Here is the latest edition of “Five Things We Learned This Week” for May 10–16, 2025, spotlighting significant global developments across various sectors.

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🧬 1. CERN’s ALICE Experiment Transmutes Lead into Gold

In a groundbreaking achievement, CERN’s ALICE experiment successfully converted lead into gold. This scientific milestone demonstrates the potential of particle physics to manipulate atomic structures, echoing the age-old alchemical quest with modern technology.  

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🧠 2. Genetic Links to Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder Identified

A comprehensive study involving over 2 million participants has identified 250 genes associated with obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). This discovery offers new insights into the genetic underpinnings of OCD, paving the way for targeted therapies and improved understanding of the condition.  

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💰 3. Reserve Bank of India Plans Record Payout to Government

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is expected to transfer a record surplus of up to ₹3 lakh crore to the government for the financial year 2024–25. This anticipated payout, nearly 50% higher than the previous year’s, will provide a significant fiscal boost to the government, aiding in budgetary commitments and economic initiatives.  

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⚡ 4. U.S. Clean Energy Tax Incentives Face Potential Rollback

A Republican-led initiative in the U.S. House of Representatives aims to significantly cut tax credits for clean energy established under the Inflation Reduction Act. The proposed rollback could hinder progress toward reducing carbon emissions and halt the recent surge in clean energy investments, potentially impacting the U.S.’s position in the global clean tech market.   

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✈️ 5. Australian Transport Workers Union Threatens Major Industrial Action

The Transport Workers Union (TWU) in Australia has announced plans for a significant industrial campaign that could disrupt the nation’s transport sector, including airline operations. The union aims to coordinate the expiry of over 200 enterprise agreements in 2026 to maximize workers’ bargaining power, targeting major companies such as Qantas, Aldi, Amazon, and Virgin Australia.  

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Stay tuned for next week’s edition as we continue to explore pivotal global developments.