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The documentary "Melania," which follows Melania Trump before President Donald Trump’s 2025 inauguration, earned $7 million in ticket sales during its first weekend, exceeding expectations. Despite some negative critic reviews, audience reviews have been positive with high approval ratings.
Key Facts
The film "Melania" earned $7 million in its opening weekend.
The documentary brought in $2.9 million on its first day.
Initial predictions for opening weekend earnings were between $1 million and $5 million.
The film was the third-best-performing in theaters that weekend domestically.
Amazon MGM paid $40 million to acquire the documentary.
"Melania" had the strongest documentary start in more than ten years.
Critics largely gave negative reviews, while audiences rated it highly on review sites.
Similar films with the same production budget earned slightly more on opening.
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A hotel in New Orleans, called The Windsor Court, is introducing a new service called BARK Happy for dogs. This service offers various amenities and activities to enhance the stay of dogs at the hotel.
Key Facts
The Windsor Court hotel in New Orleans is launching a service named BARK Happy for dogs.
BARK Happy is developed by the team behind a dog-friendly air service called BARK Air.
The service replaces a standard pet fee with a $150 charge for dog-specific amenities.
Dogs receive special items like toys, treats, and branded feeding bowls as part of the service.
The service includes custom itineraries for pet-friendly activities and dining.
A maximum of two dogs is allowed per room.
This launch coincides with the Mystic Krewe of Barkus Parade, a dog-themed event during Mardi Gras.
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Gold and silver prices have dropped significantly after reaching record highs earlier in the year. The decline follows financial uncertainties and the appointment of a new candidate for the US Federal Reserve head. Markets expect potential interest rate cuts in 2026, which could affect the attractiveness of gold investments.
Key Facts
Gold prices fell by over 9% to about $4,403 an ounce in Asia trading.
Silver prices decreased by 15%, now less than $72 an ounce.
Prices reached record highs previously due to central bank investments and global uncertainties.
President Donald Trump named Kevin Warsh as his choice for the US Federal Reserve head.
In January, gold and silver hit all-time highs, with gold peaking above $5,500, and silver over $120.
Wall Street expects the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates twice in 2026.
Gold is valued for its scarcity, with a limited amount mined historically.
On Friday, gold saw its largest one-day drop since 1983, with silver dropping 27%.
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Stanley Kubrick's former mansion in Hertfordshire, England, is on the market for £6.9 million ($9.6 million). The late Victorian property is noted for its original design features and spacious layout. The listing surprised some people who expected a more unusual style fitting Kubrick’s creative reputation.
Key Facts
Stanley Kubrick's former home is for sale in Hertfordshire, England.
The mansion is listed for £6.9 million, which is about $9.6 million.
It is a late Victorian country house with original features like high ceilings and fireplaces.
The property covers about 2.38 acres and includes over 7,700 square feet of space.
The mansion surprised some people due to its traditional design, different from Kubrick's creative persona.
Similar celebrity homes have also attracted interest, like Audrey Hepburn's and Taylor Swift's residences.
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New York City has decided to ban hidden hotel fees, aiming to protect travelers from unexpected costs when they check out. These fees include charges such as resort fees, Wi-Fi costs, and extra parking fees, which are typically not visible until the final steps of booking.
Key Facts
New York City is banning hidden hotel fees to help visitors save money.
These fees have many names, like resort or destination fees, and are added to the room price.
Resort fees often cover things like pool towels and local phone calls.
Early check-in and late checkout fees are becoming more common, treating them as penalties rather than conveniences.
Wi-Fi costs can vary, sometimes charging per device, increasing expenses for multiple users.
Parking fees can change depending on the day or local events, impacting overall travel costs.
Hotels may hold a temporary charge on credit cards to cover potential extra costs during a stay.
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A wellness brand called Mindbodygreen recalled about 148,370 bottles of a multivitamin because the packaging does not meet child-resistant standards. The recall was announced because young children could be at risk of serious harm if they ingest the vitamins, which contain iron.
