Disney Cancels Florida Campus Plans Amid Feud with Governor DeSantis
The Walt Disney Co. has announced the cancellation of its plans to open a new campus in Lake Nona, Florida, which would have relocated approximately 2,000 employees from California to the Sunshine State. The company cited "new leadership and changing business conditions" as reasons for scrapping the project.
Supreme Court Rules in Favor of Twitter and Google, Protecting Internet Platforms from Liability
The Supreme Court has unanimously ruled in favor of Twitter in a case that experts claim could have fundamentally changed the way the internet works. The decision will have limited effects for speech online and was released at the same time as Google v. Gonzalez, which deals with YouTube and Section 230.
Supreme Court Avoids Ruling on Legal Shield for Internet Companies in YouTube Case
The Supreme Court on Thursday sidestepped a ruling on the legal shield that protects internet companies from lawsuits relating to content posted by users. The case concerned allegations that YouTube was liable for suggesting videos promoting violent militant Islam.
Supreme Court Avoids Ruling on Tech Liability Shield in YouTube Terrorism Case
The Supreme Court on Thursday sidestepped a ruling on the legal shield that protects internet companies from lawsuits relating to content posted by users. In a case concerning allegations that YouTube was liable for suggesting videos promoting violent militant Islam, the court ruled that such claims could not be brought in the first place under a federal law called the Anti-Terrorism Act.
Supreme Court Rules Andy Warhol's Prince Silkscreens Infringed on Photographer's Copyright
The Supreme Court ruled that silkscreens pop artist Andy Warhol made of rock star Prince infringed on the copyright held by a prominent photographer who captured the original image. The court ruled 7-2 that Warhol’s images did not constitute “fair use” under copyright law.
Pelosi Family Aids Sen. Feinstein Amid Health Struggles, Possible Successor Speculations Rise
U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) has faced a series of health problems including complications from shingles, facial paralysis, memory loss, vision and balance impairments, swelling of the brain, and encephalitis. The 89-year-old Democrat recently returned to the Senate in a wheelchair after a three-month absence but is continuing to work on a lighter schedule as she recovers.
Rep. Jared Golden Skeptical of Democrats' Debt Ceiling Strategy Amid GOP Opposition
Rep. Jared Golden (D-Maine) has expressed doubts over the effectiveness of Democrats' discharge petition to force a clean debt ceiling increase, given the strong opposition from Republicans. Being one of only three Democrats who did not sign the petition on Wednesday morning, Golden believes that this approach does not represent a "real strategy." To force an agreement through this petition, at least 218 votes are required, which would need five Republicans to sign on.
Rep. Jared Golden Skeptical of Democrats' Discharge Petition Strategy for Debt Ceiling Increase
Rep. Jared Golden (D-Maine) expressed doubt regarding the effectiveness of the Democrats' discharge petition strategy to force a clean debt ceiling increase, given the GOP's opposition. He was one of three Democrats who abstained from signing the petition when it became available on Wednesday morning.
G7 Leaders to Discuss International Peace Summit Over Ukraine in Hiroshima, Japan
Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) wealthy nations are set to discuss the idea of an international peace summit over Ukraine when they meet this week in Hiroshima, Japan. President Joe Biden and his allies will address two crucial issues: better arming Ukraine as it enters its counteroffensive against Russian invaders and slowing or halting the downward spiral in relations with China.
Walmart Beats Expectations in Q1, Outshining Rival Target's Performance
Walmart Inc. reported better-than-expected results for the first quarter, as price-conscious shoppers traded down to cheaper meat products and store brands. Sales at Walmart's U.S. stores open at least a year rose 7.4%, excluding fuel, beating expectations of a 5.25% increase.
Walmart Inc. Reports Strong First Quarter Results, Outperforming Rival Target
Walmart Inc. reported better-than-expected results for the first quarter, as price-conscious shoppers traded down to cheaper meat products and store brands. Sales at Walmart's U.S. stores open at least a year rose 7.4%, excluding fuel, beating expectations of a 5.25% increase.
