Latest news with #Taco
Buzz Feed
13 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
35 Affordable Treats To Brighten Your Day Instantly
A pack of textured pencil sleeves with satisfying swirls and ridges kids and adults alike will love to play with while concentrating on work. These are great for people with anxiety, ADHD, autism, limited mobility, and more. A waterproof version of the beloved Taco, Cat, Goat Cheese, Pizza game so you can sneak in a competitive round or two at the beach or pool. The original is a massive hit (46,000+ 5-star ratings!!!) because people of all ages can play and have fun. A limited edition "Hawaiian Bliss" Epsom salt magnesium soak from Dr Teals formulated with papaya, hibiscus, and red sea salt to make you feel like you've been transported to a tropical locale. Instant vacation in your tub? Not quite as nice as the real deal, but this soak smells so good, some reviewers want to hoard bags before the scent is discontinued. A pack of cherry blossom mochi chews reviewers are over the moon for. These pillowy, bouncy chews are not too sweet, but pack a nice floral punch that will have you reaching for more. Twist Imagine No. 78, a fragrance inspired by Killian's Love, Don't Be Shy. If you're not familiar, it's Rihanna's signature scent and the reason why people say the singer smells like "heaven." Spectacular tortoise shell wineglasses sure to make an impression on your guests. Did you get these at a cute little boutique in upstate New York??? I won't tell if you won't. A pair of the *iconic* Kaco pens (known for their adorable heart tops) in your choice of Pantone color. They have every Color of the Year going back to 2000, so you can pick a year with sentimental just your fave color. A four-pack of grain-free Magic Spoon granola, which may not taste quite as good as your "oops-all-M&Ms" version, but has 8 grams of fiber, 2 grams of sugar, and 14 grams of protein. Enjoy it with milk (or a milk alt), top your yogurt with some clusters, or just eat it straight out of the bag. Fluffy Foam Soap to make bath time lots of fun, rubber ducky or not. You and your kiddos can use the spray to make funny hairdos, draw on the walls, or just make it look like a unicorn threw up in the bathtub. Each color has a different fruity scent — personally, I wanna try the banana mango one first! A thin scarf that comes in a variety of different patterns and can be styled in a myriad of different ways. Tie it around your neck, use it to keep your hair up, wrap it around your bag's strap — and then hope someone mistakes it for an Hermès Twilly. Or a — dare I say — *perfect* chiffon hair bow to make any hairdo instantly, heart-achingly romantic. Time to sit by a window and gaze out longingly. Really angle your head so everyone can see your new bow. A solar-powered frog figurine with a lantern that lights up when the sun sets. It'll feel so nice to have a lil' friend welcome you home with a cozy glow each night. A pack of nail polish bottl— nope! JK, they're highlighters. Use these cute markers to polish up your notes in style. Squishy stress cubes with lil' glow-in-the-dark critters suspended inside. Free them! Actually, don't — just give 'em a good squeeze whenever you're feeling stressed or restless. A handful of rhinestone magnets so you can bedazzle your fridge or locker. Surely everyone wants a fridge that looks like it belongs to Miss Piggy? Cropped pants with trendy wide stripes that look a lot like a way more expensive pair I've been eyeing for so long, they sold out. Luckily, reviewers confirm these look amazing, fit comfortably, and have just the right amount of stretch. Spiceology's best-selling Black & Bleu seasoning, a cajun and blue cheese blend that OBVIOUSLY is gonna make any steak or burger amazing — but why stop there? Nachos, pizza, fries, and popcorn could all benefit from a generous dusting of this cheesy, tangy seasoning. An adorable bikini with reversible bottoms so you can mix up your look even if you only packed the one swimmie for a four-day vacation. 1,100+ 5-star reviews tell me taking a chance on this affordable suit wouldn't be a risky move. Or a fishnet bikini ready to catch you a ton of compliments. QQ: Could I wear this to the club? OK Play — one of the only games I've seen that you can carry around on a keychain. A convenient fashion statement, perhaps? Anyone six and up can have fun playing this travel game that only takes seconds to learn (but hours to master). A Lego cherry blossom kit for decor you can build yourself. The 430-piece set comes with everything you need to build two stems, and at less than $10, it's a steal compared to most Lego kits. Crunji — aka the viral Korean flat croissant snack of your dreams. These crunchy treats have a sweet caramelized crust, a dash of salt, and work wonderfully alone or as a cracker. A chicken shoe charm that may seem like an unnecessary purchase, but hear me out: They provide a bigger tab for pulling on your shoes! Maybe you can even get out of having to untie your Chucks altogether. Skala's Mais