NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Transportation companies across Africa are starting to build electric passenger vans and taxis within their own borders, utilizing component kits from Chinese manufacturers along with creative payment plans to expand electric public transit throughout the region.
Lagos-based Saglev has started putting together 18-passenger electric vans using component packages from Chinese car manufacturer Dongfeng Motor Corp. The Nigerian company expects to produce as many as 2,500 vehicles annually, with plans to eventually build 17 different electric models for Nigeria and neighboring West African countries.
“This is a major step in Nigeria’s transition toward clean, fossil-free transportation,” said Saglev’s CEO Olu Falaye. He described the van as Nigeria’s first domestically assembled electric vehicle designed for mass transportation, marking a first for sub-Saharan Africa as well.
“This feat is a clear signal that electric mobility in Nigeria is practical, scalable and ready for adoption,” Falaye said.
The company represents a partnership between Nigeria’s Stallion Group, a prominent automotive distributor, and Chinese car maker Sokon Motor. Saglev also intends to build solar-powered charging facilities to address power reliability issues that pose a significant obstacle to electric vehicle adoption across parts of Africa.
Kenya is pursuing a comparable strategy, where Chinese-supported Rideence Africa recently finalized a $2.46 million agreement with Mombasa’s Associated Vehicle Assemblers (AVA) to start local production of electric taxis and small buses using kits from China’s Jiangsu Joylong Automobile and Beijing Henrey Automobile Technology.
“We are now moving decisively from operator to manufacturer,” said Rideence Africa’s managing director, Minnan Yu. “Our aim is to build a Kenya-rooted new-energy mobility company serving Africa.”
These two major African economies are spearheading local electric vehicle production as nations work to lower fuel expenses, decrease pollution, and develop their own manufacturing industries.
“This partnership delivers Kenya’s first dedicated electric vehicle assembly line, demonstrating clearly that Kenya has the capacity and capability to assemble EVs locally at scale,” AVA Managing Director Matt Lloyd said.
Small electric vans and buses serve as the backbone of African public transportation, where Japanese vehicles like Toyota Hiace and Nissan vans currently dominate streets, transporting both passengers and cargo.
Charging an electric vehicle costs approximately $3 for distances up to 200 kilometers (123 miles), while gasoline expenses for the same distance exceed $15.
“The assembly of electric vans is emerging as a strong market segment,” said Dennis Wakaba, the secretary-general of the Electric Mobility Association of Kenya. “Earlier, the cost of electric vans was high, putting off operators. But as local assembly scales up, these costs have dropped, attracting more orders.”
Kenya operates one of Africa’s most dynamic electric transportation markets, featuring startup companies that build buses and vans for public transit and ride-sharing services. Ethiopia and South Africa have also joined this market, with Ethiopia’s Belayneh Kinde Group (BKG) producing approximately 150 small buses monthly using Chinese parts.
To improve electric vehicle affordability, companies such as Rideence offer pay-per-use and rent-to-own programs that eliminate large upfront costs for operators. The company rents its taxis to drivers for roughly $18 daily.
BasiGo-Kenya Vehicle Manufacturer, which is also expanding into electric van assembly, asks operators to make a down payment followed by approximately 20 U.S. cents per kilometer (32 cents per mile) of driving.
This strategy aligns with the financial circumstances of African transport operators, who face limited credit access and rarely have funds to buy new vehicles outright.
“These innovative financing models mitigate risks for both assembler and operators, helping put vehicles on the road faster. With these, we expect to see more e-vans taking a larger share of the African transport systems,” Wakaba said.
However, Africa currently has only about 30,000 electric vehicles compared to millions powered by gasoline and diesel, according to recent data from the Africa Mobility Alliance. The continent produced just 1.1 million vehicles total last year, with 90% manufactured in Morocco and South Africa.
French President Emmanuel Macron conducted bilateral discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday in Mumbai, working to strengthen economic and defense partnerships between the two nations during a period of global uncertainty and changing international relationships.
The discussions in India’s commercial hub highlighted the increasing significance of the France-India alliance, which has grown beyond military cooperation to encompass commerce, technology and energy sectors, with Paris establishing itself as New Delhi’s most dependable European ally.
“India-France partnership knows no boundary. In today’s era of uncertainties, this partnership is a force for global stability and progress,” Modi stated at a joint press briefing alongside Macron.
The diplomatic meeting occurred as India pursues foreign investment and supply chain strengthening while France aims to establish greater influence in the Indo-Pacific region and secure long-term involvement in India’s economic and security framework.
Both leaders participated in a virtual ceremony launching a final assembly facility for H125 helicopter manufacturing, a collaborative project between India’s Tata Advanced Systems and Airbus.
Located in Karnataka state in southern India, this assembly plant represents the country’s first private sector helicopter manufacturing facility.
Macron described the Franco-Indian relationship as entering an accelerated phase in response to evolving global dynamics.
“We have a special global strategic partnership, which gives new ambitions to the ties between India and France,” he stated.
The French president identified space technology, nuclear power, rare earth materials and critical minerals, aviation, and high-speed rail systems as priority areas for collaboration with India, while expressing support for a free-trade agreement between New Delhi and the European Union.
Macron also urged India to collaborate with France in efforts to conclude Russia’s military action in Ukraine and extended an invitation to Modi for the Group of Seven summit scheduled for June in Evian, France.
“As the ceasefire remains difficult to achieve, and I regret that, we could join our efforts to secure the establishment of an immediate and lasting moratorium on strikes against civilians and civilian infrastructure,” Macron explained.
Modi responded that India would maintain its advocacy for peaceful solutions to current conflicts in western Asia and eastern Europe.
Commercial relationships between Paris and New Delhi have grown consistently through increased trade volumes and expanded French investment in Indian manufacturing, energy, defense and infrastructure sectors. Trade between the nations surpassed $15 billion in the fiscal year concluding March 2025, establishing France as India’s third-largest EU trading partner, based on Indian government statistics.
Military cooperation forms the foundation of the bilateral relationship. The previous week, an Indian government committee granted preliminary authorization for military equipment purchases valued at $40 billion, including 114 Rafale fighter aircraft from France.
Preserving air superiority represents a strategic imperative for India, which confronts ongoing security threats along its frontiers with nuclear-capable adversaries Pakistan and China.
India currently operates two squadrons of Rafale fighter aircraft and completed an agreement last year to acquire 26 naval versions of the stealth fighter for its maritime forces.
The partial federal government shutdown affecting the Department of Homeland Security shows no signs of ending soon, as neither Congress nor the White House indicated any willingness to compromise during the holiday weekend. The shutdown started Saturday when Democratic lawmakers and President Trump’s administration couldn’t agree on funding legislation to keep DHS operational through September.
The political standoff centers on Democratic calls for immigration enforcement reforms following last month’s deadly shootings of two American citizens, Alex Pretti and Renee Good, by federal agents in Minneapolis.
This shutdown differs significantly from the lengthy 43-day closure that occurred last fall, as it only impacts DHS-related agencies. Affected departments include the Transportation Security Administration, Coast Guard, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and Customs and Border Protection. However, ICE and CBP operations will largely continue thanks to billions in additional funding provided through Trump’s 2025 tax and spending legislation.
With Congress in recess until February 23, both political parties appear firmly entrenched in their respective positions. The funding dispute impacts multiple agencies including TSA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Coast Guard, Secret Service, ICE, and CBP.
Democratic leaders are pushing for comprehensive changes to immigration enforcement procedures following the fatal officer-involved shootings. Their demands include mandatory body cameras for immigration agents and requiring judicial warrants before making arrests on private property.
White House border czar Tom Homan stated the administration would not accept Democratic requirements for federal officers to clearly identify themselves, remove face coverings during operations, and wear unique identification numbers.
Despite the shutdown, ICE and CBP deportation activities continue without interruption due to the additional funding secured through Trump’s 2025 tax and spending legislation.
Each federal agency determines which employees are classified as “essential” or “excepted” – both terms meaning these workers must continue their duties during shutdowns, though they typically work without pay until funding resumes.
Essential personnel include military members, airport security staff, and law enforcement officers. The designation can cover various roles, from those critical to public safety to positions legally authorized to operate without new appropriations.
More than 270,000 DHS employees are considered essential, meaning they remain on duty during the shutdown. During the fall 2025 shutdown, over 258,000 DHS workers stayed on the job while approximately 22,000 – about 5% of the workforce – were furloughed.
The Secret Service and FEMA are also experiencing disruptions from the shutdown.
Most Secret Service and Coast Guard personnel will continue working, though they may miss paychecks if the shutdown extends. At FEMA, the closure hampers the agency’s ability to reimburse states for disaster relief expenses. Some FEMA workers face furloughs, reducing coordination capabilities with state and local partners. Training programs for first responders at Maryland’s National Disaster and Emergency Management University have been suspended.