Syngenta Group Moves Forward with Shanghai IPO Plans After Switch from STAR Market
Syngenta Group, the Chinese-owned seed giant, is set to move forward with its initial public offering (IPO) plans in Shanghai after withdrawing its application for the Nasdaq-like Star board. The decision comes less than two months after the Shanghai stock exchange abruptly canceled the firm's hearing to join the Star board.
Syngenta Group Switches IPO Plans from Star Board to Main Board in Shanghai
Syngenta Group, the Chinese-owned seed giant, is set to move forward with its initial public offering (IPO) plans in Shanghai after withdrawing its application for the Nasdaq-like Star board. The company will now immediately apply for a listing on the main board in Shanghai as they aim to expedite access to funding within China's $10.5 trillion equity market.
President Biden Arrives in Hiroshima for G7 Summit Amid US Debt Crisis and Canceled Side Trips
President Joe Biden arrived in Hiroshima, Japan, on Thursday for his meeting with G7 leaders as the U.S. debt crisis casts a cloud over the global summit. On his flight over to Japan, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan criticized reports that President Biden's cancellation of the Australia and Papua New Guinea portion of his trip was a win for Chinese President Xi Jinping.
President Biden Arrives in Hiroshima for G7 Summit Amid U.S. Debt Crisis
President Joe Biden arrived in Hiroshima, Japan, on Thursday for his meeting with G7 leaders as the U.S. debt crisis casts a cloud over the global summit. On his flight to Japan, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan criticized reports that President Biden's cancellation of the Australia and Papua New Guinea portion of his trip was a win for Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Royal Mail Reports £1bn Loss Amid Industrial Action and Poor Delivery Performance
Royal Mail has reported a staggering loss of over one billion pounds, following a year marked by industrial action, poor delivery performance, and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Parent company International Distributions Services (IDS) revealed that Royal Mail's profits plummeted to £1.044bn in the year ending March 2022 - a significant drop from the previous year's profit of £250m.
Royal Mail Reports £1bn Loss Due to Industrial Action and Poor Delivery Performance
Royal Mail has reported a staggering loss of over one billion pounds after a year marred by industrial action, poor delivery performance, and other factors. Parent company International Distributions Services (IDS) disclosed that Royal Mail's profit plummeted to £1.044bn in the year ending March, down from £250m recorded a year earlier.
BT Group Announces Massive Workforce Reduction by 2030
BT Group Plc has unveiled its plans to significantly reduce its labor force by up to 42% over the next seven years, a move that will affect both employees and contractors. The total number of workers, including third-party employees working on BT's behalf, is expected to decrease from approximately 130,000 currently to between 75,000 and 90,000 by the fiscal year ending in March 2030.
BT Group Plc Announces Major Workforce Reduction by 2030
BT Group Plc has announced its plan to significantly reduce its workforce, cutting up to 42% of employees and contractors by the fiscal year ending in March 2030. The total number of workers, including those employed by third parties on BT's behalf, will drop from approximately 130,000 currently to a range between 75,000 and 90,000.
Deutsche Bank Settles Lawsuit with Epstein's Accusers for $75 Million
Deutsche Bank AG has agreed to pay $75 million (£60.1m) to settle a lawsuit filed by women who allege they were abused by the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. The agreement resolves claims submitted last year in New York on behalf of an anonymous woman and other accusers, alleging that Deutsche Bank conducted business with Epstein for five years despite knowing he was engaged in sex-trafficking.
Deutsche Bank to Pay $75 Million in Settlement with Epstein Accusers
Deutsche Bank has agreed to pay a settlement of $75 million (£60.1m) to resolve a lawsuit filed by women who allege they were abused by the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. The agreement settles claims made last year in New York by an anonymous woman on behalf of herself and other accusers, asserting that Deutsche Bank knowingly conducted business with Epstein for five years while he was engaged in sex-trafficking.
Conservative Lawmaker Confronts Protester at Press Conference, Faces Assault Charges
A conservative lawmaker was interrupted by a blue-shirted protester outside a news conference outside the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday.
Conservative Lawmaker Confronts Protester at Press Conference
A conservative lawmaker was interrupted by a blue-shirted protester outside a news conference at the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday.
