The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported that Boeing knew of a flaw in a part linked to a UPS plane crash in Kentucky that killed 15 people. The flaw was found in the engine mounting assembly of the MD-11F freighter, a part Boeing had identified issues with 15 years earlier. The investigation is still ongoing, and no final conclusions have been made yet.
Key Facts
A UPS cargo plane crashed in Kentucky, killing 15 people.
The crash happened after one engine detached from the wing during takeoff.
The engine mounting issue had been noted by Boeing on similar aircraft 15 years before.
The MD-11F is an older model originally from McDonnell Douglas, which Boeing acquired in 1997.
Boeing had previously sent a non-binding "service letter" to operators in 2011 about potential issues with this part.
Boeing recommended periodic visual inspections every five years for the part in question.
The NTSB found cracks in the engine attachment mechanism related to repeated stress, called "fatigue."
Boeing is supporting the ongoing investigation by the NTSB, which hasn't finalized the cause of the crash.
A federal judge has allowed the Empire Wind project in New York to continue construction after the Trump administration had paused it. The administration had stopped several offshore wind projects citing national security concerns, but courts have allowed some to restart.
Key Facts
A judge ruled that the Empire Wind project in New York can continue despite a stop order from the Trump administration.
The Trump administration paused five major offshore wind projects on the East Coast, citing national security reasons.
Empire Wind, owned by Norway's Equinor, is planned to power over 500,000 homes.
The court found that the government did not properly respond to Empire Wind's legal points.
Other developers, like Danish company Orsted, have also won court cases to resume their wind projects.
Offshore wind projects are important for renewable energy plans in East Coast states.
The administration’s freeze on these projects has led to several lawsuits from developers and states.
Equinor expressed concerns about specialized vessel availability and financial losses if construction is delayed.
A report indicates that more homes are likely to become available in 2026, as sellers who delayed their sales plan to enter the market. Real estate experts expect economic stability and increased home supply, which could benefit home buyers. However, challenges like rising construction costs might still affect potential buyers.
Key Facts
74% of real estate agents think homeowners will start selling their homes in 2026 after holding off in 2024-2025.
70% of surveyed agents are optimistic about the housing market in 2026.
47% of agents expect slow economic growth without a recession in 2026.
On average, it takes 14 showings to sell a home in the current market.
Mortgage interest rates are going down, and employment rates are steady, which is seen as a positive sign for buyers.
Construction costs and resale property prices are still expected to rise.
Wage growth is outpacing home price increases, improving affordability slightly.
Recent tax changes are expected to encourage more people to buy homes in certain areas like California and the Northeast.
A study by Holafly looked at which snacks are popular at U.S. airports by analyzing online search data. The research found Oreos to be the most popular snack, followed by Jack Link's Beef Jerky, Cheetos Puffs, Cheetos Flamin' Hot Crunchy, and Twizzlers. The least popular snacks included Haribo Gummy Bears and Chobani Vanilla Yogurt.
Key Facts
Oreos are the most searched snack at U.S. airports, with 113,380 searches.
Jack Link's Beef Jerky is the second favorite with 77,520 searches.
Cheetos Puffs and Cheetos Flamin' Hot Crunchy are also popular.
Twizzlers rounds out the top five most popular airport snacks.
Snacks like Sour Patch Kids and Dunkin’ Donuts just missed the top five.
Haribo Gummy Bears, Peanut M&Ms, and the Perfect Bar are less popular.
Chobani Vanilla Yogurt is the least popular, with 8,700 searches.
The study used keyword searches to determine popularity.
A major trade deal between the European Union and the Mercosur bloc has been finalized, creating a massive free-trade area. This deal aims to reduce Europe's economic reliance on China, while some European farmers oppose it due to potential impacts on their industries.
Key Facts
The trade deal links the European Union and the Mercosur countries.
It covers markets with over 700 million people.
Talks for this deal took nearly 25 years to complete.
Some European farmers are against the deal due to concerns over competition.
The agreement is part of Europe's strategy to reduce dependency on China.
This deal occurs during a time when President Trump has imposed tariffs on various countries.
The deal is also happening while President Trump has taken military action in Venezuela.
