🌎 The 75-nation visa freeze

I often say that if you blink, you’ll miss the news that actually changes the Global South.

Case in point: while the world was distracted, the US quietly paused visas for 75 nations and Syria plunged into new chaos. I built TBS because I was tired of hunting for the stories that matter to us. Today, we’re cutting through the noise to show you exactly how these shifts—and a massive $25B bet from Qatar—reshape our world.

Warm wishes,

Deepa

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US Freezes Immigrant Visas for 75 Nations: The U.S. indefinitely suspended immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, effective January 21, 2026, citing concerns over potential reliance on public assistance. Why it matters: This measure halts visas for employment or family reunification, significantly impacting permanent migration pathways. (More)

Syria's Northeast Plunges into Chaos as Kurdish Authority Collapses: The Kurdish-led autonomous administration in northeast Syria has effectively collapsed, with forces withdrawing from vast territories, including the al-Hol detention camp. This follows a rapid advance by Syrian government troops and the failure of a recent ceasefire. Why it matters: The power vacuum creates a severe security crisis, risking an ISIS resurgence and sparking fears of a humanitarian catastrophe. (More)

US Weighs "Decisive" Strike on Iran, Deploying Carrier Group: The US is moving an aircraft carrier and jet fighters to the Middle East as President Trump considers "decisive" military options against Iran. This buildup follows a crackdown on protesters that has reportedly killed thousands. The region remains on high alert for potential conflict. (More)

EU and Mercosur Sign Landmark Trade Deal: After 25 years of negotiations, the European Union and the South American bloc Mercosur (Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay) have signed a free trade agreement. The accord aims to slash tariffs and boost trade, valued at 111 billion euros in 2024. Ratification by member states and the European Parliament is pending. (More)

China Unveils Plan for 203,000 Satellites: China has applied to the ITU for frequency and orbital resources for 203,000 satellites across 14 constellations. The goal is to provide ubiquitous internet access globally. (More)

Thailand Attracts THB65 Billion Investment in Advanced PCB Manufacturing: Zhen Ding Technology (ZDT) is investing THB65 billion in Thailand to expand advanced PCB production, creating over 5,600 jobs. This solidifies Thailand's position as a regional hub for high-tech electronics manufacturing. (More)

Amazon Leo Targets South Africa for Satellite Internet Launch: Amazon Leo plans to launch satellite internet services in South Africa in late 2026, partnering with local providers. This expansion follows regulatory approval in Nigeria and intensifies competition in the African satellite broadband market. (More)

Qatar and Goldman Sachs Forge $25 Billion Investment Alliance: The Qatar Investment Authority will commit $25 billion to Goldman Sachs Asset Management funds and co-investment opportunities, focusing on AI, fintech, and digital infrastructure. Goldman Sachs will expand its Doha presence as a strategic hub. (More)

Colombia Mandates Pension Funds Repatriate $23.5 Billion: Colombia's government will require private pension funds to repatriate approximately $23.5 billion USD from overseas investments over five years. The funds will be channeled into national infrastructure and energy transition projects. (More)

India's Tanshi Group to Establish Algerian Pharmaceutical Export Hub: India's Tanshi Group plans to invest significantly in Algeria to develop pharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities. The facility will produce medicines and biological products for export to European, Middle Eastern, and African markets. (More)

Libyan Dinar Devalued by 14.7%: Libya's central bank devalued the Dinar by 14.7% against the SDR, increasing the official dollar rate. Experts warn this will fuel inflation and raise the cost of living. (More)

Indonesian Rupiah Plunges to All-Time Low: The Indonesian Rupiah hit a new all-time low of Rp16,935 per US dollar, driven by external factors and domestic fiscal concerns. The bottom line: This depreciation reflects significant market pressure and potential for further volatility. (More)

Mercosur and EU Sign Historic Trade Pact: After 26 years of negotiations, the South American bloc Mercosur and the European Union signed a free trade agreement, creating one of the world's largest trade zones. The deal aims to eliminate most tariffs over 15 years. (More)

Syria Announces Landmark Deal to Integrate SDF: The Syrian government signed a ceasefire and integration agreement with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The deal includes the administrative and military handover of Deir ez-Zor and Raqqa governorates to the government and the integration of SDF fighters into the national army. (More)

US Launches New "Peace Council" for Gaza: The Trump administration is forming an international "Peace Council" to oversee post-war Gaza, inviting countries like Morocco as founding members. The initiative is part of a 20-point US plan for the region. (More)

Bangladeshis Face New US Visa Bond Requirement: Bangladeshi nationals applying for B1/B2 visas may be required to deposit a refundable bond of up to $15,000, effective January 21, 2026. This pilot program aims to prevent visa overstays. (More)

Philippines Offers Visa-Free Entry to Chinese Tourists: The Philippine government announced visa-free entry for Chinese tourists and business travelers with confirmed bookings and return tickets. This policy aims to revive tourism. (More)

Argentina Launches Major Electricity Transmission Tenders: Argentina's government is prioritizing three large-scale electricity transmission projects for immediate tender in 2026, including Project AMBA I and new 500 kV lines. (More)

Grenada Seeks Solar PV Installers for National Programme: The Government of Grenada invites Expressions of Interest from qualified Solar Photovoltaic (PV) installation firms for its "Solar for All Programme." Submissions are due by January 30. (More)

🇳🇬 Hidden Dangers in "Organic" Skin Creams: Many "organic" skin creams in Nigeria contain undisclosed steroids and antibiotics, causing side effects like skin thinning and allergic reactions. Consumers should prioritize dermatologically tested products. (More)

Melasma's Hidden Mental Health Toll on Asian Americans: Melasma, causing facial patches, significantly impacts the mental health of Asian Americans, exacerbated by cultural expectations around skin tone. (More)

The Remittance Trap: An analysis argues diaspora support often functions as a permanent subsidy for household inefficiency, proposing a shift to synchronized investments for lasting resilience. (More)

The Lake That Was Made to Disappear: An investigation reveals an Ethiopian lake is collapsing not due to climate change, but political neglect in a contested territory, creating a deadly "hydraulic illusion." (More)

Argan Oil & Heritage: A livestream featuring YouTuber IShowSpeed went viral when a vendor claimed argan oil was Algerian as argan is a UNESCO-protected heritage and industry unique to Morocco. (More)