Brexit deal “possible” in 6 to 8 weeks: Barnier
The EU’s Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, said it was “realistic” that a deal with the UK could be reached within two months. An extraordinary Brexit summit is likely to be planned for early November, to conclude unfinished business from the already scheduled October meeting. The pound rose on Barnier’s comments. Reported by the BBC, Guardian and Reuters.
Lengthy coalition talks expected in Stockholm
Sweden faces an impasse as no political bloc won a majority in Sunday’s elections. Commentators say a centre-right coalition is most likely, but the process might take weeks. Coverage by the AFP, Guardian and Washington Post.
US will retaliate over ICC prosecutions: Bolton
The White House national security advisor, John Bolton, said the International Criminal Court would face US sanctions if it prosecuted American troops over alleged human rights abuse in Afghanistan. The US is not a signatory to the ICC. Reported by the BBC, Financial Times and NPR.
Trump agrees to meet Kim again
The White House said it was looking to schedule a second summit between Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un. The two leaders agreed in June to the denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula, but it not spell out details. Reported by the AP, Financial Times and Reuters.
Currencies at risk
Seven emerging markets are at risk of an exchange rate crisis, according to the “Damocles index” published by Nomura, a bank. The countries are Sri Lanka, South Africa, Argentina, Pakistan, Egypt, Turkey and Ukraine. Nomura said its index has correctly predicted two out of three previous crises. Reported by Bloomberg, the Financial Times and MarketWatch.
“Stable” cryptocurrencies get OK
New York state regulators approved the first two “stablecoin” virtual currencies. The Gemini dollar is pegged one-to-one to the US dollar; Paxos Standard is fully collateralised on a one-to-one basis by the US dollar. Reported by CoinDesk, MarketWatch and Reuters.
Here are five science and technology stories that you may have missed
Ancient cheese: Evidence of 7,200 year old cheese has reportedly been found on pottery shards in Croatia, although some scientists dispute the findings, reported National Geographic. AI awakenings: Chinese scientists developed an artificial intelligence program that accurately predicted seven comatose patients would regain consciousness after doctors said there was “no hope of recovery”, according to the South China Morning Post. “Placebo buttons”: A large number of pedestrian buttons at crosswalks (at least in London and New York City) don’t actually work; they’re just there to make us feel better, according to CNN. Same for the “close door” button in lifts and hotel room thermostats. Internet-connected devices: Bruce Schneier, a well-known cybersecurity researcher, told MIT Technology Review that governments need to regulate the internet of things. Yes, liability laws “will chill innovation--but that’s what’s needed right now!” he said. “We chill innovation in things like drug development, aircraft design, and nuclear power plants because the cost of getting it wrong is too great.” Brexit disruption: About a third of donated sperm in the UK is imported, with Denmark a major source, and Brexit could possibly delay deliveries, reported Wired.