The article discusses various developments in the payments industry, including the potential of generative AI to improve fraud prevention, PayPal's growth strategy under CEO Alex Chriss, and legal issues involving Visa and Mastercard. Affirm comments on CFPB's proposed BNPL rules, while Capital One prepares for credit card losses related to Walmart. Other topics include Revolut's fraud claims, Fiserv's AI plans, and Amex's benefits from young cardholders. The FTC demands pricing input from Mastercard, and the Fed fines Green Dot over prepaid cards. JPMorgan Chase invests in B2B payments startup Slope, and the CFPB's director discusses the convergence of payments and commerce.

The article reflects on the progress and challenges in financial inclusion, particularly in the context of fintech's rapid growth. It discusses the excitement and investment in fintech, Asia's role as a hub for innovation, and the need to focus on the poor within financial inclusion efforts. The author cautions against the hype surrounding fintech solutions and emphasizes the importance of connecting digital services with the non-digital world. The piece also highlights the need for a ubiquitous digital-non-digital interface, full-spectrum financial services for the poor, and regulators equipped to manage emerging business models. The author concludes by outlining CGAP's role in integrating microfinance and digital finance to keep the poor at the center of financial inclusion efforts.

The study explores the reconstruction of ancestral protein sequences in bacteria to understand ancient biosignatures. By analyzing the geologic record and genetic content of current organisms, researchers aim to identify how ancient proteins adapted to historical environmental conditions. The research focuses on the beta-carbonic anhydrase protein, assessing its potential for paleophenotype reconstruction to link ancient protein functions with preserved biosignatures in the geological record.

The shutdown of mobile money platforms in Uganda during the 2016 elections, ordered by the Uganda Communications Commission, had significant economic and social impacts. Millions of users were left without access to funds, affecting their ability to pay for utilities and school fees. Businesses relying on mobile money, including telecoms like Airtel Uganda and educational institutions like Bridge International Academies, faced revenue losses and operational challenges. The government also suffered financial losses due to decreased tax revenues. The incident has led to a loss of trust in the reliability of mobile money systems among users.