The Actual News

Neutral summaries of your favorite news sources — just the facts.

Business News

Business news, market updates, and economic developments

Trump Official Reveals Backup Tariff Plan Ahead of Supreme Court Decision

Trump Official Reveals Backup Tariff Plan Ahead of Supreme Court Decision

Summary

The Trump administration is preparing backup plans in case the Supreme Court rules against existing tariffs. Kevin Hassett, Director of the National Economic Council, stated that there are alternative legal options to implement similar tariffs if needed. The administration might use Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 to address trade imbalances if the court's decision is unfavorable.

Key Facts

  • The Trump administration is concerned about a potential Supreme Court decision against current tariffs.
  • Kevin Hassett discussed the administration's plans on various financial news shows.
  • If the court rules against them, there are other legal ways to impose similar tariffs.
  • U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer is working on these backup plans.
  • Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 allows temporary tariffs to adjust trade imbalances.
  • The administration is confident they will win the court case, but is preparing just in case.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Davos 2026: Newsweek Hosts Leading Voices on AgriTech at Upcoming Event

Davos 2026: Newsweek Hosts Leading Voices on AgriTech at Upcoming Event

Summary

Newsweek is hosting an event focused on agricultural technology in Davos, Switzerland, on January 22, 2026. Leaders from various industries will discuss how farming can better align with global environmental goals. The forum includes panel discussions led by executives from companies like SAP, PepsiCo, and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization.

Key Facts

  • The AgriTech event will take place in Davos, Switzerland, on January 22, 2026.
  • Newsweek is organizing the event to focus on agricultural technology and sustainability.
  • Discussions will explore digital tools, sustainability strategies, and financial frameworks in agriculture.
  • Panel topics include sustainable agriculture, high yield farming, financing innovation, and climate challenges.
  • Prominent speakers include executives from companies like PepsiCo, SAP, and Syngenta.
  • The event aims to bring together leaders from various sectors to discuss climate-aligned agriculture.
  • Representatives from organizations like the United Nations and the Gates Foundation will attend.
  • Newsweek aims to promote solutions for sustainability and climate resilience through this event.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Uncommon Knowledge: Trump Gets a Shock on Chinese EVs

Uncommon Knowledge: Trump Gets a Shock on Chinese EVs

Summary

Canada has decided to reduce tariffs on 49,000 Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs) each year. This comes as part of a broader agreement that also includes lowering Chinese tariffs on Canadian agricultural goods. President Donald Trump has previously made comments suggesting openness to Chinese automakers in the U.S., although there are existing high tariffs and regulations on Chinese EVs.

Key Facts

  • Canada will cut tariffs on 49,000 Chinese electric cars to 6.1% annually.
  • This change is part of a deal that also lowers Chinese duties on Canadian farm products like canola.
  • President Trump previously expressed a willingness to allow Chinese carmakers to operate in the U.S.
  • The U.S. currently has a 100% tariff on Chinese-made EVs.
  • Some U.S. politicians want to ban Chinese EVs over data security concerns.
  • Canada aims to reduce its trade reliance on the U.S. by diversifying imports.
  • The European Union is considering setting price floors rather than blocking Chinese EVs completely.
  • Chinese car companies, like BYD, make competitive electric cars that are affordable.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Worker Goes Viral Over Boss’s Response to Wife in ICU: ‘Be Very Careful’

Worker Goes Viral Over Boss’s Response to Wife in ICU: ‘Be Very Careful’

Summary

A worker went viral for sharing an online post about managing rigorous work hours while their wife was in intensive care. The worker described how their boss reacted by prioritizing business needs over personal family emergencies. The post sparked widespread discussion about sharing personal information at work and the implications of employer-funded health insurance.

Key Facts

  • A worker managed work deadlines and went viral for their post while their wife was in the ICU for 12 days.
  • The worker shared with their workplace the challenges they were facing but continued to meet work responsibilities.
  • The worker's boss reminded them of business needs, despite knowing about the personal crisis.
  • A different company member suggested the worker should prioritize being with their wife in the hospital.
  • The viral post warned about being cautious with sharing personal details at work.
  • Comments on the post noted the risks of employer-funded health insurance revealing costly health conditions.
  • It was discussed how employers might infer which employee is costly for health insurance, potentially leading to job cuts.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Map Shows States Where Foreclosures Soaring

Map Shows States Where Foreclosures Soaring

Summary

In 2025, foreclosure activity in the U.S. increased by 14% from the previous year, reaching the highest level since 2019. Florida had the highest foreclosure rate, with several other states also showing significant increases. Despite this rise, foreclosure rates are still much lower than during the housing crisis or pre-pandemic periods.

