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US interest rates held for fifth time in a row

US interest rates held for fifth time in a row

July 29, 2026 • Business • BBC Business

Summary

The Federal Reserve has kept interest rates unchanged for the fifth time in a row, holding them between 3.5% and 3.75%. This decision comes as inflation has slowed but remains above the Fed’s target, and concerns about rising oil prices due to the conflict in the Middle East remain.

Key Facts

  • The US Federal Reserve maintained interest rates at 3.5% to 3.75%.
  • This is the fifth consecutive time rates have been held steady this year.
  • Inflation slowed to 3.5% in the year ending June but is still above the 2% goal.
  • Nine policymakers voted to keep rates steady; three preferred a small rate increase.
  • Rising energy prices, partly due to Middle East tensions, are contributing to ongoing inflation.
  • Higher interest rates make loans and credit more expensive but can improve savings returns.
  • There is uncertainty about how the conflict between the US and Iran may affect future prices.
  • The Federal Reserve described inflation as still “elevated” despite recent improvements.
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BBC Business BBC US
Why researchers are calling for a slowdown of AI development as Sam Altman meets with lawmakers

Why researchers are calling for a slowdown of AI development as Sam Altman meets with lawmakers

July 29, 2026 • Technology • CBS News

Summary

Some leading researchers from big artificial intelligence (AI) companies want to slow down how fast AI is being developed. This comes as Sam Altman, a top AI leader, meets with lawmakers to talk about AI’s future.

Key Facts

  • Researchers from major AI companies are asking for a pause or slowdown in AI progress.
  • They are concerned about the rapid pace of AI development.
  • Sam Altman, who is a key figure in the AI field, is meeting with government lawmakers.
  • The goal of these talks is to discuss how to manage AI safely.
  • The development of AI is growing quickly, raising questions about impacts and risks.
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CBS News
Trump Impeachment Demanded by Former Ally Alex Jones

Trump Impeachment Demanded by Former Ally Alex Jones

July 29, 2026 • Us • Newsweek

Summary

Alex Jones, a former supporter of President Donald Trump, called on Congress to impeach the president or use the 25th Amendment because of the growing conflict with Iran. Jones said the White House is overstepping its powers and pushing the U.S. toward a full-scale war without proper approval from Congress.

Key Facts

  • Alex Jones criticized President Trump over actions related to the conflict with Iran.
  • Jones urged Congress to start impeachment or use the 25th Amendment, which allows for removing a president if they are unfit.
  • He warned the administration is preparing for a national military draft.
  • Jones said the president’s support for the National Defense Authorization Act and lack of formal war approval breaks the Constitution and War Powers rules.
  • Democrats have previously tried to remove President Trump over Iran strikes.
  • Some lawmakers are concerned about the war expanding without Congress’s permission.
  • Jones said the public is realizing the risks and called on Americans to oppose more conflict.
  • Newsweek asked the White House for a comment, but none was reported yet.
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Newsweek
Google begins global rollout of age verification API in Google Play

Google begins global rollout of age verification API in Google Play

July 29, 2026 • Technology • Ars Technica

Summary

Google is expanding its Play Age Signals API worldwide, a tool that helps app developers confirm the age range of users without asking for IDs or selfies. This system works with Google’s Family Link app, letting parents set age ranges for their children’s accounts to control app content. The rollout aims to help Google and app developers follow new laws requiring age verification in some US states and other countries.

Key Facts

  • The Play Age Signals API lets developers verify user age ranges without needing ID or selfie checks.
  • It works by linking to Google’s Family Link app, where parents can set age ranges for their kids’ accounts.
  • Age ranges are flexible and change as children grow older.
  • Using this system is optional for parents and can be turned off anytime.
  • The API began testing in Brazil and is now rolling out globally, including the US, Canada, and Australia.
  • Some US states (Texas, Louisiana, Utah) have laws forcing app stores to verify user ages.
  • The system relies on voluntary sharing of age info and does not fully prevent minors from accessing adult content.
  • Developers must choose to use the API, but some laws require them to apply age checks in their apps.
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Ars Technica
Fed leaves rates steady, with internal dissent

Fed leaves rates steady, with internal dissent

July 29, 2026 • Business • Axios

Summary

The Federal Reserve decided to keep its interest rates unchanged, despite some officials wanting to raise them. The central bank left its main borrowing cost target at 3.5% to 3.75% because they see the economy growing steadily but remain cautious due to global uncertainties like the conflict in the Middle East.

