News for 'Americas'

Airtel Money files for London IPO, IFC to buy $90 mn stake

Airtel Money files for London IPO, IFC to buy $90 mn stake

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Airtel Africa's mobile payments arm, Airtel Money, has filed for an initial public offering (IPO) on the London Stock Exchange, with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) agreeing to purchase shares worth up to $90 million at the final offer price.

Xi concludes US visit, says talks with Trump added 'new substance' to ties

Xi concludes US visit, says talks with Trump added 'new substance' to ties

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping concluded his three-day visit to the US, stating that his discussions with President Donald Trump had injected "new substance" into the China-US relationship. Both leaders expressed optimism for future cooperation, with agreements reached on certain trade goods and discussions held on AI capabilities.

In Trump's presence, Xi says US, China must ensure human control of AI

In Trump's presence, Xi says US, China must ensure human control of AI

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping began his second state visit to the US, meeting President Donald Trump at the White House. Both leaders expressed a desire for a better future for their nations, with Xi emphasising cooperation over confrontation and the avoidance of the "Thucydides Trap." Discussions also touched upon artificial intelligence governance and the extension of a trade truce. The visit was notably marked by a media boycott of White House coverage due to a dispute over press access.

Infantino on course to survive FIFA vote as opponents explore new battle plan

Infantino on course to survive FIFA vote as opponents explore new battle plan

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Infantino appears to have enough global support to secure re-election, forcing opponents without a credible challenger to consider shifting from defeating him to curbing presidential powers.

'I leave with peace of mind and pride': Lionel Messi retires from international football

'I leave with peace of mind and pride': Lionel Messi retires from international football

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

Lionel Messi, who captained Argentina to World Cup victory in 2022 and the final in 2026, is retiring from international football, he said on Monday.

Remember These Images From 25 Years Ago?

Remember These Images From 25 Years Ago?

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

As younger generations grow up without personal memories of 9/11, the 25th anniversary serves as a powerful reminder of loss, resilience, bravery and America's enduring promise to never forget.

'Leave ISRO ALONE!'

'Leave ISRO ALONE!'

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

'I don't think the government will sacrifice such a fine institution for monetary gains.'

Davis Cup Captain Rohit Rajpal Hints At Resignation, Eyes AITA Presidency

Davis Cup Captain Rohit Rajpal Hints At Resignation, Eyes AITA Presidency

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Rohit Rajpal, India's Davis Cup captain, has hinted at stepping down from his role despite his contract running until 2026, stating that "every good thing comes to an end." He expressed readiness to ensure a smooth transition for his successor and believes a new captain could offer fresh perspectives. Rajpal also outlined his vision for Indian tennis, which includes a player-centric approach and a bid for the AITA presidency, aiming to develop talent and bring major international tournaments back to India.

Messi Retires! The Milestones That Defined His International Career

Messi Retires! The Milestones That Defined His International Career

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has announced his retirement from international football, concluding a career marked by numerous club and international accolades, including multiple Ballon d'Or awards and a World Cup title.

Lamine Yamal: 'I deserve Ballon d'Or this year'

Lamine Yamal: 'I deserve Ballon d'Or this year'

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Barcelona's Lamine Yamal believes his World Cup success with Spain and LaLiga title with Barcelona should give him the advantage over Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe in the race for the prestigious Ballon d'Or award.

I Have To Thank The 1980s For...

I Have To Thank The 1980s For...

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

I have to thank the 1980s for its soul-stirring music. It added so much melody and cheer to my life -- there hasn't been so much lovely music like that since, recalls Vaihayasi Pande Daniel.

Kylian Mbappe leaves Nike, signs with Swiss sportswear On

Kylian Mbappe leaves Nike, signs with Swiss sportswear On

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

French football superstar Kylian Mbappe has ended his long-standing partnership with Nike to join the rapidly expanding Swiss sportswear brand On, a move that provides On with a high-profile figure for its entry into football and marks another significant defection for the US giant.

Beckham hails Messi: 'Your Legacy Will Live Forever'

Beckham hails Messi: 'Your Legacy Will Live Forever'

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

England football icon David Beckham has paid tribute to Lionel Messi, calling him a 'credit to himself' and an 'inspiration for millions' after the Argentina legend announced his retirement from international football.

US DHS deletes 'Mr Singh, off our roads' poster, dismisses backlash

US DHS deletes 'Mr Singh, off our roads' poster, dismisses backlash

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The US Department of Homeland Security removed a controversial X post featuring a Transformers-themed cartoon targeting an Indian Sikh man, Harjinder Singh, with racially charged language. The post, which linked Singh to vehicular homicide charges and used phrases like "Self deport or find out," drew fierce condemnation from Indian American organisations and Democratic lawmakers for its discriminatory nature. DHS initially dismissed the outcry but later removed the post without explanation, while continuing its campaign against "illegal aliens" involved in fatal traffic accidents.

