Prediction markets are platforms where people can bet on the outcome of events, like elections or sports games. Recently, a trader won over $400,000 by betting on the removal of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, raising questions about possible insider trading.
Key Facts
Prediction markets allow people to place bets on different events, from sports to political outcomes.
Nicolás Maduro, the former president of Venezuela, was captured after a raid.
A trader won more than $400,000 by betting on Maduro's removal.
The bets were placed on a platform called Polymarket.
The trader's bets were placed just hours before President Trump announced the raid on Maduro.
The timing of the trader's bets raised suspicions of insider trading.
Polymarket did not comment on the situation.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Three former heads of the U.S. central bank, including Janet Yellen, have criticized a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. They argue that this investigation threatens the independence of the Federal Reserve. The probe reportedly relates to testimony Powell gave about building renovations at the Federal Reserve.
Key Facts
Three former Federal Reserve chairs, including Janet Yellen, criticized the investigation into Jerome Powell.
The criticism came from a group of 10 economic policy leaders, including former Treasury Secretaries.
The group argues the investigation threatens the Federal Reserve's independence.
Jerome Powell stated the investigation follows his Senate testimony about Federal Reserve building renovations.
Powell believes the investigation is linked to President Trump's criticism over interest rate decisions.
President Trump has publicly pressured Powell to lower interest rates.
Trump has considered firing Powell, but he has not acted on this idea.
The Department of Justice was contacted for comment on the investigation.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Taco Bell is bringing back the Quesarito with a new Volcano Sauce, starting from January 8. This move aims to attract more customers by introducing a fresh menu option, which aligns with the trend of fast-food chains offering new items to draw in diners.
Key Facts
Taco Bell is reintroducing the Quesarito with a new spicy Volcano Sauce.
The Volcano Quesarito will appear on the menu starting January 8 and costs $4.99.
Rewards members can access a special Volcano-style menu through the Taco Bell app.
The Volcano Sauce is described as a creamy blend of cheese and spices.
Taco Bell also offers other items with the Volcano Sauce like Volcano Crunchy Taco, Volcano Crunchwrap, and Volcano BellGrande.
The move is part of a trend where fast-food chains create new menu items to attract more customers.
Financial experts note that these new products target budget-conscious consumers looking for new dining experiences.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The second nuclear reactor has arrived at the Hinkley Point C power station in the UK. This marks a significant step in the construction of the power station, which will eventually generate electricity for about three million homes.
Key Facts
The second reactor arrived in the UK from France and was moved to the Hinkley Point C site in Somerset.
The reactor is a large steel cylinder, weighing 500 tonnes and measuring 13 meters long.
The first reactor was delivered in 2023; both use nuclear fission to create heat and steam for turbines.
Once operational, the station's two reactors will supply power continuously to about three million homes.
The construction at Hinkley Point C is scheduled to peak within 18 months, involving around 15,000 workers.
The project's cost has increased to £46 billion from an original estimate of £18 billion in 2017.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The expiration of certain Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies has brought health care costs into focus. The government is paying slightly less of health insurance premiums now that temporary pandemic-era subsidies have ended, especially affecting higher-income households. The article argues that these subsidies only address symptoms rather than the underlying causes of rising health care costs.
Key Facts
Some ACA subsidies expanded during the pandemic expired at the end of 2025.
The federal government's share of premium costs decreased from 88% to 83%.
Lower-income individuals continue to receive substantial ACA subsidies.
Middle- and higher-income households experienced the greatest impact from these changes.
Rising premiums create financial stress but extending subsidies doesn't lower overall health care costs.
The ACA expanded coverage but struggled to control the prices consumers and insurers pay.
Subsidies can hide true insurance costs and weaken competition's ability to limit price rises.
Effective reform would address the power dynamics in health care markets and promote genuine competition.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Category: business
The article discusses historical attempts in early America to implement collective property ownership, which did not succeed. It explains that initial settlers in Jamestown and Plymouth experimented with shared land and resources, but this approach led to poor outcomes like starvation and laziness until they adopted private land ownership, improving productivity.
Key Facts
Cea Weaver, a New York City housing appointee, suggested transitioning to a collective property model.
Early settlers in Jamestown, Virginia, tried a collective property system in the 1600s.
