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Business news, market updates, and economic developments

China pharma deals threaten U.S. biotech

China pharma deals threaten U.S. biotech

Summary

China is making more deals to provide its drugs and medical products, suggesting a shift in global biotech leadership from the U.S. to China. Chinese biotech companies have increased their share of global licensing deals significantly, and this trend comes as the U.S. cuts funding for biomedical research. This shift is raising concerns about maintaining U.S. leadership in the biotech industry.

Key Facts

  • China has been developing its biopharmaceutical industry for the past ten years.
  • Chinese drugs now make up nearly 40% of licensing deals, up from less than 3% five years ago.
  • Major companies like AstraZeneca and GSK have invested over $150 billion in Chinese biotech deals in the past five years.
  • GSK has about 10% of its drug research focusing on Chinese sources.
  • The U.S. is cutting federal funding for biomedical research, including potential reductions to the National Institutes of Health's budget.
  • The Biosecure Act could limit Chinese biotech companies from U.S. government-funded research.
  • The U.S. might miss out on advances if it doesn't keep up with global biotech progress, especially in light of upcoming patent expirations.
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See the trailer for The Axios Show

See the trailer for The Axios Show

Summary

Axios is starting a new video interview series called The Axios Show this fall. This series will feature conversations with important figures in politics, media, business, technology, and culture. The series will have five episodes available online and on social media platforms.

Key Facts

  • Axios is launching a video interview series this fall.
  • The series is named The Axios Show.
  • It focuses on interviews with key figures in politics, media, business, tech, and culture.
  • There will be five episodes released this fall.
  • Full episodes will be available on Axios.com, YouTube, and X (formerly known as Twitter).
  • Highlights from the episodes will be shared on Axios's social media accounts.
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'The Tube strike will cost me hundreds of pounds a day'

'The Tube strike will cost me hundreds of pounds a day'

Summary

A Tube strike, starting on Sunday, in London is causing financial concerns for local businesses. The strike is expected to have a significant economic impact, potentially costing around £230 million and affecting public transport as well as businesses dependent on commuter traffic. Business owners, like Prasanna Callaghan of Crumpets Cafe, worry about the loss of income, while the RMT union attributes the strike to unresolved issues with management over pay and working conditions.

Key Facts

  • The Tube strike in London began on a Sunday and will last for five days.
  • Prasanna Callaghan, owner of Crumpets Cafe, expects to lose £600-£700 each day due to the strike.
  • The Centre for Economics and Business Research estimates the strike could cost about £230 million in economic losses.
  • The strike affects London Underground services, causing disruptions until Thursday.
  • Members of the Rail, Maritime And Transport union (RMT) are on strike over pay and working conditions.
  • Sectors such as retail and hospitality in London are experiencing reduced footfall and consumer spending.
  • The RMT is asking for a 32-hour workweek, citing issues like "fatigue management" for its members.
  • TfL has been criticized for not considering a small reduction in the working week as a solution.
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Bob's pub shuts after 125 years

Bob's pub shuts after 125 years

Summary

Bob's pub, a well-known establishment in Scunthorpe, is closing after 125 years of operation. The pub is up for sale, and there are plans from a potential buyer to convert it into a wedding and private event venue.

Key Facts

  • The Lord Roberts pub, also called Bob's, has been a part of Scunthorpe life since 1900.
  • The pub is closing due to changes in people's spending habits and reduced patronage.
  • Graham Matthews, the current landlord, is emotional about the closure and notes the struggles in the hospitality industry.
  • The pub was once converted into a disco-bar named Cre8 in 2003 before returning to being a pub.
  • An auction is being held to sell the pub's memorabilia and contents.
  • The pub is on the market, with interest from a buyer who may turn it into a venue for weddings and private events.
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How brightly colored do we want our food? For brands, it's a hill to dye on

How brightly colored do we want our food? For brands, it's a hill to dye on

Summary

Many food companies are working to replace artificial dyes with natural ones to keep their products vibrant in color. Companies like Sam's Club, Kraft Heinz, Nestle, and Mars are spending money to make these changes while maintaining the colors consumers expect. This shift is partly due to consumer demand and pressure from health officials.

