United News of Bangladesh

As the gardening season draws to a close, many home gardeners may be tempted to rearrange shrubs for a better landscape design — but experts caution that timing is key to ensuring healthy transplants. Gardeners should avoid rushing to move late-blooming shrubs. For example, Clethra bushes, which flower in late summer, should be transplanted in spring — right after emerging from dormancy — to allow enough time for roots to establish before blooming begins. Conversely, spring and early summer bloomers are best moved in the fall, after their flowering season has ended. Start with the rootsBefore digging, it’s crucial to understand how deep and wide a shrub’s roots typically grow. Shallow-rooted plants like rhododendrons are easier to move than deep-rooted ones such as manzanita. The plant’s age also matters, as older shrubs have larger, tougher root systems. When preparing the new site, the hole should be roughly twice as wide as the root system and the same depth as the plant’s original location. Always dig the new hole first to minimize the time the roots are exposed to air. Gently tying branches together can prevent eye injuries and provide a clearer view while digging. Use a sharp shovel to carefully loosen soil around the plant’s perimeter, working gradually to lift as much of the rootball as possible. The science behind growing a giant pumpkin Planting with careTo move the shrub safely, place it on a tarp and drag it to its new location. Ensure the rootball sits at the same level as before — not too deep, to avoid rot, and not too shallow, to prevent drying and damage. After positioning the plant, backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down periodically to remove air pockets. Water halfway through, continue filling, then water again before applying mulch over the root zone. Mulch helps retain moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Throughout the first year, water the shrub consistently until frost, but avoid fertilizing too soon. Experts recommend waiting until mid-to-late spring to apply a slow-release, low-nitrogen fertilizer — giving the plant time to recover and establish roots before promoting new growth. Proper timing and technique, they say, can make the difference between a struggling transplant and a thriving shrub that flourishes for years. Source: AP 

Through PT Bio Farma (Persero), Indonesia has played a strategic and sustained role in the Developing Countries Vaccine Manufacturers’ Network (DCVMN), working to ensure equitable access to safe, high-quality, and affordable vaccines. Since DCVMN’s founding in 2000, Bio Farma has been a key driver in advancing vaccine self-reliance and public health capacity in developing countries. Collaboration between Bio Farma and DCVMN has been established since the inception of the network. At the first DCVMN Annual General Meeting in Noordwijk in 2000, Bio Farma was one of ten founding members dedicated to advancing vaccine collaboration. In April 2001, Bio Farma in Bandung hosted the 2nd AGM, where the network formalized the DCVMN’s structure and governance. Chaired by then-President Director Thamrin Poeloengan, this meeting established Indonesia as a hub for vaccine collaboration and knowledge-sharing among developing countries. Shadiq Akasya, current President Director of Bio Farma, stated that the company’s participation in DCVMN reflects Indonesia’s commitment to contributing to global health beyond national interests. “Bio Farma’s involvement in DCVMN since its establishment is not merely about representation, but about making a tangible contribution toward global vaccine self-reliance. Through collaboration and innovation, we are committed to delivering equitable and sustainable health solutions for all,” said Shadiq. “We believe that the true strength of the developing countries’ vaccine industry lies in collaboration. Through our active role in DCVMN, we aim to ensure that every nation has access to safe, high-quality, and affordable vaccines, a real manifestation of Indonesia’s contribution to global health security,” he added. In 2004, Bio Farma, together with other DCVMN members, played a vital role in expanding access to the pentavalent (DPT-HepB-Hib) vaccine through a technology-transfer collaboration with the Netherlands Vaccine Institute. This achievement demonstrated that Bio Farma’s contributions within the DCVMN network are not symbolic but deeply technical and practical. Global trust in Bio Farma has continued to grow. In 2012, Indonesia once again hosted the 13th DCVMN AGM in Bali. Mahendra Suhardono, one of Bio Farma’s directors at the time, was elected President of the Executive Committee for the 2013 - 2014 term. Indonesia’s leadership was further recognized when Bio Farma was entrusted to serve as Chair of the Board of DCVMN for the 2023-2025 period, acting as a bridge between network members and global strategic priorities, while showcasing Indonesia’s capacity to lead the vaccine industry in developing countries. Bio Farma’s commitment to innovation goes far beyond collaboration. In 2020, its nOPV2 vaccine became the first to receive an Emergency Use Listing from the World Health Organization, enabling faster deployment of vaccines during global health emergencies.  