Discussions include the potential for big oil companies to invest in Venezuela, and Greenland's resource potential.
A group of U.S. lawmakers plans to propose a law to create a $2.5 billion reserve for critical minerals, aiming to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign supplies. This reserve seeks to stabilize the domestic market, similar to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, to ensure a steady supply of minerals needed for technologies like semiconductors and electric car batteries. The initiative comes amid concerns that China's control over most of the world's critical minerals makes the U.S. vulnerable to disruptions.
Key Facts
A bipartisan group in Congress will introduce a new bill called the SECURE Minerals Act to create a reserve for critical minerals.
The proposed "Strategic Resilience Reserve" (SRR) would have a $2.5 billion budget.
President Trump is actively pursuing global sources of critical minerals to boost U.S. supplies.
China dominates the global supply chain for many necessary minerals, raising security concerns for the U.S.
The reserve aims to mimic the Strategic Petroleum Reserve by storing key materials for future use.
The legislation involves setting up a board to oversee the reserve, similar to the Federal Reserve.
This effort aligns with past initiatives like the CHIPS and Science Act, which supported semiconductor research.
The reserve is intended as a first step, with potential for increased funding if Congress passes the law.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce's president, Suzanne P. Clark, will give a speech addressing the need for America to embrace dynamic capitalism to boost economic growth. She highlights concerns about political attitudes that could hinder economic progress and advocates for policies that support market vibrancy. Clark urges the embrace of technologies like AI and reforms in education and infrastructure to sustain growth.
Key Facts
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is led by Suzanne P. Clark.
Clark is emphasizing the importance of markets at the "State of American Business" event.
She believes the U.S. faces a choice between dynamic capitalism and economic stagnation.
Some political trends in both major parties may threaten economic progress.
President Trump implemented high tariffs and influenced company operations.
Clark supports global trade and competition-friendly policies.
She urges the U.S. to lead in AI regulation and enhance education for future jobs.
Clark believes sustained economic growth could significantly raise household incomes over 50 years.
Bilt has introduced Bilt Card 2.0, a new set of three credit cards that let users earn points on both rent and mortgage payments. These cards come with a 10% introductory interest rate for the first 12 months. Each card targets different spending habits, offering varying benefits and fees.
Key Facts
Bilt Card 2.0 includes three credit cards named Palladium, Obsidian, and Blue.
The cards allow users to earn rewards on rent and mortgage payments.
Each card offers a 10% annual interest rate for the first year.
The Bilt Palladium Card has a $495 annual fee but offers $600 in yearly credits and a 50,000‑point welcome bonus.
The Bilt Obsidian Card has a $95 annual fee, with rewards focused on dining and grocery purchases.
The Bilt Blue Card has no annual fee and offers flexibility for earning points on rent and mortgage.
Bilt Cash, the program’s reward currency, can be converted to points for housing payments.
Current cardholders must switch to the new cards by January 30, 2026, to enjoy the new benefits.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a Class I recall for Fran's Pure Bar Almondmilk Chocolate due to undeclared hazelnuts, which pose serious health risks to people with nut allergies. The recall involves 112 units of chocolate bars sold at Fran's Chocolates stores in Seattle and online. Consumers should return the product for a full refund.
Key Facts
The FDA issued a Class I recall, the highest risk level, due to undeclared hazelnuts in Fran’s Pure Bar Almondmilk Chocolate.
A Class I recall means there is a high chance of severe health effects or death if consumed by allergic individuals.
Fran’s Chocolates recalled 112 units of the chocolate, sold between October 9, 2025, and December 15, 2025.
The recall was triggered by a supplier notice about chocolate processed on equipment also used for nut-containing products.
One allergic reaction has been reported so far, with no other illnesses or deaths linked to the product.
Affected customers should not eat the chocolate and can return it for a full refund.
The recall was communicated through various channels like email and press releases.
More information is available from the FDA's recall database or Fran’s Chocolates customer service.
The IRS has announced major updates to federal tax deductions following the passage of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act. These changes aim to provide tax relief for individuals, families, and businesses starting this year.
Key Facts
The IRS has introduced changes including a 100 percent bonus depreciation for certain properties.
