Hong Kong Taxpayers Face Potential HK$28 Billion Bill from Defunct COVID-19 Loan Scheme Defaults

Hong Kong taxpayers are facing a potential financial burden of nearly HK$28 billion (US$3.57 billion) due to defaults on loans issued under a now-discontinued government-backed scheme, initially designed to provide a crucial lifeline to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Special 100% Loan Guarantee, a prominent component of the SME Financing […]

9 mins read

India’s 2026 Transgender Amendment Bill Faces Backlash as Parliament Moves to Rescind Self-Identification Rights and Narrow Legal Recognition

The Indian Parliament has moved to significantly alter the legal landscape for transgender individuals with the passage of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026. This legislative development, which passed through both houses of Parliament this week, represents a fundamental shift in how the state recognizes gender identity, effectively revoking the right to […]

10 mins read