U.S. President Donald Trump has voiced concerns over Netflix’s proposed $72 billion merger with Warner Bros. Discovery, which would bring major franchises like *Harry Potter* and *Game of Thrones* under one streaming platform. Speaking in Washington, Trump warned that the combined market share of the two media giants could create competition issues and indicated that he might personally be involved in the approval process.

The deal, announced on December 5, is pending review by the Justice Department’s competition division. Former FTC Chair Bill Kovacic told the BBC that Trump’s remarks suggest the merger could face unusual presidential oversight, shifting what is typically a technical antitrust review into a politically sensitive process. The Writers Guild of America’s East and West branches have urged regulators to block the merger, citing risks to jobs, wages, and creative diversity.

If approved, the merger is expected to close in the second half of 2026 following Warner Bros.’ planned corporate restructuring, potentially reshaping the global entertainment landscape.

Bangladesh Weather Observation Team (BWOT) has forecast the season’s first mild cold wave, named ‘Parash,’ expected to affect parts of the country between December 14 and 20. The cold wave is likely to bring minimum temperatures down to 8–10°C in regions including Rangpur, Rajshahi, Khulna, and Sylhet divisions.

According to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department, the lowest temperature recorded so far this season was 10.5°C in Tetulia, Panchagarh. Other areas such as Srimangal, Comilla, Naogaon, and Rajshahi have also reported temperatures between 11°C and 13°C. Meteorologists note that a cold wave is officially recognized when temperatures drop to 10°C or below.

Forecasts suggest that one or two cold waves may occur this month, ranging from mild to moderate intensity. Authorities advise residents, particularly in northern districts, to prepare for cooler nights and potential health impacts associated with the seasonal temperature drop.

Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) has launched a citywide campaign to remove all unauthorized banners, posters, and billboards from public and private spaces. The operation began Monday morning in the Science Lab area, with officials confirming that all unapproved materials will be cleared within a week. The initiative follows recent public notices warning that such displays violate city laws and electoral guidelines.

According to DSCC officials, the move is grounded in the City Corporation Act and the Wall Writing and Poster Control Act 2012, which allow for up to 15 days of imprisonment for unauthorized installations. The Election Commission’s directives have also been taken into account, especially ahead of upcoming political activities. Citizens and organizations have been urged to voluntarily remove unapproved materials to avoid legal action.

The campaign aims to improve Dhaka’s urban aesthetics and ensure compliance with municipal regulations. DSCC has indicated that similar drives will continue in other areas to maintain a cleaner and more organized city environment.

Netflix has agreed to acquire Warner Bros Discovery’s film, television, and streaming divisions in a landmark $72 billion deal, marking one of the largest mergers in entertainment history. The acquisition will transfer ownership of globally renowned franchises such as Game of Thrones, Harry Potter, DC Comics, and HBO Max to Netflix, significantly expanding its content portfolio and influence across the global media landscape.

Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos stated that the merger aligns with the company’s mission to entertain the world, combining Warner Bros’ century-old classics—from Casablanca to Friends—with Netflix’s modern hits like Squid Game and Stranger Things. Analysts, however, warn that the deal could face intense antitrust scrutiny in the United States and Europe, as it consolidates two major streaming players and may reduce market competition.

Despite regulatory hurdles, Netflix expects to save between $2 and $3 billion annually within three years. The company also confirmed that Warner Bros films will continue to receive theatrical releases, signaling a hybrid distribution approach amid industry transformation.

The Bangladesh government has reaffirmed its plan to activate the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR) system on December 16 to curb the use of unregistered, stolen, or illegally imported mobile phones. The initiative aims to enhance network security, reduce digital crimes, and increase state revenue. Ahead of the rollout, mobile retailers reported a surge in customer demand as buyers rushed to purchase devices before the new registration rules take effect.

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) agreed to review aspects of the NEIR system following a day-long protest by mobile phone traders under the Mobile Business Community Bangladesh (MBCB). Demonstrators demanded reforms to the system, the abolition of import syndicates, and lower taxes, arguing that the new policy could harm small traders and raise handset prices beyond consumers’ reach. Officials, however, maintain that 73% of digital fraud involves illegal smartphones, justifying the government’s firm stance.

A joint meeting involving the BTRC, National Board of Revenue, Commerce Ministry, and industry representatives is scheduled to address technical and regulatory concerns before the launch.