This achievement reflected not only Bio Farma’s scientific and technical excellence but also effective coordination and communication among multiple international stakeholders, including funders, scientists, academic researchers, policymakers, global vaccine advocates, and vaccine manufacturers. Such collaboration enabled the rapid development, approval, and rollout of nOPV2 during a critical moment for global public health. This milestone demonstrated that a developing-country manufacturer can achieve world-class innovation, meeting the highest international standards of safety, quality, and efficacy recognized by the WHO. Beyond being a scientific breakthrough, nOPV2 represents technological self-reliance and global confidence in Indonesia’s capability to contribute meaningfully to international health security. Bio Farma’s success serves as an inspiration to all DCVMN members to continue strengthening their research, development, and production capacity in pursuit of achieving vaccine self-sufficiency and global health resilience across developing countries. With a production capacity of more than 3.5 billion doses per year, Bio Farma supplies vaccines to over 150 countries and holds WHO Prequalification certification for 12 types of vaccines. As the Center of Excellence for the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in vaccine development, production, and distribution, Bio Farma continues to strengthen Indonesia’s strategic role in the global health landscape. The upcoming 26th DCVMN Annual General Meeting, to be held in Bali on 29–31 October 2025, marks an important moment for Indonesia to reaffirm its leadership in global health diplomacy. Through this forum, Bio Farma is committed to advancing innovation, collaboration, and vaccine self-reliance worldwide, toward a more resilient and equitable global health ecosystem. About DCVMN The Developing Countries Vaccine Manufacturers Network (DCVMN) is a global alliance of 46 vaccine manufacturers from 17 developing countries, established in 2000 to strengthen public health through equitable access to high-quality vaccines.DCVMN promotes collaboration among its members through advocacy, capacity building, professional training, and joint research initiatives, aimed at enhancing global immunization programs. Working closely with international organizations such as WHO, UNICEF, GAVI, CEPI, PATH, CHAI, and the Gates Foundation, DCVMN strives to ensure that every nation has the capability to produce and supply affordable, life-saving vaccines. For further information, please visit dcvmn.org. About Bio Farma PT Bio Farma (Persero) is Indonesia’s state-owned life science company and the largest vaccine manufacturer in Southeast Asia.Founded in 1890 and headquartered in Bandung, Bio Farma produces and supplies vaccines to more than 150 countries, while playing an active role in biotechnology research, innovation, and global health security.As a member of DCVMN, Bio Farma continues to contribute to international collaboration to ensure equitable vaccine access and improved global public health. For further information, please visit www.biofarma.co.id .

“Being bald is sexy. It’s an attitude. It’s a luxury. It’s a lifestyle.” That’s how Brennan Nevada Johnson introduces her video podcast, launched last November to celebrate the confidence and beauty of bald women. Fourteen years ago, Johnson voluntarily shaved her head — a decision that would reshape her life and perspective. For centuries, long hair has been regarded as a symbol of femininity, health and fertility. But a growing number of women are challenging that notion, redefining baldness as bold, beautiful and empowering. “Once you do it, it brings all this confidence into your life,” said Johnson, 34. “Whenever you see someone bald and not wearing a wig, know that they’ve fully embraced themselves — and that’s not easy to do.” Her initial decision was practical. As a college volleyball player, sweat often ruined her costly hair treatments. Once she shaved her head, she never looked back. “It’s such a fashion statement, and it’s a really powerful look,” said Johnson, now a New York-based public relations entrepreneur. Her podcast, Bald and Buzzed with Brennan, aims to create a space where bald women can feel affirmed and celebrated. Across the U.S., many women — whether bald by choice or due to health conditions — are finding solidarity through online communities, conferences and social media. Dash Lopez, a 29-year-old content creator, shaved her head during the pandemic after years of frustration with her hair. “It makes me feel powerful that I’m detaching from things people place so much emphasis on,” she said. Her online videos about bald beauty have reached millions. Lopez briefly enjoyed