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Paramount and Warner Bros sued to block $110bn mega merger

Paramount and Warner Bros sued to block $110bn mega merger

July 13, 2026 • BBC Business

Summary

Twelve US states, led by California, have sued to block a $110 billion merger between Warner Bros. and Paramount. They argue the deal would reduce competition and increase prices for movie theaters and TV viewers. The companies say the merger is needed to survive challenges from technology and streaming services.

Key Facts

  • The merger would combine Warner Bros. and Paramount, two major Hollywood studios.
  • Together, they would control over 25% of major movie releases and a big share of cable TV channels.
  • Along with Disney, Universal, and Sony, four companies would control 86% of major film releases.
  • The lawsuit claims the merger will lead to higher costs, less content, and lower quality for audiences.
  • The United States Department of Justice had previously approved the merger in June.
  • The states want a court to stop the merger while the legal case is reviewed.
  • The merger would end a century-long rivalry between the two studios.
  • Supporters say the media industry faces challenges from fewer cable viewers and streaming competition, so the merger is necessary.
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BBC Business BBC Top Stories
AI Is Creating a New Challenge That Most Companies Didn’t See Coming

AI Is Creating a New Challenge That Most Companies Didn’t See Coming

July 13, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Companies are facing new challenges as artificial intelligence (AI) and digital tools increase the amount of information workers must handle. This can make decision-making harder, even though technology provides more data and options. Experts say businesses should focus on designing systems that help employees make clear, confident decisions to improve productivity.

Key Facts

  • Many workers switch between multiple digital platforms and tools during the day, which can interrupt their focus.
  • AI speeds up information analysis but also creates more choices, making it harder to decide the best course of action.
  • Having too much information without clear guidance can consume mental energy needed for teamwork and problem-solving.
  • Organizations are encouraged to simplify how decisions are made to boost productivity.
  • Visible work activities like meetings and messages don't always show whether meaningful progress is being made.
  • Consultants suggest connecting data directly to decisions increases the value of information.
  • Employee well-being and avoiding burnout remain important concerns as work structures change.
  • Return-to-office rules are less influential than expected, as hybrid and remote work stay common.
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Newsweek
Lancashire chemicals factory facing potential legal claim announces closure

Lancashire chemicals factory facing potential legal claim announces closure

July 13, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

A chemicals factory in Lancashire called AGC Chemicals Europe Ltd plans to close after facing financial losses and legal claims from local residents. The factory’s historic emissions of a harmful chemical called Pfoa, linked to cancer, have contaminated the area, leading to investigations and health concerns.

Key Facts

  • AGC Chemicals Europe Ltd is consulting employees about closing its Lancashire factory, affecting 190 workers.
  • The factory has lost money for four years and has not made a final closure decision yet.
  • The factory emitted an estimated 49 tonnes of Pfoa, a chemical linked to kidney cancer, between the 1950s and 2012.
  • Pfoa is a type of "forever chemical" that does not break down in the environment and was banned worldwide in 2020.
  • Soil and local food near the factory showed contamination, leading to advice for residents to wash food and avoid local eggs.
  • More than 90 residents want to join a possible lawsuit involving contamination and health risks.
  • A government study found higher rates of kidney cancer near the site but did not confirm a direct link to the contamination.
  • The factory previously tested Pfoa on monkeys, causing harm to the animals.
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Guardian World
States sue to block Paramount-Warner Brothers Discovery merger

States sue to block Paramount-Warner Brothers Discovery merger

July 13, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Twelve state attorneys general have filed a lawsuit to stop Paramount from taking over Warner Brothers Discovery. They argue the merger would reduce competition and hurt business conditions in the media industry.

Key Facts

  • Twelve state attorneys general are involved in the lawsuit.
  • The lawsuit targets Paramount’s planned acquisition of Warner Brothers Discovery.
  • Warner Brothers Discovery owns major movie and TV studios and the CNN news channel.
  • The states claim the merger would reduce competition in the media market.
  • The states believe the merger would negatively affect businesses and consumers.
  • The lawsuit was filed on a Monday.
  • Paramount and Warner Brothers Discovery are large companies in the entertainment industry.
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The Hill
How much interest will a $50,000 1-year CD earn if opened this July?