The current situation developed because Trump agreed to Democratic requests to separate Homeland Security funding from a larger spending bill, allowing additional time to negotiate immigration enforcement changes including agent conduct standards and identification requirements. DHS received only temporary funding through Friday.
The remainder of federal government operations are funded through September 30, meaning most federal programs remain unaffected by this shutdown. Food assistance programs continue, and most federal workers and military personnel will receive their regular pay.
WILMINGTON — Delaware Governor Matt Meyer has directed that flags at all state properties be lowered to half-staff this week following the recent deaths of two former state lawmakers.
The flag directive honors George Bunting and John Viola, both former Delaware General Assembly members who died last week. The governor’s order also recognizes the life and contributions of Rev. Jesse Jackson.
State facilities throughout Delaware will display flags at half-staff as a mark of respect for the public service these individuals provided to the state and nation.
A pharmaceutical company announced Tuesday it will move forward with standard federal approval procedures for its rare disease medication after the Food and Drug Administration turned down its application for expedited review.
Disc Medicine revealed that federal regulators declined to approve bitopertin through the agency’s accelerated review system. Last month, Reuters reported exclusively that FDA officials had delayed the drug’s evaluation by two weeks due to questions about clinical trial information and concerns regarding potential misuse.
The medication had been under consideration through the FDA’s national priority voucher system, which reduces review time to one or two months compared to the standard 10-12 month timeline.
Company CEO John Quisel noted that policy discussions surrounding accelerated drug approvals have continued through several presidential administrations, with recent regulatory actions indicating federal officials are taking a more cautious approach to such expedited approvals.
The pharmaceutical firm indicated it anticipates receiving final-stage trial results during the fourth quarter of this year.
A Swiss television network has removed controversial commentary from its website after a reporter extensively questioned whether an Israeli bobsled competitor should participate in the Olympics because of his purported backing of Israel’s military operations in Gaza.
Radio Television Suisse (RTS) aired the commentary during Monday’s two-man bobsled competition featuring Israeli athletes Adam Edelman and Chen Menachem at the Milano Cortina games in Italy.
Commentator Stefan Renna argued that Edelman had endorsed Israeli military actions in the Gaza conflict and suggested this violated International Olympic Committee regulations prohibiting political statements by Olympic participants.
“Our journalist wished to question the IOC’s policy regarding the statements made by the athlete concerned,” RTS explained in a statement to Reuters.
“However, although factual, such information may have appeared inappropriate due to its length within the context of a sports commentary. For this reason, we removed the segment from our website last night.”
On Tuesday, the IOC stated that inquiries about individual broadcaster commentary should be addressed directly to the networks. The International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation has not yet responded to requests for comment.
During his commentary, Renna claimed Edelman identified as a Zionist, shared social media posts supporting what Renna termed the “genocide” in Gaza, and had ridiculed a “Free Palestine” message he spotted on a wall during a World Cup competition.
“One can therefore question his presence in Cortina during these Games,” Renna stated, referencing IOC regulations concerning athletes’ military ties and active war support, including through social media activity.
Edelman, an American-born athlete who the Times of Israel reports is the first Orthodox Jewish competitor to represent Israel at the Winter Olympics, acknowledged Renna’s remarks on social media, calling them a “diatribe.”
“(We are) a team of six proud Israelis who’ve made it to the Olympic stage. No coach with us. No big program. Just a dream, grit, and an unyielding pride in who we represent,” Edelman posted. “I don’t think it’s possible to witness that and give any credence to the commentary.”
IOC regulations regarding active war support currently apply exclusively to Russian and Belarusian competitors, who are permitted to participate as neutral athletes despite their countries’ bans following Russia’s 2022 Ukraine invasion.
Renna, who RTS has prohibited from discussing his commentary further, also referenced Ukrainian skeleton athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych, who was disqualified from last week’s competition for wearing a helmet honoring fellow Ukrainian athletes killed during the Russian invasion.
Edelman and Menachem are scheduled to complete their final two bobsled runs on Tuesday. After their initial two attempts, they ranked last in the competition.
Canada experienced a modest decline in its inflation rate during January, with the annual pace dropping to 2.3% from the previous month’s 2.4%, according to new data released Tuesday by Statistics Canada.
The improvement came primarily from substantial decreases in fuel costs, which helped offset rising expenses for food and clothing items. The January figure performed better than economist predictions, which had anticipated inflation would remain steady at 2.4%.
Month-to-month, Canada’s Consumer Price Index remained flat with no change from December, the data revealed.
Gasoline prices served as the primary driver behind the slower inflation growth, with fuel costs plummeting 16.7% compared to the same period last year. This represented a steeper decline than December’s 13.8% drop in gas prices.
However, when fuel is removed from calculations, consumer prices actually climbed 3% in January, matching December’s increase, the statistical agency reported.
Food costs presented a different story, surging 7.3% annually, with restaurant meals contributing significantly to this rise. Alcoholic beverage prices also increased by 4.8% during the month.
These food and alcohol price jumps partly resulted from comparison effects related to sales tax breaks that were implemented during the same timeframe in the previous year, creating an unfavorable baseline for current measurements.
Core inflation metrics, which economists consider more reliable indicators because they exclude volatile food and energy sectors, showed prices rising 2.4% year-over-year in January, an improvement from December’s 2.5% increase.
The Bank of Canada’s preferred inflation measurements also demonstrated continued moderation. The CPI-median measure, which tracks the middle-range price changes, decreased to 2.5% from the prior month’s 2.6%. Meanwhile, CPI-trim, which filters out the most extreme price movements, fell to 2.4% from December’s 2.7%.
Housing expenses, representing the largest component in Canada’s price index, continued their pattern of slower growth, rising just 1.7% compared to January of the previous year.
The inflation data arrives as Canada’s central bank has signaled satisfaction with current price stability, viewing inflation as hovering near the middle of its target range. This assessment has supported the bank’s decision to maintain its key interest rate at 2.25%.
Following the report’s release, the Canadian dollar weakened slightly by 0.2% against the U.S. dollar, trading at C$1.3668. Two-year government bond yields also declined by 3.9 basis points to 2.439%.
LIVIGNO, Italy – Swiss freestyle skiing champion Mathilde Gremaud’s Olympic journey concluded on a disappointing note after a training accident left her hospitalized and unable to compete in Monday’s big air finals.
The 26-year-old athlete, who had successfully defended her slopestyle Olympic championship just days earlier, was considered among the favorites to medal in big air competition following her third-place finish in qualifying rounds.
“It’s still a big success; it’s just a bummer that it ends like this,” Gremaud shared in an audio recording her team released Tuesday while she remained hospitalized awaiting medical clearance for discharge.
The accomplished skier, who previously earned slopestyle gold and big air bronze at the Beijing 2022 Games and slopestyle silver in Pyeongchang 2018, sustained a serious hip contusion but avoided any fractures.
“I just have to be slow and I cannot really bend on my side and stuff, so it’s okay. I’ll be sore for a while, but nothing broken and nothing that will give my body too much to fight for, I think,” she explained about her condition.
According to Gremaud, her primary objective for the Milano Cortina Games was successfully defending her slopestyle title, and after accomplishing that goal, she struggled to maintain concentration for subsequent competitions. She acknowledged that she “completely messed up” the maneuver that resulted in her crash.
Switzerland faced additional setbacks when Gremaud’s 22-year-old teammate Anouk Andraska also withdrew from Monday’s finals after sustaining injuries during practice.
The big air competition concluded with Canada’s Megan Oldham claiming gold, while American-born Chinese athlete Eileen Gu secured silver and Italy’s Flora Tabanelli earned bronze on home soil.
TESERO, Italy – In a thrilling finish at the Winter Olympics on Tuesday, Norwegian athlete Jens Luraas Oftebro claimed the gold medal in men’s Nordic combined large hill competition with a spectacular final sprint that left his competitors behind.
The dramatic conclusion saw Austria’s Johannes Lamparter earn the silver medal, while Finland’s Ilkka Herola took home bronze. Oftebro’s victory came through a commanding final push up the last hill in the closing meters of the 10-kilometer course, reminiscent of the signature finishing style displayed by his countryman Johannes Klaebo in the cross-country sprint event earlier during these Games.
Following the ski jumping portion, Lamparter began the cross-country race trailing by eight seconds from the lead position. He quickly took control in the race’s opening phase and established a modest lead over his competitors. However, his momentum began to diminish at the midpoint of the course, enabling his pursuers to close the gap. By the finish line, Lamparter crossed 5.9 seconds after Oftebro’s winning time.
Warner Bros Discovery has turned down Paramount Skydance’s most recent hostile takeover proposal valued at $30 per share, though the entertainment giant is allowing the competing studio one week to develop an enhanced bid for the company that owns HBO Max and the “Harry Potter” properties.
According to Warner Bros’ announcement, Paramount has informally suggested an increased offer of $31 per share, which appears to have caught the board’s attention enough to open limited discussions.