Cacho Hair 2-in-1 Conditioning Treatment for all your curly hair moisturizing needs. Apply it in the shower to use it as a normal conditioner, or leave it in after washing your hair for all-day hydration that will keep curls happy and bouncy. Murdle: Volume 1 — a book featuring 100 logic puzzles from the popular daily puzzle site, Murdle. Armchair detectives can work to crack the case and find out who did it, where, and with what. There are four levels of difficulty, ranging from elementary to impossible, so you can stay challenged as you go. A "Buttercup" butter maker if you want to live that rustic cottagecore life but know in your heart you don't have what it takes to churn butter for 45 minutes. With this gadget, you can make fresh butter in under five minutes — thank you, technology! Time to talk about mix-ins. I'm thinking truffle, black garlic, and maybe some rosemary. Uno No Mercy: a bestselling, but controversial, spin on the classic card game. There are tougher action cards (like Skip Everyone) and rules (if you get 25+ cards in your hand, you're OUT) to up the tension. If you were on speaking terms with all your family members before playing, you might not be after a few rounds... A vintage-style (paper mache!) candy bucket for anyone who loves elevated Halloween decor. If you're thinking, "it's a little early for this..." NO, it is not. A sprout hairclip with a clever transparent design that makes it look like the leaf is growing right out of your head. Now you can say, "why yes, I AM a forest spirit, thanks for asking." A book of luscious, high-quality flower prints perfect for photo backdrops, wrapping paper, wall art, and crafting. I own a couple of these books, and can confirm the paper and print quality are A+++. A Case-Mate's iconic waterproof beach tote so heartbreakingly adorable, you'll want to use it for more than just swimming trips. Look at the bow handles! It even comes with a waterproof phone pouch with a touchscreen window so you can snap pics of your new bag. A pack of *limited edition* fabric Band-Aids with such fun, summery patterns, you'll find yourself actually wanting to get a paper cut just so you can wear one. Londontown "Nail Veil" Protectant offering a low-maintenance way to keep your nails without having to deal with smudges, chips, or nail damage from gels. It helps protect your nails and gives them a subtle tint of color, so you can apply and forget about it for the rest of the week. A pull-on midi skirt so you can finally pull off THE Instagram fashionista look: tied tee, chunky chain, Baggu crescent bag, sneaks, and this amazing skirt. And once you're sick of that look, you can style it a million other ways, from sandals to big boots. A decaf cold brew concentrate for people who love the taste of coffee more than the caffeine. The Arabica specialty coffee comes with 3% caffeine and has tasting notes of grapefruit, orange, and dark chocolate. Yum!
Buzz Feed
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
37 Gifts That Don't Cost A Lot But Will Absolutely Become One Of Their Favorites
An Ikea bag coin purse that'll just be the cutest thing they ever did see — it's perfectly sized to hold their earbuds and keys while paying tribute to the greatest thing to come out of Sweden (aside from their meatballs, obvs). A waterproof version of the beloved Taco, Cat, Goat Cheese, Pizza game — it's a card game they can play with their family for guaranteed giggles and a way to catch their breath from traipsing around in the ocean. A tiny bookshelf that'll quickly become their favorite way to de-stress after a long day — they can shake it to send the teeny books flying, then (after a restorative deep breath) put them back on the shelf. My apologies to their rage room membership, this might just be the solution they need. A jute tote for your friend who spends their weekends hunting through their local farmers market for the freshest flowers and would really benefit from a sturdy bag to help carry them home. One reviewer even used it to display florals on their wall! A shockingly realistic-looking soup can safe to stash their life savings in so they can live without the fear of their sibling's grubby little paws trying to snatch it and spend it all on ice cream. A light-up flying orb that'll make them feel like David Blaine whenever they break it out for a mental break from doom-scrolling. It's basically a fidget spinner for tech fiends — it has built-in lighting, a boomerang effect, and can be thrown at a variety of angles and speeds! A tube of Summer Fridays lip butter balm for your bestie who has a habit of reapplying over and over mid-gossip sesh — replenish their stash with a conditioning, shea and murumuru seed butter–packed option they'll love as much as they do spilling tea with the girls. And a keychain cap holder designed to fit their new fave Summer Fridays lip balm to ensure they don't lose it when they're out and about in the sun, sipping an iced coffee, riding their bike along the boardwalk, lounging at the beach, eating an ice cream