How much interest will a $50,000 1-year CD earn if opened this July?

July 13, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

A $50,000 deposit in a 1-year certificate of deposit (CD) opened in July would earn between about $2,055 and $2,075 in interest at current rates around 4.11% to 4.15%. A high-yield savings account paying about 4.10% would earn nearly the same, about $2,050, but with a variable rate and no penalty for early withdrawal.

Key Facts

  • Top 1-year CD rates are currently between 4.11% and 4.15%.
  • A $50,000 deposit in a CD at 4.11% earns about $2,055 in interest after one year.
  • A $50,000 deposit in a CD at 4.15% earns about $2,075 in interest after one year.
  • A high-yield savings account paying 4.10% would earn roughly $2,050 on $50,000 in one year.
  • CD interest rates are fixed and locked in for the full year.
  • Savings account rates are variable and can rise or fall with Federal Reserve changes.
  • Savings accounts allow penalty-free access to funds anytime.
  • The Federal Reserve has kept rates steady so far, but rates may change depending on inflation.
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CBS News
Family says they're forced to sell home to help power data centers

Family says they're forced to sell home to help power data centers

July 13, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Georgia Power plans to build a new power line in Georgia to supply electricity mainly to data centers, which requires buying over 300 pieces of land, including some homes. Some homeowners feel forced to sell their properties, fearing the company might use a legal process called eminent domain to take their land if they refuse.

Key Facts

  • Georgia Power needs a new transmission line to meet growing electricity demand, mostly for data centers.
  • The project involves acquiring more than 300 parcels of land, including homes.
  • Eminent domain lets companies take private land for public projects but requires compensation.
  • Homeowners like Ansley Brown’s family feel pressured to sell their homes, which have personal and generational value.
  • Georgia Power says eminent domain is a last resort and tries to handle the process responsibly.
  • Some affected residents say the construction harms their community and environment.
  • Georgia Power does not disclose which data centers will use the power for safety reasons.
  • The company claims it negotiates in good faith and aims to be transparent with property owners.
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CBS News
Georgia homeowners are being forced from their homes to help power AI data centers

Georgia homeowners are being forced from their homes to help power AI data centers

July 13, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Some homeowners in Georgia are being asked to sell their homes or face losing them because the state needs to build new power lines. These power lines will help supply electricity to growing AI data centers, which require lots of energy.

Key Facts

  • Georgia Power, a large utility company, plans to build new transmission lines.
  • The new lines are needed to provide electricity to AI data centers.
  • Data centers are facilities that store and process large amounts of information.
  • Some homeowners are receiving ultimatums to sell their property.
  • If homeowners do not sell, the state may take their homes through legal processes.
  • The new power lines are part of efforts to support expanding technology infrastructure.
  • This situation is causing concern among local residents about losing their homes.
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CBS News
12 states sue to block Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery merger

12 states sue to block Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery merger

July 13, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Twelve U.S. states have filed a lawsuit to stop Paramount Skydance from buying Warner Bros. Discovery in a $110 billion deal. The states say the merger would reduce competition, lead to fewer jobs and lower pay in the film industry, and increase prices for consumers.

Key Facts

  • Twelve states, led by California, sued to block the Paramount-Warner Bros. merger.
  • The merger would combine two of the largest U.S. media companies in film and cable TV.
  • States argue the merger would reduce competition and harm movie industry workers.
  • They also claim the deal could raise costs for cable and movie tickets and limit choices for viewers.
  • If merged, the companies would control about one-third of U.S. cable programming and movies.
  • Paramount aims to complete the deal by the third quarter of the year and faces a $650 million quarterly fee if delayed.
  • The U.S. Justice Department had previously approved the merger, saying it likely wouldn’t hurt competition.
  • Some Hollywood professionals, including well-known actors and directors, oppose the merger because of concerns about jobs and costs.
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CBS News
The $8.5B Kids’ Wellness Market Is Creating a New Gen of Mobile Franchises

The $8.5B Kids’ Wellness Market Is Creating a New Gen of Mobile Franchises

July 13, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The global kids’ fitness market is worth about $8.5 billion and is growing as more families and schools focus on children’s physical health and development. Mobile fitness programs, like those from Creative Kids Movement Network, bring activities such as dance and yoga directly to schools and daycares, helping children stay active without added travel or scheduling challenges for parents.

