The research service offers an overview of the fintech landscape in the automotive industry, covering applications in leasing, finance, insurance, retailing, payments, and experience-centric services. It identifies opportunities for automakers, suppliers, and technology companies to generate revenue through digital transactions. The study emphasizes the importance of fintech in transitioning the industry from transactional to experience-centric, highlighting the need for manufacturers to create personalized in-vehicle experiences. Key questions addressed include the relevance of fintech in automotive, classification of business interests, underlying technologies, market size, and key fintech organizations. The research notes the automotive industry's efforts to close the technology gap and enhance customer experience through fintech partnerships, with expectations of significant online retail spending and disruption in digital financing and insurance claims processing by 2025.

The article discusses the challenges faced by Africa's largest cities in harnessing the economic benefits of urbanization. With Africa's population projected to reach two billion by 2040 and the urban population expected to nearly triple by 2050, the urgency to address issues such as low GDP per capita, investment in housing and infrastructure, and land management is highlighted. The article also touches on social and political challenges, including monetary policy and trade. It questions the role of the African Union, World Bank, and European Investment Bank in addressing these challenges and suggests that future articles will explore potential solutions for African cities to increase investment in basic infrastructure and housing.

The article discusses the challenges faced by Sub-Saharan Africa due to its rapidly growing population and the slower rate of food production. It highlights the need for intensive agriculture and the use of advanced technologies, including organic fertilizers, to bridge the gap between population growth and food production. Eritrea's efforts in promoting organic fertilizer production are commended, with the country hosting its first national organic fertilizer conference to share its 15 years of experience. The article also mentions Sudan's production of compost and the issue of soil degradation in Burkina Faso due to chemical fertilization. A solution in the form of organic fertilizer called Nekyam is presented, and the International Fertilizer Development Center's warnings about rising fertilizer prices in Africa are noted.

The article highlights the untouched beauty and historical significance of Asmara, the capital city of Eritrea. Known as 'la piccolo Roma' or 'New Rome', Asmara was built by the Italians and has preserved its early twentieth-century architecture. The city boasts various architectural styles, including Art Deco, Cubist, and neoclassical buildings. Asmara is also celebrated for its cleanliness, favorable climate, and peaceful atmosphere, with the absence of crime and disturbances. The author encourages readers to visit Asmara to experience its unique charm before it potentially changes due to future developments.

The 25th anniversary of the Crown Heights riots, which resulted in the deaths of Gavin Cato and Yankel Rosenbaum, is being commemorated with a day of reflection, prayer, and a community festival featuring multi-ethnic music, food, and activities. While some, including the Rosenbaum family, find the celebratory aspect of the festival disrespectful, others believe it represents the community's growth and unity. The event aims to counteract the negative media narrative and honor the memory of the victims through a spirit of togetherness.