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Meta shares fall as frustration grows over AI spending plans

Meta shares fall as frustration grows over AI spending plans

July 29, 2026 • Technology • BBC Tech

Summary

Meta's shares dropped by 11% after the company reported higher revenue but lower profits for the quarter. Meta plans to increase its spending on artificial intelligence (AI) projects to up to $145 billion this year, aiming to boost its business and start selling AI tools to other companies.

Key Facts

  • Meta’s revenue grew by 28% from the previous year in the April to June quarter.
  • Meta’s profits fell by 14% during the same period.
  • The company will spend between $130 billion and $145 billion on AI projects in 2024, up from $125 billion planned three months ago.
  • CEO Mark Zuckerberg said AI is improving core parts of Meta’s businesses like Instagram and Facebook.
  • Meta plans to create AI chatbots called "agents" that can work autonomously and be available 24/7.
  • Meta aims to sell its AI models and software tools, starting with making its Muse Spark AI model easier for other companies to use.
  • Zuckerberg highlighted a large business opportunity from selling AI services, including software interfaces known as APIs.
  • Meta is focusing on building AI tools for both internal use and external sales to other businesses.
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BBC Tech BBC US BBC Business
WATCH: 'Jumanji,' BTS and wedding drama top the pop culture buzz

WATCH: 'Jumanji,' BTS and wedding drama top the pop culture buzz

July 29, 2026 • World • ABC News

Summary

The article shares recent updates in popular culture. It highlights a new trailer for the movie "Jumanji," BTS’s decision related to the Grammy Awards, and some wedding-related news.

Key Facts

  • A new trailer for the movie "Jumanji" has been released.
  • BTS made a choice concerning their participation or awards at the Grammys.
  • There is notable news or drama involving weddings.
  • The updates were presented by ABC News' Rocsi Diaz.
  • The article focuses on entertainment and pop culture topics.
  • No political or global news is the main subject here.
  • The information is aimed at fans of movies, music, and celebrity news.
  • The coverage is brief and highlights a few key entertainment stories.
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ABC News
Meta misses earnings forecasts after Zuckerberg media push to promote AI

Meta misses earnings forecasts after Zuckerberg media push to promote AI

July 29, 2026 • Business • Guardian World

Summary

Meta's second-quarter earnings were weaker than expected, causing its stock to fall nearly 8%. CEO Mark Zuckerberg promoted the benefits of artificial intelligence (AI), but this optimism did not prevent investor concerns about the company's high spending on AI and legal costs.

Key Facts

  • Meta reported earnings per share of $6.18, below the expected $7.14.
  • Revenue was $60.8 billion, slightly above predictions of $60.23 billion.
  • The company increased its expected yearly expenses to between $165 billion and $169 billion.
  • Meta’s legal charges for the second quarter were $2.4 billion.
  • Capital spending for 2026 is expected to be $130 billion to $145 billion, focusing heavily on AI.
  • Meta’s stock price has dropped about 10% over the past year due to concerns about AI investment.
  • Zuckerberg described a vision where everyone has access to personalized AI assistants.
  • Meta faces challenges including privacy concerns, youth safety issues, and employee data use.
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Guardian World Guardian Tech
Starbucks reports strong quarterly sales and raises annual outlook

Starbucks reports strong quarterly sales and raises annual outlook

July 29, 2026 • Business • AP News

Summary

Starbucks reported higher-than-expected sales and profits for its latest quarter and increased its forecast for the full year. The company’s sales grew strongly in both the U.S. and global markets, and it made operational changes to improve customer experience.

Key Facts

  • Starbucks’ global same-store sales rose 7.9% in the third fiscal quarter, beating the expected 5.7% increase.
  • U.S. same-store sales also grew 7.9% in the April-June period.
  • The company raised its full-year global same-store sales growth forecast from 5% to 6%.
  • Starbucks now expects earnings per share of $2.55 to $2.65, up from the previous $2.25 to $2.45.
  • Quarterly revenue was $9.3 billion, slightly lower than before but still above analysts’ forecast.
  • Net income increased by 87% to $1 billion in the quarter.
  • Starbucks improved service by adding staff during busy times and using technology to handle orders more efficiently.
  • The company redesigned stores to create a more comfortable, coffeehouse atmosphere.
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AP News
Microsoft beats Wall Street expectations with $90B in revenue

Microsoft beats Wall Street expectations with $90B in revenue

July 29, 2026 • Business • AP News

Summary

Microsoft reported $90 billion in revenue for the April-June quarter, beating Wall Street expectations. The company saw strong growth in its cloud services and paid AI users, with its cloud platform Azure showing a 43% increase in revenue.