The number of bank accounts in Bangladesh holding deposits of at least one crore taka has continued to rise, surpassing 128,000 as of September 2025, according to Bangladesh Bank’s latest data. This marks an increase of 734 such accounts over the previous quarter, even as the total amount of deposits in these accounts fell by over 59,000 crore taka during the same period.

Banking analysts attribute this trend to widening income inequality. While rising prices have forced lower- and middle-income families to draw down savings, wealthier individuals and large businesses have continued to accumulate assets. Central bank officials clarified that not all crore-level accounts belong to individuals; many are held by corporations and government entities, and a single entity may maintain multiple accounts.

The data also show that the total number of bank accounts in the country reached 174.6 million by September, up by 5.6 million in three months. Economists warn that the growing concentration of wealth in fewer hands could deepen economic disparities if inflationary pressures persist.

Popular Kolkata-based singer Nachiketa Chakraborty was hospitalized on Saturday evening after developing heart-related complications, prompting the cancellation of his scheduled concert in Asansol on Sunday, December 7. According to hospital sources, the veteran musician is currently in stable condition under medical supervision.

This is not the first time the artist has faced health setbacks affecting his performances. In February 2023, Nachiketa had to cancel another show due to cervical spondylitis, a condition that worsens during winter and with continuous stage activity. Family members and close associates have confirmed that his health had been deteriorating over the past few days before the latest hospitalization.

Fans and fellow musicians have expressed concern and sent wishes for his speedy recovery. Organizers have not yet announced a rescheduled date for the canceled concert, while doctors continue to monitor his condition closely.

In Bogura, wholesale and retail onion prices fell sharply on Sunday, dropping by Tk 30–35 per kilogram within a single day. Traders reported heavy losses as they rushed to sell stocks following news that letters of credit (LCs) had been opened for importing Indian onions. The sudden price fall brought relief to consumers but financial strain to local sellers.

According to market data from Rajabazar and Fatehali markets, new onions that sold for Tk 100–110 per kg on Saturday dropped to Tk 65–70 on Sunday, while old onions fell from Tk 115–120 to Tk 70–80. Traders said the market had been unstable due to limited supply and a long halt in Indian imports. The LC announcement triggered expectations of increased supply, prompting panic selling.

Local trade leaders expect prices to stabilize soon, possibly reaching Tk 50 per kg. However, they warned that the timing of import approvals, just before new domestic onions enter the market, could cause significant losses for Bangladeshi traders.

Malaysia has announced a target to attract 300,000 tourists from Bangladesh by 2026, according to Malaysian High Commissioner to Dhaka, Mohammad Suhaimi Osman. Speaking at a gala dinner during the Malaysia Tourism Fair in Dhaka, he emphasized Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening tourism, cultural exchange, and people-to-people connections between the two nations.

The High Commissioner highlighted that bilateral relations have expanded over the decades across trade, investment, education, and tourism. He noted that recent high-level visits, including those by the Malaysian Prime Minister to Dhaka and Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser to Kuala Lumpur, have reaffirmed both countries’ dedication to deeper cooperation. Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur International Airport, one of the world’s most connected hubs, further supports this goal by facilitating travel and commerce.

Officials believe the “Visit Malaysia Year 2026” campaign and events like “Festival Malaysia” will showcase the nation’s multicultural heritage and strengthen mutual understanding. The initiative is expected to enhance Malaysia’s position as a key regional tourism and investment center in Southeast Asia.

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has agreed to reform the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR) system following days of protests by mobile phone traders. After receiving assurances from BTRC Chairman Major General Md Emdad Ul Bari, the Mobile Business Community Bangladesh (MBCB) announced the suspension of their blockade until December 9.

According to BTRC sources, a joint meeting will be held to resolve NEIR-related issues, involving the Finance Adviser, NBR Chairman, Commerce Secretary, and representatives from mobile manufacturers and traders. MBCB leaders said the reforms should simplify import procedures and ensure all imported phones are listed without restriction. They also demanded reduced import duties and warned of renewed protests if tax issues remain unresolved.

The NEIR system, set to take effect on December 16, aims to curb the use of unregistered or stolen phones. The temporary suspension of protests signals a possible compromise, though traders have indicated they will resume action if their concerns are not addressed in the upcoming meeting.