The competing studio now faces a February 23 deadline to present what Warner Bros is calling a “best and final offer,” which Netflix would have the right to match according to existing merger terms, the company stated Tuesday.
In a letter delivered Tuesday to Paramount’s board, Warner Bros Chairman Samuel DiPiazza Jr. and CEO David Zaslav made their position clear: “To be clear, our Board has not determined that your proposal is reasonably likely to result in a transaction that is superior to the Netflix merger. We continue to recommend and remain fully committed to our transaction with Netflix.”
Warner Bros revealed that an unnamed Paramount financial representative indicated their bid would increase to $31 per share if negotiations began, with potential for even higher amounts. The company now anticipates any final proposal will exceed that figure.
The numbers show a significant gap between offers: Paramount’s current proposal totals $108.4 billion for the entire company, while Netflix’s bid reaches $82.7 billion specifically for Warner Bros’ studio and streaming operations.
Despite repeatedly declining Paramount’s attempts to purchase the full company, Warner Bros continues advancing toward a shareholder decision on Netflix’s $27.75 per share offer for its entertainment and streaming divisions. The Netflix merger vote is scheduled for March 20 and would occur following Warner Bros’ plan to separate its Discovery Global cable networks, including CNN, TLC, Food Network and HGTV, into an independent publicly traded entity.
Warner Bros projects the Discovery Global spinoff could generate between $1.33 and $6.86 per share for investors.
The entertainment company’s willingness to consider Paramount’s approach, which required special permission from Netflix, represents a notable change in strategy.
Paramount had previously criticized the board for failing to “meaningfully engage” with six separate proposals submitted during the 12 weeks before Warner Bros announced its Netflix agreement on December 5. A public hostile takeover attempt launched shortly after was also rejected that same month.
An updated Paramount proposal featuring a personal $40 billion equity guarantee from Oracle founder Larry Ellison, whose son David Ellison leads Paramount as CEO, was similarly declined in early January.
This shift toward rival bidder discussions coincides with growing pressure from activist investor Ancora Holdings, which has accumulated a position in Warner Bros and intends to oppose the Netflix deal.
Paramount is simultaneously working to place representatives on Warner Bros’ board, with Pentwater Capital Management CEO Matt Halbower emerging as a potential candidate, according to Halbower’s statements last week. Pentwater, holding approximately 50 million Warner Bros shares, supports Paramount’s acquisition effort.
“Every substantive complaint that the Warner Bros board had with Paramount’s previous offer has been addressed,” Halbower explained in a recent interview.
Warner Bros’ board obtained special Netflix approval to engage with Paramount by invoking a merger agreement provision allowing rival bidder discussions when the board believes an offer might prove superior, creating a legal pathway for limited negotiations despite existing restrictions.
Netflix responded with a statement emphasizing the deal’s progress, noting the upcoming shareholder vote.
“While we are confident that our transaction provides superior value and certainty, we recognize the ongoing distraction for WBD stockholders and the broader entertainment industry caused by PSKY’s antics,” Netflix declared.
Last week, Paramount attempted to attract Warner Bros shareholders by improving its previous proposal without increasing the overall $30 per share price. The revised approach includes additional cash payments for each quarter the deal remains incomplete beyond this year and coverage of the $2.8 billion termination fee Warner Bros would owe Netflix if it abandoned their agreement.
However, Warner Bros indicated the modified Paramount proposal still doesn’t meet their standards for a superior offer.
Several significant concerns remain unaddressed in Paramount’s bid, including responsibility for a potential $1.5 billion junior lien financing fee, contingency plans if debt financing fails, and questions about the reliability of equity funding backed by lead sponsor Larry Ellison, according to the Warner board’s correspondence.
The letter acknowledged that while Paramount has dismissed financing concerns as “not serious” given their “lead equity sponsor’s personal wealth and lending banks’ credibility,” current draft agreements stipulate that additional equity funding must be secured if debt financing becomes unavailable to ensure deal completion.
Ancora, whose stake approaches $200 million in value, argued last week that Warner Bros’ board failed to properly consider Paramount Skydance’s rival proposal for the complete company, including cable properties like CNN and TNT.
A major legal battle involving smartphone technology has come to an end in London, with chip manufacturer Qualcomm announcing Tuesday that a significant lawsuit against the company will be dropped.
The consumer advocacy group Which? had filed the case representing approximately 29 million British consumers who purchased iPhones or Samsung smartphones beginning in 2015.
The organization had sought damages totaling up to 480 million pounds (equivalent to $652 million), claiming that Qualcomm forced major phone manufacturers to pay excessive licensing fees through what critics called a “no licence, no chips” approach that applied globally.
According to Which?, this practice meant that companies like Apple and Samsung were required to pay inflated royalty payments to Qualcomm regardless of whether Qualcomm’s actual chips were installed in their devices.
Qualcomm defended its business model, stating that the legal challenge incorrectly portrayed the company’s established practice of requiring device makers to secure proper licensing for essential patents before purchasing chipsets.
The case underwent a full trial last year, but before the Competition Appeal Tribunal could issue its final decision, Which? announced it would seek to dismiss the lawsuit. The withdrawal comes as part of a settlement arrangement where Qualcomm will not provide any monetary compensation to the affected consumer group.
In explaining the decision, Which? stated it had determined that Qualcomm’s business methods “did not infringe competition laws, did not result in inflated royalties, and did not lead to an increase in prices consumers paid for their mobile phones.”
A representative from Qualcomm responded to the development, saying: “This recognition by the class representative, following a trial on the merits, reaffirms what the courts in the United States have repeatedly held: Qualcomm’s licensing practices are lawful and do not harm competition.”
Drivers traveling westbound on Lighthouse Road should expect delays this afternoon due to a lane closure at the intersection with Dukes Avenue.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that one westbound lane on Route 54 is currently blocked at Dukes Avenue, with the closure expected to last until 4 PM today.
Motorists are advised to use alternate routes or allow extra travel time when passing through the area during the afternoon hours.
Drivers traveling on Route 9 northbound should expect delays this afternoon as construction crews have closed one shoulder of the roadway.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that the shoulder closure is impacting traffic between Federal School Lane and Hamburg Road on River Road, which is also known as Route 9.
Officials say the construction-related closure will remain active until 5 PM today. Motorists are advised to use caution when traveling through the work zone and allow extra time for their commute.
Delaware Department of Transportation officials report that construction activities are causing a shoulder closure on northbound Route 9 today.
The affected area spans from Federal School Lane to Hamburg Road, where crews are working on the roadway’s shoulder area.
DelDOT indicates the closure will remain in place through 5 p.m. this evening, after which normal traffic patterns are expected to resume.
Drivers using this section of Route 9 northbound should exercise caution while passing through the construction zone and allow extra time for potential delays.
Contract research corporation Danaher Corporation announced Tuesday its plans to purchase medical device manufacturer Masimo in a deal valued at $9.9 billion. The acquisition represents Danaher’s strategy to expand and strengthen its medical diagnostics business operations.
Masimo specializes in manufacturing pulse oximeters, devices commonly used in healthcare settings to measure oxygen levels in patients’ blood. The substantial purchase price reflects the growing importance of medical monitoring equipment in today’s healthcare landscape.
This major business transaction demonstrates Danaher’s commitment to growing its presence in the medical diagnostics sector through strategic acquisitions of established healthcare technology companies.
Laboratory Corporation of America released an optimistic financial outlook Tuesday, projecting annual earnings that surpass Wall Street expectations thanks to increased demand for medical testing services.
The medical testing giant has seen consistent growth in recent months as non-emergency medical procedures continue to rebound, particularly among elderly patients seeking routine care and diagnostics.
The North Carolina-headquartered corporation anticipates its diagnostic division will expand by 5% to 6% during 2026.
Company executives predict adjusted earnings per share will fall between $17.55 and $18.25 for the year, with the middle range exceeding the $17.50 average projected by financial analysts, based on LSEG data compilation.
“We expect continued strong performance in 2026 as we remain focused on growth,” CEO Adam Schechter said in a statement.
The laboratory services provider forecasts yearly revenue between $14.61 billion and $14.79 billion, closely aligned with analyst projections of $14.63 billion.
“Overall, we see this print giving Labcorp the ability to continue its steady growth, supported by a healthy end market that also saw outperformance from peer Quest Diagnostics,” said Leerink Partners analyst Michael Cherny.
Both Labcorp and competitor Quest Diagnostics have strengthened their market position through strategic partnerships with hospitals to operate their laboratory facilities, expanding their overall market presence.
The company also exceeded fourth-quarter earnings expectations, buoyed by consistent demand across its diagnostic testing and central laboratory operations.
For the quarter ending December 31, Labcorp reported adjusted earnings of $4.07 per share, surpassing analyst estimates of $3.94 per share.
Revenue in the company’s biopharmaceutical laboratory services division, which provides research facilities for drug companies, increased 3.4%, while diagnostic services revenue climbed 5.5% during the same timeframe.
