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Furious Spotify users hit out at “pathetic” price rise

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Spotify users are expressing frustration and anger over the recent price hikes imposed by the music streaming company, with many calling them “greedy” and threatening to cancel their subscriptions.

In response to the market’s evolution, Spotify’s CEO Daniel Ek announced the monthly prices for its advertising-free premium plan would be raised by up to $2.

Customers in the US saw their individual premium plans increase from $9.99 to $10.99, while the Duo plan for two accounts rose to $14.99, and the Family and Student plans experienced increases of $1 and $5.99, respectively.

The anger towards Spotify’s pricing comes amid criticism over its payment model to artists, which uses a “streamshare” basis, resulting in varying compensation depending on music streaming and licensing agreements.

Users expressed their discontent on social media, voicing concerns over the lack of new features added despite the price hike and the continued issue of inadequate artist compensation.

Massive loss

Spotify’s decision to raise prices was followed by lackluster second-quarter financial results, which fell below analysts’ expectations, leading to a drop in share prices.

The company reported a larger-than-expected net loss of $333.4 million, or $1.71 per share, compared to the previous year’s loss of $138 million, or 94 cents per share. Despite revenue totaling $3.18 billion, surpassing Wall Street’s expectations, the price hike and financial results have left many users dissatisfied with the platform.

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Gold plunges as investors react to Middle East ceasefire

Gold prices fall over 2% to below $4,000, as investors shift from safe-haven assets after Gaza ceasefire news.

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Gold prices fall over 2% to below $4,000, as investors shift from safe-haven assets after Gaza ceasefire news.


Gold prices have fallen sharply, dropping over two per cent to below $4,000 per ounce, as investors took profits following the announcement of a Gaza ceasefire agreement. The deal between Israel and Hamas triggered a shift away from safe-haven assets, with silver and platinum also sliding.

The U.S. dollar strengthened as markets responded to the news, making precious metals more expensive for foreign buyers. Analysts say the pullback is likely temporary, with long-term demand for gold and silver expected to remain strong amid global instability and rising debt levels.

Market experts warn that volatility will continue as geopolitical tensions persist, even as short-term optimism grows around the Middle East peace process.

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Gold and silver prices drop after Gaza ceasefire

Gold dips below $4,000/oz amid profit-taking and Gaza ceasefire; silver also softens from record highs

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Gold dips below $4,000/oz amid profit-taking and Gaza ceasefire; silver also softens from record highs

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In Short:
– Gold prices fell over 2% to below $4,000 per ounce due to a stronger dollar and profit-taking.
– Silver eased to $48.93 per ounce, influenced by market activity and ongoing high demand despite supply issues.
Gold prices fell over 2% on Thursday, dropping below $4,000 per ounce. The decline followed a strong rise earlier in the year and was influenced by a stronger dollar and profit-taking after a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas.Spot gold decreased to $3,959.48 per ounce, while U.S. gold futures for December delivery settled at $3,972.6.

Silver also experienced a slight decline, easing from its record high to $48.93 per ounce. The dollar index increased, making gold more expensive for overseas buyers.

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Traders noted increased activity in the market as profit-taking coincided with reduced tensions in a historically volatile region.

An independent metals trader stated that while gold and silver may need to consolidate further, the underlying demand drivers remain intact.

Market Overview

Gold surpassed $4,000 per ounce on Wednesday, reaching $4,059.05, boosted by geopolitical tensions and strong demand from central banks. The asset has gained about 52% this year, reflecting a significant increase due to various economic factors. The U.S. central bank’s decision to cut rates in September also contributed to the rally, with expectations for future cuts in the coming months.

Silver’s price increase of 69% this year is tied closely to similar economic trends impacting gold. Notably, liquidity issues in the silver market are being exacerbated by strong demand and tight supply conditions. Other precious metals, such as platinum and palladium, also saw declines during this period.

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North Korean hackers steal $2 billion in crypto

North Korean hackers steal over $2 billion in cryptocurrency, marking the largest annual total in history

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North Korean hackers steal over $2 billion in cryptocurrency, marking the largest annual total in history

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In Short:
– North Korean hackers stole over $2 billion in cryptocurrency in 2025, nearly tripling last year’s total.
– A shift to social engineering tactics has led to increased targeting of high-net-worth individuals for cyber attacks.
North Korean hackers have reportedly stolen over $2 billion in cryptocurrency assets in 2025, setting a record with three months still left in the year.
Data from blockchain analytics firm Elliptic indicates that this amount nearly triples the total stolen last year, accounting for approximately 13% of North Korea’s estimated GDP and raising the regime’s total crypto theft to over $6 billion since 2017.Banner

A significant portion of the 2025 theft is attributed to the February hack of cryptocurrency exchange Bybit, which amounted to $1.46 billion.

The FBI has linked this breach to state-sponsored North Korean hackers, who exploited weaknesses in Bybit’s wallet management system. More than 30 additional cyber attacks have also been associated with North Korea this year, including notable breaches at LND.fi and WOO X.

Shift In Tactics

A shift in methodology among North Korean hackers has been observed, as they now focus on social engineering rather than technical exploits. According to Elliptic, the primary vulnerability lies with individuals rather than technology.

High-net-worth individuals and corporate executives are increasingly targeted due to their relatively weaker security measures.

The hackers utilise deceptive tactics, including phishing schemes and fake job offers, to access private cryptocurrency wallets. Intelligence reports suggest that the stolen funds are used to finance North Korea’s nuclear programmes.

The regime has also improved its money laundering techniques by employing various cryptocurrencies and mixing methods to obscure fund origins. Blockchain analysts are actively tracking these stolen assets, with notable progress achieved in identifying recoverable funds.


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