Key Facts

  • Sam's Club aims to remove artificial dyes from its Member's Mark brand by the end of the year.
  • Major food brands, including Kraft Heinz and Nestle, are phasing out synthetic dyes.
  • Mars is exploring naturally colored versions of M&M's candies.
  • General Mills previously removed artificial dyes from Trix cereal but returned to them after consumer backlash.
  • Kraft Mac & Cheese replaced synthetic dyes without noticeable consumer awareness.
  • The use of food dyes dates back centuries and includes practices like dyeing cheese to enhance color.
  • The shift from synthetic to natural dyes is influenced by evolving consumer preferences and health concerns.
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In US town hoping for revival, Trump's tariffs put to test

In US town hoping for revival, Trump's tariffs put to test

Summary

In Fall River, Massachusetts, a company that once had a large manufacturing operation now focuses on warehousing and distribution. The introduction of tariffs by former President Donald Trump has led to more inquiries about U.S.-based manufacturing, but challenges like hiring difficulties and high costs remain. Many businesses, including local manufacturers, report that tariffs have increased expenses without providing significant benefits.

Key Facts

  • Fall River-based Accurate Services used to have a large manufacturing operation but now mainly deals with warehousing.
  • The company received more inquiries about U.S. manufacturing after tariffs were introduced.
  • They turned down new business offers due to hiring challenges and uncertainty about demand.
  • Tariffs are taxes on imports and can raise prices for businesses and consumers.
  • As of last month, 71% of manufacturers surveyed by the Federal Reserve said tariffs negatively impacted their businesses.
  • The tariff costs forced the company Matouk to reduce investment spending.
  • Matouk's increased costs stem from tariffs on materials like cotton fabric and down from abroad.
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UK launches £250m defence strategy to boost jobs

UK launches £250m defence strategy to boost jobs

Summary

The UK government is launching a Defence Industrial Strategy with £250 million in funding to grow jobs and innovation in the defence sector. The plan aims to create up to 50,000 new jobs by 2035 across the UK and includes five Defence Growth Deals to support local economies and skills development.

Key Facts

  • The UK government will launch a £250 million Defence Industrial Strategy on 8 September.
  • Defence Secretary John Healey will announce the strategy at a Bristol-based defence technology company.
  • The strategy aims to create up to 50,000 new jobs by 2035.
  • Five Defence Growth Deals will support regional economies in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
  • The funding will support job creation, skills development, and innovation in the defence sector.
  • Locations for the first Defence Growth Deals include Plymouth, South Yorkshire, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
  • The strategy responds to global threats and plans to increase defence spending to 2.6% of GDP by 2027.
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More than 90,000 Jeep Grand Cherokees recalled over potential loss of drive power

More than 90,000 Jeep Grand Cherokees recalled over potential loss of drive power

Summary

Jeep has recalled more than 90,000 Grand Cherokee SUVs due to a software problem that may lead to losing drive power. This issue affects plug-in hybrid electric models from 2022 to 2026 and could increase the risk of crashes. The company is working on a fix and will notify affected owners starting October 23.

Key Facts

  • Over 90,000 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUVs are recalled due to a software error.
  • The affected models are plug-in hybrid electric vehicles from 2022 to 2026.
  • The software error may cause a loss of drive power, increasing crash risk.
  • Chrysler said no injuries or accidents related to this defect were reported by August 18.
  • Chrysler’s parent company, Stellantis, has not commented on the recall yet.
  • A remedy is being developed, and affected owners will be notified from October 23.
  • Vehicle owners can check if their car is affected on the NHTSA website from September 11.
  • In the previous year, over 330,000 Jeep Grand Cherokees faced a recall for a steering issue.
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TUC urges government to deliver with employment rights bill 'in full'

TUC urges government to deliver with employment rights bill 'in full'

Summary

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) is urging the UK government to fully implement an Employment Rights Bill. The bill aims to enhance workers' rights, including protections against unfair dismissal and the ban of zero-hours contracts. Concerns have been raised about possible delays or weakening of the bill, especially after recent political changes.