Key Facts

  • The Federal Reserve's rate target remains between 3.5% and 3.75%, unchanged since December.
  • Three Fed officials wanted to increase rates by 0.25 percentage points, but nine, including Chairman Kevin Warsh, voted to keep rates steady.
  • The decision was expected by most market watchers, though there was some chance (about 33%) of a rate hike before the meeting.
  • The Fed noted the economy is growing steadily despite uncertainty partly caused by the Middle East conflict.
  • Inflation, measured by the Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index, has stayed above the Fed’s 2% goal every month since March 2021.
  • Some officials worry continuous high inflation could hurt the Fed’s credibility in controlling prices.
  • Warsh prefers open debate within the Fed, not predictable policy decisions.
  • The Commerce Department is due to release data on income and spending, which may influence future Fed actions.
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Axios
US Fed holds interest rates steady citing ‘elevated’ inflation

US Fed holds interest rates steady citing ‘elevated’ inflation

July 29, 2026 • Business • Al Jazeera

Summary

The U.S. Federal Reserve decided to keep interest rates steady at 3.50-3.75% due to ongoing inflation pressures, especially from higher fuel prices linked to tensions between the U.S. and Iran. The Fed aims to bring inflation down to its 2% target while navigating uncertain economic factors and has removed its usual forward guidance under new Chairman Kevin Warsh.

Key Facts

  • The Federal Reserve held interest rates at 3.50-3.75% during its latest meeting.
  • Inflation remains above the 2% goal, partly because of supply shocks and rising energy prices.
  • New Fed Chairman Kevin Warsh has stopped giving forward guidance, which usually helps predict future rate moves.
  • Three members of the 12-person Federal Reserve committee voted to raise rates by 0.25%.
  • Consumer inflation fell by 0.4% in June, the first monthly decline since April 2020.
  • Annual inflation is 3.5%, down from 4.2% in May, but still higher than desired.
  • Gas prices rose to an average of $4.09 per gallon, up from $3.86 last month and $2.98 in February.
  • Consumer confidence has dropped for three months in a row, reflecting economic concerns.
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Al Jazeera
Fed holds interest rates steady despite Trump’s renewed calls to lower them

Fed holds interest rates steady despite Trump’s renewed calls to lower them

July 29, 2026 • Business • Guardian World

Summary

The US Federal Reserve decided to keep interest rates unchanged, resisting President Donald Trump’s calls to lower them. The Fed’s decision comes amid mixed signals from inflation data and rising energy prices linked to tensions in the Middle East.

Key Facts

  • The Federal Reserve left interest rates steady at 3.5% to 3.75% for the fifth time since December.
  • The decision was made with a 9-3 vote; three members wanted to raise rates by 0.25%.
  • Cooler inflation data earlier lowered chances of a rate hike, but rising energy costs support a possible increase.
  • Kevin Warsh is the new Fed chair and is introducing changes to how the Fed communicates and makes decisions.
  • The ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran has caused energy prices to rise in the US.
  • President Trump continues to push for lower interest rates, suggesting the US should have “the lowest rates in the world.”
  • Warsh has expressed confidence in his fellow Fed board members and their commitment to controlling inflation.
  • Half of the Fed's members now expect at least one rate hike by the end of the year, reversing earlier predictions of rate cuts.
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Guardian World Guardian US Guardian Business
An Ozempic Pill Was Tested on Heavy Drinkers—the Results Were Promising

An Ozempic Pill Was Tested on Heavy Drinkers—the Results Were Promising

July 29, 2026 • Technology • Newsweek

Summary

Researchers tested an oral diabetes and weight-loss drug called semaglutide on adults with alcohol use disorder (AUD). The study found that the drug helped reduce heavy drinking and alcohol cravings without causing weight loss, suggesting a new way to treat AUD.