cone, etc. A balloon-dog bag charm that'll help them climb aboard the ~bag charm train~ without compromising the quirky style they've carefully put together over the years. Allllllllll aboard! Or a novelty crossbody bag they can count on to always be the literal cherry on top of all of their looks. It's big enough to hold all of their essentials (phone, wallet, keys, lip balm) but small enough that they won't be able to overstuff it like they do their other everyday bag. A trio of hypoallergenic gold-plated earrings for anyone who is tired of their current lineup and wants an easy, trendy fix they can pop into their lobes and say, "Ooh, cute!" A gold-plated paper clip necklace from affordable (and fabulous) jewelry brand Pavoi, whose sole mission seems to be finding a way to glam up all of our looks without having to gobble up all of our dollars. One reviewer even used it as a base to make a charm necklace! And a set of golden bracelets that'll make it seem like you've splurged on the famed Cartier versions but for less than 20 bucks! They can wear 'em together or separate them and pair them up with their already-loved baubles. A set of LED lightsaber chopsticks you're going to need to order two sets of so you can share 'em with the Chewbacca to your Han Solo (aka whoever happens to be who you get sushi with every Friday night). One reviewer even ingeniously used them as hair accessories when visiting Galaxy's Edge! Ruffled crew socks with delicate flowers embroidered along them that'll bring their cottagecore vibes into a new season. They're breathable (perfect for summer) and will add a little extra *~somethin', somethin'~* to any outfit. A Creamy Coconut fragrance rollerball with a scent to transport them right into an island paradise anytime they apply it to their wrists. Is this what the Love Island villa smells like?! I'd like to think so. Lego cherry blossoms to add to their already-cherished brick bouquet or to plop into that darling little vase that's been sitting empty on their desk forever because they've never been willing to commit to keeping actual blooms alive. The I Love Trader Joe's Cookbook complete with 150 recipes, all using ingredients they can pick up at their beloved supermarket of choice. They can spend the next month cooking up a storm! A Bluetooth scrolling remote that'll take their laziness trait to the next level but leave them feeling smug at the same time for working smarter, not harder. They can set this bad boy up, get under the covers, and enjoy some seriously cozy, hands-free scrolling. A NeeDoh "Dream Drop," a must-have sensory fidget toy for anyone who can't seem to get their brain to focus on one task at a time. (Too many tabs open both literally and figuratively!) This lil' squish block is super satisfying to play with and reviewers love that it isn't sticky (no gross debris to try to clean off). A rechargeable heated ice cream scoop so they won't have to wait for their Ben & Jerry's Chunky Monkey Ice Cream to soften before *literally* digging in. Not a moment to waste!!! Some colored pencils with multi-colored tips that'll transform any boring coloring sesh into something straight out of their wildest dreams. I hope their imagination is ready to put these babies to work! A quilted leather crossbody purse that'll be reminiscent of the Chanel one they've always coveted, but comes in fun colors the brand would never touch. One ticket to Compliment City, coming right up. Murdle, Volume 1, a compilation of murder mystery–themed logic puzzles that are reminiscent of the ever-popular Wordle game — perfect for cracking open poolside. This version will encourage them to use powers of deduction and various clues to solve the mysteries throughout the book. Sherlock Holmes, who? An assortment of tomato seed packets that have been designed to look like tarot cards — aka the perfect gift for your friend who has both witchy vibes *and* a green thumb. A "Beverage Buddee" can cover they can add to their Diet Coke can or preferred spiked seltzer. It'll keep bugs and other random debris out of their drink (yuck) so they can enjoy it while you kick back in Adirondack chairs and exchange gossip without concern. A set of cowboy straw toppers so when they use their cup as a makeshift microphone to scream-sing Kacey Musgraves (again), they'll be adorably on theme. When I say "yee" you say "haw!" An Owala FreeSip water bottle in an exciting color that'll ensure no one ever picks up theirs by mistake while they're chatting up the cute lifeguard at the pool this summer. Not to mention, it's made of triple-layered, vacuum-insulated stainless steel that'll keep their drink cold for 24 hours *and* two ways to drink from it (a spout and a straw!) A neck reading light that's easy on the eyes, simpler to manage than a clip-on light, and a welcome addition to their nightly routine of falling asleep while reading a romance novel. And a personalized book stamp they can use to literally make their mark in the novels they typically loan out to fellow book club buds. A pickleball