Key Facts

  • Microsoft earned $90 billion in revenue during the April-June quarter, up 18% from last year.
  • The earnings per share were $4.81, higher than the expected $4.24.
  • Microsoft Cloud revenue reached $59.3 billion, a 27% increase compared to last year.
  • Azure and other cloud services revenue increased by 43%.
  • For the full fiscal year ending in June, Microsoft’s revenue was $331.8 billion.
  • Azure revenue surpassed $100 billion for the first time this year.
  • Microsoft 365 Copilot, the AI assistant, now has over 30 million paid users.
  • Microsoft’s shares rose about 3% after the earnings report was released.
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AP News
US-Iran conflict enters new phase as Saudi Arabia helps hit proxies and diplomacy stalls again

US-Iran conflict enters new phase as Saudi Arabia helps hit proxies and diplomacy stalls again

July 29, 2026 • World • AP News

Summary

The conflict between the United States and Iran has intensified as Saudi Arabia joined the U.S. in military strikes against Iran-backed groups. Diplomacy between the two sides has stalled, with no new talks planned, while military actions continue and risks of wider regional war grow.

Key Facts

  • Saudi Arabia publicly joined the U.S. in airstrikes targeting Iranian-backed militias in Iraq.
  • Iran fired ballistic missiles at a U.S. base in Jordan; these missiles were reportedly intercepted.
  • President Donald Trump stated the U.S. will respond strongly to Iranian actions but also mentioned the possibility of future talks.
  • Diplomatic efforts to end the conflict have failed, with Iran’s deputy foreign minister confirming no recent requests to restart negotiations.
  • The conflict has led to more U.S. military casualties and concerns about reduced U.S. air defense resources.
  • Drone attacks targeted Saudi Arabia and caused fires on natural gas vessels in Egypt, involving multiple regional countries.
  • The fighting and tension occur months before critical U.S. midterm elections and affect the global economy.
  • The situation includes nearly every country in the Middle East, with complex alliances and hostilities involved.
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AP News
Elephants that died in Kenya likely poisoned by cyanide-tainted tomatoes

Elephants that died in Kenya likely poisoned by cyanide-tainted tomatoes

July 29, 2026 • World • CBS News

Summary

Fifteen elephants died recently in southern Kenya, likely due to eating tomatoes contaminated with cyanide. Authorities found cyanide in preliminary tests but have not identified who is responsible for poisoning the tomatoes near Amboseli National Park.

Key Facts

  • Fifteen elephants died in southern Kenya over the past month.
  • Cyanide was detected in tomatoes that the elephants ate.
  • The tomatoes came from farms near Amboseli National Park.
  • Farmers have been suspected before of poisoning elephants to protect crops.
  • The area includes both wildlife and local livestock like goats and cattle.
  • Authorities warn the poisoning might affect livestock too.
  • The poison does not pose an immediate risk to human health.
  • This is the largest number of elephant deaths in the region in decades.
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CBS News
FTC sues Hims & Hers, alleging it shared health data with Meta, Snap

FTC sues Hims & Hers, alleging it shared health data with Meta, Snap

July 29, 2026 • Business • CBS News

Summary

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) filed a lawsuit against the telehealth company Hims & Hers, accusing it of sharing customers' health information with social media companies like Meta and Snap without permission. Hims & Hers denies the claims and says it will defend itself in court.

