From the BBC World Service: Rice prices have surged to their highest levels in almost 12 years, according to the United Nations’ food agency. India’s rice export ban and adverse weather conditions are the main culprits. Hip-hop is 50 years old; it all started in the Bronx and is now a multi-billion dollar global phenomenon. Saudi Arabia’s soccer Pro League is kicking off today; but is it going to be an expensive flash in the pan?