Key Facts

  • The TUC wants the UK government to implement the Employment Rights Bill completely.
  • The bill includes protecting workers from unfair dismissal and banning zero-hours contracts, which do not guarantee employees any specific number of work hours.
  • TUC General Secretary Paul Novak emphasized the importance of the bill for workers in insecure, low-paid jobs.
  • A senior Labour MP expressed concern that economic pressures might cause delays in the bill's implementation.
  • The resignation of key government supporters of the bill and a government reshuffle may affect the bill's progress.
  • The Federation of Small Businesses noted that employers are worried about the potential changes the bill would bring.
  • There is an amendment in discussion that could change guaranteed hours from an obligation for employers to a right for employees to request them.
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U.S. economy should take off by fourth quarter, Bessent predicts

U.S. economy should take off by fourth quarter, Bessent predicts

Summary

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent predicted that the U.S. economy will improve significantly by the fourth quarter of the year due to policy changes by President Trump. Despite official reports showing rising inflation and a weakening job market, Bessent remains optimistic about the economic outlook. Recent economic data shows varying growth rates, and upcoming inflation reports will provide more insight.

Key Facts

  • Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent predicted economic improvement by the fourth quarter.
  • He attributed the expected growth to President Trump's policy changes.
  • Official reports show rising inflation and a weakening job market.
  • Bessent criticized recent jobs data and suggested it was improperly collected.
  • The U.S. economy shrank 0.5% in the first quarter and grew 3.3% in the second quarter.
  • The Atlanta Federal Reserve predicts 3% growth in the current quarter.
  • The possibility of a 2025 recession is currently considered low by investors.
  • Upcoming reports on the Consumer Price Index and Producer Price Index will provide additional economic insights.
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SCOTUS loss would lead to huge Trump tariff refunds, Bessent warns

SCOTUS loss would lead to huge Trump tariff refunds, Bessent warns

Summary

If the Supreme Court decides that the tariffs imposed by former President Trump were not legal, the U.S. Treasury might have to refund about half of the collected tariffs. This could represent tens of billions of dollars and has caused concerns among bond market investors. Lower courts have previously ruled that Trump lacked the authority to impose these tariffs, and now the government is seeking the Supreme Court's review.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. Treasury could need to refund about half of the tariffs if deemed illegal.
  • This refund could amount to tens of billions of dollars.
  • Two courts have ruled that Trump did not have the authority to impose the tariffs.
  • The government is asking the Supreme Court to hear an appeal soon.
  • Economists estimate over $70 billion in tariff revenue is affected by these rulings.
  • Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent mentioned refunds must be issued if ordered by the court.
  • Bond market investors are worried about potential increased government debt to pay refunds.
  • The tariffs were instituted under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
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Postal traffic to US drops more than 80% after trade exemption rule ends, UN agency says

Postal traffic to US drops more than 80% after trade exemption rule ends, UN agency says

Summary

Postal traffic to the U.S. dropped sharply by over 80% after a rule allowing small packages to enter the U.S. without tariffs ended. This change was part of an executive order by President Trump aiming to reduce illegal imports and address the trade deficit.

Key Facts

  • Postal traffic to the U.S. decreased by 81% after August 29, 2025.
  • The decline followed the end of a trade exemption rule for packages under $800.
  • This rule change was part of an executive order signed by President Trump.
  • The order aims to combat counterfeit goods, drugs, and lower the trade deficit.
  • The Universal Postal Union (UPU) reported the traffic changes.
  • The UPU is developing new methods to restore mail flow to the U.S.
  • 88 postal operators have halted some services to the U.S. since the rule change.
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Market ructions and cabinet reshuffles will help shape Reeves' Budget

Market ructions and cabinet reshuffles will help shape Reeves' Budget

Summary

The recent market changes and government shifts are expected to influence Rachel Reeves' upcoming Budget in November. Despite concerns about borrowing costs, Reeves remains confident, attributing the changes in bond markets to global trends rather than domestic issues. The 30-year UK bond rate fell after a rise, and the demand for UK debt remains strong.