This communal approach in Jamestown led to high levels of starvation and death.
Settlers did not work effectively under the shared system, leading to a lack of food.
Assigning private land to settlers increased productivity significantly.
After moving to a private property system, Jamestown settlers grew tobacco, a profitable crop.
A similar collective model was attempted by settlers in Plymouth, Massachusetts, but faced challenges.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The U.S. Department of Justice has issued subpoenas to Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell regarding his testimony about the Federal Reserve's office building renovations. This legal action is part of a conflict between President Trump and the Federal Reserve over interest rate policies.
Key Facts
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell received subpoenas from the Department of Justice.
The subpoenas are related to his testimony about the Fed's renovations of two office buildings.
The renovations cost $2.5 billion, which President Trump has called excessive.
President Trump has critiqued the Fed for not reducing its key interest rate enough.
The situation represents an unprecedented clash between President Trump and the Federal Reserve.
Financial markets may react negatively to this news, possibly affecting loan interest rates.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The Justice Department has threatened the Federal Reserve with criminal charges over testimony by its Chair, Jerome Powell. President Trump has criticized Powell and tried to exert control over the Federal Reserve by pushing for lower interest rates and criticizing its renovation spending. Maintaining the Federal Reserve's independence is considered crucial for the economy, as it allows the central bank to make decisions without political pressure.
Key Facts
The Justice Department threatened criminal charges against Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell.
President Trump has criticized Powell for not cutting interest rates more.
Trump has also accused Powell of mismanaging a $2.5 billion renovation at the Federal Reserve.
The Federal Reserve's independence lets it manage interest rates to control inflation and economic growth without political interference.
Independent central banks can make unpopular decisions, like raising interest rates to control inflation.
An effort to fire Powell could negatively impact the stock market and increase borrowing costs.
The significance of the Federal Reserve's independence became clear after high inflation in the 1970s and early 1980s.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, which former Fed Chair Janet Yellen and others claim is driven by political motives from President Trump. The investigation focuses on Powell's Senate testimony and the cost of renovations at the Federal Reserve's offices. Critics say this is an attempt to threaten the Fed's independence from presidential influence.
Key Facts
Janet Yellen, a former Federal Reserve chair, criticized the DOJ investigation into current Fed Chair Jerome Powell as politically motivated.
The DOJ issued subpoenas and threatened Powell with a criminal indictment concerning his Senate testimony and renovation costs of Fed buildings.
The Federal Reserve set interest rates independently, which Powell says should serve the public interest, not presidential preferences.
President Trump has denied involvement in the probe but has previously criticized Powell for not cutting interest rates more aggressively.
Some lawmakers believe the investigation aims to undermine the Federal Reserve's independence.
Renovation costs for the Fed's D.C. offices increased from $1.9 billion in 2019 to $2.5 billion in the 2025 budget.
Critics argue that the DOJ's actions may intimidate the Fed and disrupt the economy.
Powell insists the investigation is not actually focused on the Senate testimony or building renovations.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The head of Heineken is leaving his position after six years because the company is experiencing slow beer sales. The company has faced challenges like people choosing non-alcoholic drinks more often and higher product costs. Heineken's sales, especially in Europe and the US, have dropped, leading to a profit warning.
Key Facts
Dolf van den Brink, Heineken's CEO, is stepping down after six years.
Heineken's beer sales are dropping; sales decreased by 2.3% up to October.
Heineken is affected by more people choosing no or low-alcohol drinks.
The company's sales in Europe and the US are particularly weak.
Heineken's non-alcoholic beer, Heineken 0.0, also saw a decline in sales.
There is growth in markets like Mexico and China for Heineken products.
Heineken's share price fell by about 3% after announcing the CEO's departure.
Analysts say Heineken must improve its image and advertising to boost sales.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh disagreed with other justices and wanted to hear a bankruptcy case involving Hertz and Wells Fargo. The Supreme Court decided not to review the case, so the lower court's decision stands. This case involves disputes over payments following Hertz's bankruptcy.
Key Facts
Justice Brett Kavanaugh wanted the Supreme Court to review a bankruptcy-related case.
