The King has decided that Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson will not be welcome at this year's royal Christmas celebrations due to past associations with Jeffrey Epstein and recent controversies, with a preference for them to remain discreet at family events.
The Padres made significant moves at the trade deadline, acquiring Ramón Laureano who has quickly become a key player, and are navigating bullpen challenges while preparing for the return of pitcher Michael King. Laureano's impact and Arraez's defensive efforts highlight the team's recent performances, with notable moments including Gurriel's record-fast home run and Arraez winning the Heart and Hustle award. The team is also managing roster adjustments and looking ahead to upcoming games.
Candy Crush developer King is reportedly replacing laid off staff with AI tools they helped develop, focusing on efficiency and profits, despite internal dissatisfaction and concerns about job security and company practices.
King is planning to lay off around 200 staff, many of whom have built AI tools that are now replacing their roles, amid low morale and ongoing restructuring, with a new organizational chart expected in September.
Microsoft has initiated a significant round of layoffs affecting its gaming division, including Zenimax, King, Raven Software, and Turn 10, as part of broader organizational restructuring aimed at focusing on strategic growth areas. Approximately 9,000 employees, or 4% of its global workforce, are impacted, with efforts to support affected staff through severance and internal job opportunities. Despite these cuts, Microsoft remains highly profitable with strong revenue and net income.
Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar of Johor has been sworn in as the new king of Malaysia, as part of the country's unique rotational monarchy system where the heads of nine royal families take turns to be king for a five-year term. The monarchy, largely ceremonial, has gained influence due to political instability, with the king having discretionary powers. Sultan Ibrahim, known for his outspoken views and business interests, is the 17th king and has powers such as appointing a prime minister and pardoning convicted individuals.
Kate Middleton's hospital stay has reached a week, with the Queen urging the King to slow down, while Sarah, Duchess of York, battles skin cancer. Prince Harry makes a rare joke about his father, King Charles, amid royal rift, and Prince William steps back from royal duties to care for Kate and their children. The Waleses prioritize family over work, and Camilla opens a new domestic abuse initiative in Scotland.
Buckingham Palace hosted a pre-coronation reception attended by various royals, including Crown Princess Kiko of Japan, King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden, Crown Princess Mary and Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark. Prince Charles also spoke with Ukraine's First Lady and Prime Minister, as well as Margarita Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, the wife of the former Tsar Simeon II.