David Rubin served as President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences from 2019 to 2022. In 2020, under his leadership, the Academy launched the “Representation and Inclusion Standards” for Best Picture eligibility. These rules, still in effect, require films to meet at least 2 of 4 diversity criteria involving race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or disability in on-screen roles, creative leadership, or crew. Rubin publicly backed the changes and helped appoint the task force co-led by producer DeVon Franklin. He shifted the Oscars from “best movie wins” to race/gender engineering. A film can now be ineligible for the top prize purely for failing demographic quotas, regardless of quality or audience impact. Instead of focusing purely on talent and storytelling, the Academy under Rubin institutionalized identity preferences. Oscars prestige and viewership have tanked. Many see it as performative politics over art. Classics with non-diverse casts would be disqualified. He helped install the DEI machinery that turned awards into checkboxes and accelerated Hollywood’s quality decline.

Singapore Airlines flight attendants were spotted offering passengers a foot wipe service. On ultra long haul routes, the airline provides on demand foot cleaning for First and Suites passengers, helping reduce swelling after 18+ hours. Some view this as exceptional luxury; others see it as excessive. The real question is brand positioning. For Singapore Airlines, such details reinforce a premium identity built on precision, care, and differentiation. In luxury markets, value is often defined by moments competitors will not replicate. However, there is a fine line. When service shifts from refined hospitality to perceived over servicing, it can dilute brand dignity and create discomfort. The strategic balance is clear. Elevate the experience, but protect the brand’s sense of professionalism and prestige.

CONVICTION 2026: EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN ​The Super Early Bird phase has officially concluded. To secure your place at the year’s premier digital economy event, now is the time to act. ​Our Early Bird program is now live, offering over 30% off exclusively for Pro & Platinum tickets. ​Elite Privileges for Industry Leaders: ​More than just a seat, these premium tiers are your gateway to an elite global network: ​🟡Direct Networking: Engage in 1-on-1 dialogues and build strategic connections with global leaders, founders, and world-class speakers in exclusive lounges. ​ 🟡Premium Experience: Enjoy VIP seating at all sessions, limited-edition Merch kits, and an invitation to the exclusive Gala Dinner. ​ 🟡Ivy NFT Super Rare: Own a ultra-rare digital asset, a unique badge of prestige within the tech community. ​The window to connect directly with global power players will narrow as Pro and Platinum slots fill up. Seize the most competitive rates available today. ​👉 Register now: ​Early Bird Period: May 04, 2026 – July 20, 2026

Former U.S. President Bill Clinton was recently spotted walking the streets without visible security, largely ignored by passersby. While the Epstein scandal has clinicaly dampened his personal brand, he arguably remains the most effective post-Cold War president. His tenure was defined by a booming economy, an absence of large-scale ground wars, and exceptional fiscal discipline that saw the debt-to-GDP ratio steadily decline. Under his leadership, U.S. global prestige reached its zenith as a primary beacon of democracy.

The first African laureate of the prestigious Pritzker Prize, architect and National Geographic 33 changemaker Francis Kéré has long been praised for his approach to energy efficiency in his projects. Learn more about Kéré's work: #NatGeo33#

The Pentagon awarded the USS Ford Carrier Group the prestigious Presidential Unit Citation for heroism as the warships finally returned home from two defining military missions. President Trump is also back in the nation’s capital after wrapping up his summit in Beijing, but uncertainty looms as the Iran war drags on with inflation rising. CBS News’ @olivialarinaldi has more.

In the past five years, Keion Kopper went from selling his paintings on the streets to showing at prestigious exhibits 🙌     And he’s just getting started ✨  

Conviction 2026 has officially been elevated to a National-Level Digital Assets & AI Forum, dedicated to redefining Vietnam’s position on the global economic map. This is more than just an event; it is a strategic cornerstone for building the next-generation International Financial Center (IFC). This digital-age financial hub will serve as the convergence point for smart capital flows and the world's most disruptive technologies, including AI and Blockchain. Conviction 2026 stands as a bold testament to a proactive and resilient Vietnam, ready to lead the digital asset wave in the region. Notably, the forum is honored to welcome the participation and guidance of Government Leadership, affirming a powerful commitment to propelling Vietnam firmly into a new era of national ascension. ⚖️ Backed by Prestigious National Authorities: - Executive Direction: Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee. - Leadership: HCMC Department of Culture and Sports, in coordination with the HCMC Department of Science and Technology. - Policy Consultant: Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI). - Organizers: HCMC Electronic Communications Association (EIC) and HCMC Blockchain Association (HBA). - Host: Ninety Eight. 🚀 The gateway to the Vietnamese market is more open than ever. Do not miss your chance to stand alongside major financial institutions, policymakers, and the visionaries shaping Vietnam’s prosperous future. Register for Conviction 2026 today! __________________________ 👉 Secure your Early Bird tickets now to gain "invaluable" insights from our lineup of world-class speakers: Conviction 2026 - The Largest National Digital Assets & AI Event in Vietnam 📍 Location: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam 📅 Date: August 14–15, 2026. 🌐 Stay updated on speakers & forum content at: