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America’s $124 Trillion Wealth Transfer Brings Focus to Jewelry Assets

America’s $124 Trillion Wealth Transfer Brings Focus to Jewelry Assets

Summary

The United States is experiencing a massive transfer of wealth, estimated at $124 trillion, expected to happen by 2048. This change is causing families and advisors to focus more on physical assets like jewelry, which often have complex financial and personal importance but lack proper documentation.

Key Facts

  • About $124 trillion in wealth will be transferred through estates, heirs, spouses, and charities by 2048.
  • Families and advisors are paying more attention to physical items such as businesses, art, collectibles, and jewelry.
  • Jewelry is a unique asset because it has both monetary value and sentimental meaning.
  • Many jewelry collections passed through estates lack clear records and ownership history.
  • Krista Cavanaugh, a jewelry advisor, says this lack of documentation makes managing jewelry in estates complicated.
  • Jewelry often enters estates through multiple gifts and events, making tracking difficult.
  • Poor documentation can cause disputes during legal processes like probate and insurance review.
  • Jewelry’s portability increases risks of it being lost, altered, or sold before inventories are made.
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Trump’s latest tariffs put UK at disadvantage to the EU, say experts

Trump’s latest tariffs put UK at disadvantage to the EU, say experts

Summary

President Donald Trump has introduced new US tariffs aimed at countries using forced labour. While the overall tariff rate for UK goods stays the same, the EU’s tariff has been lowered to 10%, giving EU businesses an advantage over UK companies in some sectors. A separate deal is expected to eliminate US tariffs on Scottish whisky, benefiting the UK in that area.

Key Facts

  • President Trump announced new US tariffs targeting forced labour on Thursday.
  • The EU’s tariff rate was cut from 15% to 10%, while the UK tariff rate remains at 10%.
  • The EU gains extra tariff exemptions on goods like cork, diamonds, aircraft parts, and medicines.
  • The tariff changes disadvantage UK goods such as clothing, bikes, chemicals, and beverages compared to the EU.
  • Scottish whisky is expected to face zero US tariffs, helping UK producers over Irish and French rivals.
  • The UK government says there is no negative change for UK businesses and welcomes improvements in whisky and medical tech tariffs.
  • UK business groups call for ongoing negotiations to lower tariffs and express concerns about lost advantages.
  • The EU disagrees with the forced labour investigation that led to the tariff changes.
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New York City's Most Unusual Running Route Is Above Brooklyn

New York City's Most Unusual Running Route Is Above Brooklyn

Summary

Sky Three Residence Club in Brooklyn, New York, offers residents a unique quarter-mile running track on its rooftop. The building includes many wellness and lifestyle amenities, such as a large pool, sports courts, fitness center, and other facilities designed to promote health and relaxation.

Key Facts

  • Sky Three is located at 532 Neptune Avenue, near Coney Island in Brooklyn.
  • It has the only rooftop residential running track in New York City, about a quarter-mile long.
  • The running track is five floors above street level, providing a quieter environment.
  • Amenities include Brooklyn’s largest residential pool, pickleball and basketball courts, a yoga studio, saunas, and a massage room.
  • Other features are an arts and crafts studio, outdoor playground, coffee shop, pet spa, bicycle storage, and parking with 150 electric vehicle chargers.
  • The building opened in November 2025.
  • The developer is Cammeby's International, which aims to integrate wellness into daily life.
  • Similar wellness-focused residences are being built, but none have a rooftop running track like Sky Three.
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VW profits plunge and deep job cuts loom amid tough Chinese competition

VW profits plunge and deep job cuts loom amid tough Chinese competition

Summary

Volkswagen reported a big drop in profits and lowered its sales forecast because car sales in China have fallen sharply. To deal with this, Volkswagen plans to cut up to 100,000 jobs, mostly in office positions, and reduce the number of car models it makes.

Key Facts

  • Volkswagen expects car sales to drop by up to 3% this year, reversing an earlier forecast of a 3% increase.
  • Sales in China have fallen by more than 31% in the first half of the year.
  • The company's operating profit fell by 9.5% to €3.5 billion in the second quarter.
  • Volkswagen plans to cut up to 100,000 jobs worldwide, mainly in administrative roles.
  • The company aims to reduce the number of car models it produces by up to half.
  • Volkswagen faces strong competition from cheaper Chinese carmakers, who are also exporting more cars to Europe.
  • Volkswagen employs more than 650,000 people across brands like Audi, Porsche, and Bentley.
  • The company is undergoing a major restructuring to become more efficient and competitive despite possible union resistance.
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The Federal Reserve meets next week. Could it raise interest rates?

The Federal Reserve meets next week. Could it raise interest rates?

Summary

The Federal Reserve is likely to keep interest rates the same at its July meeting, but rising oil prices have increased chances of a rate hike later this year. Inflation concerns remain because of higher energy costs, and experts are watching for signs of future rate changes.

Key Facts

  • The Fed is expected to keep interest rates at 3.5% to 3.75% in the July meeting.
  • Oil prices recently went above $100 a barrel, raising inflation worries.
  • Nearly half of Fed policymakers support a rate hike later this year.
  • The Fed meeting is scheduled for July 29 at 2 p.m. ET, followed by a press conference.
  • The Fed Chair, Kevin Warsh, plans to give less guidance about future economic outlooks.
  • The chance of a rate hike next week rose from 12% to 38% recently, according to market predictions.
  • Experts believe the Fed will likely keep rates steady but see September as a key test for inflation trends.
  • Rising tensions in the U.S.-Iran conflict could impact inflation and rate decisions.
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What To Do if Your Dog Eats Recalled Pet Food, According to a Vet

What To Do if Your Dog Eats Recalled Pet Food, According to a Vet

Summary

The FDA tracks pet food recalls to protect animal health. If a pet eats recalled food, owners should stop feeding it, check the FDA database for details, contact their vet if needed, and seek refunds or replacements.

Key Facts

  • The FDA has a database for pet food recalls and related safety issues.
  • There were 10 pet food recall entries in 2026 so far, compared to 20 in all of 2025.
  • The latest recall (July 2) involved Pedigree wet dog food that might contain metal or plastic pieces.
  • Pet owners should keep pet food in its original packaging or save the barcode and lot number to identify recalls easily.
  • If food is recalled, stop feeding it and follow disposal instructions from FDA or USDA.
  • Owners should watch pets for signs like vomiting or loss of appetite and ask a vet for advice.
  • Many companies offer refunds or replacements for recalled pet foods.
  • The World Small Animal Veterinary Association provides guidelines to help pick safe pet food.
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Scotch whisky levy lifted as Trump imposes new wave of US tariffs

Scotch whisky levy lifted as Trump imposes new wave of US tariffs

Summary

The U.S. has removed tariffs on Scotch whisky after President Donald Trump agreed to lift them following King Charles and Queen Camilla's state visit in April. This deal also allows Kentucky bourbon barrels to enter the UK without tariffs, benefiting whisky producers and related businesses on both sides.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. had a 10% tariff on Scotch whisky since April 2025, which was set to increase to 25% on single malts.
  • Scotland exports more whisky to the U.S. than any other country.
  • Tariffs cost the Scotch whisky industry about £150 million; the U.S. market was worth around £933 million in 2025.
  • The deal removes tariffs on Kentucky bourbon barrels, which are used to age Scotch whisky, entering the UK tariff-free.
  • Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney said the deal benefits workers and businesses in both Scotland and the U.S.
  • President Trump lifted the tariffs after King Charles and Queen Camilla’s visit to the U.S. in April 2025.
  • There was political debate over who deserved credit for the tariff removal, with Swinney highlighting a combined effort involving King Charles and meetings with President Trump.
  • The Scotch Whisky Association sees the tariff removal as positive for economic ties and job creation on both sides of the Atlantic.
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It's one choke point after another in the global economy

It's one choke point after another in the global economy

Summary

The global economy faces critical "choke points," places or systems where key goods like oil or technology components get stuck, slowing down supply and raising prices. Recently, conflicts near important oil routes in the Middle East and shortages in AI-related technology have highlighted how these choke points disrupt trade and economic stability.

Key Facts

  • The term "choke point" describes places or systems where important goods or resources get blocked or limited.
  • Saudi Arabia is moving more oil through the Red Sea, avoiding the Strait of Hormuz, but conflicts threaten the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, another key route.
  • About 5.7% of the world’s oil passed through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait in early 2026, up from 3.5% the previous year.
  • Energy prices have risen, with Brent crude oil trading above $100 per barrel.
  • Choke points can be physical (like straits) or related to resources, technology, or financial systems with few alternatives.
  • The AI industry faces choke points due to shortages in key parts and limited data center and power capacity.
  • Global trade specialization makes the system efficient but also fragile, increasing risks from tariffs and export controls.
  • Experts and companies are paying more attention to choke points when planning for business risks.
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Lawmakers Must Keep Blockchain Innovation in America | Opinion

Lawmakers Must Keep Blockchain Innovation in America | Opinion

Summary

The article argues that blockchain technology and digital assets need clear and modern laws in the United States to support innovation and investment. It highlights the need for Congress to pass legislation that sets clear rules, protects consumers, and prevents fraud while allowing blockchain businesses to grow.

