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Business News

Business news, market updates, and economic developments

‘Trump To Thank’ for Gold Pushing Past $5,000

‘Trump To Thank’ for Gold Pushing Past $5,000

Summary

The price of gold has risen above $5,000 an ounce for the first time, driven by geopolitical events and concerns about the U.S. economy. Analysts link this surge to President Trump's actions and increasing investor interest in gold, considered a safe investment. Factors such as declining trust in the dollar and the U.S.'s economic challenges are contributing to gold's appeal.

Key Facts

  • Gold's price exceeded $5,000 per ounce for the first time.
  • Silver also increased, surpassing $100 an ounce.
  • Many believe President Trump's actions have influenced the gold price increase.
  • Gold often rises when confidence in other investments, like stocks and bonds, declines.
  • Some investors and central banks are buying gold due to economic and geopolitical concerns.
  • America's national debt and predictions of future interest rate cuts add to gold's allure.
  • There is widespread worry about the financial health of the U.S. and other Western economies.
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McDonald's Updates Menu

McDonald's Updates Menu

Summary

McDonald's is introducing a new Hot Honey Sauce and four menu items available for a limited time starting January 27 in the U.S. The new items include breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, all featuring the sweet and spicy sauce.

Key Facts

  • McDonald's will offer a new Hot Honey Sauce as of January 27.
  • The sauce is described as sweet with spicy heat and a hint of vinegar.
  • Four new items will be available: Hot Honey Sausage Egg Biscuit, Hot Honey McCrispy Sandwich, Bacon Hot Honey McCrispy Sandwich, and Hot Honey Snack Wrap.
  • The new items feature a McCrispy chicken fillet or a pork sausage patty with protein content ranging from 17 to 34 grams per item.
  • The availability of these items may vary by location.
  • The menu changes are part of McDonald's ongoing strategy to introduce new and seasonal items.
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Gold prices cross $5,100 for the first time amid geopolitical uncertainties

Gold prices cross $5,100 for the first time amid geopolitical uncertainties

Summary

Gold prices have increased to over $5,100 an ounce, reaching a new high as investors look for safe investments because of global conflicts and trade issues. The price jump is supported by central bank purchases, U.S. policy changes, and increased investment in gold-based funds. These economic changes are happening amid trade tensions led by President Trump.

Key Facts

  • Gold prices have reached a record high of over $5,100 an ounce.
  • Spot gold price rose by 2.2% to $5,089.78 by early Monday GMT.
  • The highest price recorded was $5,110.50 per ounce.
  • U.S. gold futures for February delivery also increased to $5,086.30.
  • Gold prices rose 64% in 2025, the largest increase since 1979.
  • The increase is due to heightened demand for safe investments and major central bank purchases.
  • President Trump’s trade policies have led to significant economic disruptions.
  • A weaker U.S. dollar makes gold cheaper for international buyers.
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Bonnie Tyler's classic hits 1bn streams - but singer reveals it 'makes nothing'

Bonnie Tyler's classic hits 1bn streams - but singer reveals it 'makes nothing'

Summary

Bonnie Tyler's song "Total Eclipse of the Heart" has been streamed over one billion times on Spotify. Despite the massive number of streams, the singer says it has not translated into significant financial earnings. This highlights a common issue in the music industry where artists often earn little from streaming platforms.

Key Facts

  • Bonnie Tyler is a Welsh singer known for the hit song "Total Eclipse of the Heart."
  • The song has surpassed one billion streams on Spotify.
  • Despite this milestone, Tyler reports earning "about nothing" in revenue from the streaming.
  • "Total Eclipse of the Heart" was released 43 years ago and remains a popular song.
  • Tyler received a commemorative plaque from Spotify for the milestone.
  • The song also has over 1.2 billion views on YouTube.
  • Streaming revenue generally remains low for artists, despite high play counts.
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Dozens of Minnesota CEOs issue joint letter urging de-escalation in state after shooting

Dozens of Minnesota CEOs issue joint letter urging de-escalation in state after shooting

Summary

More than 60 CEOs from Minnesota companies like Target and Best Buy wrote a letter asking for cooperation among government leaders following recent shootings. The letter highlights concerns about tensions and the effects of immigration enforcement on businesses in the state.

Key Facts

  • Over 60 CEOs from Minnesota companies signed a letter for government cooperation.
  • Companies involved include Target, Best Buy, and UnitedHealth.
  • The letter focuses on tensions after two fatal shootings by federal agents.
  • Protests have targeted businesses seen as not opposing federal law enforcement actions.
  • A lawsuit was filed by Minnesota against federal immigration operations.
  • Some businesses report sales drops by up to 80% due to the unrest.
  • The letter expresses a desire for peace and cooperation to find real solutions.
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Wall Street's playbook for 2026 already needs to be rewritten

Wall Street's playbook for 2026 already needs to be rewritten

Summary

The financial markets are facing uncertainty due to President Trump's new policies and global actions. This includes his approach to Greenland and tariffs, tensions with the Federal Reserve, and various geopolitical and trade issues. Investors are finding it hard to predict market movements as the year unfolds.