Key Facts

  • Semaglutide is a medication originally for diabetes and weight loss, now used by many Americans.
  • The study involved 50 adults with AUD and lasted eight weeks.
  • Participants taking oral semaglutide drank less heavily and had fewer alcohol cravings.
  • The drug’s effect on reducing drinking did not involve weight loss or changes in eating.
  • Alcohol use disorder affects about 27 million adults in the U.S. as of 2024.
  • No new medicines for AUD have been approved in nearly 20 years.
  • Researchers believe semaglutide may work by reducing dopamine signals in the brain’s reward centers.
  • Larger and longer studies are needed before semaglutide can be recommended as an AUD treatment.
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Newsweek
Libya electricity blackout protests expose country’s failing grid

Libya electricity blackout protests expose country’s failing grid

July 29, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Libya is facing severe power outages during a heatwave, leading to widespread protests in Tripoli and other areas. Protesters are demanding government accountability amid a long-term breakdown of the country’s electricity system and political divisions.

Key Facts

  • Libya is experiencing frequent power cuts lasting around 10 hours daily.
  • Temperatures in the region have exceeded 48 degrees Celsius (118 degrees Fahrenheit).
  • Protests involve road blockades, burning tires, and blocking government buildings.
  • Protesters attacked the Mellitah oil and gas complex, disrupting gas supplies for electricity.
  • The Government of National Unity (GNU) controls Tripoli but faces opposition from a rival eastern administration.
  • The power crisis is linked to failing infrastructure and political fragmentation since 2014.
  • The crisis affects the entire country, with residents relying on private generators for power.
  • International actors, including US officials, have urged Libyan political unity and stability.
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Al Jazeera
Excessive time spent online linked to stress and worse mood – study

Excessive time spent online linked to stress and worse mood – study

July 29, 2026 • Technology • Guardian Tech

Summary

A new study found that spending too much time online can increase stress and worsen mood, especially when internet use becomes excessive or problematic. The urge or temptation to go online drives this behavior, which can lead to neglecting other important life activities.

Key Facts

  • The study surveyed 900 German adults in 2025 about their use of gaming, online shopping, social networks, and pornography.
  • Internet use was categorized as pathological (very harmful), risky, or non-problematic based on frequency and impact.
  • Participants reported their mood, stress, online time, and urges to use the internet every evening for two weeks.
  • Problematic internet users showed worse mood, higher stress, longer online times, and neglected other areas of life.
  • The main reason people continued excessive online use was a strong temptation or urge to go online.
  • Not all internet use is harmful; many people use the internet for fun and stress relief without negative effects.
  • The study suggests helping people manage moments of temptation could prevent problematic internet use.
  • Other activities like exercise and spending time with friends can improve wellbeing and reduce harmful internet use.
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Guardian Tech
Fed holds interest rates as new Iran tensions raise inflation risks

Fed holds interest rates as new Iran tensions raise inflation risks

July 29, 2026 • Business • The Hill

Summary

The Federal Reserve kept its key interest rate unchanged at 3.5% to 3.75% for the fifth meeting in a row. This decision comes as new tensions involving Iran raise concerns about higher energy prices and inflation risks.

Key Facts

  • The Federal Reserve’s main interest rate remains at 3.5% to 3.75%.
  • This is the fifth consecutive time the rate has stayed the same.
  • The decision was made by the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) with a 9-3 vote.
  • Rising tensions with Iran have caused worries about higher energy costs.
  • Higher energy prices can lead to increased inflation, which means prices for goods and services rise.
  • The Federal Reserve aims to manage inflation without slowing down the economy too much.
  • Keeping rates steady suggests the Fed is cautious about making changes amid global uncertainties.
  • Interest rates influence borrowing costs for people and businesses.
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The Hill
Fire erupts on ships at Egypt’s Damietta port

Fire erupts on ships at Egypt’s Damietta port

July 29, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

Two gas processing and storage ships caught fire at Egypt’s Damietta port. The fire was controlled quickly, no one was hurt, and port operations are expected to start again soon.