Key Facts

  • The kids’ fitness market is valued at around $8.5 billion globally.
  • Growth is driven by school-based programs, which make up 38% of market growth.
  • Dual-income families create 30% of the demand for convenient fitness options.
  • Mobile franchises offer fitness directly at schools and daycares, reducing scheduling and transportation issues.
  • Creative Kids Movement Network provides dance, yoga, and fitness classes on location for young children.
  • The company started in 1998, founded by Kate DeBiase, who moved from corporate work to focus on child wellness.
  • Programs support physical coordination, creativity, confidence, and social skills for kids.
  • Alex DeBiase joined the business to help grow operations and expand partnerships.
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Newsweek
Volkswagen planning to cut up to 100,000 jobs globally

Volkswagen planning to cut up to 100,000 jobs globally

July 13, 2026 • BBC Business

Summary

Volkswagen Group plans to cut up to 100,000 jobs worldwide, which is double the number it planned before. The company’s profits have fallen due to lower sales in China and the US, and it needs to reduce costs to stay competitive.

Key Facts

  • Volkswagen includes brands like Porsche, Audi, Seat, Skoda, and VW itself.
  • The company previously planned to cut 50,000 jobs in Germany by 2030.
  • Recently, Volkswagen’s profits dropped sharply from €22.6 billion in 2023 to €8.9 billion last year.
  • Sales in China fell by 26% in the first half of the year, and US sales dropped over 7%.
  • Chinese car brands are gaining ground by offering new technology and lower prices.
  • Volkswagen’s CEO said the company’s costs are 20% higher than rivals.
  • Four German factories, including two that make electric cars, may be closed because they are costly to run.
  • The company made a deal with the German union IG Metall to cut 35,000 jobs socially responsibly, but new plans suggest cuts could be much bigger.
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BBC Business BBC Top Stories BBC World
A dozen states file lawsuit to block Paramount Skydance-Warner Bros. Discovery merger

A dozen states file lawsuit to block Paramount Skydance-Warner Bros. Discovery merger

July 13, 2026 • Axios

Summary

Twelve state attorneys general sued to stop Paramount Skydance’s $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, saying the deal would reduce competition in movies and cable TV. Paramount disputes the lawsuit and says the merger will help compete with streaming services and protect jobs.

Key Facts

  • States involved include California, New York, Washington, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, and Oregon.
  • The lawsuit claims the merger would lead to fewer companies controlling most movie distribution, limiting choice and raising prices.
  • After the merger, three distributors would control 75% of widely released films, and four would control over 90% of top-grossing movies.
  • The combined company would hold 27% of the cable TV market, making it the second and third largest players combined.
  • California Attorney General Rob Bonta says the merger would harm movie theaters, cable distributors, and viewers by reducing content and quality.
  • Industry groups like the Writers Guild of America and Cinema United support the lawsuit, fearing negative effects on jobs and local theaters.
  • Paramount says the lawsuit misrepresents the market and argues the merger is needed to compete with streaming services and protect entertainment jobs.
  • The U.S. Justice Department approved the merger in June, but regulators in the UK and EU are still reviewing the deal, with the EU considering required asset sales.
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Axios
Ed Sheeran inspires government-backed 'music in libraries' scheme

Ed Sheeran inspires government-backed 'music in libraries' scheme

July 13, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The UK government is launching a new program called Music in Libraries to turn public libraries into spaces where people can borrow music equipment and use free studios for music creation. The project, inspired by musician Ed Sheeran’s charity work, will invest at least £12.5 million to support young and underprivileged musicians, along with additional funding to help emerging artists and music venues.