Key Facts

  • President Trump is actively pushing for a new global order, affecting market stability.
  • Venezuela's political situation caused energy prices to drop.
  • President Trump initially threatened to control Greenland and proposed tariffs on European countries.
  • The Department of Justice is investigating Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, causing concerns over the Federal Reserve's independence.
  • Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney spoke about China's role in global trade and relaxed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles.
  • President Trump is involved in a legal case against JPMorgan Chase for $5 billion.
  • Recent immigration crackdowns have prompted responses from business leaders in Minnesota.
  • There's uncertainty in the stock market with modest gains in the S&P 500 and doubts about the tech sector's lead.
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Ryanair profits fall after anti-competition fine

Ryanair profits fall after anti-competition fine

Summary

Ryanair reported a significant drop in its quarterly profits, partly due to a large fine from Italy's competition authority. The airline was fined for allegedly blocking travel agencies' access to its services. Despite the drop in profits, Ryanair expects both passenger numbers and ticket prices to increase this year.

Key Facts

  • Ryanair's quarterly profits fell to €30 million from €149 million a year earlier.
  • The drop in profits is linked to a €256 million fine from Italy's competition regulator.
  • The fine was for allegedly blocking travel agencies from accessing Ryanair flights.
  • Ryanair has appealed the fine, claiming it is baseless.
  • The airline expects passenger numbers to grow by 4% this year.
  • Ryanair predicts ticket prices will rise by 8% to 9%.
  • CEO Michael O'Leary mentioned potential full-year net profits of up to €2.23 billion.
  • Ryanair recently decided to stop using printed boarding passes, moving to a digital-only system.
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‘Fading Confidence’ in US Sends Dollar Tumbling

‘Fading Confidence’ in US Sends Dollar Tumbling

Summary

Confidence in the U.S. economy is declining, causing the U.S. dollar to drop in value while gold prices rise. Factors like political uncertainty and perceived policy chaos contribute to these economic changes. President Trump's plans regarding Greenland and recent tariff threats are among the reasons for increased economic concerns.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. Dollar Index, comparing the dollar to major currencies, fell over 10% in the past year.
  • Gold prices reached over $5,000 per ounce for the first time.
  • Experts link the dollar's decline and gold's rise to political uncertainty and concerns about U.S. economic policies.
  • Confidence in the U.S. economy impacts trade, import costs, and inflation.
  • Central banks are moving reserves away from the dollar, boosting gold prices.
  • President Trump's interest in Greenland and tariff actions are linked to the recent dollar drop.
  • Concerns about U.S. fiscal health and Federal Reserve independence contribute to doubts about economic stability.
  • Some investors are selling U.S. assets due to fear of prolonged uncertainty and weakened leadership.
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Subway Announces One-Day-Only Offer

Subway Announces One-Day-Only Offer

Summary

Subway is offering a promotion on January 27, 2026, where passengers seated in the middle seats of 737 aircraft can receive a $20 gift card. Southwest Airlines will also change its policy to assigned seating starting the same day.

Key Facts

  • Subway's offer is for passengers in middle seats, often called "sandwich seats," on a specific day.
  • Passengers need to take a photo in the middle seat and submit it online to claim the $20 card.
  • The offer is available to U.S. residents aged 18 or older on January 27, 2026, while supplies last.
  • The Subway gift card can be used to buy footlong subs or other menu items.
  • Southwest Airlines will switch to assigned seating on January 27, 2026.
  • Southwest's new seating includes Extra Legroom, Preferred, and Standard seat types.
  • Assigned seats must be booked in advance, removing the previous open seating system.
  • Tony Roach from Southwest Airlines said the changes help customers have more seat options and control.
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Caribbean cannabis growers eye budding domestic sales and exports

Caribbean cannabis growers eye budding domestic sales and exports

Summary

Caribbean cannabis growers are focusing on expanding both domestic sales and exports, particularly following the reclassification of cannabis by the U.S. government. Several Caribbean countries have legalized cannabis for medical use, and ongoing research aims to explore its health benefits further.