Total quarterly revenue reached $3.52 billion, slightly below the anticipated $3.56 billion.
Investment and cryptocurrency trading application eToro surpassed Wall Street earnings predictions for the fourth quarter on Tuesday, bolstered by robust performance across various investment categories the platform provides.
The company’s stock price climbed approximately 8.9% in pre-market trading following the announcement.
American stock markets experienced gains throughout the quarter as anticipated interest rate reductions boosted investor sentiment, though cryptocurrency market fluctuations caused some traders to exercise caution. Bitcoin experienced its steepest monthly decline since mid-2021 during November.
At the same time, significant investment concentration in specific artificial intelligence-related companies has driven valuations to extreme heights, sparking worries about potential market bubble conditions.
The Israel-headquartered company saw its managed assets increase 11% compared to the previous year, reaching $18.5 billion.
“Our fourth quarter results reflect the strength and resilience of our multi-asset business model,” Chief Financial Officer Meron Shani said in a statement.
Recent years have witnessed the rise of innovative financial technology companies that compete with traditional Wall Street firms by appealing to younger investors through lower-cost trading, user-friendly mobile applications, and broader investment accessibility.
Despite the positive results, net contribution—calculated by subtracting cryptocurrency asset revenue costs and margin interest expenses—decreased 10% to $227 million.
For the quarter ending December 31, eToro reported adjusted earnings of 71 cents per share, exceeding analyst expectations of 63 cents per share based on LSEG compiled data.
A Massachusetts pharmaceutical company announced Tuesday that its investigational treatment for a serious eye condition outperformed an existing approved medication in advanced clinical testing.
Ocular Therapeutix revealed that their experimental drug demonstrated superior effectiveness compared to Regeneron’s established treatment Eylea in helping patients preserve their eyesight during late-stage trials.
According to the company, this marks the first instance where an investigational medication for wet age-related macular degeneration has delivered better outcomes than an FDA-approved therapy in trials conducted under rigorous regulatory standards.
This progressive eye condition represents a primary factor in vision loss among older adults, resulting in fuzzy sight or dark spots within a person’s field of vision. The disease impacts approximately 1.7 million people across the United States, the company reported.
The clinical study included 344 participants recently diagnosed with wet AMD and showed that Ocular’s medication, called Axpaxli, delivered better results than Eylea, which ranks among the most commonly prescribed therapies for this condition.
Results showed that roughly 74% of participants receiving one 0.45 mg injection of Axpaxli retained their vision after 36 weeks, while approximately 56% of those given a single 2 mg injection of Eylea achieved the same outcome. At the one-year mark, close to 66% of Axpaxli recipients maintained their vision, compared to less than half in the comparison group.
Despite gaining nearly 39% in value during 2025, Ocular’s stock price dropped approximately 25% during pre-market trading following the announcement.
Needham analyst Serge Belanger noted that eye specialists may find the data encouraging, though investors might feel let down by “the much narrower difference” between the treatments and increased rates of eye floaters and cataracts.
The experimental medication also showed improved management of eye fluid accumulation, which serves as an important indicator of disease control.
The company reported that numerous Axpaxli patients avoided needing additional “rescue” treatments for nearly twelve months, indicating the therapy could potentially decrease required medical appointments.
Ocular Therapeutix stated they intend to review the trial data with federal regulators and anticipate filing for marketing approval based on these findings.
Stock market futures traded lower Tuesday morning as investors continued to grapple with concerns about artificial intelligence potentially disrupting traditional business operations, following the Presidents Day holiday weekend.
Fears about AI’s impact on established companies triggered significant selling in software, brokerage, and transportation stocks last week, leading to the worst weekly performance for major market indices since mid-November.
“AI adoption is an overall positive rather than a negative, but it would change the business models of some industries. We continue to see the AI disruption trade as a rotation theme, rather than a risk-off,” explained Mohit Kumar, an economist with Jefferies.
Adding to market anxiety, Chinese technology giant Alibaba introduced its latest artificial intelligence system called Qwen 3.5 on Monday, which can handle sophisticated tasks independently. Despite the broader concerns, Alibaba’s American-traded shares climbed 0.8% in early trading Tuesday.
Major technology stocks faced pressure, with Nvidia dropping 0.9%, Microsoft declining 0.5%, and Alphabet falling 1.4% in premarket activity.
Meanwhile, geopolitical tensions remained in focus as Iran’s top leader dismissed U.S. efforts to overthrow his regime while both countries engaged in indirect nuclear negotiations in Geneva.
As of 7:24 a.m. Eastern Time, Dow futures had fallen 64 points or 0.13%, S&P 500 futures dropped 21.25 points or 0.31%, and Nasdaq 100 futures decreased 178.25 points or 0.72%.
Market participants are eagerly awaiting this week’s personal consumption expenditure data, which serves as the Federal Reserve’s primary inflation measurement and could influence future interest rate decisions.
Last week’s inflation report showed cooler-than-anticipated price increases, slightly boosting expectations for potential rate cuts this year.
Market pricing now suggests a 52% probability of a quarter-point rate reduction in June, up from approximately 49% chances a week earlier, based on CME’s FedWatch Tool data.
The current earnings season is nearing completion, with over 73% of S&P 500 companies having reported quarterly results. Notably, 74.5% exceeded analyst expectations, compared to the typical 67% beat rate, according to LSEG information released Friday.
Investors will closely monitor remarks from Federal Reserve Governor Michael Barr and San Francisco Fed President Mary Daly scheduled for later Tuesday.
In corporate developments, Warner Bros turned down Paramount’s updated acquisition proposal, providing the studio one week to present improved terms. Both entertainment companies saw their shares rise 2.7%.
Norwegian Cruise Line shares jumped 8% in early trading after reports that activist investor Elliott has accumulated more than a 10% ownership position in the cruise company.
Zim Integrated Shipping’s U.S.-listed shares soared approximately 35% following news that Germany’s Hapag-Lloyd will purchase the company for $4.2 billion.
Payment processor Fiserv gained nearly 5% after reports indicated activist investor Jana Partners has acquired a stake in the firm.
Medical device maker Masimo surged about 34% on reports that Danaher is nearing a roughly $10 billion acquisition deal for the pulse-oximeter manufacturer. Danaher shares fell 7% on the news.
Looking ahead, investors are also monitoring Friday’s Supreme Court opinion day, when the court may announce its decision regarding President Trump’s trade tariff policies.
NEW YORK (AP) — Warner Bros. Discovery has received a temporary reprieve from Netflix, giving the media company seven days to restart acquisition discussions with Paramount Skydance.
According to a regulatory document filed on Tuesday, Warner Bros. indicated the waiver provides an opportunity to address outstanding issues with Paramount’s earlier proposals.
The entertainment conglomerate has been given a deadline of February 23rd to work out a potential deal with Paramount Skydance.
Warner’s executive team has historically favored Netflix’s acquisition proposal. Last December, Netflix reached an agreement to purchase Warner’s studio operations and streaming platform for $72 billion in an all-cash deal that both companies believe will accelerate the timeline for shareholder approval by April. When factoring in debt obligations, the total enterprise value reaches approximately $83 billion, equivalent to $27.75 per share.
In contrast to Netflix’s targeted approach, Paramount is seeking to purchase Warner’s complete operations, which would encompass television networks such as CNN and Discovery. Paramount made a direct appeal to shareholders in December with a comprehensive $77.9 billion cash proposal.
NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Flight services have returned to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi after airport staff ended a two-day work stoppage Tuesday following successful negotiations with Kenya’s transportation department.
The major aviation hub experienced severe disruptions Monday, with travelers facing delays stretching up to six hours as carriers advised customers to reschedule their trips.
Kenya’s Civil Aviation Authority announced in a release that airport functions would restart immediately following the successful labor agreement reached with union representatives on Tuesday.
Workers had been seeking improved workplace conditions, higher wages, and enhanced benefits packages, with negotiations addressing these concerns taking place throughout Tuesday.
The facility serves as a crucial gateway for both regional African travel and international flights.
Transportation Minister Davies Chirchir emphasized the government’s dedication to maintaining stability within the country’s aviation industry.
Kenya Airways released a statement indicating the carrier was working to restore its flight schedule, noting that “normal operations will resume within the next 24 hours.”
The work stoppage began after union officials issued a strike warning the previous week, citing government failure to honor portions of a previously negotiated labor contract that included provisions for enhanced working conditions along with salary and benefit improvements.
The executive chairman of Hyatt Hotels has announced his immediate resignation following the public disclosure of his connections to convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein through recently released federal documents.
Thomas Pritzker, who led the hotel chain for over two decades, issued a statement expressing profound remorse for his relationship with Epstein and his longtime accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell.
“I exercised terrible judgment in maintaining contact with them, and there is no excuse for failing to distance myself sooner,” Pritzker stated. “I condemn the actions and the harm caused by Epstein and Maxwell and I feel deep sorrow for the pain they inflicted on their victims.”