Key Facts

  • Foreclosure filings in the U.S. totaled 367,460 in 2025.
  • This number is 14% higher than in 2024 and the highest since 2019.
  • The U.S. foreclosure rate was 0.26% in 2025, up from 0.23% in 2024.
  • Florida had the highest foreclosure rate among states, at 0.44%.
  • The increase in filings is attributed to financial stress and market recalibration.
  • 2025 foreclosure levels are still below those seen during the housing crisis and pre-pandemic.
  • Economic factors like rising costs and slow job growth are contributing to financial strain.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

'Teen Mom' Star Slams Austin Housing Market After Her Rent Doubled

'Teen Mom' Star Slams Austin Housing Market After Her Rent Doubled

Summary

Former Teen Mom star Farrah Abraham, who is running for a city council seat in Austin, Texas, criticized the city's housing market, saying her rent has significantly increased. Austin experienced a housing demand surge during the pandemic, causing home prices to rise sharply, although prices are now stabilizing. Abraham aims to address affordable housing if elected.

Key Facts

  • Farrah Abraham is running for a city council seat in Austin's District 5.
  • Abraham stated her downtown rent has doubled or tripled.
  • Austin's housing market surged during the pandemic, with home prices rising over 60%.
  • Prices are now stabilizing as fewer people move to the city.
  • Abraham plans to address housing affordability if elected to city council.
  • She cited issues with outdated tax laws affecting self-employed individuals.
  • Abraham has lived in Austin since 2013 and works in various roles, including as a life coach.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Worker shortage could hurt AI construction boom, BlackRock warns

Worker shortage could hurt AI construction boom, BlackRock warns

Summary

BlackRock has warned that the U.S. might face a worker shortage as a massive global construction boom, partly driven by AI technology development, is underway. This shortage could be due to the retirement of older workers and the growing demand for skilled trade jobs tied to infrastructure projects. Despite these challenges, there is potential for wage growth that could attract younger workers to these positions.

Key Facts

  • BlackRock highlighted a potential shortage of workers in the U.S. for upcoming infrastructure projects.
  • The construction boom is driven by AI expansion and efforts to upgrade aging infrastructure.
  • BlackRock noted that training workers quickly could be a significant challenge.
  • Infrastructure-related jobs are expected to grow at a rate of 5% over the next 10 years, faster than the 3% national average.
  • Many construction workers and supervisors are nearing retirement, contributing to the labor shortage.
  • Immigration crackdowns have also contributed to a shortage of construction workers in the U.S.
  • Companies and governments are encouraged to train workers for the increasing demand for AI infrastructure jobs.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Bruce Broussard On Leaving Humana, Reputational Risks of AI

Bruce Broussard On Leaving Humana, Reputational Risks of AI

Summary

The article discusses key trends from the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference, focusing on innovation in the biopharma industry, the strategic use of artificial intelligence (AI), and challenges related to healthcare policy and economics. Companies at the conference are planning strategic expansions and partnerships, while AI is increasingly viewed as an important tool for drug development and operational improvements.

Key Facts

  • The J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference is in its 44th year and serves as an important event for the healthcare industry.
  • Major companies like Bristol Myers Squibb and AbbVie are discussing strategies for growth, including partnerships and diversification.
  • AI is being emphasized as a valuable tool in drug discovery, diagnostics, and improving workflows.
  • Economic and policy issues, such as Medicaid funding and healthcare regulation, are prominent topics at the conference.
  • The conference highlights a trend towards early-stage deals and strategic partnerships in the biotech sector.
  • Healthcare leaders are addressing concerns about the scientific enterprise amid public skepticism.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Amazon Threatens 'Drastic' Action Against Saks

Amazon Threatens 'Drastic' Action Against Saks

Summary

Amazon, a financial backer of Saks Global, is concerned about its investment after Saks filed for bankruptcy. Amazon objected to Saks' bankruptcy plan and is considering more serious actions if its worries are not addressed. The bankruptcy filing is significant due to Saks' financial challenges and the impact on the luxury retail sector.