Key Facts

  • Two ships used for gas processing and storage caught fire at Damietta port in Egypt.
  • The Egyptian oil ministry said no injuries occurred and emergency plans were followed immediately.
  • A blast happened at the liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal, according to Inchcape, a maritime shipping company.
  • A US-owned floating storage tanker was reportedly hit by a drone at the port.
  • Crew members on the tanker were evacuated safely.
  • No one has claimed responsibility for the attack.
  • The incident took place amid rising tensions between the US and Iran, involving recent missile attacks and joint US-Saudi strikes on a Tehran-backed group in Iraq.
  • President Donald Trump had recently paused bombing Iran to allow time for diplomacy.
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Al Jazeera
The Federal Reserve just froze interest rates yet again. Here's what that could mean for mortgage rates.

The Federal Reserve just froze interest rates yet again. Here's what that could mean for mortgage rates.

July 29, 2026 • Business • CBS News

Summary

The Federal Reserve has kept its main interest rate steady for the fifth time in 2026, but a rate increase may happen in September due to ongoing inflation and global issues. This situation affects mortgage rates, which could rise again, impacting homebuyers and people looking to refinance their homes.

Key Facts

  • The Federal Reserve paused interest rate changes for the fifth time in 2026.
  • Inflation remains above the Fed’s 2% target, raising chances of a rate increase soon.
  • A possible rate hike could happen at the Fed’s September meeting, the first since July 2023.
  • Mortgage rates had dropped in 2025 and early 2026 but have risen again recently.
  • Mortgage rates might return to around 7% or higher if the trend continues.
  • Locking in a mortgage rate now can protect borrowers from future rate increases.
  • Considering adjustable-rate mortgages, paying points for lower rates, or shorter loan terms may help save money.
  • Shopping around for the best mortgage rate is especially important before a possible rate hike.
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CBS News
Laura Ingraham stands at Fauci hearing alongside others ‘shamed’ during COVID-19

Laura Ingraham stands at Fauci hearing alongside others ‘shamed’ during COVID-19

July 29, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

Fox News host Laura Ingraham attended a Senate hearing where Dr. Anthony Fauci answered questions about the COVID-19 pandemic. During the hearing, Senator Bernie Moreno asked people who felt "shamed" over their beliefs or actions during the pandemic to stand, and Ingraham stood up along with others.

Key Facts

  • Laura Ingraham watched the Senate hearing where Dr. Anthony Fauci testified.
  • Senator Bernie Moreno asked if people who felt shamed during COVID-19 would stand.
  • Ingraham stood up to show she felt shamed for her views or actions during the pandemic.
  • The hearing involved discussions about public reactions to COVID-19 information.
  • The event took place on a Wednesday in the Senate chamber.
  • Other attendees also stood to signal they felt "shamed" during the pandemic.
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The Hill
Watch live: Trump, Duffy unveil plans for Dulles renovation

Watch live: Trump, Duffy unveil plans for Dulles renovation

July 29, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

President Donald Trump and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced a renovation plan for Dulles International Airport near Washington. The project, costing more than $20 billion, will add a new underground system to connect terminals and remove the airport's current mobile lounges.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy made the announcement.
  • The renovation is for Dulles International Airport near Washington, D.C.
  • The project will cost over $20 billion.
  • It includes building a new underground connection system between terminals.
  • The airport's current mobile lounges, which transport passengers, will be removed.
  • The mobile lounges are well-known and unique to this airport.
  • The announcement took place on a Wednesday afternoon.
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The Hill
Education minister resigns: 'Exhilarating moment' for India's youth as they demand accountability

Education minister resigns: 'Exhilarating moment' for India's youth as they demand accountability

July 29, 2026 • World • France24

Summary

India's Education Minister resigned following protests by young people demanding government accountability. The government also passed stricter anti-cheating laws and created a reform task force in response to the youth movement.