success in modeling, but said bookings declined when trends shifted. Still, she remains committed to embracing her look. “I’m doing it for my own self-empowerment and a deeper understanding of what beauty means to me.” For others, the journey began with illness. Atlanta flight attendant Felicia Flores lost her hair due to alopecia and initially wore wigs to hide it. Inspired by other bald women, she eventually embraced her look and later founded Baldie Con, an annual event celebrating bald beauty. In Philadelphia, nurse and weekend mechanic Aicha Soumaoro said going bald gave her “a new skin, a new layer, a new personality.” “Being bald is like a boost of confidence out of nowhere,” said Soumaoro, 27. “It feels amazing — like I was born again.” Atlanta performer Tiffany Michael Thomas, who goes by the stage name Amor Lauren, shaved her head in solidarity with her mother during cancer treatment. After her mother’s passing, she kept the look. “Once I embraced it, I felt unstoppable,” said Thomas, 37. “There’s nothing left to hide behind anymore.” Her message to women who hesitate? “Do it scared. The best way to overcome fear is to face it.”   Source: AP  

Cultural Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki has said that around 10 to 12 lakh people attended this year’s Lalon Festival in Kushtia, citing district administration figures. In a Facebook post on Monday, he said the massive turnout might make it “the biggest cultural festival in our history.” “Lalon is deeply rooted in our culture, and probably the biggest cultural ambassador for Bangladesh,” he wrote on Monday. The annual Lalon Festival, commemorating the 135th death anniversary of Baul saint Fakir Lalon Shah, drew an unprecedented number of devotees, artists, and visitors this year in both Kushtia and Dhaka. According to the Kushtia district administration, around 10 to 12 lakh people attended the three-day celebration in Cheuriya, the spiritual abode of Lalon, making it one of the largest cultural gatherings in Bangladesh’s history. From October 17 to 19, the Lalon Akhra in Cheuriya resonated with Baul songs, philosophical discussions, and spiritual exchanges, as devotees and followers gathered to honour the mystic bard. Renowned Baul singers including Tun Tun Baul, Sunil Karmakar, Rowshan Fakir, and Latif Shah, along with numerous other artists from across the country, performed at the festival, filling the air with the melodies of Lalon’s timeless songs. Simultaneously, a Lalon Festival was also held in Dhaka’s Suhrawardy Udyan on October 18, where performances were presented by Emon Chowdhury and Bengal Symphony, Lalon Band, Nirob & Bauls, Pathik Nabi, Suchona Shely, Baula Band, Arup Rahee, Somogeet, and several other musicians and groups. The massive attendance at both the Kushtia and Dhaka events highlighted the enduring appeal of Lalon’s philosophy of humanity, equality, and spirituality, reaffirming his profound influence as a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s intangible cultural heritage.  

Victoria Beckham, once known to the world as “Posh Spice,” is stepping back into the spotlight — this time to tell her own story. In her new Netflix documentary, Victoria Beckham, the former pop star turned fashion designer opens up about her struggles, ambitions, and the journey from fame to credibility in the global fashion industry. Speaking to the Associated Press in New York, Beckham recalled her early insecurities. “At theater school, they put me in the back row because I was too heavy,” she said, sipping sparkling water between meetings. “We were all judged on how we looked. I was young, had bad skin, my weight went up and down, and I had really lank hair.” The three-part documentary traces her evolution from bullied student to pop sensation to respected designer. It culminates with her 2024 Paris runway show — a defining moment for Beckham, who spent years proving she was more than just a celebrity with a fashion label. The film also features her husband, football legend David Beckham, echoing the format of his own hit Netflix series Beckham. “I’ve been in the fashion industry for almost two decades but was defined by four years in the Spice Girls,” she said. “I’m proud of that time, but I’ve been fighting preconceptions ever since.” The documentary reveals that Beckham initially funded her own career — buying their first home and supporting herself — before David later invested in her fashion business. It also explores how her label nearly collapsed due to lavish spending, including £70,000 on office plants, before she restructured the company with investors’ help. “I’ve learned so much,” she said. “I know what I know, and I really know what I don’t know. We had to rethink everything to save the business, and I took that on the chin.” Now 51, Beckham says her brand has achieved stability. “Fashion is profitable on its own, which I’m proud of in this climate. Beauty is also doing incredibly well,” she said. “Now it’s about building the house I’ve always dreamed of.” Beckham admits she has long been misunderstood. “Before social media, the media told the story — and I always looked miserable in photos. The documentary lets me explain why.” While she speaks candidly about childhood insecurities and body image, she also credits the Spice Girls for giving her confidence. “They made me believe I could be funny, that I could be myself,” she said. Reflecting on her journey, Beckham said she hopes her story inspires others. “I’ve been told ‘no’ so many times. If my story gives anyone the confidence to follow their dreams, that’s reason enough to tell it.”   Source: AP