Key Facts
Mindbodygreen recalled its Ultimate Multivitamin+ due to packaging issues.
The recalled vitamins were sold in 8-ounce amber glass bottles with black caps.
The products were sold online from November 2021 to November 2025.
The recall affects bottles with UPCs 850027975177 and 850027975429.
The packaging does not meet child-resistant standards required by the Poison Prevention Packaging Act.
The vitamins contain iron, which can be dangerous if consumed by young children.
No injuries have been reported from this issue.
Customers can request a free child-resistant replacement cap from Mindbodygreen.
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Starbucks is using new technology like AI-driven robots to improve sales and customer experience. The company has seen a recent increase in sales in U.S. stores, although spending on improvements has affected profits. CEO Brian Niccol is focusing on both technology investments and a personal touch to help the brand regain its appeal.
Key Facts
Starbucks is using AI robots to take drive-thru orders at some locations.
In-store baristas can use virtual assistants to help with tasks like recalling recipes.
The company has invested heavily in technology to improve customer experience and sales.
U.S. stores recently reported their first sales increase in two years.
Despite increased sales, Starbucks' share price dropped due to concerns about spending impacting profits.
CEO Brian Niccol, who joined in 2024, halted price increases and simplified operations.
Starbucks aims to save $2 billion in costs over the next three years.
Efforts also include creating a more inviting store atmosphere by writing names on cups by hand and updating shop interiors.
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French tech company Capgemini plans to sell its U.S. subsidiary due to backlash over its work with U.S. immigration enforcement agency ICE. This decision follows protests related to ICE's actions in the U.S., where the subsidiary was contracted to help locate people for deportation.
Key Facts
Capgemini is a large French technology company.
The U.S. subsidiary provided location services for ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement).
Capgemini plans to sell this subsidiary due to criticism over its involvement with ICE.
The subsidiary's contract includes tracing people for enforcement operations.
The subsidiary was set to earn over $4.8 million for its work up to March 15.
Recent protests and scrutiny of ICE's actions, including fatal shootings, increased pressure on Capgemini.
French politicians have criticized the company's involvement with ICE.
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India announced its 2026-2027 budget, which focuses on infrastructure and manufacturing growth. Despite global economic challenges, India plans significant spending to support these sectors while managing government debt. The budget targets GDP growth of 6.8% to 7.2%.
Key Facts
India's new budget focuses on infrastructure and manufacturing.
Total government spending is projected at $583 billion for 2026-2027.
India's GDP growth is expected to be between 6.8% and 7.2% next year.
12.2 trillion rupees ($133 billion) will be spent on infrastructure.
India plans to invest in seven strategic manufacturing sectors.
The budget aims to reduce government debt and fiscal deficit slightly.
The Indian rupee has hit low levels due to foreign investors selling Indian stocks.
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A list of the UK's top 100 taxpayers shows that Harry Styles and Anthony Joshua are among the highest contributors. The list is led by Fred and Peter Done, the founders of Betfred, who paid the most in taxes. The total amount paid by the top 100 taxpayers increased compared to the previous year.
Key Facts
Fred and Peter Done, founders of Betfred, paid an estimated £400.1 million in taxes.
The top 100 taxpayers paid a total of £5.758 billion, up from £4.985 billion last year.
Harry Styles made a £24.7 million tax payment.
Anthony Joshua ranked 100th on the list with an £11 million tax contribution.
Erling Haaland is the youngest on the list, paying £16.9 million in taxes.
JK Rowling paid £47.5 million and ranked 36th on the list.
Some wealthy individuals are leaving the UK to avoid higher taxes.
Changes to corporation tax rates contributed to increased tax payments.
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Amtrak has introduced a limited-edition "Trak Suit," a two-piece outfit designed in collaboration with the New York School of Design. The launch coincides with the debut of the NextGen Acela service, and the suit is being sold online until February 2.
Key Facts
Amtrak's "Trak Suit" is priced at $279 and is available online.
The design collaboration was with a student from the New York School of Design, Anastasiia Lukinskaia.
