The popular 1995 movie "Clueless," known for its unique language and fashion, recently marked its 30th anniversary. To celebrate, a new glossary highlights memorable terms from the film, many of which are still known today, like "as if!" and "whatever." These expressions were inspired by California teen slang and reveal a blend of humor and cultural references.
Key Facts
"Clueless," a 1995 teen movie, turned 30 years old.
The movie popularized terms like "as if!" and "whatever."
A new glossary was created with the language learning platform Babbel to mark the anniversary.
The film's language includes "Valley speak," a dialect linked to teens in California's San Fernando Valley.
Director Amy Heckerling got ideas for the movie's language by talking to Beverly Hills teens.
The glossary includes humorous terms, such as "hymenally challenged," meaning virgin.
Some terms, like "Monet," are inspired by fine art.
The movie and its slang have had a lasting influence, though some expressions haven't aged well.
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In June, retail sales in the UK went up by 0.9%, mainly due to hot weather that encouraged people to buy more fuel and summer items. This increase came after a big drop in sales in May and was lower than some experts predicted. Overall, retail sales from April to June grew by only 0.2% compared to the previous three months.
Key Facts
Retail sales increased by 0.9% in June, as reported by the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
The hot weather led to more people buying drinks, summer clothes, and fuel.
In May, retail sales had dropped by 2.8%.
Economists had expected a rebound in June, but the increase was smaller than they predicted.
Food store sales went up by 0.7% and fuel sales rose by 2.8% in June.
England experienced its warmest June on record, according to the Met Office.
Sales at non-food stores increased, especially for clothing due to promotions and the weather, but sales of household goods decreased.
Shoppers entertained at home and updated their wardrobes, but fewer visited high streets, leading to more online shopping.
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In Zimbabwe, there is a critical shortage of blood supplies in public hospitals, forcing patients to buy blood at high costs from private hospitals. Many people, including those needing urgent medical care, struggle to afford these prices due to economic challenges.
Key Facts
Lloyd Muzamba, injured in a car accident, couldn't get a blood transfusion at a public hospital due to shortages.
His family had to buy blood from a private hospital at $250 per pint, which was a significant financial burden.
Muzamba's uncle sold a cow to help pay for the blood his nephew needed.
In Zimbabwe, blood should be available for free in public health facilities, but shortages continue.
Tanaka Moyo faced similar issues, needing to borrow money for an emergency transfusion during childbirth.
Postpartum haemorrhage, a major cause of maternal death, frequently requires blood transfusions.
Zimbabwe's health system struggles with currency issues, high costs of living, and poverty.
The National Blood Service Zimbabwe handles blood donations and transfusions in the country.
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In June, retail sales in the UK went up by 0.9% due to warm weather, which led to more people buying drinks and fuel. However, sales in May decreased more than originally thought.
Key Facts
Retail sales in the UK increased by 0.9% in June.
The warm weather helped boost sales in supermarkets and fuel.
People bought more drinks in supermarkets.
Fuel sales increased as more people traveled during the sunny weather.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) provided this data.
May's retail sales dropped more than the ONS previously estimated.
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India is making progress in trade talks with the US, according to India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, after signing a trade deal with the UK. The US and India aim to reach a trade agreement by the end of the year, though challenges remain around key issues like tariffs on agricultural products.
Key Facts
India's commerce minister spoke about progress in trade talks with the US after signing a trade deal with the UK.
The US set a deadline of August 1 for India to sign a trade deal or face higher tariffs.
US President Trump announced 26% tariffs on Indian goods as part of a broader trade policy.
India and the US plan to finalize a trade agreement by the end of the year.
Indian and US officials have been meeting to work out the details of the trade deal.
Lower tariffs on agriculture and dairy products are major points of negotiation.
The US wants more access to India's farm market, which India protects due to food security and farmer interests.
The US was India's largest trading partner with $190 billion in trade, and both countries aim to increase this to $500 billion.
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Narjis Karimipour, a teenager who is both deaf and blind, shared her personal story with her parents in a recorded conversation. She aims to inspire and assist others who face similar challenges.
Key Facts
Narjis Karimipour was blind from birth.
She lost her hearing at the age of 10.
Three years later, she participated in a StoryCorps conversation.
Her parents, Sarah Kassim and Mohammad Karimipour, joined her in this conversation.
Narjis wants to help others with disabilities by sharing her experiences.
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The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved an $8 billion merger between Paramount Global and Skydance Media. Paramount Global also resolved a legal dispute with President Trump by agreeing to pay $16 million. The FCC's approval enables the transfer of broadcast licenses for CBS television stations to the new merged company.
Key Facts
The FCC approved the $8 billion merger between Paramount Global and Skydance Media.
Paramount Global and Skydance Media announced the merger in 2024.
FCC head Brendan Carr, appointed by President Trump, announced the approval.
The FCC transferred broadcast licenses for 28 CBS television stations to the new owner.