Key Facts

  • Amazon invested $475 million in Saks Global to support a Neiman Marcus acquisition.
  • Saks Global filed for bankruptcy with approximately $3.4 billion in debt.
  • Amazon claims its investment is now worthless due to Saks’ financial issues.
  • A judge approved a $400 million financing lifeline for Saks.
  • Saks faces problems like declining sales and cash shortages.
  • Saks failed to meet conditions of the Amazon deal, affecting revenue expectations.
  • Late payments to vendors have affected Saks’ supply chain and inventory.
  • Saks requires $1.75 billion in new financing to continue operations.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Taiwan and US seal deal to lower tariffs, boost chip investment

Taiwan and US seal deal to lower tariffs, boost chip investment

Summary

Taiwan and the United States have agreed on a trade deal where Taiwan will invest heavily in U.S. technology and energy sectors in return for reduced tariffs on its goods. Taiwan will invest at least $250 billion in U.S. semiconductor and tech industries while the U.S. will lower tariffs on Taiwanese imports from 20% to 15%.

Key Facts

  • Taiwan will invest at least $250 billion in the United States' tech and energy sectors.
  • The U.S. will reduce tariffs on imports of Taiwanese goods from 20% to 15%.
  • The deal aims to improve U.S. access to Taiwan's semiconductor industry.
  • Taiwan is a major global supplier of semiconductors, crucial for digital technology.
  • President Trump previously set a 32% tariff on Taiwanese goods before lowering it to 20%.
  • Taiwan will provide the same amount in credit guarantees for further U.S. semiconductor supply chain investments.
  • By 2030, production capacity for advanced chips will be primarily centered in Taiwan, with some development in the U.S.
  • China opposes the deal, urging the U.S. to recognize its stance on Taiwan's sovereignty.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Uber and Kroger Launch New Nationwide Delivery Service

Uber and Kroger Launch New Nationwide Delivery Service

Summary

Kroger has teamed up with Uber Technologies to offer on-demand and same-day grocery deliveries across the United States. Customers can now order groceries from nearly 2,700 stores in the Kroger Family of Companies using the Uber Eats, Uber, and Postmates apps.

Key Facts

  • Kroger and Uber have launched a nationwide grocery delivery service.
  • The service is available through Uber Eats, Uber, and Postmates apps.
  • Customers can order groceries from nearly 2,700 Kroger stores.
  • The service offers on-demand and same-day delivery options.
  • Uber is offering up to 50% off first orders from many Kroger stores.
  • Uber One subscribers get $0 delivery fees on eligible orders.
  • This move follows Kroger's other digital collaborations with platforms like DoorDash and Instacart.
  • Uber is also exploring delivering food by drone, with pilot markets expected by the end of 2025.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Why access to Venezuela’s ‘heavy’ oil is ‘tremendous’ news for US refiners

Why access to Venezuela’s ‘heavy’ oil is ‘tremendous’ news for US refiners

Summary

The United States is looking to control Venezuela's oil sector after Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was taken. Venezuela has the world's largest oil reserves, mainly a type of heavy, sour crude that is harder to refine but may have potential if significant investments are made.

Key Facts

  • Venezuela has the world's largest proven oil reserves, estimated at 303 billion barrels.
  • Most of Venezuela's oil is heavy, sour crude, located in the Orinoco Oil Belt.
  • Heavy, sour crude is more challenging and costly to refine compared to light, sweet crude.
  • The U.S. government under President Trump is interested in investing in Venezuela’s oil sector.
  • Venezuela's oil industry has been affected by nationalization under Hugo Chavez and U.S. sanctions.
  • Venezuela's oil production dropped from about 3.5 million barrels per day in the 1970s to around 860,000 barrels per day as of November.
  • Significant investment, estimated at $110 billion, is needed to boost Venezuela's oil output.
  • U.S. oil companies, like ExxonMobil, have concerns about investing in Venezuela due to its uncertain political situation and past expropriations.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Hermès Reportedly Investigating if Buyers ‘Prestigious Enough’ for a Birkin

Hermès Reportedly Investigating if Buyers ‘Prestigious Enough’ for a Birkin

Summary

Hermès, a luxury fashion brand, is under scrutiny for reportedly investigating whether potential Birkin bag buyers are wealthy or prestigious enough. A report by a French publication claims Hermès staff check customer addresses and social media to make these judgments. The investigation has sparked debate about the exclusivity and sales practices of the brand.

