The U.S. Federal Reserve decided to keep interest rates steady at 3.5 to 3.75 percent in its first decision of 2026, despite President Trump’s requests for rate cuts. The Fed aims to maintain stable employment and inflation but remains cautious due to economic uncertainty. Political and employment challenges, including job cuts and a potential government shutdown, influence the economic landscape.
Key Facts
The Federal Reserve held interest rates at 3.5 to 3.75 percent.
President Trump wanted the Fed to lower interest rates more aggressively.
The Fed focuses on achieving stable employment and a 2 percent inflation rate.
Economic uncertainties persist, with job growth showing some stabilization.
In 2025, the U.S. added 584,000 jobs, the lowest growth since 2003.
Concerns include job cuts from companies like Amazon and UPS.
The potential government shutdown could affect economic spending.
Fed Chairman Jerome Powell emphasized the independence of the central bank against political pressure.
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The US Federal Reserve decided to keep interest rates unchanged, holding them between 3.5% to 3.75%, despite pressure from President Donald Trump to lower them. The decision comes amid concerns about the Fed's independence and ongoing discussions about Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's future, as Trump plans to replace him. A recent criminal investigation related to Powell has intensified these concerns, with financial markets closely monitoring the developments.
Key Facts
The Federal Reserve maintained its lending rate between 3.5% to 3.75%.
President Trump has pressured the Fed to reduce interest rates.
Trump plans to announce a new candidate to replace Jerome Powell when his term ends in May.
There is an ongoing criminal investigation into Powell's past Senate testimony.
Two Federal Reserve officials voted for a rate cut, aligning with Trump’s views.
The S&P 500 stock index briefly surpassed 7,000 points as markets reacted to the Fed's decision.
Trump's replacement of Fed chair Powell is raising concerns about the central bank's independence.
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New tax rules in Wales require holiday let owners to rent their properties for 182 days a year to get cheaper business rates. This change aims to help locals access properties in popular holiday areas but is seen as challenging by many owners. The Welsh government plans to introduce minor adjustments to these rules by 2027.
Key Facts
In 2023, Wales set a requirement for holiday lets to be rented out for 182 days a year for owners to qualify for reduced business rates.
Before the changes, holiday lets needed to be available for 140 days and rented for 70 days to get lower rates.
Failure to meet the 182-day requirement classifies properties as second homes, liable for higher council tax and possible premiums.
Some areas, like Gwynedd, charge second-home owners an additional 150% on their council tax.
The Welsh government plans to allow averaging of 182 days over three years and permit 14 charity giveaway days to count as rentals by 2027.
Industry groups argue that the 182-day rule is unmanageable and negatively affects tourism.
Some business owners have considered selling their properties due to the pressures of meeting these requirements.
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Some of the richest Americans feel worried about their jobs, affecting how they spend money. Companies are laying off workers, and people earning over $100,000 a year feel less positive about the economy. Concerns about technology like AI taking jobs add to this worry.
Key Facts
The job market is troubling for high-earning workers, especially those in white-collar jobs.
Amazon recently cut 16,000 corporate jobs.
More Americans report concerns about losing pay or already experiencing pay loss.
Economic sentiment, or feelings about the economy and personal finances, has dropped among those earning over $100,000 annually.
Hiring in professional jobs has slowed due to higher interest rates and changes in corporate strategies.
The growing use of AI in companies is causing anxiety about job security.
Despite worries, current unemployment rates are still low.
Historical trends show that big tech changes often result in job growth over time.
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Gerber Products Company is recalling specific batches of its Arrowroot Biscuits because they might contain plastic or paper pieces. The recall involves biscuits sold from July 2025 to September 2025, and customers are advised not to use these products. The company found the material issue originated from a supplier, and no illnesses have been reported so far.
Key Facts
Gerber is recalling Arrowroot Biscuits due to possible contamination with plastic or paper.
The recalled biscuits are sold in 5.5-ounce packages for dates between July 2025 and September 2025.
Customers are advised not to feed these biscuits to children and can return them for a refund.
Gerber no longer works with the supplier that provided the problematic arrowroot flour.