Key Facts

  • Public libraries in England will offer free music studios, equipment, and performance opportunities.
  • Ed Sheeran’s charity inspired and helped design the Music in Libraries scheme.
  • The government has committed at least £12.5 million to fund the program.
  • The initiative aims to help young people from all backgrounds express themselves and improve mental health through music.
  • An extra £15 million is added to the existing Music Growth Package to support new artists and reduce obstacles for music festivals.
  • The scheme will relax music event licensing rules and provide longer contracts to festivals for stability.
  • The LIVE Trust raised £1 million from artists like Harry Styles to support grassroots music venues and emerging artists.
  • Since January 2025, the LIVE Trust has helped over 100 artists, venues, and promoters with funding.
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BBC Top Stories
Accidental stimulus: the economy's tariff refund cushion

Accidental stimulus: the economy's tariff refund cushion

July 13, 2026 • Axios

Summary

U.S. companies are receiving large refunds from tariffs that courts have canceled. These refunds are helping businesses manage rising costs caused by inflation and global conflicts, but many do not plan to use the money to expand their activities.

Key Facts

  • Over $104 billion in tariff refunds are being processed, with about $71 billion already approved for payment.
  • Companies like PepsiCo and McCormick say they will use the refunds mainly to offset higher costs from inflation and conflicts like the war in Iran.
  • Nike expects to recover nearly $1 billion in tariffs, improving its profit margins.
  • Companies such as BJ's Wholesale Club are using refunds to reduce prices slightly for consumers.
  • Some businesses may save the money, pay off debt, or return it to shareholders rather than invest or lower prices.
  • Research suggests only about one-third of the refunded companies are financially limited enough to use the money for hiring or investments.
  • The refunds cancel out much of the tariff revenue the government had collected, reducing net tariff income to near zero recently.
  • The timing of refunds coincides with new cost pressures, giving companies a temporary cash cushion.
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Axios
6 mistakes that can make debt relief more expensive

6 mistakes that can make debt relief more expensive

July 13, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Many Americans are struggling with high credit card debt and are turning to debt relief programs. However, making mistakes during this process can increase costs and reduce savings, so it's important to understand key points before enrolling.

Key Facts

  • Credit card interest rates are still high, averaging over 21%, making debt harder to pay off.
  • Inflation and record household debt levels are adding to financial challenges for borrowers.
  • Waiting too long to start a debt relief program can increase the total interest you owe.
  • Debt settlement fees vary widely, generally between 15% and 25%, so comparing companies can save money.
  • Debt settlement can harm your credit score; other options like debt management plans may have lower fees and less credit impact.
  • Continuing to use credit cards while in a debt relief program can add more debt and make relief less effective.
  • Legitimate debt relief companies are not allowed to charge fees before settling any debt.
  • Carefully choosing and understanding your debt relief plan can improve your chances of success and reduce costs.
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CBS News
Georgia families face losing their homes to make way for AI data centers: "It's theft"

Georgia families face losing their homes to make way for AI data centers: "It's theft"

July 13, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

Some families in Georgia are being asked to sell their homes or risk having the government take the property. This is happening so that new data centers for artificial intelligence (AI) can be built on the land.

Key Facts

  • Families in Georgia face losing their homes due to plans for AI data centers.
  • The government is involved in persuading or forcing sales of these properties.
  • Data centers are specialized buildings used to store and process large amounts of computer data, including AI work.
  • This situation has caused concerns among affected residents about fairness.
  • The process may involve government seizures of property if owners do not agree to sell.
  • AI data centers require significant space, which is driving the demand for these homes and lands.
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CBS News
Warren rips Senate leaders over crypto bill’s lack of ethics restrictions

Warren rips Senate leaders over crypto bill’s lack of ethics restrictions

July 13, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

Senator Elizabeth Warren criticized Senate leaders for not including ethics rules in a new cryptocurrency law expected to be discussed soon. She also expressed worries about financial information recently shared by President Donald Trump.