European nations have a rich legacy of top-standard education, offering globally recognised degrees. Beyond this academic excellence, some European countries charge low tuition fees for non-EU international students. For Bangladeshi undergraduate students, this combination of quality and affordability creates a rare opportunity for global learning. Let’s explore the 10 European countries where HSC-passed Bangladeshi students can do higher studies with comparably low tuition and affordable living costs. Top 10 Budget-friendly European Study Destinations for Bangladeshi HSC-passed Students . Germany Public universities across Germany remain tuition-free, even for international students outside the EU, making the country one of the most affordable study destinations in Europe. Private universities, however, charge tuition fees ranging in the vicinity of EUR 5,000 and 7,000 per semester, still lower than those in many other countries. These figures translate from BDT 7,09,800 to 9,93,720 (EUR 1 = BDT 141.96). An exception exists in the state of Baden-Württemberg, where non-EU students pay EUR 1,500 (BDT 2,12,940) per semester. All students must also cover an administrative charge of EUR 200 – 500 (BDT 28,392 – 70,980) per semester, which includes campus administrative costs, student services, and a semester ticket for unlimited local public transport. Read more: Top 10 Countries Offering Post-Study Work Visas for International Students Average monthly living expenses range from EUR 900 to 1,200 (BDT 1,27,764 – 1,70,352) for rent, food, insurance, and transportation. In larger cities, a monthly budget of around EUR 1,000 (BDT 1,41,960) is generally sufficient. Romania When it comes to affordability, Romania stands out as one of Europe’s most cost-effective destinations for higher education. Public universities charge a fee set roughly at EUR 2,300 and 3,000 per academic year (BDT 3,26,508 – 4,25,880), while private universities average around EUR 9,000 (BDT 12,77,640) annually. Living expenses typically range between EUR 300 and 600 (BDT 42,588 – 85,176) per month, covering accommodation, food, transportation, and leisure. Hungary Degree programmes offered in Hungary are known for their reasonable tuition structure, with most courses costing in the EUR 1,200 and 5,000 (BDT 1,70,352 – 7,09,800) range per year. Programs in Medicine and Dentistry fall into a higher bracket, roughly set at EUR 12,000 and 16,000 annually (BDT 17,03,520 – 22,71,360). At privately funded institutions, tuition begins at nearly EUR 2,500 (BDT 3,54,900) and can rise depending on specialisation and reputation. Read more: How Bangladeshi Students Can Attest Certificates Online Before Going Overseas Monthly expenses usually lie within the EUR 600 and 1,000 (BDT 85,176 – 1,41,960) range, influenced largely by city and lifestyle choices. Poland In Polish state-owned universities, tuition for undergraduate studies typically falls between EUR 2,000 and 8,000 per annum (BDT 2,83,920 – 11,35,680). Privately run institutions may charge higher fees, though more reasonable options are also available. Average monthly costs hover around EUR 350 – 550 (BDT 49,686 – 78,078) in most cities. In major urban centres such as Krakow and Warsaw, students generally require EUR 500 – 850 (BDT 70,980 – 1,20,666) to meet living expenses. Lithuania Higher education in Lithuania offers competitive pricing, with annual fees for bachelor’s programs generally within EUR 3,500 – 5,000 (BDT 4,96,860 – 7,09,800). Actual figures may fluctuate depending on the institution and academic field. Read more: Study in Lithuania: Application Process, Visa, Scholarships, Costs, and Benefits Monthly living costs for international students usually remain moderate, ranging from EUR 350 (BDT 49,686) to EUR 700 (BDT 99,372) for accommodation, food, and daily essentials. Slovenia Non-EU/EEA students benefit from cost-effective study options in Slovenia, making quality higher education more accessible. Tuition costs generally fall close to EUR 2,000 and 11,000 per year (BDT 2,83,920 – 15,61,560) for bachelor’s programmes in Slovenia. Students typically require a monthly budget of EUR 400 – 700 (BDT 56,784 – 99,372) to cover accommodation, food, transportation, and utilities. Italy Affordable academic opportunities are available for students outside EU/EEA in Slovenia, without compromising on educational standards. Tuition at