All-woman SIT to probe POCSO case against TN granite baron R Veeramani

All-woman SIT to probe POCSO case against TN granite baron R Veeramani

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

The Tamil Nadu government has constituted an all-women Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the sensational POCSO case against granite baron R Veeramani (84), who is accused of sexual abuse of minor girls. The case has led to the easing out of two top IPS officers and allegations of delayed action and political interference.

Iranian President reaches Delhi for BRICS Summit, to meet Modi today

Iranian President reaches Delhi for BRICS Summit, to meet Modi today

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian arrived in New Delhi for the BRICS summit, where he is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to enhance trade and strengthen overall relations. His visit is particularly significant given the heightened tensions in West Asia and recent US economic sanctions against Iran. Pezeshkian highlighted BRICS' role in fostering economic resilience and reducing dependence on the US dollar, while the summit itself aims to address global challenges and bolster collective resilience in critical sectors.

Messi's Mother: 'Father always used to say...'

Messi's Mother: 'Father always used to say...'

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Lionel Messi's mother, Celia, shared an emotional statement reflecting on the deep connection her late husband, Jorge Messi, shared with their son's footballing journey, noting the bittersweet timing of Messi's international retirement just weeks after his father's passing.

'Washington Shouldn't Threaten A Strategic Partner'

'Washington Shouldn't Threaten A Strategic Partner'

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

'It is a blunt and dangerous attempt to pressure India to sign BTA on one-sided terms.'

India, 163 other nations back UN's 'Correct the World map' move; US opposes

India, 163 other nations back UN's 'Correct the World map' move; US opposes

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

The UN General Assembly has adopted a resolution, backed by India, to correct the world map for a more accurate representation of continental landmasses. The resolution addresses the distortions caused by the widely used Mercator projection, which minimises the perceived sizes of regions like Africa, Latin America, and South Asia, promoting an unbalanced global view. India supports the move towards more accurate cartographic practices, specifically endorsing broader use of Equal Area map projections.

Ravi Kishan: 'People Threw Stones At Me'

Ravi Kishan: 'People Threw Stones At Me'

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

'I have seen all the storms and floods. I have crawled and reached here.'

'Tata Trusts Wants To Determine Destiny Of Group Companies'

'Tata Trusts Wants To Determine Destiny Of Group Companies'

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

'Members of Indian family businesses have considered it their birthright to work there and responsibility to take care of it.'

The Rationale Behind Government's UPI Fee Decision

The Rationale Behind Government's UPI Fee Decision

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

The Indian government has challenged Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's criticism of levying fees on UPI payments above Rs 2,000 to merchants. The government highlighted that a parliamentary standing committee, which included Congress MPs, had previously backed a tiered Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) framework for UPI. This move aims to ensure the financial sustainability of the UPI ecosystem and reduce its dependence on government subsidies, a concern raised by the committee due to the significant funding gap between allocations and operational costs.

India Rejects US Influence Claims Over UPI MDR Policy

India Rejects US Influence Claims Over UPI MDR Policy

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Finance Ministry has dismissed allegations of US pressure influencing the 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on select UPI transactions. It clarified that NPCI guidelines prioritise RuPay credit cards on UPI and do not favour international cards. The ministry also asserted that the MDR, applicable to person-to-merchant transactions above Rs 2,000, is unlikely to increase cash transactions or cause inflation, with measures in place to prevent burdening consumers.

UEFA Seeks Evidence Against FIFA President Infantino In Swiss Case

UEFA Seeks Evidence Against FIFA President Infantino In Swiss Case

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

UEFA is seeking evidence in a US court for a potential Swiss criminal case against FIFA President Gianni Infantino concerning his abandoned World Cup commercial-rights plan.

Lupin eyes $500 million from biosimilars, expands global footprint

Lupin eyes $500 million from biosimilars, expands global footprint

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Pharma major Lupin is significantly increasing its focus on biosimilars, aiming for a turnover of nearly $500 million from this segment over the next five years, driven by new product launches and expanded presence in key global markets like the US, Europe, and Japan.

Adivi Sesh: 'Whenever Vande Mataram Would Come Up, I Would Stand Up'

Adivi Sesh: 'Whenever Vande Mataram Would Come Up, I Would Stand Up'

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

'For someone who found his patriotism for India while living in America, this is a very momentous occasion.'

Antonela Roccuzzo: 'Proud to see you close this chapter this way'

Antonela Roccuzzo: 'Proud to see you close this chapter this way'

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Antonela Roccuzzo, Lionel Messi's wife, shared a poignant Instagram message, expressing immense pride in his international career, not just for his achievements but for his resilience and the journey their children witnessed.