Skydance pledged to focus on unbiased journalism, removing diversity efforts under the Trump administration's guidelines.
The FCC vote was 2-1 in favor of the merger, with one commissioner dissenting.
Paramount resolved a lawsuit with President Trump regarding an interview aired on CBS.
The settlement involves a $16 million payment, allocated for Trump's future presidential library.
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The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved Skydance's $8 billion purchase of Paramount Global, concluding a closely watched regulatory process. The approval was given by a 2-1 vote, with one commissioner dissenting. Skydance has promised to make changes at CBS, including ensuring diverse viewpoints in programming.
Key Facts
The FCC approved Skydance's acquisition of Paramount Global for $8 billion.
The approval vote was 2-1, with commissioner Anna Gomez voting against it.
Skydance plans to make changes at CBS to include diverse political and ideological viewpoints.
Skydance promised not to have diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs but will invest in local news.
Some Democrats criticized the approval, linking it to influence from the Trump administration.
Paramount settled with Donald Trump for $16 million, which helped in getting the FCC's approval.
Paramount co-CEO Chris McCarthy will leave the company once the merger is complete.
Paramount has already rolled back some DEI policies earlier this year.
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King Charles met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Sandringham after the UK and India signed a new trade deal. This agreement will make it easier and cheaper for both countries to export goods to each other, like UK cars and whisky to India, and Indian textiles and jewelry to the UK. The deal, which took three years to finalize, also includes efforts to tackle illegal migration and plans for job creation in the UK.
Key Facts
King Charles and Narendra Modi met at Sandringham after the UK-India trade deal was signed.
The trade deal aims to make UK cars and whisky cheaper to export to India and Indian textiles and jewelry cheaper to export to the UK.
It took three years to finalize the trade agreement.
The deal includes a commitment to address illegal migration between the two countries.
Indian Prime Minister Modi and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer formally signed the deal at Chequers.
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds stated that fears about the deal undercutting British workers were incorrect.
The trade agreement includes lower tariffs on various goods like clothing, shoes, cars, and jewelry.
Average tariffs on UK exports to India will decrease significantly, facilitating more trade.
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Kenya's police watchdog reported that police used more force than necessary during a series of protests where 65 people were killed. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (Ipoa) linked most of these deaths to police actions during four days of protests about police brutality and government policies. Both civilians and police officers were injured, and there was damage to property.
Key Facts
The protests took place over four days, with 65 people dying and many getting injured.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (Ipoa) says police used "disproportionate force."
342 civilians and 171 police officers were injured during the protests.
Demonstrations were sparked by issues like police brutality and discontent with government policies.
The first protest started in Nairobi on June 12, following the death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody.
On June 23, 23 people died during protests marking a year since previous anti-government demonstrations.
President William Ruto told police to shoot at protesters' legs to stop them without killing.
Rights groups criticized the government for its handling of the protests, accusing it of allowing deadly force.
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President Trump plans to visit the Federal Reserve, marking the first such visit by a sitting president in nearly 20 years. The visit comes amid ongoing criticism from Trump toward Fed chairman Jerome Powell, primarily over interest rates and a costly renovation project. Despite past discussions of firing Powell, Trump has indicated it is unlikely to happen.
Key Facts
President Trump's visit to the Federal Reserve is the first by a sitting president in almost 20 years.
Trump criticizes Jerome Powell, the Fed chairman, over slow interest rate cuts and a costly renovation.
The renovation, approved in 2017, is undergoing a $2.5 billion upgrade, criticized by the White House as mismanaged.
Trump has considered but is unlikely to fire Powell due to legal constraints.
The Fed is expected to keep interest rates unchanged in an upcoming meeting.
Under U.S. law, Fed governors can only be removed for major misconduct.
The renovation project includes updating two old buildings, with complications such as unexpected asbestos.
Trump initially appointed Powell in 2017, and Powell's current term ends in May 2026.
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Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated that US tariffs could boost industry and help reduce the federal deficit. However, reports indicate that revenue from the tariffs may not be enough to cover future federal deficits. Congress's budget office suggests that the projected tariff income over ten years will not offset the estimated $3.4 trillion added from new tax-and-spending policies.
Key Facts
Commerce Secretary Lutnick claimed US tariffs bring in about $30 billion monthly.
Lutnick suggested this revenue could help reduce the federal deficit.
The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) projected that tariffs wouldn't cover the costs of President Trump's recent tax and spending plans.
Tariffs are set to increase on August 1, affecting 21 countries with rates from 20% to 40%.
The federal government collected around $100 billion in tariffs this year, an increase over previous years.
The CBO estimates that over ten years, tariffs could reduce the deficit by $2.8 trillion, which is less than the projected deficit increase from the new legislation.
Without new expenses, the US’s 10-year deficit is estimated at $21.8 trillion.
The White House did not comment on the tariff revenue and deficit concerns mentioned in the article.