public universities in Italy typically varies from EUR 500 to 4,000 annually (BDT 70,980 – 5,67,840), while private institutions and business schools start close to EUR 10,000 (BDT 14,19,600) annually. Read: Higher Studies in Italy: Application Process, Costs, Student Visa, Scholarships, and Benefits Read more: Study in South Korea: Admission, Visa, Costs, Scholarships, and Opportunities for International Students Monthly expenses average between EUR 900 and 1,300 (BDT 1,27,764 – 1,84,548), covering rent, meals, transportation, and general living needs. Austria Undergrad programs in Austria remain relatively economical at public institutions, where tuition is about EUR 726 per semester (BDT 1,03,063). There is a small student union fee, amounting to approximately EUR 1,500 annually (BDT 2,12,940). Privately operated universities charge considerably more, with fees ranging from EUR 5,000 to over 20,000 per year (BDT 7,09,800 – 28,39,200). The average student’s living expenditure is around EUR 1,200 monthly (BDT 1,70,352), though costs tend to rise in major cities such as Vienna. Czech Republic Earning a bachelor’s degree in the Czech Republic typically costs within the EUR 3,000 and 10,000 (BDT 4,25,880 – 14,19,600) range a year. Privately run institutions charge more, usually EUR 3,000 – 20,000+ annually (BDT 4,25,880 – 28,39,200), depending on the discipline.  Read more: How To Prepare For Higher Studies Abroad After HSC Monthly living costs average EUR 500 – 750 (BDT 70,980 – 1,06,470), though expenses are higher in major cities like Prague or Brno due to accommodation prices. Luxembourg In budget-friendly criteria, Luxembourg is a bit behind, although the country is quite prosperous in terms of scholar rankings. Tuition at public universities averages around EUR 5,200 per year (BDT 7,38,192), while private institutions range from EUR 10,000 to 25,000 (BDT 14,19,600 – 35,49,000) annually. Living overheads generally fall between EUR 1,200 and 1,800 (BDT 1,70,352 – 2,55,528) per month, depending on lifestyle and housing options. A notable advantage is the country’s free nationwide public transport system, which significantly reduces daily commuting costs. In a Nutshell The 10 affordable European countries present excellent prospects for Bangladeshi undergraduate students seeking accessible, high-quality education in 2026. Among these, Romania, Poland, and Lithuania stand out as the most economical choices. Luxembourg, however, ranks slightly higher in cost due to its premium living standards. Meanwhile, Germany, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, Austria, and the Czech Republic offer moderately priced yet academically strong options. Together, these destinations open meaningful pathways for ambitious students from Bangladesh to pursue global education at reasonable expense. Read more: Higher Studies in England: Application, Study Cost, Scholarship, and Other Scopes

The Metropolitan Museum of Art has opened its first major exhibition on ancient Egypt in more than ten years, drawing huge crowds eager to reconnect with the gods and goddesses of one of the world’s oldest civilizations. Titled “Divine Egypt,” the show explores how ancient Egyptians represented their deities across 3,000 years of history — from massive limestone statues to delicate golden figurines. Featuring more than 200 objects, including 140 from the Met’s own collection, the exhibition runs through January. Curator Diana Craig Patch said the show aims to reveal how gods shaped the Egyptians’ understanding of life, death, and meaning — challenges that still resonate today. European Commission fines Gucci, Chloé, Loewe for price-fixing Highlights include sculptures of Amun-Re and King Tutankhamun, depictions of Horus and Hathor, and a golden statuette of Amun once owned by Lord Carnarvon. The exhibition concludes with the triad of Osiris, Isis, and Horus, symbolizing eternal life. “It’s really about life,” Patch said. “Even in overcoming death, the Egyptians believed it was about living forever.” Source: AP 

Diwali, widely regarded as India’s most important festival, holds special significance for Hindus. However, it is celebrated across faiths by over a billion people in India and the global diaspora. Spanning five days, the festival features festive gatherings, fireworks, feasts, and prayer. The word “Diwali” comes from “Deepavali,” meaning “a row of lights.” During the festival, people light traditional clay oil lamps outside their homes, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali’s date and timing Diwali is based on the Hindu lunar calendar and usually falls in late October or early November. This year, the festival is being observed on October 20. The festival’s core theme While Diwali is a major Hindu festival, it is also celebrated by Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists. Though origin stories vary by region and faith, the underlying theme remains the same — the victory of good over evil. In southern India, Diwali commemorates Lord