House Democrats Express Concern Over Senator Dianne Feinstein's Health
Several prominent House Democrats have expressed concern about the health of 89-year-old Senator Dianne Feinstein, who has recently returned to the Senate in a wheelchair after an extended absence due to a case of shingles. Despite working on a lighter schedule, top house Democrats are content with her return and refrain from questioning her role in the Senate.
Christiane Amanpour Criticizes CNN's Trump Town Hall, Discusses Exchange with CEO Chris Licht
Christiane Amanpour, CNN’s chief international anchor, has publicly expressed her disagreement with the network's management over its decision to hold a town hall featuring former President Donald Trump. The event sparked a strong backlash from various quarters.
CNN's Christiane Amanpour Criticizes Network for Trump Town Hall
CNN's chief international anchor, Christiane Amanpour, has publicly expressed her disagreement with the network's management over the decision to host a town hall featuring former President Donald Trump. The event has drawn significant backlash from various quarters.
SQM Reports 6% Drop in First Quarter Net Profit Amid Chile's Lithium Strategy Shift
SQM, the world's second-largest lithium producer, reported a 6% drop in first quarter net profit to $750 million compared to the year-ago period. Revenue for the miner landed at $2.26 billion during the January-to-March period, up from the $2.02 billion during last year's first quarter.
SQM Reports 6% Drop in Q1 Net Profit Amid Chile's State-Led Lithium Development Proposal
SQM, the world's second-largest lithium producer, reported a 6% drop in first-quarter net profit to $750 million compared to the year-ago period. Revenue for the miner landed at $2.26 billion during the January-to-March period, up from the $2.02 billion during last year's first quarter.
New Zealand Government Announces Annual Budget Focusing on Education, Healthcare, and Green Initiatives
The New Zealand government revealed its annual budget on Thursday, outlining significant subsidies for early childhood education, medical prescriptions, public transport for children under 13 years old. The budget also includes an expansion of the heating and insulation program to combat energy poverty.
New Zealand Government Announces Annual Budget with Subsidies and Expanded Programs
The New Zealand government unveiled its annual budget on Thursday, which focuses on providing relief to households under financial stress. The budget includes subsidies for early childhood education and medical prescriptions, making public transport free for children under 13 years of age, and expanding the country's heating and insulation program.
Hua Hong Semiconductor Gains Approval for $2.6 Billion Share Listing on Shanghai's STAR Market
Hua Hong Semiconductor Ltd, a leading Chinese chipmaker, has been granted approval by the Shanghai Stock Exchange to proceed with its planned $2.6 billion share listing on the city's thriving STAR Market. The green light comes after thorough assessment by the bourse's listing committee, and paves the way for Hua Hong to submit an application for registration with China's securities regulator.
Hua Hong Semiconductor Ltd. Receives Approval for $2.6 Billion Share Listing on Shanghai's STAR Market
Hua Hong Semiconductor Ltd., a leading Chinese chipmaker, has received approval from the Shanghai Stock Exchange to list its shares publicly on the city's STAR Market. The company intends to raise up to 18 billion yuan ($2.60 billion) through this move in order to fund investment and drive innovation, joining an expanding roster of Chinese chipmakers that have gone public amid increasing Sino-U.S.
Eight-Year-Old Migrant Girl Dies in Border Patrol Custody in Texas
An eight-year-old migrant girl from Harlingen, Texas, tragically died while in the custody of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) on Wednesday.
Texas Passes Bill Banning Gender-Affirming Care for Minors
Texas has passed a bill that would ban gender-affirming care for minors, making it the largest state to do so. The GOP-controlled Legislature approved the bill after a final vote in the Senate over the objections of Democrats.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to Announce 2024 Presidential Candidacy
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is expected to officially announce his entry into the 2024 presidential race next week, according to three sources familiar with the planning. The governor's decision comes after months of visits to early presidential primary states and promotional events for his new book highlighting his legislative record as governor.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to Announce 2024 Presidential Bid Next Week
Florida Republican Governor Ron DeSantis is expected to formally announce his entry into the 2024 presidential campaign next week, according to three people familiar with the planning. The governor will file papers with the Federal Election Commission (FEC) coinciding with a Miami gathering of some of his most generous longtime donors.