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The stock market reacted little to a recent trade deal with Japan, as investors focus mainly on U.S.-China trade relations. Market experts say the U.S.-China trade developments hold more influence over stock prices due to significant financial ties.
Key Facts
The U.S. stock market has risen 27% since April 8.
Trade deals are less impactful unless they involve China.
U.S. companies gain $1.2 trillion annually from business in China.
This figure is four times the U.S. trade deficit with China.
The cost of goods sold increased over 15% from 2015 to 2019, partly due to tariffs.
These higher costs can reduce company profits and affect stock prices.
Investors see trade news as less concerning unless it negatively involves China.
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Meme stocks like GoPro, Opendoor, and Krispy Kreme have seen a significant increase due to actions by retail investors and discussions on Reddit. This trend reflects investors' willingness to take more risks as stock markets reach record highs.
Key Facts
Meme stocks are shares with high interest and popular on social media.
GoPro, Opendoor, and Krispy Kreme increased significantly in value recently.
The pandemic contributed to the rise of meme stocks, as people had more time and extra money.
Investors on Reddit forums often drive interest in these stocks.
Institutional investors are also interested in these trends, trying to stay ahead.
Wall Street is closely monitoring retail investors' activities.
Meme stocks often have high short interest, meaning some investors are betting their value will drop.
The options market can indicate if meme stocks are in high demand.
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UnitedHealth Group announced it is under investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice for both criminal and civil matters related to how it records diagnoses for Medicare Advantage plans. The company is cooperating with the investigation and started responding to requests from federal investigators. UnitedHealth's stock value fell following the announcement.
Key Facts
UnitedHealth Group is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Justice.
The investigation focuses on criminal and civil matters.
UnitedHealth is cooperating with investigators and providing requested information.
The company's Medicare Advantage plans, which are private versions of government Medicare for mostly people over 65, are part of the investigation.
UnitedHealth's UnitedHealthcare business is the largest provider of Medicare Advantage plans in the U.S., covering over 8 million people.
UnitedHealth's stock price fell by 2% after the investigation was announced.
UnitedHealth also runs a significant health insurance, pharmacy benefits, and technology support business called Optum.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting the UK to sign a major trade agreement with Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The deal will reduce tariffs between India and the UK, increasing trade by allowing more goods to flow between the two countries. This agreement is forecasted to significantly boost their economies over time.
Key Facts
India will reduce tariffs on British goods like whisky, gin, and cars.
The UK will import more textiles, gemstones, and other goods from India.
The trade deal is estimated to boost the UK economy by £4.8 billion each year.
The agreement aims to increase bilateral trade by an additional £25.5 billion per year by 2040.
Last year, the trade between the UK and India was worth £42.6 billion.
The deal has been approved by India's cabinet and awaits approval from the UK parliament.
This is Modi's fourth visit to the UK since he became Prime Minister in 2014.
The two leaders will also discuss a recent Air India plane crash in Gujarat, India.
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The article discusses a recent episode of the NPR show "The Indicator from Planet Money" where they talk about how people are saving money on vacations. The show mentions the Beige Book report, which indicates that Americans are looking for cheaper ways to spend their leisure time, including beach trips.
Key Facts
"The Indicator from Planet Money" is an NPR show.
The episode focuses on how people are vacationing on a budget.
The Beige Book indicates that Americans are cutting vacation costs.
The Beige Book is a report that provides insights into the U.S. economy.
The episode draws a comparison between Benjamin Franklin's ideas and modern-day vacation savings.
The episode is available on various platforms including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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Tesla's profit fell by 16% in the second quarter of this year. The company faces challenges such as a decrease in electric vehicle sales and increased competition from other manufacturers.
Key Facts
Tesla reported a 16% drop in profit during the second quarter.
The company's electric vehicle sales decreased by 13.5% compared to the same time last year.
Tesla held 46.2% of the U.S. electric vehicle market, a decrease from nearly 80%.
Revenue from car sales dropped 16%, while energy revenue fell 7%, and service revenue grew by 17%.
Tesla is developing new projects like a robotaxi service and a humanoid robot called Optimus.
There is increased competition from both traditional U.S. automakers and Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers.
Tesla delayed its annual shareholder meeting, which concerned some investors.
The company's stock price decreased slightly after the profit announcement.
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A new trade agreement sets a 15% tariff on goods from Japan, replacing a potential 25% tariff. This rate is part of shifting trade policies under President Trump, which have adjusted market expectations and reactions to tariffs.
Key Facts
The U.S. has set a 15% tariff on goods from Japan.
Originally, there was a threat of a 25% tariff on Japanese goods.
The new tariff is higher than pre-Trump levels, which were less than 5%.
Indonesia will have a new 19% tariff, down from a previous threat of 32%.
Japan agreed to potentially invest $550 billion in the U.S.
The Nikkei 225 stock index rose 3.5% after the tariff announcement.
Shares of Japanese automakers Toyota and Honda increased significantly.
Investors believe the trade deal will stabilize Japan's economy.
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