The Alliance for Health Reforms Bangladesh (AHRB) has urged the Chief Adviser to prioritize the implementation of the Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) policy as a matter of national interest. In an open letter signed by Professor Syed Abdul Hamid of Dhaka University and Professor Syed Md. Akram Hossain of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, the group called for immediate administrative action to reduce import dependency and bolster national health security.

The letter highlights that although Bangladesh can produce most types of medicines, it remains heavily reliant on imported APIs, leaving the pharmaceutical supply chain vulnerable to global market disruptions. The AHRB recommended five urgent steps, including a production-linked incentive scheme, sustained R&D funding, stronger academia–industry collaboration, and formation of a permanent task force. Citing the success of the 1982 National Drug Policy, the group emphasized that strong political commitment and leadership are essential.

Experts argue that developing a knowledge-based pharmaceutical sector could raise the tax-to-GDP ratio and expand exports. The AHRB warned that without top-level oversight, the API policy may remain unimplemented, hindering Bangladesh’s competitiveness and health resilience.

A November 21 earthquake damaged 22 of the 97 government primary schools in Agailjhara upazila of Barishal, Bangladesh. Among them, four schools—Ashoksen, Gaila Nonapukurpar, Taltarmath, and Dakshin Bagdha—suffered major structural cracks in beams, floors, walls, and roofs. The local education office has compiled a list of affected schools and forwarded it to higher authorities for repair and safety assessment.

Teachers and students are reportedly anxious about continuing classes in damaged buildings, fearing potential collapse during aftershocks. Parents have also expressed concern over sending their children to school under such conditions. Headteachers from several schools confirmed visible cracks and immediate reporting to the upazila education office.

Upazila Primary Education Officer Md. Amjad Hossain stated that the list of affected schools has been submitted for urgent renovation approval. Local officials expect repair work to begin soon to ensure student safety and restore normal academic activities.

Bangladesh Railway has closed 20 unauthorized and high-risk level crossings along the Dhaka–Sylhet rail route passing through four upazilas of Habiganj district. The move aims to reduce frequent accidents and fatalities caused by unprotected crossings lacking safety infrastructure or signalmen. Railway officials confirmed that the closures are part of a phased plan to eliminate all 46 unauthorized crossings in the district.

According to the railway’s engineering division, the first phase targeted the most accident-prone points, with the remaining 26 crossings to be closed gradually. Many of these crossings were locally built without approval, posing serious safety hazards for both trains and pedestrians. However, local residents have expressed frustration, saying the closures were implemented without prior notice or alternative routes.

Residents and local leaders are urging authorities to construct overpasses or underpasses before closing crossings to prevent public hardship. Officials maintain that the closures are necessary to ensure passenger safety and reduce the risk of future train collisions.

Bangladesh’s bottled soybean oil price has been raised by Tk 6 per liter following a meeting at the Ministry of Commerce. The new retail price is set at Tk 195 per liter, up from Tk 189, and will take effect from Monday, December 8. The Bangladesh Vegetable Oil Refiners and Vanaspati Manufacturers Association announced the revised rates through an official press release.

The association had earlier sought government approval twice—in November—to increase prices by Tk 9 per liter, citing rising import and production costs. However, the ministry did not respond, prompting some refiners to raise prices unilaterally to Tk 198 per liter. This led to consumer backlash and government warnings. Commerce adviser Sheikh Bashiruddin confirmed that show-cause notices were issued to several companies for unauthorized price adjustments.

The latest decision aims to stabilize the edible oil market and align official prices with global cost trends. Authorities are expected to monitor compliance closely to prevent further unauthorized hikes and ensure fair consumer pricing.

Bangladesh’s overall inflation increased slightly in November, reaching 8.29 percent compared to 8.17 percent in October, according to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS). Food inflation rose to 7.36 percent from 7.08 percent, while non-food inflation eased marginally to 9.08 percent. The BBS report highlights that inflation has remained above 8 percent for several months, reflecting persistent price pressures across both rural and urban areas.

The report shows rural inflation at 8.26 percent and urban inflation at 8.39 percent, with food costs rising faster in both segments. Despite government efforts—such as raising interest rates and reducing import duties on essentials like oil, potatoes, onions, and eggs—price stability remains elusive. Wage growth in November stood at 8.04 percent, still below the inflation rate, indicating continued pressure on household purchasing power.

Economists warn that sustained high inflation, now persisting for nearly three years, poses a major challenge for the interim government. Further monetary tightening and improved supply chain management may be required to curb price growth in the coming months.