The U.S. Department of Justice recently made public a collection of documents tied to Epstein that included correspondence between the hotel executive and the disgraced financier.
Epstein took his own life in jail in 2019 while facing federal charges for sex trafficking.
The 75-year-old Pritzker’s departure takes effect right away, and he has also decided not to seek re-election to Hyatt’s board of directors during the company’s upcoming annual shareholder meeting.
This development follows similar fallout in Dubai, where logistics firm DP World recently appointed new leadership after their previous chairman was also mentioned in the Epstein documents.
Dubai’s government media office announced that Essa Kazim would take over as chairman and Yuvraj Narayan as group CEO, replacing Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, though officials did not explicitly reference the Epstein connection in their announcement.
When Mónica Ramírez discovered she was selected as an Elevate Prize recipient, the recognition represented far more than financial assistance for her organization.
The acknowledgment validates the mission of Justice for Migrant Women, her Fremont, Ohio-based nonprofit that champions the rights of migrant women and other underserved populations, particularly during a period of heightened immigration enforcement under the Trump administration.
“As immigrant and migrant community members are being threatened and attacked around our country, it’s really important to have shows of support like the Elevate Prize is providing because we’ve seen a retraction — a big retraction — in support,” Ramírez explained, noting she became emotional upon learning of her selection. “The award means we are able to do the work that we know is so urgently needed.”
Each of the ten organizations announced Tuesday as Elevate Prize recipients will obtain $300,000 in unrestricted funds, while their leaders receive guidance on expanding their operations and enhancing public awareness of their causes.
Carolina Garcia Jayaram, CEO of the Elevate Prize Foundation, emphasized to The Associated Press that maintaining a strong public presence has gained critical importance in today’s climate. Beyond supporting fundraising efforts and public education, visibility “is also a form of protection,” she explained.
“It’s more important than ever to double down on leaders like Monica,” Jayaram stated, referencing how Imran Ahmed, a previous Elevate Prize recipient who heads the Center for Countering Digital Hate, faced entry restrictions to the United States last year. Secretary of State Marco Rubio cited Ahmed’s “organized efforts to coerce American platforms to censor, demonetize and suppress American viewpoints they oppose.” A federal court later prevented the Trump administration from detaining Ahmed, a British national residing in Washington.
The foundation plans to launch “Good Is Trending,” a new program designed to increase visibility for prize recipients, including displaying their work on NASDAQ’s Times Square billboards Tuesday.
Mara Fleishman, who leads the Chef Ann Foundation in Boulder, Colorado, anticipates this increased exposure will elevate her organization’s mission of bringing scratch-made meals to educational institutions. Her group has secured backing from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Waverley Street Foundation while helping schools create menus with fewer processed ingredients and more locally-sourced fresh produce.
“We’ve worked with over 17,000 schools and reached more than five million kids,” Fleishman noted. “But how do we take the work we’ve done and turn it into something digestible for legislators and advocates to understand what is possible?”
Fleishman emphasized her foundation must discover methods to mobilize the public as a “force multiplier” for their message, carrying it into school board discussions and state legislative chambers nationwide.
Much of this outreach depends on effective storytelling, according to Jayaram. The Elevate Prize selection committee considered nominees’ potential narratives when determining winners.
“People pay more attention to people than they do to issues,” Jayaram observed. “So when you can ground an issue in the story of a person, of a community, of a neighborhood, suddenly the whole world can start to engage and relate to that because it’s not that different from a community and a neighborhood and a family somewhere else.”
The foundation has championed narrative-driven advocacy for several years, establishing Elevate Studios last year to craft compelling stories about prize winners across various media, from YouTube content to theatrical documentary releases.
Ramírez expressed enthusiasm about amplifying the voices of those served by Justice for Migrant Women.
“I really think that the Elevate Prize is going to help us give a microphone to the people that we serve,” she stated. “That’s my hope.”
The complete roster of 2026 Elevate Prize recipients includes: Shabana Basij-Rasikh, president and co-founder of SOLA (School of Leadership, Afghanistan) supporting Afghan girls’ education; Hillary Blout, founder and executive director of For the People, assisting with prison releases; Manu Chopra, CEO of Karya, delivering AI technology to low-income areas; Mara Fleishman, CEO of Chef Ann Foundation, promoting scratch-made school meals; Aisha Nyandoro, CEO of Springboard to Opportunities, supporting federally subsidized housing residents; Tom Osborn, founder and CEO of Shamiri Institute, providing mental health services to underserved areas beginning in Africa; Ai-jen Poo, executive director of Caring Across Generations, advocating for care as a national priority; Mónica Ramírez, founder and president of Justice for Migrant Women, defending migrant and rural women’s rights; Krutika Ravishankar, co-founder and executive director of Farmers for Forests, protecting and restoring Indian forests; and Utkarsh Saxena, executive director of Adalat AI, creating artificial intelligence tools for court systems.
WILMINGTON, Del. — A Delaware man who was once married to First Lady Jill Biden is scheduled to appear before a judge Tuesday to enter a plea on murder charges in his current wife’s death.
William Stevenson, age 77, faces first-degree murder accusations and is expected to formally respond to the charges during his court appearance. Stevenson was wed to Jill Biden between 1970 and 1975, years before she became First Lady.
Earlier this month, a Delaware state grand jury indicted Stevenson in connection with the death of his wife, Linda Stevenson, 64. She was discovered unresponsive inside their residence on December 28. Since being formally charged on February 3, Stevenson has been held in jail, unable to secure his release on the $500,000 bond amount.
Public court documents currently available do not identify any attorney representing Stevenson in the case.
In the early 1970s, William Stevenson established the Stone Balloon, a well-known music establishment located in Newark, Delaware.
Linda Stevenson operated her own bookkeeping company and was remembered in her death notice as a devoted mother and grandmother who cherished her family and supported the Philadelphia Eagles. Her obituary made no reference to her spouse.
“One hug from her and all your worries would disappear,” Christine Mae, her daughter, shared on Facebook. “The pain of losing her is paralyzing and the emptiness in my heart is an abyss.”
Jill Biden wed then-U.S. Senator Joe Biden in 1977. Biden held the presidency from January 2021 through January 2025. A representative for Jill Biden has stated she will not be providing any statements regarding the Stevenson matter.
An Indian pharmaceutical company is working to bring a significantly more affordable version of a popular weight loss medication to market, potentially offering substantial savings for patients.
Dr Reddy’s Laboratories revealed Tuesday that it intends to offer a generic alternative to Novo Nordisk’s widely-used weight loss treatment Wegovy, with pricing approximately 60% below the brand-name version, according to co-chairman and managing director GV Prasad speaking with Reuters.
The pharmaceutical manufacturer secured authorization from India’s drug regulatory authority last month to produce and distribute a generic equivalent of the diabetes medication Ozempic, another blockbuster drug from Novo Nordisk. The company indicated it is currently waiting for similar regulatory clearance for its proposed Wegovy alternative.
The development comes as demand for these types of medications continues to grow, with many patients seeking more affordable options for weight management and diabetes treatment.
People seeking refuge in Libya, including children as young as 14, are being subjected to horrific violence including murder, sexual assault, and forced labor, according to a new United Nations report released Tuesday.
The disturbing findings have prompted UN officials to demand that the international community stop sending migrant boats back to Libya until proper human rights protections are put in place.
Since longtime ruler Muammar Gaddafi was overthrown in a NATO-supported rebellion in 2011, Libya has served as a major pathway for people escaping war and economic hardship as they attempt to reach Europe by crossing the Mediterranean Sea. The nation has been divided between competing factions in the east and west since 2014.
European Union countries have provided support and training to Libya’s coastal patrol forces in recent years, which intercept migrants at sea and return them to detention facilities. The EU has also funded programs to help Libya manage its borders.
The report, issued jointly by the UN Human Rights Office and UN Support Mission, found that migrants are being captured and kidnapped by criminal smuggling organizations that often have connections to Libyan government officials and international crime groups.
“They are separated from their families, arrested, and transferred to detention facilities without due process, often at gunpoint, in what amounts to arbitrary detention,” said Thameen Al-Kheetan, a spokesperson for the UN Human Rights Office, during a briefing in Geneva.
Libya’s diplomatic mission in Geneva did not respond immediately to requests for comment. Libyan officials have previously rejected claims of widespread migrant abuse.
Researchers compiled the report by conducting interviews with nearly 100 migrants, people seeking asylum, and refugees from 16 nations across Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. The interviews took place both within Libya and in other locations.
One account came from a woman from Eritrea who spent more than six weeks held captive at a smuggling operation in Tobruk, located in eastern Libya. “I wish I died. It was a journey of hell,” she told investigators.
“Different men raped me many times. Girls as young as 14 were raped daily,” the woman said. Her captors only freed her after her family paid money for her release.