set to pay homage to their new favorite hobby! It comes with two paddles, four balls, and a bag to ensure they have the best-looking gear of all their competitors. Their nemesis' hot streak is about to be OVER! Sol de Janeiro Cheirosa 59 Hair & Body Perfume Mist, designed to channel the brand's ever-popular Cheirosa 62 but with a more woodsy vibe that's perhaps more fitting to their preference. It has delectable notes of sandalwood and vanilla orchid — so good they'll want to bask in their own scent all day. Or a bottle of Dossier's "Ambery Vanilla" perfume you know they'll adore since you were with them when they tried the sample size of YSL's Black Opium at the mall and fell in love with it but didn't have $95 to shell out. Luckily for them (and your wallet), this one is super similar and will leave you with enough money left to *also* treat both of you to lunch. Poems of Parenting, a book of relatable poems that'll have any new or seasoned parent laughing, crying, and feeling ALL the things. It perfectly captures what it's like to be a parent in today's world in hilarious but emotional sentiments they'll find themselves sending pics of to their mom squad with the same fervor they do memes on Insta. A wireless keyboard and mouse set featuring an aesthetic vibe that might just make them *actually* look forward to spending eight hours at their desk. At the very least their coworkers will be super jealous of how coordinated their workspace looks. A filtering straw to keep any grinds from traveling up, out, and into their mouth. This happened to me recently while sipping on an iced instant coffee... I promptly had to rinse my mouth out. Spare your pal this unpleasant experience, will ya? Not only will this straw filter out any debris, but they can also use it to brew coffee *directly* into any mug or cup (for cold brew). Genius. Or, Oxo's compact Brew Rapid Brewer that'll have anyone wondering, "Where has this been all of my life?" They can toss it into their work bag and literally make cold brew or hot coffee at their desk after surviving the morning commute traffic — it doesn't need to be plugged in or charged!
Business Times
5 days ago
- Business
- Business Times
Trump's self-defeating trade agenda
WHILE US President Donald Trump pursued a range of protectionist policies during his first term, the economic chaos and uncertainty he has unleashed since returning to the White House and launching his global trade war make those earlier efforts look mild by comparison. Railing against countries that run trade surpluses with the US, Trump has vowed to impose 'reciprocal tariffs' until all of America's trade deficits are eliminated. Yet he has imposed sweeping tariffs even on countries with which the US runs a trade surplus, such as Australia. The Trump administration has cited a wide range of reasons for its tariff hikes beyond reducing bilateral trade deficits, including national security, job creation and raising government revenue. The president and his advisers claim that other countries will be forced to negotiate and ultimately lower their own tariffs on US goods. But the recent deal between the US and the United Kingdom, which imposes a 10 per cent levy on most British exports, shows that even Trump's 'reduced' tariffs remain historically high. The unpredictability of his trade policies poses a grave threat to the global economy. Trump's tariff announcements have been followed by numerous delays and revisions, and his deadlines for finalising new trade deals have come and gone, only to be extended again. This erratic trade policy, combined with his apparent reluctance to follow through on his threats, has given rise to the nickname 'Taco', or 'Trump Always Chickens Out'. BT in your inbox Start and end each day with the latest news stories and analyses delivered straight to your inbox. Sign Up Sign Up So far, the Trump administration has secured new trade agreements with only a handful of countries, and even those have come with unexpected conditions. Earlier this month, for example, Trump announced a trade deal with Vietnam that imposes a 20 per cent tariff on Vietnamese imports, but only if Vietnam eliminates its own tariffs on US goods and its exports contain no Chinese components; otherwise, the rate jumps to 40 per cent. While that's lower than Trump's original rate of 46 per cent, it's still far higher than the 11 per cent that Vietnamese policymakers reportedly believed they had negotiated. Indonesia, for its part, accepted a 19 per cent tariff in exchange for granting most US goods duty-free access to its domestic market. So much for fairness and reciprocity. Similarly, tariffs on Chinese goods jumped from 10 per cent to 145 per cent, then were returned to 10 per cent – at least temporarily. But the average US tariff on Chinese imports still stands at 51.1 per cent, and Trump could raise it again if the two countries fail to reach a trade deal by Aug 12. Trump has also threatened to impose 30 per cent tariffs on the European Union (EU) and Mexico. While EU policymakers