The "Trak Suit" includes a hooded sweatshirt and pants with Amtrak logos and other features.
The material is microfiber fleece poly fabric, chosen for its softness and comfort.
The suit is linked to the launch of the NextGen Acela service in the Northeast Corridor.
It was unveiled during New York Fashion Week with limited availability.
Once ordered, it takes approximately 60 business days to produce.
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India has announced its budget for 2026-27, focusing on increasing infrastructure spending and supporting domestic manufacturing. The budget aims for fiscal responsibility while emphasizing sectors like rare earths and semiconductors. India expects slightly slower economic growth next year as global tensions, including U.S. tariffs, impact its economy.
Key Facts
India's budget for 2026-27 focuses on infrastructure and domestic manufacturing.
The country plans record spending on infrastructure projects such as roads, ports, and railways.
Defence spending will increase by over 20% due to global geopolitical tensions.
India aims to boost manufacturing in sectors like semiconductors and rare earths.
No new personal tax cuts were announced; previous tax relief measures remain.
India offers tax benefits for foreign cloud companies investing in data centers.
The government targets reducing its fiscal deficit, the gap between its spending and income.
Economic growth is projected to slow slightly next year due to tariffs and global uncertainties.
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Several companies have announced layoffs for early 2026, affecting workers in both the tech and retail sectors. Companies like Amazon, Meta, and UPS are reducing their workforce as they adjust to market changes and incorporate AI technologies. The reasons for these layoffs include cost-cutting, restructuring, and adapting to new business focuses.
Key Facts
Nordstrom Card Services plans to lay off between 11 and 15 employees in February 2026.
UPS is cutting 30,000 jobs and closing 24 buildings to refocus its business strategy.
Amazon will eliminate 16,000 jobs shortly after cutting 14,000 jobs in October.
Meta is reducing over 1,000 positions in its Reality Labs division.
Pinterest plans to decrease its workforce by nearly 15% to focus more on AI.
Nike will cut 775 jobs at its distribution centers in Tennessee and Mississippi.
The layoffs are largely due to restructuring and AI efficiencies, not just economic necessity.
Experts say these job cuts are multifaceted, involving cost-cutting and adapting to AI advancements.
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The IRS tax filing deadline for certain forms, including the W-2, W-3, and 1099-NEC, was January 31, 2026. Penalties apply for missing the deadline or submitting incorrect forms.
Key Facts
The IRS required forms like W-2, W-3, and 1099-NEC to be filed by January 31, 2026.
Form W-2 reports employee wages and tax withholdings and must be shared with both the SSA and employees.
Form W-3 is sent with the W-2, summarizing total wages and taxes for all employees.
Form 1099-NEC reports payments of $600 or more to nonemployees like freelancers.
Missing the deadline or providing incorrect forms can result in penalties.
Penalties per late return in 2026 start at $60 and can reach $680 for intentional disregard.
Separate penalties apply for not filing correctly with the IRS/SSA or not providing recipient copies.
Interest is charged on unpaid penalties, but payment plans are available to reduce further penalties.
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Keurig Dr Pepper is launching a new soda brand called SkyPop across the United States. SkyPop is a protein-fortified soda with zero sugar and includes various flavors. The launch follows successful early trials and is part of a trend where more people are looking for protein-based foods and drinks.
Key Facts
SkyPop contains 10 grams of whey protein, zero sugar, and 45 calories per can.
The soda comes in flavors like Root Beer, Ice Pop, and Strawberry Cotton Candy.
The brand was initially called "Don’t Quit" before being rebranded to SkyPop.
The launch is supported by a $15 million investment, with backing from celebrities like NBA player Russell Westbrook.
SkyPop has over 65,000 retail partnerships, including stores like Walmart and Target.
There is growing demand for protein-based foods and drinks, especially among younger people.
Surveys indicate that protein intake increased for 61% of Americans in 2024.
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Asda, one of the UK's largest supermarkets, has been losing customers to its competitors. Sales decreased by 4.2% over a 12-week period at the end of 2025, and the company faces challenges due to a high level of debt and market changes.
