When the Olympics roll around every four years, the 16-day extravaganza unites the world in a celebration of sport. But with two cities withdrawing their bids for 2024, the event’s prestige is in doubt. Can reconnecting with its core values make the Olympics – and its sponsors – more appealing?

With positive developments on the horizon – from rising tourism to greater cultural recognition – years of pessimism is making way for a new upbeat mood in Japan; reflected in the growing popularity of television programs like You wa nani shi ni Nippon e? (Why Did You Come to Japan?)

Rio 2016 is just around the corner, but with growing concern over the spread of the Zika virus, people are becoming more wary. Now, Brazilian health officials have launched an app for attendees and residents to record and monitor symptoms of the disease in a bid to curb the epidemic.

Patriotic advertising might seem like an easy win for brands in the US - but flag-waving adverts are often viewed as cheesy and opportunistic by a savvy public. But detergent brand Tide has found a link between laundry and national pride and tells the stories of real people.