are hoping to avoid the tariffs through negotiations, they are reportedly considering retaliatory 'anti-coercion' measures of their own. Adding to the uncertainty are the president's tariff hikes and new restrictions on commodity imports. Since January, the US has raised steel, aluminium and copper tariffs to 50 per cent and imposed a 25 per cent tariff on auto parts. Although he claims that his deal with China will ensure US access to rare earth minerals, their status remains in limbo amid ongoing trade tensions. More than one million different tariff rates The entire process has been marked by confusion and inconsistency. For example, the administration imposed tariffs on imported urea – a key fertiliser input – from Qatar and Algeria, but not from Russia. As a result, by May, Russia was supplying 64 per cent of urea imports to the US, double its previous share. As if that weren't enough, some of Trump's actions serve no discernible economic purpose. Most notably, he has threatened to hit Brazil with 50 per cent tariffs to pressure its government not to prosecute former president – and Trump ally – Jair Bolsonaro. Likewise, he reimposed tariffs on aluminium and steel imports, despite clear evidence that job losses due to increases in input costs were far greater than the employment gains in protected industries during his first term. When tariffs vary by country and can change at a moment's notice, chaos is inevitable. There are currently more than 10,000 tariff classifications covering imports from over 160 countries. This means there could be more than one million different tariff rates, leaving customs officials and shippers to navigate an increasingly unmanageable system. Many of Trump's tariffs are ostensibly intended to strengthen national security, but it's difficult to see how targeting allies like Canada helps achieve that goal, especially since cutting off foreign suppliers would only drive up the cost of defence procurement. Moreover, allied countries could help the US increase production of certain goods when necessary, thereby supporting domestic capacity. Trump's tariffs will harm the US economy in several significant ways. For starters, contrary to his claims, raising tariffs does not reduce trade deficits. In fact, it undermines investment and trade, as well as increases the real cost of imported goods and provokes retaliation – hurting exports. The irony is that increased domestic production, spurred by protectionist policies, reduces the volume of imports – and with it, tariff revenues. In some cases, tariffs work at cross purposes: steel tariffs, for example, raise input costs for automakers. Consequently, tariff revenues will likely fall far short of the administration's expectations. As for job creation, some firms benefiting from tariff protection may invest in automation to replace human workers, especially in industries that rely on low-skilled labour. By contrast, firms in import-competing or export-oriented sectors are likely to respond to ongoing uncertainty over future tariffs by delaying capacity expansion. Another troubling consequence of the current tariff regime is the increasingly visible rise of crony capitalism, as a steady stream of foreign officials and American business executives descends on Washington to lobby for tariff exemptions and protections. Six months into his second presidency, it is abundantly clear that there is no coherent rationale behind Trump's tariffs. They are costly and haphazard, undermining economic growth and turning the free market that once drove US productivity into a breeding ground for rent-seeking and corruption. PROJECT SYNDICATE The writer, a former World Bank chief economist and former first deputy managing director of the International Monetary Fund, is senior research professor of international economics at the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies and senior fellow at the Center for International Development at Stanford University
Buzz Feed
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
Make The Most Of Late Summer With These 41 Products
Reusable water balloons that'll magnetically seal and are made of eco-friendly material — sooooo easy to fill so you'll spend less time prepping and more time indulging in an intense water balloon battle alongside your kiddos. Or a hilarious poop-shaped version your kids won't be able to stop giggling about all summer long. All they'll need to do is fill it with water and let the magnetic seal do the rest. A waterproof version of the beloved Taco, Cat, Goat Cheese, Pizza game — it's a card game you can play with your family for guaranteed giggles and a way to catch your breath from traipsing around in the ocean. A ribbed button-up tank that very likely could have inspired LFO's hit "Summer Girls" lyric, "I like girls that wear Abercrombie & Fitch," because it has *such* similar vibes to one of their trendiest pieces right now (but for way cheaper!) A tennis skirt with built-in shorts *and* an absolutely essential hidden pocket (who doesn't LOVE a