The case involves Hertz filing for bankruptcy under Chapter 11 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hertz proposed a reorganization plan to pay creditors, including Wells Fargo, but there were disputes over additional payments.
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit ruled that Hertz must pay certain premiums and interest.
Hertz argued that the bankruptcy law should prevent creditors from claiming more money than specified.
Wells Fargo argued that creditors should receive full repayment, including certain interest and premiums.
The Supreme Court declined to review the case, so the lower court's decision remains in effect.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
President Donald Trump has expressed a strong interest in U.S. companies developing Venezuela's oil resources following a change in leadership there. He criticized ExxonMobil for not showing enough enthusiasm in this effort. Trump met with top oil executives from various companies to discuss investing in Venezuela's energy sector.
Key Facts
President Trump wants U.S. companies to help develop Venezuela's oil resources.
There has been a leadership change in Venezuela, with Nicolás Maduro removed from power.
Trump expressed disappointment with ExxonMobil's lack of interest in the project.
ExxonMobil's CEO described Venezuela as "uninvestable" due to legal and commercial challenges.
U.S. firms have been cautious about entering Venezuela because of its unstable political situation.
Trump discussed plans with major oil companies to rebuild Venezuela's energy infrastructure.
He assured oil companies of safety but acknowledged they can manage their projects.
The plan envisions a rapid, 18-month, $100-billion investment effort by U.S. firms.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A video of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell and President Donald Trump resurfaced after the Department of Justice (DOJ) began an investigation into the Fed. The DOJ is looking into claims that Powell lied during Senate testimony about the expensive renovation of the Fed's buildings in Washington, D.C. This investigation has increased tensions between the Trump administration and the Federal Reserve.
Key Facts
The DOJ has launched an investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's statements about Fed building renovations.
The investigation focuses on claims of Powell lying about the cost during Senate testimony.
The Fed's renovation project initially cost $2.5 billion but is now $600 million over budget.
President Trump nominated Powell in 2017 and has criticized him for not lowering interest rates quickly.
Trump suggested he might sue Powell for handling the renovations poorly.
The Federal Reserve is funded by banking services fees and investment income, not taxpayer money.
Powell responded that the investigation connects to Trump's previous threats against him.
Trump said the DOJ subpoenas are unrelated to interest rates, but that high rates are negatively affecting the public.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Paramount Skydance is trying to take over Warner Bros. Discovery by suggesting new board members for the company. There is a bidding war for Warner Bros. between Paramount and Netflix, with Warner's leaders preferring Netflix's $72 billion offer over Paramount's $77.9 billion bid.
Key Facts
Paramount Skydance wants to name its own directors for Warner Bros.
This is part of a hostile takeover attempt by Paramount.
Warner Bros. is caught in a bidding war between Paramount and Netflix.
Paramount has offered $77.9 billion for Warner Bros., more than Netflix's $72 billion.
Warner Bros.' current board supports the Netflix offer.
Paramount has also filed a legal case for more information on how offers are valued.
Warner Bros. has not yet scheduled its meeting to discuss these offers.
Paramount did not list any specific board candidates yet.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The article describes how the AI boom is creating a division in economic status in the United States, forming three groups: the Have-Nots, the Haves, and the Have-Lots. The Have-Lots are gaining significant wealth from AI advancements, while others are experiencing minimal benefits. This economic split is changing the financial and social landscape, leading to greater inequality.
Key Facts
The United States is experiencing an economic division due to the AI boom, forming three groups: Have-Nots, Haves, and Have-Lots.
The Have-Lots are becoming wealthier through exclusive AI-related deals and investments.
In the past few years, the top 10% of households gained $5 trillion in wealth during a single quarter, while the bottom 50% gained $150 billion.
The Have-Nots, making up over 50% of Americans, struggle with high rent and mortgage rates, low stock ownership, and potential job threats from AI.
Many in the Have category (middle group) own stocks and homes but are concerned about AI's impact on jobs.
Despite economic growth, many in lower groups feel pessimistic about AI and future economic security.
Rising stock market valuations, such as with companies like Nvidia and Microsoft, have little impact on the financial situation of most Americans.
A large portion of Americans cannot cover a $400 emergency expense without going into debt.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Chipotle is offering a special one-day promo for its U.S. and Canada Rewards members on January 13, 2026. Members can get a free double protein upgrade on select menu items when they order online or through the app.