Key Facts

  • Caribbean farmers are cultivating different cannabis strains for varied effects and medicinal benefits.
  • Antigua and Barbuda, among other Caribbean countries, have legalized cannabis use for medical purposes.
  • The region has several legally registered cannabis farms and dispensaries.
  • Experts argue for cannabis legalization, saying decriminalization isn't enough.
  • Research on cannabis's potential benefits is planned in Antigua, including its use in medicine and agriculture.
  • President Trump's executive order reduced cannabis's status to a lower-level drug in the U.S.
  • The change in U.S. policy might lead to Caribbean countries exporting cannabis to the U.S.
  • U.S. policy changes might also affect regulations in the Caribbean, easing restrictions.
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'Low pay and boredom led me to get a secret second job'

'Low pay and boredom led me to get a secret second job'

Summary

The article discusses the practice of people working multiple secret jobs, known as "polygamous working." This trend, partly due to low pay and the rise of remote work, can lead to employment contract breaches and legal issues. Efforts are being made to stop this, especially in the public sector.

Key Facts

  • Some workers secretly hold multiple jobs at the same time, a practice called "polygamous working."
  • The UK public sector is trying to identify and address this practice.
  • Since 2016, UK authorities have found 301 instances of this and recovered £1.35 million in salaries.
  • A person recounts working two jobs, one secretly, to earn more money due to low pay.
  • Employment contracts can forbid having multiple jobs, making this practice potentially unlawful.
  • Legal experts say polygamous working can violate mutual trust in employment relationships.
  • Polygamous working differs from "moonlighting," which usually refers to having a side job outside regular work hours.
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Good Bad Billionaire

Good Bad Billionaire

Summary

The podcast "Good Bad Billionaire" explores how Ben Francis went from delivering pizzas to becoming the UK's youngest billionaire after founding the sportswear brand Gymshark. The show examines his journey, business ethics, and success story as he competes with major brands like Nike and Adidas.

Key Facts

  • Ben Francis is the UK's youngest billionaire.
  • He founded the sportswear brand Gymshark.
  • Ben began by sewing gym clothes in his parents' garage.
  • Gymshark is now one of the world's fastest-growing fitness brands.
  • The podcast "Good Bad Billionaire" reviews lives of wealthy people.
  • The podcast includes discussions on wealth, philanthropy, and business practices.
  • Contact details for the podcast include email and WhatsApp for listener engagement.
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Gold tops $5,000 for first time ever, adding to historic rally

Gold tops $5,000 for first time ever, adding to historic rally

Summary

The price of gold has exceeded $5,000 an ounce for the first time, continuing a significant upward trend. This increase is linked to financial uncertainty and geopolitical tensions involving the US and NATO, as well as actions by the Federal Reserve and central banks buying more gold.

Key Facts

  • Gold prices have gone over $5,000 an ounce for the first time ever.
  • This increase is part of a rally where gold prices have jumped over 60% in 2025.
  • Tensions between the US and NATO over Greenland contribute to global uncertainty.
  • The US Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest rates again this year.
  • Central banks worldwide are buying more gold.
  • Gold is considered a "safe-haven" asset during uncertain times and when interest rates are low.
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Horner part of group interested in Alpine stake

Horner part of group interested in Alpine stake

Summary

Christian Horner, former Red Bull team principal, is part of a group interested in investing in the Alpine F1 team. Alpine confirmed these discussions amid ongoing interest in the team due to increasing Formula 1 team valuations. Alpine's current minority shareholder, Otro Capital, has held talks about potentially selling its stake.

Key Facts

  • Christian Horner, previously with Red Bull, is interested in buying a stake in the Alpine F1 team.
  • Alpine confirmed there are multiple parties interested in investing in their team.
  • In 2023, Otro Capital bought a 24% stake in Alpine for 200 million euros.
  • The value of Formula 1 teams has been increasing, attracting investor interest.
  • Otro Capital is in discussions about possibly selling its stake.
  • Horner has privately expressed a desire for a team role with significant control and shareholding.
  • Since Horner's departure from Red Bull, some team performances and staff changes have taken place.
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I Made a Million Dollars, but It Came With an Unexpected Catch

I Made a Million Dollars, but It Came With an Unexpected Catch

Summary

The article discusses Kimanzi Constable's journey to earning a million dollars and the unexpected challenges that came with it, particularly in managing expectations from friends and family for financial support. Constable describes how his lack of early financial education affected his spending habits and led to difficulties in maintaining relationships due to increased demands for money.

Key Facts

  • Kimanzi Constable grew up with little financial education and did not learn about saving or investing as a child.
  • He started making money as a young adult by driving trucks and running a successful bakery business.
  • As his business grew, so did requests from family and friends for financial help, which he initially found hard to refuse.
  • Constable faced pressure from family abroad to send money, using emotional tactics to guilt him into providing support.
  • He eventually sold his bakery business and started an online educational course business, increasing his earnings.
  • Despite earning a million dollars in 2023, Constable found that relationships were strained by the expectation that he should pay for everything.
  • He experienced increased financial demands, with people often expecting him to cover costs during social outings.
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Boomers at 80: Why The 'Great Wealth Transfer' May Never Come

Boomers at 80: Why The 'Great Wealth Transfer' May Never Come

Summary

Baby Boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, have become the wealthiest generation in U.S. history, holding over half of the country's household wealth. This generation benefited from economic factors like accessible homeownership, strong labor markets, affordable education, and favorable tax policies. As they age, how they handle their wealth will impact future generations.

