Sports piracy crackdown raises questions over whether it is out of control

Control of Britain’s 39 million smart meters is passing to a non-profit startup, The Guardian reports. The shift affects how household energy usage data is managed and accessed. It matters because smart-meter data underpins billing, grid management and consumer energy services across the UK.

Crude oil prices dropped after markets reacted to signs of a possible diplomatic breakthrough aimed at ending the war involving Iran. The decline reflects how traders are pricing in reduced risk to global energy supplies. Any breakthrough would have wide implications for oil markets and the broader world economy.

Guardian sport columnist Greg Wood argues that the betting regulations around Australia’s Melbourne Cup offer lessons for the UK. He suggests these rules could help British authorities prevent an boom in illegal gambling. The comparison matters as UK policymakers weigh how to regulate betting markets more effectively.

Almost 8.4 million ticket requests have been made for the Cricket World Cup match between India and Pakistan. The huge demand highlights the intense rivalry and global interest in the fixture. The match is one of the most anticipated in the tournament.

A rampant mining boom has transformed an Amazonian town, with goods such as Chinese cigarettes and Bolivian beer reflecting new wealth and cross-border trade. The shift is reshaping the local economy and daily life, while raising concerns about environmental and social pressures.