pocket?!) so even if you have zero plans to hit the court (ever) you can rock the cutest little 'fit all summer without fear of a breeze revealing your fave pink undies to the world. A Dreo oscillating tower fan with six (!!!) speeds you can aim directly at yourself to ensure your always-too-hot body is kept at the epitome of comfort at all times. Since it's bladeless, it won't make a racket while you're trying to get some shut-eye or listen to your fave murder mystery podcast. A set of DEET-free mosquito-repelling bracelets that'll use the magic of essential oils (think: geranium and lemongrass) to keep those nasty little buggers away from your too-sweet skin. No more swatting around wildly while trying to hold a conversation at a BBQ! Bonus: these fit both kids and adults. Hawaiian Tropic's SPF 30 Mineral Powder Sunscreen Brush to finally solve your dilemma over whether to spray/rub sunscreen onto your exposed scalp. Simply brush this translucent powder along your exposed part/hairline (after applying it all over your face, of course) to add some much-needed protection from the sun. Burt's Bees After Sun Soother lotion for when you get attacked by the sun's harsh rays despite your best efforts. This lotion is packed with aloe and coconut oil to help your skin feel cooler after you accidentally got a bit too crispy sitting by the pool. An inflatable couch that'll convince you to actually go out once in a while since you'll be able to take the comfort of your couch with ya — plop this bad boy in the middle of the beach, a park, or your own backyard for a cozy, relaxing, good time. You won't even need a pump to blow it up (just trap some air inside it) and it can hold up to 440 pounds, in case your entire squad wants to pile in and snug under the stars. A sand-removal bag filled with a talc-free, reef-friendly powder to help remove the pesky particles your kiddo will likely have all over them after rolling around in the local playground's An outdoor bug zapper to stop pesky bugs from eating you alive while you're trying to grill some burgers and hot diggity dogs. I'm sure your family will miss the "show" of you swatting around wildly mid-cooking, but they'll just have to entertain themselves with a card game or some music instead. (Sorrrray!) Neutrogena Hydro Boost Body Moisturizing Gel Cream made with a super light, non-greasy formula that'll feel like a refreshing drink of water for your skin. Just imagine how incredible it'll feel to apply after your post-beach shower... soooo good. Vanilla Velvet Touchland Power Essence Hydrating Body and Hair Fragrance you can easily stow away in your tote to freshen up your scent throughout the day (a must during these gross, sweaty, summer days). Highwaisted athletic shorts with built-in underwear that'll solve all of your what-should-I-wear-when-it's-100-degrees dilemmas this season — they're made from quick-dry fabric that'll help you get through your workouts and hot summer days. A bag of Liquid I.V. electrolyte drink mix in a festive firecracker Popsicle flavor that'll give you the perfect excuse to try it out if you've been putting off putting this bev to the test — it'll keep you hydrated while also helping you feel like you're indulging in a classic summertime treat. Reviewers can't help but rave about how delish it is! A bladeless personal neck fan that'll be your new answer to the question, "If you could bring one thing to a desert island, what would it be?" Toss this baby around your neck, stretch out on your bed, turn on The Real Housewives of Miami and enjoy the cool breeze you've been missing since your AC conked out on ya. Or a battery-operated stroller fan with a flexible handle you can wrap around your headboard or prop up on a coffee table to keep you at the perfect temperature — a must-have if you don't have a ton of space in your room for a tower fan! Oxo's compact Brew Rapid Brewer that'll have anyone wondering, "Where has this been all of my life?" You can use it to make cold brew or hot coffee without the need for a bulky, countertop machine. It doesn't even need to be plugged in or charged! Iced coffee at the beach? Why the heck not! Plus, a Java Sok to keep your drink chilled and prevent it from dripping all over — it's a must-have for anyone who is tired of drinking watered-down iced coffee because they got caught up in a chaotic morning and didn't have a spare moment to sip on it. A foldable dog pool so your pup can hang with you all the live long day — even when it's hotter than heck outdoors. This easy-to-store pool simply folds up and down (no need to inflate or deflate in the hot sun) and features a slip-resistant bottom that'll be perfect for preventing Fido from getting hurt if he starts to get a bit wet 'n' wild. And an orthopedic memory foam dog bed packed with a cooling gel that'll be a prime spot for your beloved pup to rest their tired-from-playing-all-day paws on. In addition to being comfy-cozy, it has a removable cover you can pop right into the washing machine after they track dirt all over it. An ice