Elon Musk Urges US Policymakers to Take China's Threats on Taiwan Seriously
Twitter owner and Tesla CEO Elon Musk has called on U.S. policymakers to take China's threats of taking over Taiwan "seriously" seriously, as the nation is not joking about its intent to do so. In a recent interview with CNBC's David Faber, Musk expressed his concerns about the growing tension between China and the United Nations.
Montana Becomes First State to Fully Ban TikTok
Montana on Wednesday became the first state in the U.S. to ban the popular app TikTok, which is owned by Chinese tech company ByteDance. The law would ban app stores from making the app available for download in Montana, and would also fine any “entity” such as an app store or TikTok itself, $10,000 per day each time a user is “offered the ability” to access or download the platform.
Montana Becomes First State to Implement Full TikTok Ban
Montana on Wednesday became the first state in the U.S. to issue a full ban on the popular video-sharing app TikTok, owned by Chinese tech firm ByteDance. The measure is expected to face legal challenges and could set a precedent for further anti-TikTok legislation that many public officials are advocating for.
California Judge Ana de Alba Struggles to Explain Legal Terms During Confirmation Hearing
California Judge Ana de Alba, a Biden judicial nominee, faced difficulty in explaining legal terms related to the Constitution's commerce law during her confirmation hearing on Wednesday. The dormant commerce clause, found under Article 1 of the Constitution, prohibits one state from discriminating against interstate commerce and disallows states to "unduly burden interstate commerce".
California Judge Ana de Alba Struggles with Constitutional Concepts During Confirmation Hearing
California Judge Ana de Alba, a Biden judicial nominee, experienced difficulty when attempting to explain legal terms related to the Constitution's commerce law during her confirmation hearing on Wednesday. De Alba was questioned about the dormant commerce clause found under Article 1 of the Constitution, which prohibits one state from discriminating against interstate commerce and prevents states from unduly burdening interstate commerce.
Mike Pence Hints at 2024 Presidential Run During New Hampshire Event
Former Vice President Mike Pence has hinted that he is considering a run for the presidency in 2024. Speaking at the New Hampshire Home Builders' Association Lumber and Lobster event in Dover, Pence expressed his interest in bringing his ideas forward if he decides to become a candidate.
Mike Pence Hints at Presidential Run in 2024 During New Hampshire Event
Mike Pence, the former vice president of the United States under Donald Trump's administration, has hinted that he is considering a run for president in 2024. While speaking at the New Hampshire Home Builders' Association Lumber and Lobster event held in Dover, Mr. Pence said that he would welcome the opportunity to bring his ideas forward if he were to become a candidate.
Los Angeles Sues Journalist and Activist Group Over Accidental Release of Undercover Officer Photos
The city of Los Angeles has filed a lawsuit against a local journalist and an activist group after inadvertently releasing photos of undercover officers through a public records request. The media coalition, led by the Los Angeles Times, has joined forces with constitutional and media rights scholars to oppose the city's legal action.
Los Angeles Sues Journalist and Activist Group Over Accidental Release of Undercover Officers' Photos
The city of Los Angeles has found itself in a legal battle with a local journalist and an activist group after officials inadvertently released photographs of undercover officers through a public records request. A coalition led by the Los Angeles Times, consisting of media organizations and constitutional rights scholars, has joined forces to oppose the lawsuit filed by the city.
Celebrity Waiters Luncheon Raises Money and Havoc in Puget Sound
The annual Celebrity Waiters Luncheon, known for its elegance and off-the-charts craziness, once again attracted some of the area's top leaders who hosted themed tables to raise money. This unique charity event took place at a popular venue in Puget Sound.
Waikiki Business Improvement District Association Names New Executive Director, Trevor Abarzua
On May 22nd, the Waikiki Business Improvement District Association (WBIDA) will welcome Trevor Abarzua as their new Executive Director. A seasoned professional in urban development and management, Abarzua has an extensive background in both private and public sectors.