Key Facts

  • The FTC sued Hims & Hers in a federal court in Northern California.
  • The lawsuit says Hims & Hers shared private health data despite promising to keep it confidential.
  • The company reportedly used tracking tools from Meta and shared customer lists with advertisers.
  • Hims & Hers offers virtual doctor services and prescription drugs for wellness and other issues.
  • The company’s stock price dropped nearly 15% after the lawsuit was announced.
  • Hims & Hers claims customers know how their data is used and that health info is only for care purposes.
  • The FTC also accused the company of not clearly telling customers about prescription charges and making it hard to cancel subscriptions.
  • The FTC said customers were unknowingly signed up for recurring payments and had their sensitive health data shared without consent.
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CBS News
Senate unanimously passes resolution opposing pardon for Ghislaine Maxwell

Senate unanimously passes resolution opposing pardon for Ghislaine Maxwell

July 29, 2026 • Us • Guardian US

Summary

The US Senate unanimously passed a resolution opposing any presidential pardon or clemency for Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking related to Jeffrey Epstein. The resolution is symbolic and expresses the Senate’s commitment to justice for victims of sexual exploitation and trafficking.

Key Facts

  • The resolution was introduced by Senator Jacky Rosen, a Democrat from Nevada.
  • It states Maxwell should not receive any pardon or clemency from President Donald Trump.
  • Senate resolutions like this are non-binding and serve as a formal statement of opinion.
  • The vote was unanimous, with Republicans not objecting to the resolution.
  • Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for sex trafficking offenses.
  • Maxwell has exhausted her legal appeals, with the Supreme Court declining to hear her case in October.
  • President Trump previously said he would consider looking into a pardon but made no decision.
  • Todd Blanche, the acting attorney general, said he would not recommend pardoning Maxwell.
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Guardian US Guardian World
Trump threatens Iran strikes after attack on US base in Jordan

Trump threatens Iran strikes after attack on US base in Jordan

July 29, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

President Donald Trump said the United States will respond strongly to Iran after an attack on U.S. forces in Jordan. He mentioned that some of Iran’s missiles were intercepted but stated the U.S. would still take action against Iran.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump announced a planned U.S. strike on Iran.
  • The reason is an attack on U.S. forces located in Jordan.
  • Iran reportedly launched missiles in this attack.
  • Some of these missiles were intercepted and destroyed.
  • Despite this, the U.S. intends to respond with strong military action.
  • The phrase “It’s our turn” was used by President Trump to indicate the U.S. will act next.
  • This situation involves tensions between the U.S. and Iran in the Middle East region.
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Al Jazeera
A look at Trump's $22 billion plans to makeover Dulles Airport near Washington

A look at Trump's $22 billion plans to makeover Dulles Airport near Washington

July 29, 2026 • Us • BBC US

Summary

President Donald Trump has announced a $22 billion plan to upgrade Dulles International Airport near Washington, DC. The project will replace old mobile lounges with a larger train system and new terminals as part of efforts to improve the area.

Key Facts

  • The renovation plan for Dulles Airport costs $22 billion.
  • It aims to replace mobile lounges that have been in use since 1962.
  • The new system will include an expanded train network to transport passengers.
  • New concourses (terminal sections) will be built as part of the upgrade.
  • The plan is part of President Trump’s broader initiatives to enhance the Washington DC capital area.
  • Travelers say the airport needs modernization but feel nostalgic about the old mobile lounges.
  • The airport is near Washington, DC, serving both domestic and international flights.
  • The announcement was reported by BBC journalist Shaimaa Khalil.
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BBC US
Can you eat lettuce safely during the cyclospora outbreak? Advice from an infectious disease expert

Can you eat lettuce safely during the cyclospora outbreak? Advice from an infectious disease expert

July 29, 2026 • World • PBS NewsHour

Summary

A parasite called cyclospora has caused an outbreak in the U.S., making over 11,500 people sick with stomach problems. Despite this, experts say you can still safely eat lettuce and other fresh produce by following good food safety steps.