roller, which is said to help decrease under-eye puffiness, minimize fine lines, and shrink the look of pores, as well as relieve headaches and sore muscles. Most importantly, it'll become your I'm-way-too-hot lifeline — roll it along your neck for an instant cool-down. A cooling sheet set with thousands of positive reviews to give you the confidence to give 'em a shot despite only being 30 bucks! The set comes with pillow cases, a flat sheet, and a fitted sheet — everything you'd need to give your bed an upgrade. An at-home slushy-making cup for anyone who has been debating changing their name to "Sweaty Betty" this summer — cool yourself down with a daily slushy instead of trudging over to Social Security to fill out all that paperwork. A Ninja Swirl machine you won't regret purchasing for a single second when you've been feeling like an actual hot mess all day and desperately need to cool yourself down. This gadget can make soft serve ice cream (GASP!) as well as frozen yogurt, frozen custard, sorbet, milkshakes, and scooped ice cream — you'll basically feel like you've just bought the ability to transform your kitchen into an ice cream shop whenever the mood strikes. A rechargeable heated ice cream scoop so you won't have to wait for your Ben & Jerry's Chunky Monkey Ice Cream to soften before *literally* digging in. Not a moment to waste!!! A pair of anti-chafing shorts you'll slide on and want to shout, "WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN FOR ALL OF MY LIFE?!" because they are that life-changing. Throw 'em on under your dresses and skirts and kiss those sweaty thighs goodbye. Gold Bond Friction Defense Stick to help you fight the good fight against your thighs and summer chafing — is there anything more irritating (literally) then wearing your favorite dress only to be left with red, painful welts by the end of the day? I think not. A set of absorbent bra liners made from a seemingly magical blend of cotton and bamboo who will work together to keep your uncomfortable underboob sweat at bay. You'll also be happy to have it on hand when your only clean bra is the one with a pesky underwire — these can add some extra cushion! SweatBlock antiperspirant wipes that'll become your saving grace if you're running around so much, you're constantly dripping in sweat. These babies are prescription strength and designed to take on hyperhidrosis, nervous sweating, and hormonal sweating. These wipes did NOT come to play! A sweat-controlling whole body deodorant designed to be applied to ANYWHERE you typically get sweaty — and it's designed to keep you sweat-free for up to 72 hours in addition to being odor-free. Witchcraft? Perhaps, but, BRB, I need to dip my entire body in this substance for the next few months. An adjustable mister with a neck that's more flexible than your yoga instructor — rig it up above your fave place to catch some sun and let it ensure you're kept nice 'n' cool even when the sun is at its strongest. Apparently, it can keep any outdoor area up to 20 degrees cooler (sign me up). Round sunglasses for anyone who constantly loses their favorite pair and is sick and tired of spending far too much money on replacements — these are stylish and *so* cost-effective you can stock up for the summer! Or polarized heart-shaped sunglasses with rainbow mirrored lenses for the finishing touch on the flawless outfits you've put together to wear while boppin' between summer soirées. A sand-free blanket designed so that sand (or dirt) rolls right off it — because is there anything worse than finding debris in every crevice of your car after lounging at the beach all day? It can fit four adults on it and and folds up nice 'n' small, so you can carry it around with ease. A longline sports bra that'll function as a shirt or a bra — yes, she's a two-for-one special you'll daydream about throwing on the second you walk in the door after work. See ya later, business casual blazer! This beauty comes in 29 colors (SHEESH!) so you can truly load up and make it your post-workday uniform. Trendy boxer-style shorts you'll pat yourself on the back for choosing over the $98 ones from Reformation — I mean, should any pajama-like bottoms cost more than 10 bucks? Doubtful! These are cute to boot, affordable, and reviewers praise them for being light and lovely for hot summer days. A watermelon pool ball made of PVC material that'll hold up stronger than your willpower when your kiddo makes their eyes super big and very sweetly asks for an ice cream cone. Be warned: this isn't just any beach ball! It can be dribbled underwater (I KNOOOOW!), can be inflated in seconds with a water hose using an included needle-sized disaster, and weighs over 14 lbs when it's full! A splash pad you'll thank your lucky stars for when it's hotter than the sun itself outside and your kids are looking for a way to have fun and cool down. An inflatable lounge pool even adults can enjoy, so you can pretend you're on vacation in the Hamptons instead of sweating your butt off on your apartment's tiny patio.