Key Facts

  • Baby Boomers began reaching age 80 in 2026.
  • They control more than half of all U.S. household wealth, totaling about $82 trillion.
  • Generation X holds around $42 trillion, and Millennials have about $16 trillion.
  • Economic factors like postwar wage growth and strong unions contributed to Boomer wealth.
  • Affordable homeownership in earlier decades increased their asset values.
  • College education was cheaper, boosting their income potential without heavy debt.
  • Tax policies favored investments, allowing Boomers to grow their wealth steadily.
  • Boomers were influenced by the Great Depression, leading to frugal saving habits.
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Five ways weight-loss jabs are changing spending habits

Five ways weight-loss jabs are changing spending habits

Summary

Weight-loss injection drugs are changing how people in the UK spend their money, with effects on grocery purchases, dining habits, and alcohol consumption. These drugs reduce appetite by mimicking a natural hormone, leading to decreased food and alcohol intake. As more people use these injections, businesses are adapting by offering healthier food options and smaller portion sizes.

Key Facts

  • About 1.6 million people in the UK used weight-loss injections in 2024.
  • These injections can cost more than £300 a month for private payers.
  • The injections work by mimicking a hormone that helps control hunger.
  • Users report buying healthier groceries and fewer ready meals.
  • Restaurants and takeaways see less frequent visits from those using the drugs.
  • There's a noticeable decrease in alcohol purchases among users of these injections.
  • Businesses like supermarkets and restaurants are offering more nutrient-dense and smaller portion options.
  • The trend influences spending on dining out and groceries, emphasizing health and wellness.
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The challenges facing the Ellisons' media empire

The challenges facing the Ellisons' media empire

Summary

Larry and David Ellison are expanding their media empire, which includes CBS News, Paramount Pictures, and a stake in TikTok U.S. They face challenges like political backlash, controversy over editorial decisions, and financial hurdles as they attempt a takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery. The changing media landscape also presents difficulties like decreased TV ad revenue and high competition for streaming content.

Key Facts

  • Larry and David Ellison's media holdings include CBS News, Paramount Pictures, and a portion of TikTok U.S.
  • They are attempting to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, which includes networks like CNN and HBO.
  • Paramount faced political criticism for settling a voter interference lawsuit with President Trump.
  • CBS News faced backlash over pulling a "60 Minutes" episode about Trump administration deportations.
  • Declines in TV viewing and competition for streaming content are affecting advertising revenue.
  • Larry Ellison's wealth from Oracle is impacted by its recent stock value decrease due to AI investment concerns.
  • Paramount is exploring other ways to grow, like seeking other acquisitions or content licenses.
  • David Ellison has experience in film production, including "Top Gun: Maverick" and "Mission: Impossible" movies.
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'People are often in despair - we see it in their eyes'

'People are often in despair - we see it in their eyes'

Summary

A charity called The Message Trust has opened community stores in Greater Manchester that offer groceries at a much lower price compared to regular supermarkets. These shops use donated food and items near their sell-by date to help people who struggle with food bills. The initiative has grown to include 34 shops across the UK, providing both affordable groceries and extra support like courses on managing debt.

Key Facts

  • The Message Trust is a Christian charity focused on combating food insecurity.
  • The charity sells groceries in community shops at lower prices than supermarkets.
  • Food is donated by supermarkets or bought by the charity and is sold at a heavy discount.
  • The concept started during the coronavirus pandemic to help vulnerable people.
  • The flagship shop is in Sharston, Greater Manchester.
  • The community shop model has expanded to 34 locations with about 100,000 members.
  • Groceries cost around 25% less than in regular supermarkets.
  • The charity also offers courses on debt management and mental health support.
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How Early Can You File Taxes? Dates and Deadlines for the 2026 Tax Season

How Early Can You File Taxes? Dates and Deadlines for the 2026 Tax Season

Summary

The IRS will start accepting tax returns for the 2026 tax season on January 26. There are several tax changes this year, including an increase in the state and local tax deduction limit and new exemptions for tips and overtime income under a bill from President Trump.

Key Facts

  • Tax filing for the 2026 season begins on January 26.
  • The deadline to file taxes is April 15 unless an extension is requested from the IRS.
  • Tax filers are advised to submit returns early to get faster refunds and reduce the risk of identity theft.
  • The state and local tax (SALT) deduction limit has increased from $10,000 to $40,000.
  • Under new tax rules, workers can exempt up to $25,000 in tips and $12,500 in overtime income.
  • New tax forms will be available once the IRS officially opens filing season.
  • People should carefully document tips and overtime income to comply with IRS requirements.
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