Krishna’s defeat of the demon Naraka, who had imprisoned women and tormented his subjects. In northern India, it celebrates the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and brother Lakshmana after 14 years in exile. Celebration traditions: lights, fireworks, feasts Diwali is marked by lights, fireworks, feasting, new clothes, and prayer. Regional variations include: Southern India: Early morning warm oil baths, symbolizing spiritual and physical purification akin to bathing in the holy River Ganges. Northern India: Worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. Gambling on Diwali night is a traditional practice believed to bring prosperity throughout the year. Many also purchase gold on the first day of the festival, Dhanteras, as a symbol of good fortune. Firecrackers, exchanging sweets and gifts, and creating colorful rangoli designs are common practices. While some northern states had imposed partial or full bans on firecrackers to reduce air pollution, India’s Supreme Court recently approved the sale of “green fireworks,” considered less polluting. Diwali across other faiths Jains: Observe Diwali as the day Lord Mahavira attained nirvana, achieving liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Sikhs: Celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas, coinciding with Diwali, to mark the release of Guru Hargobind from imprisonment by Mughal emperor Jahangir. Buddhists: Commemorate the day when Hindu Emperor Ashoka, who ruled in the third century B.C., converted to Buddhism. New in 2025: Diwali becomes an official holiday in California On October 7, California became the third U.S. state to recognize Diwali as an official statewide holiday. The law, effective January 1, 2026, allows public schools and community colleges to close, gives state employees the option to take the day off, and grants students an excused absence for the festival. The law acknowledges that Diwali is celebrated by Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists as well. Pennsylvania was the first U.S. state to declare Diwali a statewide holiday in 2024, followed by Connecticut earlier this year. New York City officially recognized Diwali as a public school holiday in June 2023, and several school districts in New Jersey also observe the festival with a day off.   Source: AP

On a sweltering Saturday in Texas, dozens of teachers gathered in San Antonio not for rest — but to learn how artificial intelligence could reshape classrooms. The event, led by the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), is part of a new national initiative backed by Microsoft, OpenAI, and Anthropic, which are pouring millions into AI training programs for U.S. educators. Under a deal announced in July, Microsoft pledged $12.5 million, OpenAI $10 million, and Anthropic $500,000 to build AI training hubs, starting with one in New York City, to teach 400,000 educators over five years. The National Education Association (NEA), the country’s largest teachers union, struck a similar deal with Microsoft, aiming to train 10,000 teachers this year. Grammy winner Laufey debuts as children’s author with ‘Mei Mei The Bunny’ Unions say educators — not corporations — will design the training, covering AI ethics, privacy, and classroom tools. But the partnerships also give Big Tech a foothold in schools as AI chatbots like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Microsoft CoPilot gain traction. Teachers at the San Antonio workshop tested AI to translate texts, adapt lessons, and create storybooks, calling the tools “game-changing.” “AI is part of our world,” said trainer Kathleen Torregrossa. “We have to prepare kids for that future.” Source: AP

The European Commission has imposed fines totaling over 157 million euros (around $183 million) on luxury fashion brands Gucci, Chloé, and Loewe for anti-competitive practices that restricted independent retailers from setting prices for their products. The Commission said the brands’ resale price-fixing violated EU competition rules, harmed consumers, and would not be tolerated. “This decision sends a clear message to the fashion industry and beyond that unfair practices will not be accepted in Europe, and that fair competition and consumer protection apply equally to all,” said Commission Vice President Teresa Ribera on Tuesday. According to the Commission, the three brands limited retailers’ freedom to set prices for luxury clothing, leather goods, footwear, and accessories sold both in stores and online. Retailers were required to follow recommended retail prices, observe maximum discount limits, and schedule sales in line with the brands’ own channels. These practices reduced competition and took away retailers’ pricing independence, the Commission noted. Gucci and Loewe received reduced fines due to cooperation, with Gucci revealing additional violations. Gucci’s fine stands at nearly 120 million euros, Loewe’s at 18 million euros, and Chloé’s fine, reduced by 15%, totals nearly 20 million euros.