Key Facts

  • Rachel Reeves will present her second Budget on November 26.
  • There have been market changes and government reshuffles recently.
  • UK borrowing costs rose sharply but then declined.
  • The 30-year gilt rate saw highs not reached in decades but stabilized by week's end.
  • Reeves attributes bond market changes to global trends.
  • Some economists suggest a potential £50 billion financial gap.
  • Demand for UK government debt remains high despite market unrest.
  • The Bank of England noted long-term debt isn't a major part of current funding needs.
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Anna Wintour was Vogue. Now she's gone, can the magazine stay relevant?

Anna Wintour was Vogue. Now she's gone, can the magazine stay relevant?

Summary

Anna Wintour, who has been a key figure at Vogue magazine for many years, is stepping down as editor-in-chief but will remain as global editorial director. Vogue, once a leading fashion magazine, faces challenges in staying relevant as print media competes with digital platforms. Chloe Malle will take over as head of editorial content and plans to focus more on themed issues.

Key Facts

  • Anna Wintour will leave her role as editor-in-chief of Vogue but stay on as global editorial director.
  • Chloe Malle, who is 39 years old, will become the head of editorial content at Vogue.
  • Anna Wintour became known for putting pop stars and other contemporary figures on the Vogue cover.
  • Vogue used to have a major influence in the fashion industry but now faces strong competition from digital platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
  • Malle plans to release issues less frequently and focus on themes or cultural events rather than monthly publications.
  • Vogue started featuring a diverse range of people on its covers, including political figures and entertainers, under Wintour's leadership.
  • There was significant debate when Wintour put Kanye West and Kim Kardashian on the Vogue cover in 2014.
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America's blue-collar workforce is shrinking

America's blue-collar workforce is shrinking

Summary

America's blue-collar workforce, which includes jobs in industries like manufacturing and construction, is getting smaller. This decline is partly due to policies related to trade and immigration. These sectors are experiencing job losses, and hiring is slowing down.

Key Facts

  • The manufacturing sector lost 12,000 jobs in August, marking the fourth month in a row of job losses.
  • The construction industry has also been losing jobs for three consecutive months.
  • The wholesale trade sector, which includes jobs like transportation and warehousing, lost 32,000 jobs since May.
  • Employment issues are linked to higher tariffs, which increase costs for manufacturers and reduce demand.
  • Immigration policies are impacting sectors that depend on foreign-born workers, making hiring more difficult.
  • The unemployment rate in the construction sector reached a record low in August, partly due to workers leaving jobs to avoid immigration issues.
  • Average wage growth has slowed; manufacturing wages grew by 3.9% in August, down from 4.6% in March.
  • Economists at Morgan Stanley believe that trade policy uncertainty is a key factor in lower manufacturing employment.
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Russ & Daughters in NYC celebrates '100 Years of appetizing and family'

Russ & Daughters in NYC celebrates '100 Years of appetizing and family'

Summary

Russ & Daughters, a well-known food store in New York City, is celebrating 100 years of selling traditional Jewish cuisine. The shop, run by the same family for four generations, offers items like bagels with lox, various salmon products, and has just released a new cookbook. The store is recognized for being one of the last "appetizing" stores, focusing on fresh fish and dairy rather than smoked meats.