Key Facts

  • The Education Minister of India resigned amid youth protests.
  • Youth in India have been actively demanding more government accountability.
  • The government introduced higher penalties for cheating in education.
  • A task force was formed to work on educational reforms.
  • The youth movement shows growing political engagement beyond online protests.
  • Critics say government changes focus on procedures, not deep structural problems in education.
  • The protests reflect wider political changes involving resistance to fear-based politics under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government.
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France24
Elon Musk’s xAI is trying to sue its way out of a Grok reckoning

Elon Musk’s xAI is trying to sue its way out of a Grok reckoning

July 29, 2026 • Technology • Ars Technica

Summary

Elon Musk’s AI company xAI is involved in lawsuits related to its AI tool Grok, which users have used to create harmful images, including child abuse materials. xAI is suing users who bypass safeguards and is challenging a new Minnesota law that would impose heavy fines on companies for such harmful AI outputs.

Key Facts

  • xAI’s AI tool Grok has been used by some users to generate illegal child sexual abuse images.
  • xAI has started suing users who it says bypassed safeguards to create such harmful content.
  • Minnesota passed a law effective August 1, 2026, that fines companies up to $500,000 per harmful AI output found in the state.
  • The law could result in fines totaling billions of dollars for companies with many violating images.
  • xAI argues it is already punishing bad users through lawsuits and wants legal protection against the new law.
  • The law allows victims to sue AI companies directly over harmful outputs.
  • xAI says the Minnesota law violates free speech protections under the First Amendment.
  • Due to the law, xAI plans to limit some image-editing features in Grok starting August 2026 but prefers to keep the tool unchanged.
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Ars Technica
Japan earthquake leaves widespread destruction

Japan earthquake leaves widespread destruction

July 29, 2026 • World • Al Jazeera

Summary

A strong magnitude 7.1 earthquake hit southern Japan, causing serious damage to buildings and killing at least 13 people. Rescue teams are working to find people who may be trapped under the rubble.

Key Facts

  • The earthquake measured 7.1 in magnitude.
  • It struck southern Japan.
  • At least 13 people died due to the earthquake.
  • Temples, shopping centers, and factories were damaged.
  • Rescue teams are searching for survivors who might be trapped.
  • Videos from the area show widespread destruction.
  • The earthquake caused significant disruption in the region.
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Al Jazeera
Largest ICE detention center in California violated order to provide adequate medical care: Monitor

Largest ICE detention center in California violated order to provide adequate medical care: Monitor

July 29, 2026 • Us • The Hill

Summary

A court-appointed monitor reported that California’s largest ICE detention center did not follow a court order to give proper medical care to migrants held there. The report said the center neglected the health needs of detained people.

Key Facts

  • The report was made by Dr. Muthusamy Anandkumar, a court-appointed monitor.
  • The California City Immigration Processing Center is the largest ICE detention center in California.
  • The center is located about 75 miles east of Bakersfield, California.
  • The monitor found that the facility failed to provide adequate medical care to detainees.
  • The center violated a court order related to medical care standards.
  • Migrants held in this facility did not have their medical needs properly addressed.
  • The monitor’s findings were announced on a Monday.
  • The report highlights ongoing concerns about detainee treatment in ICE centers.
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The Hill
Stephen Colbert wins an anti-censorship award after CBS ends ‘The Late Show’

Stephen Colbert wins an anti-censorship award after CBS ends ‘The Late Show’

July 29, 2026 • Us • AP News

Summary

Stephen Colbert received an anti-censorship award from the Before Columbus Foundation after CBS ended his show "The Late Show" in May, citing economic reasons. The foundation honors diverse voices in U.S. literature and culture and gave awards to various authors and publishers during its 47th annual American Book Awards.

Key Facts

  • Stephen Colbert hosted "The Late Show" for 11 years and was known for his conflicts with President Donald Trump.
  • CBS ended "The Late Show" in May 2026, saying it was due to economic reasons.
  • Colbert received an anti-censorship award from the Before Columbus Foundation, which promotes diversity in American literature and culture.
  • The foundation’s American Book Awards recognize a wide range of writers, from famous authors to new and under-recognized ones.
  • Other award winners included booksellers, publishers, and authors like Nicholas Boggs, John Fugelsang, and Karen Tei Yamashita.
  • The Before Columbus Foundation is a nonprofit based in Oakland, California.
  • The awards reflect diversity naturally without set quotas.
  • Stephen Colbert’s award was shared with Mitchell Kaplan, a leading independent bookseller.
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AP News
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