The report, which examined the timeframe from January 2024 through December 2025, documented cases including a man forced into unpaid labor without adequate food, and young girls being taken away from their mothers.
“Men used humiliating methods with women, making them, for example, take their clothes off in front of other men and women migrants before raping them publicly, torturing them, and beating them,” explained Suki Nagra, a UN Human Rights representative working with the UN mission in Libya, during the Geneva briefing.
While the report acknowledged the critical importance of rescue operations to save migrants’ lives at sea, it strongly urged the global community to suspend returns to Libya until sufficient human rights protections can be guaranteed.
Defense contractor Leidos Holdings announced fourth-quarter earnings that failed to meet Wall Street revenue projections on February 17, attributing the shortfall to disruptions caused by last year’s extended federal government shutdown.
The historic six-week government closure, which concluded in November and marked the nation’s longest shutdown on record, significantly disrupted federal operations and negatively affected contractors like Leidos that deliver information technology, weapons systems, and various services to government agencies.
Following the earnings announcement, Leidos stock declined 1.6% during premarket trading sessions. The company provides air traffic control technology to the Federal Aviation Administration among its government contracts.
The shutdown’s ripple effects extended beyond Leidos, with defense contractor L3Harris Technologies reporting similar negative impacts last month, particularly affecting its space systems division.
For the fourth quarter, Leidos recorded $4.21 billion in revenue, representing a 3.6% decrease compared to the previous year and falling below analyst projections of $4.31 billion, based on LSEG data compilation.
The company’s performance was further hampered by a significant 9.3% decline in its health and civil division sales, which manages electronic health record systems for Department of Defense facilities and Veterans Affairs medical centers.
Despite revenue challenges, the Reston, Virginia-headquartered corporation exceeded profit expectations on an adjusted basis, reporting $2.76 per share compared to analyst estimates of $2.61. This earnings beat resulted from improved cost management and a 160-basis point improvement in adjusted core profit margins.
Looking ahead to 2026, Leidos projected adjusted earnings between $12.05 and $12.45 per share, with the midpoint falling 4 cents below analyst expectations of $12.29.
CNH Industrial, a major manufacturer of agricultural and construction equipment, delivered disappointing news to investors Tuesday by projecting annual earnings well below analyst expectations due to continued weakness in the farm machinery market.
The company’s stock dropped over 4% in early trading following the announcement.
CNH Industrial, headquartered in Basildon, UK, anticipates that retail sales will decline approximately 5% in 2026 compared to 2025 figures. The manufacturer plans to maintain reduced production levels while collaborating with dealerships to address surplus inventory throughout their distribution network.
Agricultural equipment manufacturers have been cutting back on factory production as demand for new machinery remains persistently weak. Declining crop values and increasing operational expenses have led farmers to postpone major equipment investments, creating a buildup of unsold inventory at dealerships and prompting a more conservative restocking strategy.
For the full year, CNH Industrial projects adjusted earnings per share between $0.35 and $0.45, falling short of the $0.54 per share that analysts had predicted, based on LSEG data.
American farmers are confronting another challenging year marked by depressed commodity prices, elevated expenses, and tough choices about continuing operations as oversupplied grain markets continue to pressure profitability.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture projected earlier this month that net farm income, a key indicator of agricultural sector health, will decrease 0.7% to $153.4 billion in 2026 compared to the previous year.
“Agricultural equipment industry demand is expected to resume growth in 2027,” CNH said.
CNH Industrial, which produces Case IH and New Holland tractor brands, posted fourth-quarter revenues of $5.16 billion, surpassing analyst projections of $4.61 billion.
The company reported adjusted quarterly earnings of 19 cents per share for the period ending December 31, exceeding analyst expectations of 10 cents per share.
MADRID – Spanish authorities have greenlit a massive relief package totaling roughly 7 billion euros ($8 billion) on Tuesday to assist those impacted by devastating storms that struck the Extremadura and Andalusia regions in recent weeks.
Multiple severe weather systems have pummeled Spain and Portugal throughout the early months of this year, resulting in extensive infrastructure destruction and crop losses while prompting officials to relocate thousands of residents to safety.
“The help will compensate more than 12,400 people evacuated because of these events and mitigate the impact of heavy rains and flooding on houses, businesses and the agricultural and fishing sectors,” Budget Minister Maria Jesus Montero explained to media representatives. Montero indicated that additional financial support remains possible pending comprehensive damage assessments from specialists.
The storm systems destroyed at least 14,000 hectares (35,000 acres) of agricultural land, affecting berry farms, citrus groves, and olive orchards, as Agriculture Minister Luis Planas reported to national broadcaster TVE during the previous week.
Weather monitoring agency AEMET has documented that Spain has experienced 38% above-normal precipitation levels since October began.
Meanwhile, Portuguese officials initially calculated reconstruction expenses exceeding 4 billion euros following Storm Kristin’s destruction three weeks ago, subsequently implementing 2.5 billion euros in financial assistance programs and rebuilding incentives.
A groundbreaking partnership between Spanish companies Sateliot and PLD Space will make history as the nation’s first entirely private satellite mission, the firms announced Tuesday.
The collaboration comes as private rocket manufacturers worldwide race to deploy thousands of internet satellites, competing for what industry experts predict could become a trillion-dollar space economy by 2030. European Union leaders are actively encouraging such partnerships to decrease the continent’s dependence on Elon Musk’s SpaceX while strengthening regional aerospace capabilities.
According to their joint announcement, PLD Space will transport two Sateliot satellites into low Earth orbit by 2027, with each satellite weighing 160 kilograms (353 pounds).
The mission will utilize PLD’s newest rocket technology, the Miura-5, a two-stage orbital launcher that features partial reusability. The rocket takes its name from a Spanish fighting bull breed.
This agreement advances Barcelona-headquartered Sateliot’s ambitions to become a major force in European satellite telecommunications. The startup counts defense contractor Indra, which is partially government-owned, among its investors with a 4% ownership stake.
“Selecting a Spanish partner helped safeguard European technological sovereignty and strengthen global 5G connectivity while improving security and defence capabilities,” stated Sateliot CEO Jaume Sanpera in the companies’ announcement.
Sateliot previously revealed ambitious expansion plans in May 2025, targeting deployment of 100 satellites by 2028 and projecting revenues of 1 billion euros ($1.2 billion) by 2030.
PLD Space achieved a European milestone in 2023 by conducting the continent’s first completely private rocket launch. The company has set its sights on eventually transporting various cargo types and human passengers to space, positioning itself as a competitor to established players like SpaceX.
Financial markets displayed a subdued tone Tuesday as trading resumed following the Presidents Day holiday weekend, with market-moving developments notably scarce compared to the active pace seen throughout 2024 so far.
Stock index futures showed modest declines before the opening bell, as traders remained cautious following last week’s dramatic fluctuations in artificial intelligence-related technology stocks that sent various sectors on a roller coaster ride.
However, underlying investor confidence remains remarkably strong. Bank of America’s latest monthly survey of global fund managers released in February indicates market participants maintain what analysts describe as “uber-bullish” expectations for both economic growth and corporate profits this year. The survey did highlight ongoing concerns about potential excessive investment in AI infrastructure as a warning sign.
International markets showed little movement, with Asian trading particularly quiet due to holiday-reduced activity. Japan’s Nikkei index declined following disappointing economic data released Monday, which revealed the country’s economy expanded at just a 0.2% annualized rate during the fourth quarter – significantly below economists’ projections of 1.6% growth.
The weak Japanese economic performance initially pressured the yen, which dropped 0.4% versus the dollar Monday after gaining nearly 3% the previous week. However, the currency recovered those losses by Tuesday’s trading session.
Tuesday’s U.S. economic calendar features limited data releases, including the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s manufacturing survey and the National Association of Home Builders Housing Index. Treasury bonds continued benefiting from Friday’s encouraging consumer price inflation report, which showed relatively modest price pressures.
Investors will receive additional insight into Federal Reserve policy direction later this week through Wednesday’s release of meeting minutes from the Federal Open Market Committee and Friday’s fourth-quarter gross domestic product figures. Inflation data from Canada, the United Kingdom, and Japan will provide broader context for global economic conditions.
British unemployment climbed to 5.2%, marking the highest level in more than a decade excluding pandemic-related spikes. This development has fueled expectations for another Bank of England interest rate reduction next month, with financial markets pricing in an 80% probability of such a move.
The British pound weakened against both the euro and dollar, while the FTSE 100 stock index advanced. Two-year government bond yields in the UK fell to their lowest levels in 18 months.
Geopolitical developments provided a backdrop to Tuesday’s quiet trading environment as nuclear negotiations between the United States and Iran resumed in Geneva. Oil and gold prices edged slightly lower as the diplomatic discussions began. Former President Trump stated Monday that he believes Iran is interested in reaching an agreement.
Retail giant Walmart, scheduled to report quarterly earnings this week, achieved membership in the exclusive trillion-dollar market valuation club this year, becoming the world’s 12th most valuable publicly traded company.