Key Facts

  • Senator Elizabeth Warren is the top Democrat on the Senate Banking Committee.
  • Warren criticized Senate leaders for a crypto regulation bill missing ethics restrictions.
  • The cryptocurrency bill is expected to be considered in the Senate soon.
  • Warren has been skeptical about cryptocurrencies for a long time.
  • She raised concerns about President Trump’s recent financial disclosures.
  • The article focuses on U.S. legislative actions related to cryptocurrency regulation.
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The Hill
USPS unveils new Barbie Forever stamps at Austin collectors convention

USPS unveils new Barbie Forever stamps at Austin collectors convention

July 13, 2026 • The Hill

Summary

The United States Postal Service (USPS) introduced new Barbie Forever stamps at the National Barbie Doll Collectors Convention in Austin. The stamps were promoted during the event on a Saturday morning.

Key Facts

  • USPS released new Barbie Forever stamps.
  • The launch took place at the National Barbie Doll Collectors Convention.
  • The event happened in Austin.
  • USPS representatives promoted the stamps at the convention.
  • The promotion occurred on a Saturday morning.
  • Barbie Forever stamps honor the Barbie doll, a popular toy.
  • The stamps are designed for collectors and regular mail use.
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The Hill
Australia banned vape ads more than two years ago – so why are they still all over social media?

Australia banned vape ads more than two years ago – so why are they still all over social media?

July 13, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Australia banned vape advertising on all media, including social media, in 2024. Despite this, illegal sellers keep promoting vapes online, and authorities are working to remove these posts and fine offenders. Social media platforms say they are enforcing their rules but face challenges stopping the ads completely.

Key Facts

  • Australia introduced strict laws banning vape ads across all media platforms in 2024.
  • Illegal vape sellers use TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube to promote nicotine products to Australians.
  • These sellers often direct buyers to private messages or encrypted apps like WhatsApp to place orders.
  • The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) removed over 8,500 illegal vape ads from social media between 2024 and mid-2026.
  • The TGA has fined violators over $1.5 million through more than 90 infringement notices.
  • Some posts appear coordinated and may use computer-generated (AI) content.
  • TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube confirm these posts violate their rules and say they remove such content and close accounts.
  • Experts suggest stronger penalties on social media platforms themselves to stop the ongoing illegal advertising.
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Guardian World
5 debt collection rules to know after a loved one dies

5 debt collection rules to know after a loved one dies

July 13, 2026 • CBS News

Summary

When a person dies, their unpaid debts do not automatically become the responsibility of family members. Debt collectors must follow specific rules about who they can contact and how they can collect money, often dealing with the estate's legal representative rather than the family. Family members have protections against unfair or threatening collection practices when managing a deceased person's debts.

Key Facts

  • Debt collection continues after death but follows different rules.
  • Collectors can usually only contact the personal representative (executor) of the deceased’s estate.
  • Family members are not automatically responsible for the deceased’s debts unless they co-signed or live in certain states with community property laws.
  • Debt collectors cannot lie or pressure family members into paying debts they do not legally owe.
  • If an attorney represents the estate, collectors must communicate through that lawyer.
  • The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act protects families against harassment, threats, and misleading statements.
  • Debt collectors cannot take estate assets or demand payment outside the probate legal process.
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CBS News
Britons to use e-gates in Switzerland as Starmer seals £5.2bn trade deal

Britons to use e-gates in Switzerland as Starmer seals £5.2bn trade deal

July 13, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

The UK and Switzerland signed a trade deal worth £5.2 billion that will let British travelers use e-gates at Swiss airports and end mobile phone roaming charges. The deal aims to boost UK services exports, ease business travel, and protect pharmaceutical patent rules.

Key Facts

  • British travelers can start using e-gates at Zurich airport later this year, with Basel and Geneva airports to follow next year.
  • Mobile phone roaming charges between the UK and Switzerland will be removed.
  • The deal covers trade in medicines, cars, art, jewellery, photographic materials, and other goods.
  • The UK hopes the deal will increase its annual services exports to Switzerland by £5.2 billion in the long term.
  • Switzerland is the UK's sixth largest market for services, worth about £30 billion per year.
  • Visa-free travel for up to 90 days a year is allowed for UK services professionals visiting Switzerland, easing business travel.
  • Both countries will maintain pharmaceutical patent protections, ensuring continued access to affordable generic medicines for the NHS.
  • The agreement is described as one of six major trade deals secured by Prime Minister Keir Starmer in his two years in office.
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Guardian World Guardian Business