The Sun
6 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Asean's greatest strength is unity
DESPITE US President Donald Trump's trademarked unpredictability – now popularly coined 'Taco' (Trump Always Chickens Out) – one thing has become increasingly certain: Southeast Asian countries now have major targets on their backs. With six Asean members receiving tariff letters in the first round from Washington, Trump has stepped up his public display of frustration towards the bloc's collectively export-oriented economies. With a 25% tariff slapped on Malaysia and other varying amounts across Southeast Asian states, Asean members must ramp up their collective efforts to revitalise regional diplomacy to help immunise the bloc against uncertainties and external shocks. Kuala Lumpur's recent hosting of the Asean-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit and the inaugural Asean-GCC-China Summit illustrates the bloc's multivector diplomacy in action. Rather than adhering to traditional non-alignment to avoid entanglements, Asean has pioneered a strategy of multialignment, actively leveraging multiple partnerships for competitive advantage. Amid multitude of conflicts in the Middle East and ongoing tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border, global and regional instability only underscores the urgency with which Asean must advance its strategic multialignment approach. Strategic posture in the new multipolar order Asean's strategic multialignment differs fundamentally from the Cold War-era non-alignment. Instead of avoiding great power entanglements, Asean is cultivating diversified partnerships to maximise leverage and minimise dependency. The numbers tell the story. In 2024, Asean's trade with China grew by 15%, trade with the US increased by 12% and trade with the EU rose by 18%, proving that strategic diversification works. Bilateral agreements recently signed with China by Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand are not pledges of trade allegiance but calculated moves to reap economic benefits while preserving political independence. Singapore exemplifies this approach, having signed US$8.2 billion (RM35 billion) worth of new agreements with China in 2024 while simultaneously deepening defence cooperation with the US and expanding trade partnerships with the EU. This is strategic multiplication of options, which is a necessity. Furthermore, initiatives like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, which has already reduced tariffs on 65% of traded goods within 18 months of implementation, institutionalise this balancing act, enabling the bloc to foster multilateral ties globally without compromising strategic autonomy. The result? Countries like Vietnam now source 23% of their foreign domestic investment from China, 19% from Japan, 15% from South Korea and 12% from the US – a diversification that would have been impossible under canonical alignment models. Regional economic growth Southeast Asia is emerging as a rare economic bright spot in an increasingly fragmented global landscape. The regional economy grew by 4.3% in 2024 and GDP is projected to continue expanding at around 4% in 2025, despite ongoing external headwinds. The Asean-GCC partnership alone is projected to generate US$50 billion in new trade flows by 2027 while the region's digital economy is set to reach US$1 trillion by 2030. The deepening integration between Asean, GCC and China – representing over 2.15 billion people and combined GDP nearing US$25 trillion – signals transformative potential for regional growth. In 2024 alone, this bloc attracted US$419 billion in FDI (30% of global inflows), highlighting its collective economic resilience. Over the past three years, Asean member states have strategically broadened their partnerships, signing comprehensive agreements with countries such as Japan, Australia, India and South Korea, generating over US$200 billion in new investment commitments. Beyond traditional manufacturing, Asean is positioning itself as the world's blue economy hub, with maritime industries contributing US$2.4 trillion annually to the region's GDP. Pragmatic diversification and 'third way' in diplomacy Within boardrooms in Asean, the conversation has shifted from 'How do we avoid taking sides?' to 'How do we benefit from all sides?' – a marked progress in the region's strategic decision-making. Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's recent visit to Russia resulted in US$10 billion worth of energy and technology agreements while maintaining Malaysia's existing US$80.2 billion trade relationship with the US. This is not diplomatic fence-sitting but strategic portfolio management. Diversification is the absolute key. Conclusion The shift from selective engagement to strategic multialignment shows that middle powers can shape the contours of the global order. Regional leaders should now focus on institutionalising these partnerships through formalising mechanisms of permanent secretariats, standardised trade protocols and integrated supply chain agreements. What we are witnessing is Asean nations prioritising pragmatic partnerships over ideological alignment, which anchors diplomacy in balance and not bias. Regionalism rooted in shared interests can be a proactive force in an increasingly fragmented world, a viable path to long-term stability in a multipolar era. Vijay Eswaran is the founder and executive chairman of the QI Group and has built businesses across Asean markets for over 25 years. He is a frequent commentator on Southeast Asian affairs. Comments: letters@