Key events for Tuesday include the New York Fed business surveys at 8:30 AM and the housing market index at 10:00 AM. Federal Reserve Governor Michael Barr and San Francisco Fed President Mary Daly are both scheduled to speak. Corporate earnings reports are expected from medical device maker Medtronic and cybersecurity firm Palo Alto Networks.
Team Switzerland’s men’s curling squad, led by skip Yannick Schwaller, extended their flawless performance at the Winter Olympics on Tuesday, crushing Sweden 9-4 in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. The decisive victory keeps Switzerland’s perfect record intact while officially crushing the defending Olympic champions’ hopes for another medal.
Sweden’s title defense had already been hanging by a thread following Monday’s 7-3 loss to Germany under skip Niklas Edin’s leadership. While a narrow path to the playoffs still existed through an improbable series of outcomes, that slim possibility has now vanished completely.
The former champions find themselves tied for ninth position in the round-robin tournament with just a single victory in seven matches played. Meanwhile, Switzerland dominates the standings in first place, boasting a pristine 6-0 record.
“We worked very hard and we had a lot of very good discussions leading up to this,” Schwaller said. “I think everything is coming together nicely, and we play with so much confidence out there right now, and just enjoy each other and enjoy the moment.”
In other Tuesday action, China’s team under skip Xiaoming Xu secured an 8-5 victory against the United States in a contest that remained tied entering the final end. The Czech Republic also notched a 9-7 triumph over Germany, the reigning 2024 European champions.
The Czech victory marked a historic milestone as their first Olympic win in men’s curling competition, although the team has previously claimed victories in mixed doubles events at the Games.
The round-robin format requires each team to compete in nine total matches, with play continuing later Tuesday. The tournament’s top four finishers will advance to this week’s semifinal rounds.
Motorists traveling through a section of Bayard Avenue should plan for potential delays today due to ongoing construction activities.
According to DelDOT officials, work crews have established periodic lane restrictions along Bayard Avenue in the area spanning from Coastal Highway (Route 1) to Bellevue Street. The construction zone will remain in effect until 5:00 PM today.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time when passing through this corridor and to exercise caution around work crews and equipment. Traffic may experience intermittent slowdowns as lanes are temporarily closed to accommodate the construction work.
The Delaware Department of Transportation continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as work progresses throughout the day.
Drivers in the area should expect traffic delays on Bayard Avenue as construction crews continue their work between Coastal Highway (Route 1) and Bellevue Street.
DelDOT reports that intermittent lane closures are currently affecting traffic flow on this stretch of roadway. The construction-related lane restrictions are scheduled to remain in effect until 5:00 PM today.
Motorists are advised to plan for additional travel time when using this route and consider alternate paths if possible to avoid potential delays.
Drivers using Spring Lake Drive are encountering traffic disruptions today as construction crews work along a busy stretch of the roadway.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that the section of Spring Lake Drive running from Old Harmony Road to Greenridge Road is subject to periodic lane restrictions while work is underway.
These construction-related lane closures are scheduled to remain in effect through 6 PM this evening, according to DelDOT officials.
Motorists are advised to plan for potential delays and consider alternate routes if possible while traveling through the affected area.
Drivers traveling on Spring Lake Drive should plan for potential delays today as construction work creates periodic lane restrictions along a section of the roadway.
According to Delaware Department of Transportation officials, the affected area spans Spring Lake Drive from Old Harmony Road to Greenridge Road. Traffic disruptions from the ongoing construction activities are expected to last until 6 p.m. today.
The lane closures are happening on an intermittent basis throughout the day as work crews complete their construction tasks. Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and exercise caution when driving through the work zone.
Motorists traveling through a section of New Castle County should plan for potential delays this afternoon due to construction activity.
Delaware Department of Transportation officials report that construction crews are working on Fowler Court at its intersection with Dutton Drive, causing periodic lane restrictions.
The temporary lane closures are scheduled to continue intermittently throughout the day, with work expected to wrap up by 6 PM today.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time when passing through the area and to use caution around construction workers and equipment.
Drivers in northern Delaware are experiencing traffic disruptions on a busy stretch of Foulk Road today due to an ongoing lane closure.
According to DelDOT, the right lane of Foulk Road is currently blocked between Naamans Road (Route 261) and Grubb Road (Route 92). The lane restriction is expected to continue affecting traffic flow until 3 PM this afternoon.
Commuters using this corridor should plan for potential delays and consider alternate routes if possible. The closure impacts a heavily traveled section of roadway that connects several residential and commercial areas in the region.
Where: Unit Block of South Independence Blvd, Dover, DE
Media Contact: Dover Police Department Public Information Officer Master Corporal Ryan Schmid Email: [email protected]
Details: Dover law enforcement officials are actively looking into an armed robbery that took place during the early morning hours on Sunday. Authorities were alerted to the crime when the victim contacted police from a parking area on the unit block of South Independence Boulevard. Through their preliminary inquiry, detectives learned the victim had been at a local gathering in the vicinity. Following the event, two individuals confronted the victim, with one brandishing a firearm and ordering him to turn over his belongings. The victim handed over his property as demanded, and both perpetrators drove away in a gray-colored car. Police describe both suspects as Black males wearing face coverings.
Investigators currently have no suspect information to share with the public.
The case remains active and authorities are seeking assistance from the community. Anyone with relevant details is encouraged to reach out to the Dover Police Department by calling (302) 736-7130. Those providing information may choose to remain unnamed. Additionally, tips can be shared through Delaware Crime Stoppers by dialing 800-TIP-3333 or visiting www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com online. A monetary reward may be available for information that results in an arrest.
European Union officials have launched a comprehensive investigation into popular online retailer Shein, examining allegations that the company fails to adequately prevent the sale of prohibited items and protect consumers from potentially harmful platform design elements.
The European Commission announced Tuesday it has initiated formal proceedings under the Digital Services Act, comprehensive legislation that mandates major online platforms implement enhanced protections for internet users against questionable merchandise.
Should investigators determine Shein violated regulations, the company could face requirements to modify its operations or substantial financial penalties, according to the European Commission.
Investigators are examining whether Shein maintains adequate protective measures to prevent the distribution of products banned within EU borders, including materials constituting child sexual abuse such as “child-like sex dolls,” the commission stated.
The fast-fashion retailer encountered significant scrutiny in France last year when officials discovered prohibited weapons including guns, blades and machetes, along with child-like sex dolls available through its platform. French officials attempted to block access to Shein’s website nationwide, but a court prevented this action and requested the commission pursue an investigation through the Digital Services Act framework.
Commission officials indicated they will also evaluate whether Shein operates systems to address risks associated with what they describe as the platform’s potentially addictive structure, which provides users with points and rewards “for engagement.”
Additionally, regulators are scrutinizing the transparency of Shein’s product recommendation algorithms that suggest additional purchases to shoppers. Officials express concern that the company fails to provide clear explanations to users regarding why specific products appear in their recommendations.
Shein responded that it regards its regulatory responsibilities seriously and will maintain cooperation with commission investigators.
The retailer stated it has made substantial investments in strengthening Digital Services Act compliance. These efforts include “comprehensive systemic-risk assessments and mitigation frameworks, enhanced protections for younger users, and ongoing work to design our services in ways that promote a safe and trusted user experience.”
“Protecting minors and reducing the risk of harmful content and behaviours are central to how we develop and operate our platform,” the company said in a press statement.
BEIRUT (AP) — Major thoroughfares in and around Lebanon’s capital were shut down by demonstrators Tuesday following the government’s decision to implement new taxation measures that will drive up gasoline costs and other consumer goods to finance public sector salary increases.
Lebanon’s Cabinet on Monday endorsed a levy of 300,000 Lebanese pounds (approximately $3.30) for every 20 liters (5.3 gallons) of gasoline purchased. Diesel was spared from the taxation measure, since most Lebanese citizens rely on it to operate personal generators that compensate for chronic state electrical power shortages.
Officials also decided to raise the value-added tax from 11 percent to 12 percent on all items currently subject to this fee, though parliamentary approval is still required.
These taxation measures will finance salary and pension increases for government workers, whose earnings were devastated during the 2019 monetary crisis, providing them with compensation equivalent to six additional months of pay. Information Minister Paul Morcos stated the wage increases are projected to cost approximately $800 million.
Despite sitting atop some of the Middle East’s most substantial gold deposits, this Mediterranean nation continues to battle persistent inflation and endemic corruption. The financially struggling country also sustained roughly $11 billion in destruction during the 2024 conflict between Israel and the Hezbollah militant organization.
Ghayath Saadeh, among a contingent of taxi operators who shut down a primary route into central Beirut, said the nation’s leadership “consider us taxi drivers to be garbage.”
“Everything is getting more expensive, food and drinks, and Ramadan is coming,” he said. “We will block all the roads, God willing, if they don’t respond to us.”