Key Facts
The offer is available only to Chipotle Rewards members in the U.S. and Canada.
It applies for one day only, on January 13, 2026.
Members can choose a free double protein upgrade for bowls, burritos, and salads.
Protein options include chicken, steak, beef barbacoa, pork carnitas, and tofu-based sofritas.
Orders must be made through the Chipotle app or the website using the promo code PROTEIN.
The offer does not apply to in-restaurant orders, third-party deliveries, or certain menu items.
This promotion aligns with a survey showing 70% of Americans prioritize eating more protein.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Fisher Island in Miami Beach became the most expensive ZIP code in the U.S. in 2025, with homes selling for a median price of $9.5 million. The area's appeal is due to its beauty, privacy, and location near downtown Miami. Many wealthy buyers are moving to the south, expanding the luxury home market beyond just the East and West Coasts.
Key Facts
Fisher Island's ZIP code 33109 had a median home sale price of $9.5 million in 2025.
Atherton, California's ZIP code 94027 was second with homes selling for $8.3 million.
Sagaponack, New York, in the Hamptons had a median sale price of $5.9 million.
California made up 61% of the top 120 expensive ZIP codes.
Fisher Island residents pay extra fees, including a $500,000 membership and $40,000 for amenities.
The area is attractive because of its beauty, isolation, and proximity to downtown Miami.
Coastal areas remain expensive, but climate change is affecting high-risk markets.
More wealthy buyers are purchasing homes in the southern U.S., spreading luxury housing markets beyond the coasts.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, which has impacted financial markets significantly. The investigation led to stock market drops, including the S&P 500, Dow Jones, and Nasdaq indices falling. The situation is notable because the probe is unprecedented, affecting both markets and the U.S. dollar's value.
Key Facts
The Justice Department is conducting a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell.
Powell mentioned that the probe is “unprecedented” in its nature.
Major U.S. stock indices fell, with the S&P 500 down 0.3%, the Dow Jones dropping over 400 points, and the Nasdaq down 0.2%.
The U.S. dollar decreased in value against the Swiss franc and the euro.
Powell stated the probe might affect how the Federal Reserve sets interest rates.
The fallout of the investigation caused significant fluctuations in global financial markets.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A luxurious resort in Kona, Hawaii, called Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort, will open in 2026, welcoming both humans and dogs. The resort has partnered with BARK Air to create a travel package that caters to dogs, including flights and on-site care. This initiative allows pet owners to plan vacations with their pets, focusing on the dogs' needs during the stay and travel.
Key Facts
Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort, is located on Hawaii's largest island and is considered one of the most luxurious resorts in the world.
The resort will open in 2026 and will welcome dogs as part of the vacation experience.
BARK Air, a dog-friendly airline, has partnered with the resort to offer a dog-first travel package that includes flights and on-site amenities for dogs.
Guests can enjoy specific events for dogs such as a dog-friendly luau and sunset yoga sessions.
Dog-specific services include tailored toys, treats, and on-site support like a concierge and an expert trainer.
Traveling to Hawaii with a pet requires meeting specific entry requirements, which BARK Air assists with through pre-flight coordination.
BARK Air provides private charter flights from Los Angeles to Kona, accommodating up to 10 humans and their dogs.
Room rates start at $2,690 per night, and the round-trip flight package costs $15,000 for one human and up to two dogs.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Thousands of nurses in New York City are on strike after contract talks with three hospital systems fell through. The nurses are demanding better staffing, healthcare benefits, and workplace safety. The strike could affect hospital operations, including patient care and services.
Key Facts
Nurses from The Mount Sinai Hospital, NewYork-Presbyterian, and Montefiore Medical Center are on strike.
About 15,000 nurses are involved in the strike.
Nurses are asking for safe staffing, healthcare benefits, and protection against workplace violence.
Hospitals are hiring temporary nurses to cover during the strike.
The strike is happening during a severe flu season, which may impact hospital services.
Each hospital is negotiating separately with the nursing union.
Some other hospitals in the area reached agreements to avoid a strike.
The New York State Nurses Association represents the striking nurses.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