A new tax deduction is available for car loan interest on eligible vehicles made in America.
The standard deduction will increase in tax year 2026 to $32,200 for couples, $16,100 for singles, and $24,150 for heads of households.
Tipped employees can now deduct up to $25,000 in tips per year, subject to income limits.
Overtime pay exceeding regular pay can be deducted up to $12,500, with income phase-out limits.
Seniors aged 65 and above can claim an additional tax deduction, subject to income limits.
Various other deductions and credits have been expanded or introduced under the new law.
Odds from a bookmaker suggest Kevin Warsh may become the next chair of the Federal Reserve when Jerome Powell's term ends. President Donald Trump is considering Warsh and Kevin Hassett as potential replacements and has said he will announce his decision in the coming weeks. Powell recently faced a Department of Justice investigation related to his Senate testimony on a Fed building project.
Key Facts
BetOnline gives Kevin Warsh 1/1 odds to become the next Federal Reserve chair.
Kevin Hassett has 3/2 odds according to BetOnline.
President Trump's administration has had disagreements with Powell over interest rates.
Trump's potential nominees include Warsh and Hassett with announcements expected soon.
Jerome Powell faced DOJ subpoenas about his testimony on a Fed building project.
Trump denied knowledge of the investigation and has no plans to fire Powell.
Powell's term is set to end in May, and Trump will announce any replacements in due course.
The UK economy grew by 0.3% in November 2023, which was more than expected. This growth was mainly due to a rebound in car production and improvements in the services sector.
Key Facts
The UK economy grew by 0.3% in November.
This growth was stronger than what experts had predicted.
Car production saw a rebound, contributing to the economic growth.
The services sector also saw improvements, helping the economy.
Production increased by 1.1% in November.
This increase was largely due to higher electricity and gas supplies.
The Office for National Statistics provided these figures.
Liz McKeown from the Office for National Statistics mentioned that the economy had a slight growth of 0.1% over the three months ending in November.
KFC announced a new offer called "Sundays by KFC," which are special menu deals available only on Sundays throughout January and February. These deals, accessible through the KFC app or website, include discounted meals like chicken buckets and wings, designed to provide comfort and value.
Key Facts
KFC introduced "Sundays by KFC" as a series of special deals available only on Sundays.
The offers will be available in January and February, accessible only through the KFC app or website.
Deals include different meal options like chicken buckets and discounted meal bundles.
On January 18, customers can get $5 off the "Taste of KFC Deal."
On January 25, customers can buy a "12-Piece Chicken Bucket" for $15.
The February 1 offer includes an “8-Piece Chicken + 8 Tenders Feast” for $30.
On February 8, customers can get 20 wings for $20, with a choice of sauce.
These deals are exclusive to KFC Rewards program members and expire by 4:00 a.m. ET the following day.
Pub owners in the UK are urging the government to find long-term solutions for high business rates, rather than temporary fixes. A recent meeting of over 40 hospitality businesses highlighted concerns about rising costs and potential closures.
Key Facts
Pub owners want a fair, permanent solution for high business rates, not just temporary relief.
Some pubs are facing large increases in business rates, with some expected to double.
More than 40 business owners attended a meeting in the Forest of Dean to protest the rate hikes.
Many pub owners are considering cutbacks or even closing due to rising costs.
In November's budget, the government planned to reduce tax discounts and adjust pub rateable values.
The rateable value for many pubs has been increased, impacting their tax costs.
The government is considering smaller rate increases after receiving backlash from pub owners.
Ramit Sethi, a financial expert, shares his views on what it means to live a "rich" life. He encourages people to define their own version of wealth, not just in monetary terms, but in personal fulfillment. Sethi also advises against focusing on small expenses like coffee and instead addressing larger financial barriers.
Key Facts
Ramit Sethi is the author of the book "I Will Teach You How to Be Rich" and features in Netflix's "How to Get Rich."
He discusses the idea that "rich" doesn't just mean having a lot of money but can include personal happiness and freedom.
Sethi advises people to envision their own idea of a "rich life" to guide financial decisions.
He criticizes advice that focuses on cutting small expenses, like coffee, as insufficient for achieving wealth.
