made a host of promises to woo the electorates ahead of forthcoming Haryana Assembly elections.

In the manifesto titled 'Mhare sapno ka Haryana' (my dreams of Haryana), the BJP made a plethora of promises ranging from launching Haryana start-up mission, constitution of a new 'Yuva Vikas and Rozgar' ministry and one All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), doubling of farmers' income by 2022 and increase in pension.

The manifesto was released in the presence of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, BJP national working president J P Nadda and other party leaders.

Apart from the Prime Minister, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other party MPs too are scheduled to hold rallies in the state to help BJP's chances of retaining the state.

Elections to the 90-member Haryana Assembly will be held on October 21 along with 288-member Maharashtra Assembly. PM Modi is also set to address rallies in Maharashtra.

The counting of votes is scheduled to commence on October 24.

Ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Haryana, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address an election rally in Ballabhgarh on Monday. This will be the first of the four rallies the Prime Minister is scheduled to address in Haryana.

Ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Haryana, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address an election rally in Ballabhgarh on Monday. This will be the first of the four rallies the Prime Minister is scheduled to address in Haryana. He will be in Thanesar (Kurukshetra) and Dadri on October 15 while the last rally before polls commence in the state will be in the Jat-dominated Hissar on October 18. The Prime Minister is likely to woo the voters using Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar's clean image and the developmental works done by the Centre along with the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir. On Sunday, the BJP released its manifesto and made a host of promises to woo the electorates ahead of forthcoming Haryana Assembly elections. In the manifesto titled 'Mhare sapno ka Haryana' (my dreams of Haryana), the BJP made a plethora of promises ranging from launching Haryana start-up mission, constitution of a new 'Yuva Vikas and Rozgar' ministry and one All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), doubling of farmers' income by 2022 and increase in pension. The manifesto was released in the presence of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, BJP national working president J P Nadda and other party leaders. Apart from the Prime Minister, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other party MPs too are scheduled to hold rallies in the state to help BJP's chances of retaining the state. Elections to the 90-member Haryana Assembly will be held on October 21 along with 288-member Maharashtra Assembly. PM Modi is also set to address rallies in Maharashtra. The counting of votes is scheduled to commence on October 24.

Haryana Assembly polls: PM Modi to address rally in Ballabhgarh today

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday&nbsp;termed terrorism as one of the major challenges confronting the world today and said nations which aid and abet terror should be isolated.

"Terrorism is one of the major challenges confronting the world today. All the nations must intensify their collective efforts and strive to eliminate the menace of terrorism and also isolate nations which aid and abet terrorism. India has borne the brunt of cross border terrorism over decades," the Vice President said in a press statement during his visit to Sierra Leone.

The Vice President made the remarks after his delegation-level meeting with President of Republic of Sierra Leone, Julius Maada Bio.

Naidu while thanking President Bio for Sierra Leone's support to India's candidatures in various International organisations, also called for reform in UNSC saying, "We agreed that both sides need to continue pushing for these reforms so that one-third of mankind residing in Africa and India occupy their rightful place at the high table in decision making bodies of the United Nations."

The Vice President also expressed his happiness at Sierra Leone joining the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in order to enable rapid deployment of solar energy globally and to facilitate the transfer of technology.

Terming the vibrant Indian community in Sierra Leone as an organic bridge between the two nations, Naidu thanked President Bio for 'taking care of their welfare'.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday termed terrorism as one of the major challenges confronting the world today and said nations which aid and abet terror should be isolated.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday termed terrorism as one of the major challenges confronting the world today and said nations which aid and abet terror should be isolated. "Terrorism is one of the major challenges confronting the world today. All the nations must intensify their collective efforts and strive to eliminate the menace of terrorism and also isolate nations which aid and abet terrorism. India has borne the brunt of cross border terrorism over decades," the Vice President said in a press statement during his visit to Sierra Leone. The Vice President made the remarks after his delegation-level meeting with President of Republic of Sierra Leone, Julius Maada Bio. Naidu while thanking President Bio for Sierra Leone's support to India's candidatures in various International organisations, also called for reform in UNSC saying, "We agreed that both sides need to continue pushing for these reforms so that one-third of mankind residing in Africa and India occupy their rightful place at the high table in decision making bodies of the United Nations." The Vice President also expressed his happiness at Sierra Leone joining the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in order to enable rapid deployment of solar energy globally and to facilitate the transfer of technology. Terming the vibrant Indian community in Sierra Leone as an organic bridge between the two nations, Naidu thanked President Bio for 'taking care of their welfare'.

Isolate nations which aid, abet terrorism: VP Venkaiah Naidu in Sierra Leone

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