Waikiki Business Improvement District Association Names New Executive Director
The Waikiki Business Improvement District Association (WBIDA) has announced the appointment of Trevor Abarzua as its new Executive Director, effective May 22. Abarzua brings a wealth of experience in community development and urban planning to his new role, where he will be instrumental in overseeing the implementation and management of various projects aimed at revitalizing and maintaining one of Honolulu's prime tourism areas.
Oil Prices Ease as Supply Concerns Diminish; Government Debt Ceiling Talks Continue
Oil prices experienced a slight decline on Thursday, easing concerns over plentiful supply after surging nearly 3% during the previous session. Brent crude futures dipped 24 cents to $76.72 a barrel, while U.S. oil inventories jumped unexpectedly last week due to another release from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.
Oil Prices Ease, Supply Concerns Diminish; Debt Ceiling Talks Continue
Oil prices experienced a slight decrease on Thursday as concerns over abundant supply subsided. The dip comes after crude oil prices surged nearly 3% during the previous session.
Craft Proposes 162-Unit Squirrel Hill Apartment Project at Former Irish Centre Site
Toronto-based developer Craft, best known locally for their successful Mews on Butler townhouse project in Lawrenceville, is pursuing a multifamily housing development in the Squirrel Hill neighborhood. The proposed project aims to transform the former site of the Irish Centre into a modern and sustainable residential complex.
Craft Proposes 162-Unit Squirrel Hill Apartment Project at Former Irish Site
Toronto-based developer Craft, best known locally for its successful Mews on Butler townhouse project in Lawrenceville, is pursuing a new multifamily project in Squirrel Hill. The proposed development consists of a 162-unit apartment complex set to be built on the site of the former Irish establishment.
FBI Revokes Security Clearances of Three Agents Over Capitol Riot Involvement and Views
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) recently revoked the security clearances of three agents, Stephen Friend, Marcus Allen, and Brett Gloss, due to concerns regarding their involvement in or views on the January 6th Capitol riots. All three have been suspended as the bureau reviews their cases.
FBI Revokes Security Clearances of Three Agents Over Capitol Riot Involvement
Three FBI agents, including two who were set to testify before a House Judiciary subcommittee this week, had their security clearances revoked recently over concerns about their views on and participation in the Jan. 6 Capitol riots. The individuals who had their clearances pulled were identified as Stephen Friend, Marcus Allen, and Brett Gloss in a letter from the bureau to Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH), the chairman of the House Judiciary Committee.
Air National Guard Member Warned Multiple Times Over Classified Information Handling Before Leak
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has alleged that Jack Teixeira, a 21-year-old Air National Guard member, was warned multiple times about his handling of classified information. The accused leaker's defense lawyers argued for him to be released to his father's custody, claiming he doesn't pose a flight risk and never intended for the leaked documents to become widely available.
Food Trucks Aim to Rebuild Lunchtime Hotspot in Downtown Minneapolis
In a bid to revitalize the once-bustling lunch scene in downtown Minneapolis, a group of local food truck owners have come together with the mission to rebuild and re-energize the area as a go-to hotspot for workers and residents alike.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida Meets with Top Chipmakers, Boosts Support for Domestic Semiconductor Capacity
In a significant move to strengthen Japan's semiconductor industry, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida recently met with the heads of global chip giants Intel Corp. and Micron Technology Inc. The meeting aimed to discuss the country's support for increasing domestic semiconductor manufacturing capacity while also addressing potential collaboration opportunities.
Prime Minister Kishida Meets with Intel and Micron, Pledges Support for Domestic Semiconductor Manufacturing
In a bid to bolster Japan's semiconductor manufacturing capacity, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida met with the heads of two of the world's largest chipmakers, Intel Corp. and Micron Technology Inc., to discuss government support for their expansion efforts in Japan.
Bookchat Explores Recent Discoveries in Books and Religious Literature
Book enthusiasts gathered this week for the latest edition of Bookchat, a weekly discussion covering topics related to books, plays, essays, and audiobooks. This time around, participants delved deep into the exciting world of recent discoveries in books and religious literature.