Key Facts

  • America has a history of successful technology innovation because of clear and fair rules.
  • Blockchain entrepreneurs in the U.S. face confusing and overlapping regulations.
  • Regulatory uncertainty slows investment and pushes innovation to other regions like the European Union.
  • Blockchain now represents real financial assets, including over $30 billion in tokenized assets and $15 billion in U.S. Treasuries.
  • Financial institutions see blockchain as a way to improve markets with faster and more transparent transactions.
  • The Digital Asset Market Clarity Act aims to create a modern and clear legal framework for digital assets.
  • The legislation would clarify which regulators oversee the market and set rules to prevent fraud and manipulation.
  • Proper rules would allow innovators to work confidently while protecting consumers and maintaining fair competition.
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Chairman of South Korean tech giant SK ordered to pay $640 million in divorce case

Chairman of South Korean tech giant SK ordered to pay $640 million in divorce case

Summary

A South Korean court ordered SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won to pay his ex-wife 944 billion won (about $640 million) in their divorce case. The payment amount was lowered from a previous ruling but still represents one of the largest divorce settlements in South Korea.

Key Facts

  • The Seoul High Court made the latest ruling on June 26, 2026.
  • Chey Tae-won is the chairman of SK Group, a major South Korean tech company.
  • His ex-wife, Roh So-yeong, is the daughter of former South Korean President Roh Tae-woo and an art museum director.
  • The court reduced the settlement from 1.38 trillion won ($940 million) to 944 billion won ($640 million).
  • Chey had previously been ordered to pay 2 billion won ($1.3 million) in alimony.
  • The case involved debates over whether past funds from Roh’s father counted as legal contributions to SK’s growth; the Supreme Court said they did not.
  • Chey and Roh married in 1988 and have three children; Chey filed for divorce in 2017 after revealing another relationship.
  • Chey’s assets grew recently due to a rise in SK Hynix shares, linked to demand in artificial intelligence technology.
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Tech titan ordered to pay ex-wife $644m in divorce settlement

Tech titan ordered to pay ex-wife $644m in divorce settlement

Summary

A South Korean court has ordered Chey Tae-won, chairman of SK Group, to pay his ex-wife about $644 million in a divorce settlement. This decision follows a long legal battle over their assets after their 35-year marriage ended.

Key Facts

  • Chey Tae-won must pay 944 billion won (about $644 million) to his ex-wife Roh Soh-yeong.
  • The original amount was 1.38 trillion won but was later reduced.
  • The couple divorced after it was revealed Chey had a child with another woman.
  • Roh is the daughter of Roh Tae-woo, South Korea's president from 1988 to 1993.
  • SK Group is a major South Korean family-owned business that runs SK Hynix, a large chip maker.
  • SK Hynix is linked to the global AI boom and has a recent $26.5 billion US stock market listing.
  • The South Korean Supreme Court ruled some funds could not count as marital assets because they were illegally obtained.
  • SK Group is the second largest chaebol in South Korea, after Samsung.
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Heatwave and online shopping drive up retail sales in Great Britain

Heatwave and online shopping drive up retail sales in Great Britain

Summary

Retail sales in Great Britain increased in June driven by hot weather and World Cup shopping. Online sales reached their highest point in five years, with strong demand for air conditioning, outdoor items, and clothing.