Key Facts

  • Cyclospora is a parasite that causes an illness called cyclosporiasis, leading to severe diarrhea and stomach issues.
  • Over 11,500 people in the U.S. have become sick from the current cyclospora outbreak.
  • The outbreak has caused some people to eat less fresh produce like salads, leafy greens, eggs, and blueberries.
  • Leafy greens provide important vitamins and fiber that support good health.
  • Completely avoiding microbes like cyclospora, E. coli, and salmonella in foods is impossible.
  • Following proper food safety practices can lower the chance of getting sick from fresh produce.
  • Experts recommend continuing to eat fresh vegetables while being careful with food preparation.
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PBS NewsHour
Is Claude Down? Users Report Outages

Is Claude Down? Users Report Outages

July 29, 2026 • Technology • Newsweek

Summary

The Claude platform, developed by Anthropic, experienced a brief outage on Wednesday, causing errors for many users on the app and web console. The company reported the problem, worked on restoring the service, and resolved the issues within about an hour.

Key Facts

  • Over 2,000 outage reports were filed due to problems with Claude on Wednesday.
  • Errors affected multiple Anthropic models, including Claude.ai, Claude Code, and the Claude API.
  • The outage started shortly after 3:30 p.m. EDT and lasted less than an hour.
  • About half of the complaints were related to Claude Code.
  • Anthropic’s status page labeled the event a “major outage,” despite usually having over 99% uptime.
  • The company confirmed it was investigating the issues and communicating updates.
  • Service was restored, and Anthropic thanked users for their patience.
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Newsweek
Trump-affiliated companies distance themselves from Trump-IRS deal amid probe

Trump-affiliated companies distance themselves from Trump-IRS deal amid probe

July 29, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

Several companies linked to President Donald Trump have said they are not part of a tax settlement that bars the IRS from auditing Trump and related entities. This settlement, finalized by the Justice Department, is under Senate investigation as some senators question its scope and fairness.

Key Facts

  • The Justice Department settled a tax lawsuit with President Trump, barring the IRS from pursuing tax claims based on past returns.
  • The settlement covers Trump, his eldest sons Don Jr. and Eric, and the Trump Organization.
  • Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche signed the settlement, stating it applies to related companies and affiliates.
  • Senate Democrats, including Senator Elizabeth Warren, are investigating whether Trump-affiliated companies are also protected by this deal.
  • Companies such as Kaz Resources, Powerus, World Liberty Financial, and Trump Media and Technology Group received letters asking if they are included in the settlement.
  • Some companies distanced themselves from the settlement, saying they are not part of it.
  • Two Republican senators opposed Blanche’s confirmation partly due to concerns about this deal providing Trump unusual tax immunity.
  • Several Trump-related companies did not respond to the Senate’s requests for clarification.
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CBS News
Trump vows to retaliate after U.S. thwarts Iranian surprise attack

Trump vows to retaliate after U.S. thwarts Iranian surprise attack

July 29, 2026 • World • CBS News

Summary

President Donald Trump said the United States will respond strongly after stopping an unexpected attack by Iran aimed at U.S. forces in the Middle East. The U.S. took action to prevent this attack from happening.

Key Facts

  • Iran planned a surprise attack targeting U.S. forces in the Middle East.
  • The U.S. stopped the attack before it happened.
  • President Trump promised to retaliate strongly against Iran.
  • The event shows continued tensions between the U.S. and Iran.
  • The information comes from CBS News reporting on President Trump's statement.
  • The location of the thwarted attack was in the Middle East region.
  • President Trump's response was announced on a Wednesday.
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CBS News
7/29: The Takeout with Major Garrett

7/29: The Takeout with Major Garrett

July 29, 2026 • Us • CBS News

Summary

Dr. Anthony Fauci used the Fifth Amendment during a Senate hearing, meaning he chose not to answer some questions to avoid self-incrimination. At the same time, the Federal Reserve decided to keep interest rates the same.

Key Facts

  • Dr. Anthony Fauci took the Fifth Amendment in a Senate hearing.
  • The Fifth Amendment allows a person to avoid answering questions to prevent self-incrimination.
  • The Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged.
  • Interest rates affect how much it costs to borrow money.
  • The news was covered in a segment called "The Takeout with Major Garrett" on CBS News.
  • This information was shared on July 29.
  • The hearing involved questions directed at Dr. Fauci.
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CBS News
Ukraine says it hits 2 major Russian oil refineries hours after Zelenskyy's meeting with Trump

Ukraine says it hits 2 major Russian oil refineries hours after Zelenskyy's meeting with Trump

July 29, 2026 • World • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Ukrainian forces attacked two large Russian oil refineries overnight, causing fires. These strikes are part of Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to weaken Russia’s economy and military during the conflict.