No injuries or illnesses have been reported in connection with this issue.
The FDA helps to monitor recalls and provides public information about them.
The company is cooperating with the FDA to ensure product safety.
Customers with questions can contact Gerber for more information.
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Amazon is cutting 16,000 jobs as part of a restructuring plan that includes increasing its use of artificial intelligence. These job cuts are part of a broader trend in the tech industry where companies are reducing staff and investing more in AI technologies.
Key Facts
Amazon will lay off 16,000 employees in a second wave of job cuts.
The layoffs follow 14,000 job cuts already made in October.
Affected departments include Prime Video, Amazon Web Services, and human resources.
Only corporate-level employees will be impacted by these cuts.
Amazon workers in the U.S. will have 90 days to find another position within the company.
Those unable to find a new role will receive severance pay and other support.
The company is simultaneously investing more in artificial intelligence.
Various companies in the tech sector, like Pinterest and Autodesk, are also cutting jobs and focusing on AI.
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The U.S. dollar has been losing value against other major currencies, a reflection of changes in economic conditions and recent government actions. President Trump commented that he is not worried about the dollar's decline, although the U.S. Treasury maintains a strong dollar policy. The shifting value of the dollar is linked to economic growth, policy decisions, and trade relations.
Key Facts
The U.S. dollar index, which measures the dollar against six key currencies, has dropped 3.2% since January 16 and 10.4% since President Trump's latest inauguration.
President Trump expressed that he is not concerned about the falling dollar, associating it with strong business performance.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent reiterated the U.S. commitment to a strong dollar policy, clarifying that the policy relies on sound economic principles.
There are no current efforts by the U.S. Treasury to intervene in currency markets to affect the Japanese yen.
The dollar's decline aligns with broader economic conditions, such as low interest rates and high fiscal deficits.
The U.S. administration's trade and foreign policies have contributed to international perceptions of the dollar as a less reliable safe haven.
Competing currencies and assets like the Swiss franc and gold have gained value as the dollar weakens.
The unpredictable nature of U.S. fiscal and trade policies creates uncertainty that impacts the dollar's value.
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Two companies supplied dried milk powder that has been linked to a botulism outbreak in ByHeart baby formula. The components came from Organic West Milk Inc. and were processed at a Nevada plant operated by Dairy Farmers of America.
Key Facts
Two suppliers are linked to a botulism outbreak in baby formula.
The outbreak involves ByHeart infant formula.
The dried milk powder tested positive for botulism-causing bacteria.
Organic West Milk Inc. provided the raw milk.
The processing occurred at a Dairy Farmers of America plant in Fallon, Nevada.
Dozens of babies have fallen ill due to this issue.
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The Original Factory Shop, a discount retailer in the UK, has gone into administration, which may affect 1,180 jobs. The company's stores will stay open as normal for now, although its online store is shutting down immediately. Modella Capital, which owns the store, started the insolvency process due to financial challenges.
Key Facts
The Original Factory Shop has entered administration, impacting 1,180 jobs.
The retailer has 137 stores that will continue to operate for now.
The company's online store is closing immediately.
Rising costs, fewer customers, and government policies have strained the business.
The Original Factory Shop was bought by Modella Capital less than a year ago.
Modella Capital also owns TG Jones and Hobbycraft.
There were issues with the retailer's third-party warehouse and logistics partner.
Higher National Insurance and minimum wage increases have raised costs for the business.
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Officials raided Deutsche Bank offices in Frankfurt and Berlin to investigate possible money laundering activities. The raids aimed to gather more evidence related to past business relationships with foreign companies.
Key Facts
Prosecutors in Frankfurt are investigating Deutsche Bank for possible money laundering.
Raids took place at the bank's offices in Frankfurt and Berlin.
The investigation focuses on Deutsche Bank's past business relationships with foreign companies.
Authorities are working with the Federal Criminal Police Office on this case.
The raids targeted "unknown individuals and employees" of the bank.
Deutsche Bank confirmed the searches to the BBC.