Key Facts

  • Hermès is a well-known luxury brand famous for its Birkin bags, which can sell for over $100,000.
  • A French publication, Glitz, reported that Hermès staff supposedly check home addresses and social media profiles of potential buyers.
  • The checks are believed to look for signs of wealth and prestige, like living in affluent neighborhoods.
  • Customers wearing certain luxury watches might be seen more favorably by staff.
  • Prospective buyers may need to spend a lot and build a relationship with Hermès before being offered a Birkin bag.
  • The Birkin bag, named after actress Jane Birkin, was designed in the 1980s and is a symbol of wealth and status.
  • Reselling a Birkin bag on social media may lead to the customer being blacklisted by Hermès.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Star Wars boss Kathleen Kennedy departs after 14 years in the role

Star Wars boss Kathleen Kennedy departs after 14 years in the role

Summary

Kathleen Kennedy is stepping down as the president of Lucasfilm after 14 years. She will become a full-time producer while Dave Filoni takes over as the president and chief creative officer. During her leadership, Lucasfilm released several successful Star Wars films and shows and introduced more female and diverse characters.

Key Facts

  • Kathleen Kennedy led Lucasfilm since Disney bought it in 2012.
  • She will now become a full-time producer at the studio.
  • Dave Filoni, previously involved in animated Star Wars shows, will become president and chief creative officer.
  • Kennedy oversaw the release of five Star Wars films that earned over $5 billion worldwide.
  • Some of the films she managed include The Force Awakens and Solo: A Star Wars Story, the latter being a box office disappointment.
  • She introduced more female leads and characters from different backgrounds, though some fans criticized this approach.
  • Lucasfilm produced popular Disney+ series like The Mandalorian and Andor during her tenure.
  • Kennedy will continue to work on upcoming Lucasfilm projects like The Mandalorian and Grogu and Star Wars: Starfighter.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

How realistic is India's quest for magnets made of rare earths

How realistic is India's quest for magnets made of rare earths

Summary

India has approved a large financial plan to produce its own rare earth magnets by 2025, aiming to reduce reliance on imports, especially from China. These magnets are crucial for many technologies, including electric vehicles and wind turbines. The plan includes incentives for companies to produce magnets, but India faces challenges in technology, expertise, and raw material availability.

Key Facts

  • India approved a 73 billion rupee plan ($800 million) to produce rare earth magnets domestically.
  • The goal is to make 6,000 tonnes of permanent magnets per year within seven years.
  • India currently imports 80-90% of its rare earth materials from China.
  • China controls over 90% of global rare earth processing and recently restricted exports during a trade dispute.
  • India has the world's third-largest rare earth reserves but does minimal mining.
  • India is building facilities to support magnet production but lacks extensive industry experience.
  • Experts suggest that India will need partnerships to acquire technology and develop skills.
  • Steps are being taken to prioritize domestic use of rare earth materials over exports.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Leon will focus on stations and airports to revive fortunes, boss says

Leon will focus on stations and airports to revive fortunes, boss says

Summary

Fast-food chain Leon plans to open more locations in service stations, airports, and train stations while closing 20 High Street locations due to rising business costs. Leon's boss, John Vincent, highlighted financial struggles and changes in the market as reasons for the shift. The company aims to return to its mission of offering good-quality fast food at accessible prices.

Key Facts

  • Leon will close 20 High Street restaurants and open more in stations and airports.
  • The company has been losing £10 million per year.
  • Rising business rates and overall cost increases make High Street locations less profitable.
  • John Vincent, co-founder, repurchased Leon from Asda last year and has initiated a major restructuring.
  • The UK government is providing a support package to help hospitality businesses with rising costs.
  • Business rates relief for hospitality, introduced during Covid, will end in April.
  • Airports and stations can offer higher revenue despite taking a large portion of a retailer's earnings.
  • Leon intends to simplify its menu to return to its original mission of mass-market good-quality fast food.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

'We're in survival mode': The cost of milk price crisis to family dairy farms

'We're in survival mode': The cost of milk price crisis to family dairy farms

Summary

Family dairy farms in Scotland are struggling due to a sharp drop in milk prices, which have fallen below production costs. Oversupply in the global milk market has led to this price slump, leaving farmers like the Johnstones considering alternative ways to sell their milk or even leaving farming altogether. The National Farmers Union for Scotland describes this downturn as unprecedented in its speed and impact.