Key Facts

  • Retail sales grew by 1% from May to June in Great Britain.
  • Sales rose 4.2% compared to June last year, nearly double what analysts expected.
  • Online sales were especially strong, reaching the highest share since spring 2021.
  • Non-store retailers (mainly online) saw a 4.4% increase in sales in June.
  • Clothing and footwear stores had a 1.9% sales increase from May to June.
  • Department stores experienced a 1.7% sales decline in June after strong gains in May.
  • Factors like energy price rises, high interest rates, and Middle East tensions could reduce future consumer spending.
  • Consumer confidence rose due to the World Cup and cost of living policy changes but could be affected by upcoming economic challenges.
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US tariff hikes linked to claims of foreign labor dismay and anger trading partners

US tariff hikes linked to claims of foreign labor dismay and anger trading partners

Summary

President Donald Trump’s administration raised tariffs by 10% to 12.5% on imports from 60 countries, citing concerns over forced labor. Many affected countries, including Australia and New Zealand, objected to the tariffs, calling the labor claims unjustified and harmful to trade.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. raised tariffs on goods from 60 countries due to alleged use of forced labor.
  • New tariffs range from 10% to 12.5% and took effect immediately after previous tariffs expired.
  • Australia’s trade minister said the tariffs are “completely unjustified” and defended Australia’s efforts against modern slavery.
  • New Zealand’s Prime Minister called the tariffs disappointing and harmful for trade.
  • The U.S. investigation behind the tariffs did not provide strong evidence to support forced labor claims.
  • The European Union criticized the U.S. claims by pointing to its strong labor laws and worker protections.
  • Japan also protested the new tariffs, despite earlier assurances from the U.S. that no new tariffs would be added.
  • Officials from affected countries plan to lobby the U.S. Trade Representative for tariff removal.
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With a historic 3 Michelin stars, a Mexican restaurant in San Francisco defies stereotypes

With a historic 3 Michelin stars, a Mexican restaurant in San Francisco defies stereotypes

Summary

Californios, a Mexican restaurant in San Francisco, earned three Michelin stars, the first Mexican restaurant worldwide to do so. Chef Val Cantú and his team received this top culinary award after eight years of hard work, which recognizes their skill in blending Mexican culture with California ingredients.

Key Facts

  • Californios opened in 2015 and earned its first Michelin star immediately.
  • The restaurant received a second star in 2018 and a third star in 2026.
  • This is the first time any Mexican restaurant in the world has received three Michelin stars.
  • The Michelin Guide rates restaurants through anonymous inspectors who visit and evaluate food and service.
  • Californios uses local ingredients, such as white corn and beans from Santa Rosa and caviar from a Sacramento sturgeon farm.
  • The restaurant is known for combining Mexican tradition with California influences in its dishes.
  • Michelin inspectors praised the kitchen for precision and refinement without losing Mexican identity.
  • The award boosts recognition for Mexican cuisine as a fine dining experience.
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Australian regulator TGA warns of ‘rare but severe’ eye disorder linked to GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic

Australian regulator TGA warns of ‘rare but severe’ eye disorder linked to GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic

Summary

Australia’s medicine regulator, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), has warned that some diabetes and obesity drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro may cause a rare but serious eye disorder that could lead to blindness. Patients using these drugs are advised to see a doctor immediately if they experience sudden vision loss, but the TGA does not recommend stopping the medication without medical advice.

Key Facts

  • The TGA linked 36 cases of a rare eye disorder called non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION) to drugs including Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Saxenda.
  • NAION may cause permanent vision loss, and there is no proven treatment to improve sight once it occurs.
  • The TGA updated drug information to warn patients about the risk and advised urgent medical care if they experience sudden vision problems.
  • The regulator does not advise patients to stop using these drugs without consulting a doctor, nor have they restricted prescriptions.
  • A medical expert emphasized that NAION is very rare and that the drugs help prevent serious conditions like heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease.
  • The TGA began investigating the link after a study published in 2024 and reviewed evidence with an advisory committee.
  • Ozempic and Wegovy accounted for 23 of the eye disorder cases, Mounjaro for 10, and Saxenda for 3; no cases were reported with Trulicity’s active ingredient.
  • These medicines are seen as important tools in managing diabetes and obesity despite the rare eye risk.
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‘A small snippet’: what pubs make of Burnham’s £100m rates giveaway

‘A small snippet’: what pubs make of Burnham’s £100m rates giveaway

Summary

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has introduced a policy to cut business rates by 20% for pubs, clubs, and live music venues, costing £100 million. Pub owners say the saving helps but is small compared to other costs they face, such as VAT, staff wages, and utilities, which make running their businesses expensive.

