Panama has officially withdrawn from China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), with President José Raúl Mulino declaring the move as part of a “decision I have made”. The decision comes after the US claimed a “victory” in the country’s withdrawal. Mulino questioned the intentions of those who signed the 2017 deal, citing concerns over China’s … Read more
The Golden State Warriors have made a blockbuster trade for Jimmy Butler, but the move has left many questioning the team’s motivations. According to reporters, including Anthony Slater and Marcus Thompson II on the “Warriors Plus Minus” podcast, it seemed like the front office felt forced into the deal. The prevailing sentiment is that the … Read more
The New York Mets have secured a major victory in their prolonged staring contest with agent Scott Boras over first baseman Pete Alonso. After months of negotiations, the two sides agreed on a two-year deal worth $54 million, including an opt-out clause after the upcoming season. For owner Steve Cohen and the Mets, this is … Read more
US President Donald Trump has suspended the country’s special rules for “de minimis” merchandise imports from China and Hong Kong, effective February 4. The term, meaning “too small to matter,” refers to small packages shipped directly to consumers without going through warehouses or distribution hubs, avoiding customs declarations and tariffs. Despite being small, these packages … Read more
The Federal Reserve has released parameters for its annual industry stress test showing smaller hypothetical shocks to the US economy, sending bank stocks soaring. The 2025 exam has smaller spikes in unemployment and declines in stock and real estate values than previous versions. Analysts say the changes signal a friendlier regulatory regime under the Trump … Read more
Kendrick Lamar will perform at the Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show in New Orleans on Sunday, promising a “storytelling” experience. The 37-year-old rapper, who has won five Grammy Awards this year, said he aims to convey his passion and energy through music. Lamar will be joined by singer SZA, with whom he’ll tour … Read more
The average rate on a 30-year US mortgage has declined for the third consecutive week, easing concerns for prospective homebuyers entering the spring market. According to Freddie Mac, the average rate fell from 6.95% last week to 6.89%, marking a significant decrease from its 2023 peak of 7.08%. A year ago, it averaged 6.64%. The … Read more
A new wave of regulatory changes could propel cryptocurrency adoption forward. In January, the SEC formed a task force to develop clearer guidelines and rescinded SAB 121, which restricted banks from holding digital assets as custodians. President Trump’s executive order aims to strengthen U.S. leadership in digital finance. According to Morningstar analysts, by 2033, the … Read more
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft, has expressed his disappointment in Intel’s struggles to improve its chip design and fabrication capabilities. Gates refers to Intel as “behind” in these areas, which are capital-intensive and crucial for the company’s success. Pat Gelsinger, who returned as CEO in 2021, attempted to turn around Intel’s fortunes but retired last … Read more
Surf and skate-inspired clothing brands, including Billabong, Quiksilver, Volcom, and more, are expected to close stores in Hawaii by 2025. The closures come after Liberated Brands filed for bankruptcy and affected brands’ locations already started holding sales. Retail experts say that surfwear store closures hit especially hard in Hawaii, where residents have adapted to changing … Read more