Key Facts

  • Ukraine targeted two major Russian oil refineries: one in the Perm region and one in Ryazan.
  • The Perm refinery is about 1,500 kilometers (900 miles) from Ukraine, and Ryazan is about 400 kilometers (180 miles) from the border.
  • Ukraine used drones and missiles developed within the country for these long-range strikes.
  • These attacks are happening nearly every day as part of a campaign to damage Russia’s oil industry.
  • The strikes have caused a fuel shortage in Russia.
  • Officials from Ukraine's Security Service and General Staff confirmed the attacks.
  • The attacks took place shortly after a meeting between Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and U.S. President Donald Trump.
  • The campaign aims to increase pressure on Russia economically and militarily during the ongoing conflict.
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PBS NewsHour
Dow closes down over 1,000 points as Fed leaves rates unchanged

Dow closes down over 1,000 points as Fed leaves rates unchanged

July 29, 2026 • Business • CBS News

Summary

The Dow Jones stock market index fell by more than 1,000 points. This happened after the Federal Reserve decided not to change interest rates again, despite rising energy prices linked to the conflict in Iran and ongoing high inflation.

Key Facts

  • The Dow Jones dropped over 1,000 points in a single day.
  • The Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged for the fifth time in a row.
  • Energy prices have increased due to the war involving Iran.
  • Inflation remains high, meaning prices for goods and services continue to rise.
  • The Fed’s decision aims to balance economic growth and control inflation.
  • Investors reacted negatively to the Fed’s hold on rates.
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CBS News
Musk went to “war,” sought jail time for X ad boycotts—but case ends with a whimper

Musk went to “war,” sought jail time for X ad boycotts—but case ends with a whimper

July 29, 2026 • Technology • Ars Technica

Summary

Elon Musk has settled a lawsuit against advertisers who boycotted his social media platform, X, after the boycott caused a revenue drop of $1.5 billion by the end of 2023. The settlement ends the dispute involving the World Federation of Advertisers and the now-disbanded Global Alliance for Responsible Media, with no other public concessions made.

Key Facts

  • X sued the World Federation of Advertisers (WFA) in 2024, accusing them of illegally coordinating an advertising boycott.
  • The boycott led to a $1.5 billion revenue loss for X by the end of 2023.
  • Musk described the situation as a "war" and sought criminal prosecution for advertisers who refused to buy ads.
  • The Global Alliance for Responsible Media (GARM) was disbanded shortly after the lawsuit began.
  • GARM aimed to address illegal or harmful content on digital platforms but was accused by Musk of controlling what content gets monetized.
  • The settlement confirms GARM will remain inactive, and WFA and X claim to be aligned on brand safety and freedom of speech.
  • A court had previously ruled the boycott legal and dismissed X’s antitrust claims for lack of evidence.
  • Musk recently launched X Money, a payments product intended to reduce X’s reliance on advertising revenue, but it faces adoption challenges.
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Ars Technica
Drone hits storage tanker at Egyptian port in major Middle East escalation, security firm says

Drone hits storage tanker at Egyptian port in major Middle East escalation, security firm says

July 29, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

A drone struck a U.S.-owned gas storage tanker at Egypt’s port of Damietta, signaling an increase in tensions in the Middle East. President Donald Trump promised to respond strongly to Iran after this incident, which is part of a growing conflict involving several countries in the region.

Key Facts

  • A drone hit a gas storage tanker owned by the U.S. at Egypt’s Mediterranean port of Damietta.
  • The incident was reported by the British maritime security company Ambrey.
  • President Donald Trump vowed to retaliate against Iran for the attack.
  • This event indicates the Middle East conflict is expanding beyond its main areas.
  • Other recent developments include US and Saudi strikes in Iraq and increased military actions around Iran.
  • The UK is considering forming a naval coalition to protect shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • This is part of ongoing tensions involving Iran, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and other nations.
  • President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu have recently met amid the rising conflict.
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France24
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