Key Facts

  • Andy Burnham’s policy reduces business rates by 20% for pubs, clubs, and live music venues.
  • The policy aims to support high street businesses and will cost the government £100 million.
  • Business rates account for only a small part of the cost of running a pub, about 16p on a typical pie and pint.
  • Other major costs for pubs include VAT (value-added tax), staff wages, taxes, and utility bills.
  • Some pub owners say the rates cut is helpful but too small to stop many pubs closing.
  • A typical pub with £1 million turnover might pay around £5,000 in business rates, so the cut could save about £1,000.
  • Hospitality businesses face increasing costs like higher minimum wage and national insurance under the Labour government.
  • Pub owners and consultants want bigger tax cuts, like lowering VAT from 20% to 10%, to better support their businesses.
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Shares skid in Asia in sell-off of AI-related shares as Brent oil tops $100 per barrel

Shares skid in Asia in sell-off of AI-related shares as Brent oil tops $100 per barrel

Summary

Shares in Asian markets fell sharply after the price of Brent crude oil rose above $100 per barrel, reaching its highest level since May. The rise in oil prices comes amid fighting in the Middle East, raising concerns about global oil supply, while U.S. stocks also dropped due to losses in major companies and new tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump.

Key Facts

  • Brent crude oil price rose over 7%, surpassing $100 per barrel, mainly due to attacks on Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea.
  • The increase in oil prices threatens the global supply chain of oil and gas.
  • Asian stock markets fell significantly, including South Korea’s Kospi down 5.9%, and Japan’s Nikkei 225 down 3.1%.
  • Major technology companies like Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix saw share prices drop by over 7%.
  • U.S. stock markets fell after losses in companies Alphabet (Google) and Tesla.
  • The U.S. is imposing new tariffs of 10% to 12.5% on imports from 60 countries for failing to enforce bans on forced labor goods.
  • The U.S. dollar reached a 40-year high against the Japanese yen, trading at 163.83 yen.
  • The oil price was around $72 per barrel before the recent conflict in Iran started in February.
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How much money do you give for a wedding gift?

How much money do you give for a wedding gift?

Summary

The article discusses how much money people typically give as wedding gifts. It includes examples, such as a couple who spends up to £400 on wedding presents.

Key Facts

  • The article focuses on the question of how much money is appropriate to give as a wedding gift.
  • It refers to real-life examples, including a couple that gives up to £400 per wedding gift.
  • The topic relates to personal finance and spending habits around weddings.
  • The article is recent and published in the business section.
  • It touches on social expectations around wedding gift amounts.
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Adelaide airport pulls ads from conservation groups but keeps gas and mining ads during ALP conference

Adelaide airport pulls ads from conservation groups but keeps gas and mining ads during ALP conference

Summary

Adelaide Airport removed ads from conservation groups during the ALP national conference, saying these ads broke political advertising rules. At the same time, ads supporting gas and mining continued to run, prompting questions about fairness.

Key Facts

  • Conservation groups' ads were removed by Adelaide Airport for allegedly breaking political ad rules.
  • Groups affected include the Murray-Darling Conservation Alliance, Bob Brown Foundation, and Adelaide Park Lands Association.
  • The removed ads focused on environmental issues like saving rivers, stopping tree removal, and ending native forest logging.
  • Ads promoting gas and mining companies, such as Santos and the Minerals Council of Australia, remained on display at the airport.
  • The airport cited its guidelines on political advertising to justify removing certain ads.
  • Advertising agency JCDecaux said the airport made the final decision about which ads to allow.
  • At least one gas ad was later stopped, but it had political authorization from an energy industry leader.
  • Conservation groups criticized the decision, calling for their ads to be reinstated.
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Christian Brothers abuse victims to get ‘full’ compensation in backdown after controversial property sales

Christian Brothers abuse victims to get ‘full’ compensation in backdown after controversial property sales

Summary

The Christian Brothers and Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA) have agreed to fully compensate survivors of historical abuse after public pressure. EREA will now help pay claims by selling off properties previously gifted by the Christian Brothers and will take responsibility for both current and future legal claims.

Key Facts

  • The Christian Brothers is a Catholic order with a history of clergy abuse.
  • They said they could not afford to pay abuse survivors and planned to sell 36 properties worth about $217 million.
  • Survivors were originally owed about $774 million.
  • The Christian Brothers transferred valuable properties to EREA for $1 over several years.
  • EREA had previously refused to replace the Christian Brothers in legal claims.
  • Both groups now say EREA will help pay all survivors in full and take on responsibility for future claims.
  • This change follows strong public and legal pressure.
  • The new plan needs court approval and a vote by creditors before it can proceed.
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