Sethi points out that structural issues in banking and finance make it hard for young people to afford houses.
He notes that young men often turn to risky financial products due to a lack of hope in becoming financially successful.
Sethi encourages looking for stable ways to grow money without high-risk investments.
A labor rights group claims that a factory making Labubu dolls in China forced workers into poor conditions, like working too many hours and signing unclear contracts. Pop Mart, the company selling the toys, is looking into these claims and checks its suppliers regularly.
Key Facts
The labor rights group China Labor Watch (CLW) says a Chinese factory exploited its workers.
The factory makes Labubu dolls, which are sold by the Beijing-based company Pop Mart.
Alleged issues include excessive overtime, unclear contracts, and no paid leave for workers.
Pop Mart has stated it is investigating these claims and audits its suppliers yearly.
CLW conducted interviews with 51 workers at the factory in Guangdong province.
The factory employs over 4,500 workers and is a key part of Pop Mart’s supply chain.
No child labor was found, but 16-year-old workers faced the same conditions as adults.
CLW urged Pop Mart to compensate affected workers and comply with labor laws.
A new high-speed rail line called Brightline West will connect Las Vegas to Southern California. The project is expected to be finished by late 2029 and aims to reduce travel time and traffic congestion on Interstate 15.
Key Facts
Brightline West is a 218-mile high-speed rail project.
The rail line will connect Las Vegas, Nevada, to Southern California.
Completion of the project is now expected in late 2029, pushed back from an earlier target of 2028.
The estimated cost for the project is at least $12 billion.
Construction began after Brightline acquired a company called XpressWest in 2018.
The rail line will mostly run in the median of Interstate 15.
The COVID-19 pandemic caused delays in construction plans.
Preparation work for the rail infrastructure is ongoing along the I-15 corridor.
Michigan Republican Lisa McClain is involved in a situation regarding her husband’s purchase of stocks in xAI, an AI company owned by Elon Musk. The purchase occurred just days before the Department of Defense announced plans to use xAI’s products, leading to questions about possible insider trading. McClain denies using any insider information for the stock purchase.
Key Facts
Lisa McClain's husband bought between $100,001 and $250,000 in xAI stocks on December 15.
xAI is an artificial intelligence company owned by Elon Musk.
The U.S. Department of Defense announced plans to use xAI's products shortly after the stock purchase.
McClain stated the stock purchase was a "private offering" and not based on insider information.
She mentioned that if she had insider information, they would have invested much more.
The situation is under developing news, indicating more information may come later.
The government, under Chancellor Rachel Reeves, is considering extending support to hospitality businesses affected by rising business rates. While support focused on pubs is already planned, there may also be additional help for other hospitality sectors like hotels and restaurants. The end of Covid-era relief in April will lead to increased rates, and businesses are expressing concern over these costs.
Key Facts
The government is looking at ways to help the hospitality sector with rising business rates.
Covid-era business rates relief is ending in April.
Currently, additional support is confirmed for pubs facing rate increases.
Other hospitality businesses, such as hotels and restaurants, might also receive support.
The Treasury promised to announce specific help for pubs soon.
Businesses are worried about higher rates once Covid-related relief stops.
There is a potential for rate increases of up to 115% for hotels over the next three years.
Smaller businesses, such as some cafes, may not pay business rates if they are small enough.
A condo in St. Petersburg, Florida, has seen its price drop by nearly 50% over ten years, reflecting a broader decline in the area's housing market. This trend is influenced by increased repair costs and stricter safety regulations after building safety issues in the state. Housing affordability remains a challenge due to rising costs and economic pressures.
Key Facts
A condo at 1 Beach Drive in St. Petersburg, Florida, has decreased in value from about $489,000 in 2016 to $249,000 now.
The market value of this condo was over $1 million in 2022.
The condo's price fell $64,000 since December 2022, now listed at $256,000.
Older buildings face significant price drops due to costly needed repairs.
The condo's building needs $45 million in repairs, contributing to the price decline.
New safety regulations in Florida after the Surfside collapse have influenced condo valuations.
Housing affordability issues persist, with rising costs for HOA fees and insurance.