15 Movies To Watch Before Avengers: Doomsday

15 Movies To Watch Before Avengers: Doomsday

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Marvel has unveiled its list of essential movies and one show to watch before the highly anticipated Avengers: Doomsday.

Political Row Erupts Over UPI Fee Decision

Political Row Erupts Over UPI Fee Decision

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Congress party has strongly refuted government claims that its MPs on the Parliament Standing Committee on Finance supported a fee on high-value UPI payments. Congress leaders, including Gaurav Gogoi and Manish Tewari, stated that the "UPI tax" proposal was not specifically discussed by the committee, accusing the Modi government of diverting attention from public backlash and appeasing US companies. The government, however, cited the committee's report which pressed for a tiered Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) framework.

Modi-Pezeshkian meet: India calls for dialogue in West Asia, safe navigation

Modi-Pezeshkian meet: India calls for dialogue in West Asia, safe navigation

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in New Delhi for talks focusing on the West Asia situation, bilateral relations, and BRICS cooperation. The meeting, Pezeshkian's first visit to India as president, comes amidst heightened tensions in West Asia due to new US sanctions on Iran and concerns over global oil supplies from the Strait of Hormuz. Both leaders emphasised regional stability and economic resilience.

Danish FA chief renews calls for Infantino to step down, cites lack of answers on commercial deal

Danish FA chief renews calls for Infantino to step down, cites lack of answers on commercial deal

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Danish FA President Jesper Moller has renewed calls for FIFA President Gianni Infantino to step down, citing FIFA's refusal to answer 'critical questions' regarding its abandoned proposal to sell commercial stakes in tournaments.

Finance Ministry Rejects US Influence Claims On UPI MDR

Finance Ministry Rejects US Influence Claims On UPI MDR

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

The Finance Ministry has refuted allegations that US pressure influenced the decision to levy a 0.4 per cent Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on select UPI payments. The ministry clarified that the NPCI guidelines prioritise RuPay credit cards on UPI to promote domestic alternatives and ensure a self-sustaining revenue model for smaller domestic companies, countering claims of favouring foreign payment providers.

Big Wins, Selfies, Tears And Kisses At The Emmys

Big Wins, Selfies, Tears And Kisses At The Emmys

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

The 78th Primetime Emmy Awards celebrated the year's top television achievements, creating unforgettable moments.

Kareena's Hearts For Messi

Kareena's Hearts For Messi

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

'I gave everything I had, and I don't have anything more to give.'

'Modi Played A Lot Of Cricket'

'Modi Played A Lot Of Cricket'

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

'Modi had his own cricket team in his school days. He was a good cricketer.'

Infosys arm chief Lax Gopisetty missing in Nepal flash-floods

Infosys arm chief Lax Gopisetty missing in Nepal flash-floods

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

Infosys has confirmed that Lax Gopisetty, chief of its subsidiary Infosys Public Services, is unreachable following devastating floods in Nepal. Gopisetty was visiting the region personally, and Infosys is working with agencies and his family to ensure his safety. The Ministry of External Affairs also reported hundreds of Indians missing or stranded due to the floods, with India offering assistance to Nepal.

US colonel survived 50 hours after jet downed in Iran

US colonel survived 50 hours after jet downed in Iran

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

A US Air Force colonel, identified by his call sign 'Bravo', survived nearly 50 hours behind Iranian lines after his F-15E fighter jet was shot down near Isfahan. Despite severe injuries, he evaded Iranian forces and was eventually rescued in a complex operation involving US military and intelligence personnel, highlighting a daring mission to leave no man behind.

TCS And Google Cloud Unveil Gemini Experience Centre In Mexico City

TCS And Google Cloud Unveil Gemini Experience Centre In Mexico City

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and Google Cloud have inaugurated a new Gemini Experience Center (GEC) in Mexico City. This facility, the second in Latin America and ninth globally for TCS, is equipped with over 3,000 AI agents and aims to drive industry-specific AI solutions across various sectors. It will help organisations bridge the gap between AI experimentation and implementation, enhancing innovation and data-driven decision-making in the region.

Close to 100 crore electors have voter cards in country: EC officials

Close to 100 crore electors have voter cards in country: EC officials

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

After US President Donald Trump cited India's voter cards to make a case for the SAVE America Act, Election Commission officials on Tuesday said that nearly 100 crore electors have been issued 'special' Electoral Photo Identity Cards (EPIC).

Vini Jr, Raphinha among Brazil's stars coming to India

Vini Jr, Raphinha among Brazil's stars coming to India

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Brazil has announced a 26-member squad, featuring stars like Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, and Marquinhos, for their historic first-ever football match against India on October 3 in Kolkata. Coach Carlo Ancelotti is overseeing a significant rebuild, integrating young talent with experienced players, with an eye on future tournaments like the 2028 Olympics and 2030 World Cup. The squad includes several debutants and a focus on current form, marking a new strategic direction for the Selecao.