The Safest and Least Safe Countries in the World In terms of self-assessment by their residents, Singapore is the safest country, with 98% of the population feeling comfortable walking alone at night. Following closely behind are Tajikistan at 95%, China and Oman at 94%. The top rankings are primarily dominated by Eastern countries, with Norway being the only exception in the top 10, ranking 8th overall at 91%. Conversely, South Africa ranks the lowest in safety, with only 33% feeling safe walking at night. Lesotho and Botswana follow closely at 34%, while Liberia is at 37%. The bottom rankings are predominantly occupied by African countries, with a few Latin American nations like Ecuador and Chile also included.

The US Relies Heavily on China for Vital AI and Quantum Computing Materials The United States heavily relies on China for the supply of almost all critical materials necessary for AI and quantum computing. Out of the 12 essential rare materials crucial for these technologies, 10 are mainly sourced from China, with dependency levels ranging from 66% to 100%. Only two metals have alternative primary suppliers: Brazil for niobium and Mexico for strontium. This dependence on China is not unique to the US, as the global community also leans on China for the supply of rare earth elements, highlighting the country's significant role in providing essential materials for advanced technologies worldwide.

The Most Common Type of Settlement in Different Countries Around the World According to UN estimates, the majority of Russia's population (48%) resides in major cities, with small towns hosting 31% and rural areas accommodating 21%. This pattern is common in post-Soviet countries, many Latin American nations, and numerous African countries. In contrast, Western countries often see population concentrations in small towns or villages. For example, in France, 37.5% of the population resides in rural areas, while in Austria, it is 40.7%. Despite being some of the wealthiest and most developed countries globally, having a significant portion of the population living in villages might seem paradoxical. However, this trend reflects the luxury of being able to afford comfortable living outside urban areas in these nations.

Global Trade Volume Shifts Across Different Goods in 2025 The global trade volume surged by 6% in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, a notable improvement from the modest 2% growth observed between 2023 and 2024. In 2025, the trade volume in equipment experienced the most substantial increase at 18%, surpassing last year's 9% growth. This was followed by chemical products at +10% and industrial goods and other equipment, both recording a solid 9% uptick. Conversely, the trade volume in fuel and extraction products decreased by 5% this year, continuing a concerning downward trend from the previous year. Steel trade also saw a decline of 3%, while automobile trade decreased by 1%.

Performance of Different Economic Sectors after the Launch of ChatGPT In the three years since the launch of ChatGPT, the main American index S&P500 has grown by 80%. The communication sector surged by 185%, while the IT sector saw an increase of 157%, outperforming all other sectors in the economy. The major underperforming sectors over this period include energy (grew by only 9% in three years), materials (increased by 17%), and consumer goods (up by 20%). Real estate and healthcare also had relatively subdued performance, with growth rates of 21% and 23% respectively.

The Most Popular English-Speaking Artist on Spotify in Different Countries Worldwide The most popular artists on Spotify vary across different countries. In the USA, half of Latin America, and half of Europe, Taylor Swift usually takes the lead. In the other half of Latin America and Europe, The Weeknd is a common favorite, while Drake dominates in Canada, some European countries, and Africa. Surprisingly, in India's top 50 playlists, there is not a single English-speaking artist. This trend is also observed in Colombia, Ghana, and Kenya. However, South Korea favors Justin Bieber, Lady Gaga is popular in Japan, Billie Eilish in Saudi Arabia, and Linkin Park in the Czech Republic.

Where the Ancestors of Residents from Different U.S. States Come From It may be surprising to know that in roughly half of the U.S. territory, German ancestry is the most prevalent. Residents in the northern part of the country and Florida often trace their roots back to Germany. In the southwest, Mexican ancestry prevails, while in the southeast, African American heritage is most common. English, Irish, and Italian descendants are primarily concentrated in a few northeastern states. Interestingly, residents of two states simply consider themselves Americans, and among Hawaiian residents, the most frequently mentioned ancestors are of Filipino descent.

Countries that Have Won Sumo Championships In the last two decades, sumo wrestlers from Mongolia, Georgia, Bulgaria, and surprisingly, Estonia, have achieved victories in the sport. While it is uncommon for non-Japanese competitors to win sumo championships, these countries have produced successful athletes in the field.

Maritime Traffic in Europe A visually stunning representation of maritime traffic intensity in Europe: emptiness around Crimea in the Black Sea (expected), very high congestion in the northern part of the Mediterranean, the English Channel, and the Baltic Sea (especially around Denmark). Interestingly, the southern part of the Mediterranean doesn't differ much in congestion from the Crimea vicinity - Libya and Egypt (beyond the Suez Canal) go unnoticed, while life still pulses in certain spots in Tunisia. But oh, what intense activity surrounds Iceland!

The Most Peaceful and Warlike Countries in the World This year, we took the last place in the Global Peace Index, with Ukraine ranking second to last, and Sudan now closing the trio at the bottom compared to last year. The most peaceful countries in the world are primarily from Europe, with notable mentions like Iceland in 1st place, Ireland in 2nd, Denmark in 8th, and Finland in 10th. The top 10 also feature Austria, Switzerland, Portugal, and Slovenia, along with New Zealand and Singapore.