Australian politicians received approximately A$245,000 in match tickets from major sporting leagues over two years, influencing them against a proposed online gambling advertising ban. Despite public support for the ban and a government report recommending it, Prime Minister Albanese delayed action, raising concerns about the impact of lobbying by vested interests.
Gary Shapley, an IRS agent critical of the Hunter Biden tax investigation, has been appointed as acting commissioner. This decision follows concerns about political influence within the IRS, including alleged pressure to assist in immigration enforcement. Shapley's appointment has sparked unease among some employees, while Trump's nominee for the permanent position awaits Senate confirmation.
Gold prices hit a record high on Wednesday. This surge happened because of a weaker dollar and trade war worries. Concerns about global economic growth also played a role. Investors are now waiting for U.S. retail sales data. This data will provide insights into the economy. ANZ has raised its gold price forecast for the year end.
After years of negotiation, countries reached a landmark accord at the WHO headquarters in Geneva to prevent future pandemic crises. The agreement aims to correct mistakes made during COVID-19, addressing issues like technology transfer for health products. Despite disagreements and the shadow of US foreign aid cuts, a consensus was reached, marking a significant step for global health security.
Former President Joe Biden criticized President Donald Trump's handling of Social Security, accusing him of undermining the program. Biden's remarks came during a speech at a conference in Chicago, marking his first major public appearance since leaving office.
Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) claimed to uncover significant unemployment fraud, but federal investigators had already identified similar issues on a larger scale. DOGE's findings, highlighting claims by the deceased and unborn, were met with skepticism.
Donald Trump threatened to revoke Harvard's tax-exempt status following its rejection of demands to overhaul academic programs. This action is part of a broader rebuke of universities regarding pro-Palestinian protests, with accusations of antisemitism and ideological bias. Harvard, along with other institutions, faces funding cuts and legal challenges amidst debates over academic freedom and government overreach.
President Trump has initiated a probe into potential tariffs on critical mineral imports, addressing U.S. reliance on nations like China. The order, under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, examines market dynamics for minerals like cobalt and rare earths. This move follows China's export restrictions on rare earths and prior actions weaponizing mineral dominance.
Analysts said the optimism on receding tariff uncertainty, following the 90-day pause on activation, and exemptions on items that have the greatest dependence on elaborate Asian supply chains, are expected to drive the benchmark Nifty toward 24,000.
Action Against Hunger has halted critical services. Their Kabul feeding unit is closing. Over 3.5 million Afghan children will suffer from acute malnutrition this year. This is a 20% increase from 2024. Other organizations also face funding shortfalls. Children may die without treatment.