Key Facts
Asda is the UK's third-largest supermarket chain.
Sales at Asda fell by 4.2% during a 12-week period ending December 28, 2025.
Other major UK supermarkets reported sales increases during the same period.
The Issa brothers and TDR Capital bought Asda in 2021 using a debt-financed deal.
Rising inflation and interest rates have increased the cost of Asda's debts.
Management turnover and store staffing cuts have led to operational issues.
Asda faces competition from budget chains like Aldi and Lidl.
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The release of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein has brought renewed attention to the connections between Epstein and several wealthy individuals, including Bill Gates and Elon Musk. The documents, released by the U.S. Department of Justice, include emails and other correspondence involving these figures, although some claims are disputed by the individuals mentioned.
Key Facts
The U.S. Department of Justice released documents about Jeffrey Epstein’s connections.
The documents include emails mentioning Bill Gates and claims about extramarital affairs, which Gates denies.
Elon Musk’s emails show he sought visits to Epstein’s island, contrary to his previous claims of not accepting invitations.
Musk responded on social media, claiming minimal interaction with Epstein and support for releasing the files.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick also had interactions with Epstein in 2012 but later called Epstein derogatory names.
Some survivors of Epstein’s alleged crimes say abusers remain protected despite the document release.
The Epstein Files Transparency Act required all Epstein-related documents to be published by December 19.
The release marks the end of a thorough review process by the U.S. Department of Justice.
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A new documentary about Melania Trump is expected to perform well in its opening weekend, potentially ranking in the top five at the box office. The film attracted criticism due to its high costs and the involvement of director Brett Ratner, but early ticket sales suggest it could earn around $8 million in North America.
Key Facts
The documentary is titled 'Melania' and covers 20 days in Melania Trump's life leading up to President Trump's second inauguration.
It faced initial low expectations and criticisms due to the high costs and director Brett Ratner's past allegations.
Amazon invested $75 million in the film, making it one of the most expensive documentaries ever.
Some countries, like South Africa, have decided not to show the film.
The documentary may earn over $8 million in North American theaters during its opening weekend.
'Melania' has received mixed reviews, with low critic ratings but high audience approval on review sites.
Final box office numbers will be confirmed on Monday.
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Chancellor Rachel Reeves called the current student loan system "fair and reasonable" following criticism for freezing the repayment threshold at which graduates start repaying their loans. The freeze means graduates on Plan 2 loans in England and Wales will have to repay loans starting at an income of £29,385 from April 2027, for three years. Critics argue this decision treats student loans like a tax and burdens graduates with rising repayment costs due to inflation.
Key Facts
The repayment threshold for Plan 2 student loans will be frozen at £29,385 from April 2027 for three years.
This change will affect graduates in England and Wales who started courses between 2012 and 2023.
Plan 2 loans were introduced when tuition fees increased to up to £9,000 a year.
Graduates repay 9% of earnings above their threshold, with automatic payments through the tax system.
The interest rate for Plan 2 loans includes RPI inflation plus up to 3% based on earnings.
Higher inflation recently increased interest rates on these loans, making repayments more costly over time.
Critics, including finance expert Martin Lewis, challenged the fairness of treating loans akin to taxes.
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A Danish company, Maersk, will temporarily manage two ports on the Panama Canal after Panama's top court ruled that the contracts with a Hong Kong firm, CK Hutchison, were unconstitutional. The decision follows concerns from the U.S. about Chinese influence over the canal, which is a key route for global shipping.
Key Facts
Maersk will temporarily operate the Balboa and Cristobal ports on the Panama Canal.
The Panama Supreme Court ruled contracts with Hong Kong's CK Hutchison unconstitutional.
The Panama Maritime Authority announced Maersk's temporary takeover.
The ruling followed U.S. President Trump's comments about Chinese control of the canal.
The Panama Canal handles 40% of U.S. container shipping and 5% of world trade.
Panama took control of the canal from the U.S. in 1999.
China expressed concerns about the ruling affecting its companies.
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