China mathematicians crack century-old puzzle, BlackRock in spotlight: SCMP’s 7 highlights

We have selected seven stories from this week’s news across Hong Kong, mainland China, the wider Asia region and beyond that resonated with our readers and shed light on topical issues. If you would like to see more of our reporting, please consider subscribing.

1. Chinese mathematicians say they have cracked century-old fluid mechanics puzzle

Two young Chinese mathematicians working in the United States, along with an international collaborator, may have solved a century-old problem in fluid mechanics – an area of study that is critical to many engineering fields including hydraulic systems, the design of dams and bridges, and aerodynamics.

2. BlackRock, buyer of Hong Kong Hutchison’s Panama ports, in the spotlight

Hong Kong conglomerate CK Hutchison’s decision to sell its stakes in the Panama Canal ports has incurred the wrath of Beijing and thrust American buyer BlackRock into the spotlight.

3. Chinese breakthrough challenges Elon Musk’s verdict on paralysed patients

In a clinical trial led by Shanghai’s Fudan University, four paralysed patients regained control of their legs within 24 hours of a minimally invasive surgery. Even billionaire Elon Musk’s Neuralink works on the assumption that the person’s paralysed limbs are beyond saving.