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Aldi plans to open 40 new stores in the UK by 2026 as part of a £370 million investment. This is part of a larger effort to increase its presence across the country and provide affordable food options.
Key Facts
Aldi will open 40 new stores in the UK by 2026.
The expansion is part of a £370 million investment.
New store locations include Southam, Hastings, and Amersham.
Aldi aims to grow from about 1,060 to 1,500 stores in the UK in the long run.
Giles Hurley, Aldi UK and Ireland's chief executive, emphasized the importance of providing affordable food.
This move is part of a larger £1.6 billion investment to open 80 new stores over two years.
Recent store openings included locations in Eastbourne, Fulham Broadway, and Deeside.
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Research from Realtor.com found that Miami, Panama City, and Naples have the highest homeowners' association (HOA) fees in the U.S. These fees are particularly high compared to the size of monthly mortgage payments in these areas. Seven out of the ten cities with the highest fees are located in Florida.
Key Facts
Miami, Panama City, and Naples are the U.S. cities with the highest HOA fees relative to mortgage payments.
The Miami area's median monthly HOA fee is $617, accounting for 26.9% of typical mortgage payments.
In Panama City, the median HOA fee is $532, making up 22.7% of mortgage costs.
Naples has an HOA fee of $711, which is 20.3% of mortgage payments.
A significant number of homes in the U.S. have HOA fees, with about 21.6 million households paying them in 2024.
The percentage of single-family homes in HOAs grew from 49% in 2009 to 65% in 2023.
Realtor.com analyzed 300 urban areas to determine which had the highest HOA fees compared to mortgage payments.
Seven out of the ten cities with the highest HOA fees are in Florida.
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The article discusses how health and wellness brands are gaining trust by being transparent and delivering on their promises. Newsweek released a ranking of the most trusted brands in the U.S. for 2026, highlighting the importance of trust and transparency. Health and wellness brands are focusing on clear communication about their products to maintain consumer confidence.
Key Facts
Newsweek and BrandSpark published a list of the 2026 Most Trusted Brands in the U.S.
The health and wellness industry is worth $2 trillion globally.
U.S. consumers spend over $500 billion each year on health and wellness.
Gen Z and Millennials account for over a third of U.S. adults but spend more than 40% of the annual wellness budget.
The rankings were based on a survey of more than 35,000 consumers.
Brands are focusing on clear communication about ingredients and product efficacy.
Hydroxycut and SlimFast were named top weight loss supplement brands in a new ranking category.
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Dunkin' introduced a Valentine's Day-themed menu with new and returning food and drink items, along with special merchandise and rewards for members. The offerings are available from January 28 to February 17, 2026, at participating locations. Dunkin' is also offering limited-edition merchandise with proceeds going to charity.
Key Facts
Dunkin' launched new and returning Valentine's Day-themed menu items, including drinks and donuts.
Seven new seasonal drinks are offered, such as variations of "Strawberry Dragonfruit Refresher" and "Heart Eyes Daydream Refresher."
Two seasonal donuts, Brownie Batter and Cupid’s Choice, are returning and will use special Valentine's Day decorations.
Heart-shaped shells will be used for filled donuts, and special sprinkles are applied for the season.
New Valentine's-themed merchandise includes 25-count Munchkins tins, with proceeds benefiting a charity supporting children.
Dunkin’ Rewards members can earn extra points on select purchases in February.
The menu and merchandise are available at participating locations from January 28 to February 17, while supplies last.
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Rumors have circulated that Khloe Kardashian may have stepped back from her clothing brand, Good American. A content creator noted that Kardashian hasn't mentioned the brand on her Instagram in over a year and is now promoting Fabletics instead. Neither Kardashian nor Good American has commented on these claims.
Key Facts
Khloe Kardashian co-founded Good American in 2016 with Emma Grede.
Recently, Kardashian hasn't mentioned Good American on Instagram since August 2024.
Grede still lists Good American in her Instagram bio, while Kardashian does not.
There are rumors of a "rift" between Kardashian and Grede, with Kardashian reportedly unfollowing Grede on Instagram.
Kardashian is currently promoting her collaboration with Fabletics instead of Good American.