Key Facts

  • Russ & Daughters is located in New York City's Lower East Side.
  • It has been owned by the Russ family for four generations.
  • The shop specializes in Jewish cuisine, particularly fish and dairy products.
  • Joel Russ founded the business over a century ago.
  • The store is known for its salmon and bagels, especially the classic "bagel and lox."
  • A new cookbook titled "RUSS & DAUGHTERS: 100 Years of Appetizing" has been published by the family.
  • The term "appetizing" refers to a type of store that differs from a deli, focusing on fish and dairy.
  • Professional slicers at the shop slice salmon very thinly, requiring about three months of training.
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The U.S. government is taking a stake in Intel. It's rare — and it has some risks

The U.S. government is taking a stake in Intel. It's rare — and it has some risks

Summary

The U.S. government has acquired about 10% of Intel, making it the company's largest shareholder. This move aims to help Intel compete with international companies in the microchip industry, especially against China's growing influence. The decision follows earlier financial support through grants as the government seeks to strengthen domestic technology production capabilities.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. government has become the largest single shareholder in Intel by taking a 10% stake.
  • Typically, the U.S. government does not invest directly in companies unless during crises; the last notable instance was during the 2007-09 financial crisis.
  • The aim is to boost Intel's capability to produce advanced microchips domestically amid competition with China.
  • Previously, Intel received billions of dollars in government grants under the CHIPS and Science Act.
  • The government converted these grants into an equity stake in the company.
  • Intel, founded in 1968, is known for inventing the modern microchip but is currently lagging behind Taiwan's TSMC and South Korea's Samsung in cutting-edge chip manufacturing.
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Tylenol-maker shares hit after report RFK Jr will suggest autism link

Tylenol-maker shares hit after report RFK Jr will suggest autism link

Summary

Kenvue, the maker of Tylenol, saw its stock drop sharply after reports that U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. might suggest a link between Tylenol use during pregnancy and autism. The company denied any causal link and emphasized that leading medical organizations agree on the safety of acetaminophen during pregnancy. Kenvue recommends that pregnant women consult healthcare professionals before taking any medication.

Key Facts

  • Kenvue's stock fell 14% before ending the day down 9.5%.
  • RFK Jr. is expected to propose a potential connection between Tylenol use in pregnancy and autism.
  • The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services called the report's claims speculative.
  • Tylenol is a widely recommended pain reliever for pregnant women in the U.S., preferred over ibuprofen.
  • Medical bodies like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists see no clear evidence linking acetaminophen to developmental issues.
  • Autism affects around one in 31 children in the U.S., with ongoing research into potential causes.
  • Some studies report a link between acetaminophen use in pregnancy and increased autism risk, but findings are inconclusive.
  • Kenvue continues to maintain that acetaminophen is safe when used as directed during pregnancy.
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Air Canada flight attendants reject wage offer

Air Canada flight attendants reject wage offer

Summary

Air Canada's flight attendants have voted against the company's wage proposal. This comes after recent strike actions by the flight attendants' union over dissatisfaction with wages.

Key Facts

  • Air Canada's flight attendants rejected a wage offer from the company.
  • The union made the announcement following a vote.
  • Flight attendants were unhappy with proposed wage increases in a tentative agreement.
  • Air Canada proposed a 12% wage increase for newer staff and an 8% increase for more senior staff.
  • The union's rejection follows a recent three-day strike by about 10,500 flight attendants.
  • The strike caused disruptions that affected nearly half a million Air Canada customers.
  • The wage offer rejection is linked to dissatisfaction with both the offer terms and the negotiation process.
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Canada to give automakers a break on EV sales target as US tariffs weigh

Canada to give automakers a break on EV sales target as US tariffs weigh

Summary

Canada announced it will not require 20% of new vehicles sold next year to be emissions-free. This decision is part of a plan to support automakers affected by U.S. tariffs. Prime Minister Mark Carney outlined additional measures to help various sectors facing economic challenges due to these tariffs.

Key Facts

  • Canada will waive the 20% emissions-free vehicle sales rule for next year.
  • This decision aims to help automakers impacted by U.S. tariffs.
  • The original target was set in 2023 by former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
  • Prime Minister Mark Carney announced additional measures to aid affected industries.
  • A 60-day review will be conducted to reduce costs linked to the emissions-free vehicle sales requirement.
  • A new fund of $5 billion Canadian dollars will support various sectors affected by tariffs.
  • The Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association supports the move, citing high costs of mandates.
  • Carney did not specify new aid for the steel and aluminum sectors but mentioned existing funds could be used.
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