Key Facts

  • The Johnstone family runs a dairy farm in south-west Scotland with 60 cows.
  • In recent months, the price they get for milk fell 25% below production costs.
  • They make 38.5 pence per litre but sell it for only 35.7 pence.
  • The global milk market has an oversupply, causing price drops.
  • Large processors like Arla have cut the prices they pay farmers due to excess supply.
  • UK milk production might exceed 13 billion litres this year.
  • Prices for dairy products like cheddar and butter are nearing their five-year lows.
  • The Johnstones are considering direct selling to local customers as an alternative.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

US to cut tariffs on Taiwanese goods after investment pledge

US to cut tariffs on Taiwanese goods after investment pledge

Summary

The United States will reduce tariffs on Taiwanese goods to 15% after receiving commitments for significant investments in the U.S. semiconductor industry from Taiwan. These investments aim to boost U.S. production of semiconductor chips, a crucial component in many electronic devices. This agreement involves over $250 billion in new direct investments and additional financing from the Taiwanese government.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. will cut tariffs on Taiwanese goods to 15% in exchange for major investments from Taiwan.
  • Taiwan's semiconductor companies have committed to at least $250 billion in new investments in the U.S.
  • The deal includes exemptions from tariffs for Taiwanese semiconductor firms investing in the U.S.
  • U.S. aims to increase domestic semiconductor production after pandemic-related supply chain issues.
  • Semiconductor shortages highlighted the need for improved supply chain security during the Covid-19 pandemic.
  • U.S. subsidies have supported investment from large companies like TSMC, a leading Taiwanese manufacturer.
  • TSMC opened a plant in Arizona in 2024 with help from $40 billion in U.S. subsidies.
  • The Taiwanese government will also provide $250 billion in financing to support these investments.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Texas Is Getting 2 Million Free Eggs

Texas Is Getting 2 Million Free Eggs

Summary

Texas will receive 2 million free eggs as part of a settlement with Cal-Maine Foods, a major egg supplier. Cal-Maine was accused of illegally raising egg prices by 300% in April 2020. The eggs will be distributed to food banks across Texas to help residents.

Key Facts

  • Texas reached a settlement with Cal-Maine Foods for price gouging during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Cal-Maine Foods is accused of raising egg prices by 300%, which is illegal during a declared emergency.
  • More than 2 million eggs will be donated to food banks across Texas as part of the settlement.
  • Attorney General Ken Paxton finalized the settlement to hold Cal-Maine accountable.
  • The eggs will be distributed over the next 120 days to food banks like North Texas Food Bank and Houston Food Bank.
  • Cal-Maine is prohibited from pricing violations during a disaster under the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act.
  • Egg prices had jumped from around $2 to over $5-$6 per dozen during the pandemic.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Health Leaders Say Cross-System Collaborations Make Up for Gaps in Access

Health Leaders Say Cross-System Collaborations Make Up for Gaps in Access

Summary

Health care leaders emphasize the need for hospitals, tech companies, and academic institutions to work together to improve patient care and access. Industry experts from different organizations discussed these collaborations during a Newsweek webinar, highlighting how partnerships can help overcome challenges like labor shortages and rising costs.

Key Facts

  • Health systems face challenges such as labor shortages and rising costs.
  • A Newsweek webinar discussed collaborations between hospitals, tech companies, and academic institutions.
  • City of Hope, a major cancer center, serves 175,000 cancer patients each year.
  • Banner Health collaborates with Mayo Clinic and University of Arizona for better technology and research.
  • Panelists stressed the importance of clear communication and shared values in partnerships.
  • Collaborations help bring advanced therapies to communities, regardless of location.
  • Leaders from Hartford HealthCare, City of Hope, and Banner Health participated in the discussion.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Save articles & personalize your feed — Create a free account