Good American initially focused on denim and expanded into other casual wear.
Fans noticed Kardashian's shift in promoting Fabletics over Good American as significant.
Newsweek reached out to Kardashian, Grede, and the brand for comments.
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Amazon plans to cut 16,000 more jobs, adding to the 14,000 already cut recently. The company is focusing on improving efficiency by reducing staff in certain areas while continuing to hire for other important roles.
Key Facts
Amazon announced it will cut 16,000 more jobs.
This follows a previous reduction of 14,000 jobs three months ago.
The cuts are part of efforts to become more efficient by using fewer employees.
Amazon's recent layoffs affect teams that weren't reorganized in the October cuts.
The company mentions using artificial intelligence (AI) and addressing post-pandemic over-hiring as reasons for the cuts.
Amazon plans to keep hiring and investing in important areas for its future growth.
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Toy companies Mattel and Hasbro are releasing a line of dolls and other products based on the animated film "KPop Demon Hunters" in the US. The dolls are inspired by the film's characters, and they can be preordered through the American Girl website. The release of additional toy products will continue throughout 2026.
Key Facts
Mattel and Hasbro are releasing toys based on the film "KPop Demon Hunters."
The film became very popular on Netflix and received critical acclaim.
Toys include American Girl dolls, fashion dolls, and collectible items.
The dolls represent characters from the film, styled with premium materials.
Customers can preorder the American Girl dolls now, with shipping by November 27.
Additional toy products will be announced and released through 2026.
Hasbro is creating Nerf toys modeled after the film's weapons.
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Newsweek has introduced a feature called "New & Noteworthy," highlighting new products in various categories. The feature is in partnership with the Best New Product Awards. This week's products include Sony earbuds, Silk soy milk, and Hello whipped toothpaste.
Key Facts
Newsweek's "New & Noteworthy" highlights new products in categories like food, personal care, and household goods.
Sony released new wireless earbuds called LinkBuds Clip, designed for comfortable all-day wear.
Silk launched a high-protein soy milk with 13 grams of plant protein per serving.
Hello introduced a whipped fluoride toothpaste with a foamy texture.
Bloom Nutrition offers a clear protein supplement with whey protein isolate and collagen.
Nature’s Garden Clusters are nut and seed snacks available in multiple flavors.
Pixi Beauty expanded its blush stick range with three new shades.
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Clorox must pay a $14.15 million penalty for not reporting a bacterial contamination risk in its Pine-Sol cleaners as soon as they knew about it. The government said Clorox delayed telling them about the problem, which could cause harm. The company has agreed to improve its internal safety procedures.
Key Facts
Clorox is paying a $14.15 million fine for delayed reporting of a bacterial risk in some cleaners.
The problem involved Pine-Sol scented multi-surface cleaners.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) criticized Clorox for not reporting this issue right away.
Clorox knew of potential contamination from as early as 2019 but only announced a recall in 2022.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a type of bacteria, was found in the products, posing a risk to people with weakened immune systems.
As part of the penalty, Clorox must enhance its safety measures and report on compliance efforts annually.
The CPSC focuses on minimizing injuries and deaths related to consumer products.
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A DoorDash customer was charged over $34 for three cups of instant ramen that typically cost less than 40 cents each. After the issue gained public attention on Reddit, DoorDash refunded the customer and provided $90 in app credit. This incident has sparked discussions about pricing practices on delivery apps.
Key Facts
A DoorDash customer noted an unusually high charge of $34.77 for three cups of ramen, each normally priced under 40 cents.
The customer initially received a partial refund offer from DoorDash, which increased after the issue caught public attention.
The actual charge was significantly higher than the requested price for the ramen, which should have been $1.56 in total.
The customer shared evidence from a retailer’s app showing the typical cost of the ramen as $0.39 per cup.
Following public attention, DoorDash provided a full refund and an additional $90 in app credit to the customer.
DoorDash stated they would investigate the issue and explained the process for customers to report incorrect orders via their support site.
The incident led to discussions about the accuracy and fairness of pricing on delivery platforms.
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