In 2019, when Lebanese authorities proposed additional taxes, including a $6 monthly charge for internet calling services like WhatsApp, massive demonstrations erupted that brought the nation to a standstill for months. Protesters demanded their leaders resign due to rampant corruption, governmental dysfunction and crumbling infrastructure, while also calling for an end to the nation’s religious power-sharing arrangement.
Lebanon has faced international demands to implement financial reforms for years, yet has achieved minimal advancement.
During Monday’s session, cabinet members also received an update from Lebanon’s military regarding progress on a strategy to disarm non-governmental militant organizations throughout the country, including Hezbollah.
The military announced last month it had finished the initial phase of this strategy, focusing on territory south of the Litani River near Israel’s border. The plan’s second phase will address portions of southern Lebanon between the Litani and Awali rivers, encompassing the coastal city of Sidon.
Information Minister Morcos stated after the cabinet meeting that the second phase is anticipated to require four months but might be prolonged “depending on the available resources, the continuation of Israeli attacks and the obstacles on the ground.”
This disarmament strategy follows a U.S.-mediated ceasefire that officially concluded fighting between Hezbollah and Israel in November 2024. Since that time, Israel has claimed Hezbollah is rebuilding and has maintained almost daily military strikes in Lebanon while occupying multiple elevated positions on Lebanese territory along the border.
Hezbollah maintains that the ceasefire agreement only mandates its disarmament south of the Litani River and refuses to consider disarming elsewhere in the country until Israel ceases its attacks and completely withdraws from Lebanese soil.
A French woman whose courage transformed her into an international symbol against sexual violence has published her memoir globally, hoping to inspire other survivors with her journey from victim to advocate.
Gisèle Pelicot’s book, titled “A Hymn to Life, Shame has to Change Sides,” became available Tuesday across 22 languages, chronicling her experience surviving nearly a decade of systematic assault.
“I wanted my story to help others,” Pelicot explained during a recent interview with France 5, a French television network, before her memoir’s worldwide launch.
The book represents Pelicot’s first extensive public commentary since a groundbreaking 2024 court case that made headlines internationally. Her decision to publicly identify herself during the proceedings, rather than remain anonymous, sparked global conversations about sexual violence and victim-blaming.
“Today I’m doing better, and this book allowed me to engage in self-reflection, to take stock of my life,” she explained. “I had to try to rebuild myself on this field of ruins. Today I am a woman standing strong.”
Pelicot emphasized that her memoir carries “a message of hope to all the women who are going through a very complicated period in their lives.”
Her case and public stance created ripple effects worldwide, earning recognition from prominent figures including Olympic champion Simone Biles, who has also spoken about surviving sexual abuse.
“Gisèle has demonstrated to the world that it’s not for victims of sexual abuse to feel shame — it’s the perpetrators,” Biles stated in remarks aired by the BBC. “By waiving her anonymity and refusing to feel shame, Gisèle paves the way for other victims to come forward.”
The criminal case concluded in December 2024 with convictions against Pelicot’s former husband, Dominique Pelicot, along with 50 additional defendants. The crimes occurred between 2011 and 2020, during which Dominique Pelicot secretly drugged his wife to render her unconscious before assaulting her and allowing other men to do the same.
Dominique Pelicot received a 20-year prison sentence, while co-defendants were given terms between three and 15 years. One defendant who appealed his conviction later had his sentence extended to 10 years by an appeals court.
The couple had been married for nearly five decades when Dominique Pelicot confessed to years of secretly adding sedatives to his wife’s food and beverages to facilitate the assaults.
The trial highlighted concerning connections between online pornography, internet chat groups, and misconceptions about sexual consent that can contribute to violence against women.
The case prompted legislative action in France, where lawmakers approved new rape legislation in October. The updated law characterizes rape and sexual assault as any sexual activity without consent, aligning France with neighboring European countries like Germany, Belgium, and Spain that have similar consent-focused statutes. Previously, French law required proving that rape involved “violence, coercion, threat or surprise” rather than simply lack of consent.
ISLAMABAD — Military officials report that an explosive-packed vehicle crashed into a security checkpoint in Pakistan’s northwestern region, resulting in the deaths of 11 soldiers and one child during an overnight assault.
According to military statements released Tuesday, the incident took place Monday evening in Bajaur district within Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, located near the Afghan border. The attackers attempted to penetrate the checkpoint but were confronted by security personnel who had signaled the vehicle to halt.
The explosion caused sections of the military compound to crumble and severely damaged nearby residential buildings. A young girl was killed in the blast, while seven other civilians, including women and children, sustained injuries.
Local police official Zafar Khan reported that following the initial bombing, additional militants attempted to infiltrate the security facility, sparking a gun battle. Security forces ultimately eliminated 12 attackers, whom authorities refer to as “khawarij,” their term for the Pakistani Taliban, known as TTP. A manhunt continues throughout the Bajaur area.
The region has remained volatile since August 2025, when military forces initiated a “targeted operation” against militant groups, forcing thousands of residents to temporarily evacuate before returning to their homes. Intelligence-driven operations have continued in the area since that time.
While no organization has taken credit for the assault, authorities suspect the Pakistani Taliban, who frequently launch attacks against both security personnel and civilians nationwide.
Pakistani President Asif Ali Zadari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued separate condemnations of the attack. Both leaders expressed grief over what they called the “martyrdom” of the security forces and civilian victim, extending sympathies to the bereaved families. Sharif emphasized the government’s commitment to defeating terrorism and declared the nation’s support for its military forces in this battle.
The country has experienced escalating violence in recent years, with most incidents attributed to the TTP. This organization operates independently from but maintains close ties with Afghanistan’s Taliban, who regained control in 2021. The rising number of attacks has created diplomatic tensions between Islamabad and Kabul, as Pakistan claims the TTP operates without restriction from Afghan territory — allegations that both the TTP and Kabul reject.
Last month, Pakistan’s army chief General Asim Munir challenged Afghanistan’s Taliban leadership to decide between preserving relationships with Islamabad or continuing to support the Pakistani Taliban, the militant organization responsible for numerous recent deadly strikes.
General Munir delivered these statements at his headquarters in Rawalpindi, where he participated in a ceremonial honor guard from all military branches, commemorating the establishment of Pakistan’s unified military command structure.
The Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, a towering figure in America’s civil rights movement, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 84. Jackson, who worked closely with the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and launched two campaigns for the presidency, dedicated his life to championing causes for marginalized communities both in America and internationally.
Throughout his decades of activism, Jackson fought tirelessly for disadvantaged populations, tackling critical issues including voting rights, employment equality, educational access, and healthcare reform.
The Associated Press photo editors have compiled a visual tribute showcasing Jackson’s remarkable journey as a civil rights pioneer.
NAPLES, Italy – Flames completely destroyed the interior of Naples’ treasured Teatro Sannazaro on Tuesday, leaving the 176-year-old cultural landmark in ruins after a devastating blaze swept through the structure.
The inferno reportedly originated in a residential building located in Naples’ affluent Chiaia neighborhood before quickly spreading to the adjacent theater, which dates back to the 1800s. The intense flames caused the theater’s distinctive domed ceiling to collapse while destroying the elegant seating areas and ornate golden balconies that had defined the venue for generations.
Fire commander Giuseppe Paduano described the extensive damage to news media, stating “Very little of the theatre remains.” He added, “Inside there are still some small hotspots that we will extinguish shortly. As for the causes, it’s still too early to say.”
According to Naples Mayor Gaetano Manfredi, preliminary findings point to the fire starting by accident rather than intentionally.
The massive blaze created thick, suffocating smoke that enveloped the surrounding area beginning at daybreak, forcing authorities to evacuate 22 families from nearby residences. Medical personnel transported four individuals to local hospitals for treatment of smoke inhalation, though officials reported no fatalities or severe injuries occurred.
When Mayor Manfredi arrived at the destruction site, he expressed profound grief over the cultural loss. He described the theater’s destruction as “a great sorrow” and “a deep wound” to Naples’ rich historical and cultural heritage.
The Teatro Sannazaro first opened its doors to audiences in 1847 and became a celebrated venue that welcomed Italy’s most renowned performers and dramatists throughout its long history. In recent years, the theater presented a diverse lineup featuring both traditional musical performances and touring theatrical productions.
The mayor pledged municipal support for restoration efforts, promising “We will do everything we can to help the owners rebuild.” He also indicated that Italy’s national government plans to provide financial assistance for the reconstruction project.
This tragedy echoes similar disasters that have struck Italy’s theatrical heritage in recent decades. Venice’s renowned Fenice opera house suffered complete destruction in a fire thirty years ago but successfully reopened in 2003 following extensive reconstruction work. The Teatro Petruzzelli in Bari met a similar fate in 1991, remaining closed until 2009 when it finally welcomed audiences again. Unlike Tuesday’s apparent accident in Naples, both previous theater fires resulted from deliberate arson attacks.
Medical device manufacturer Medtronic reported third-quarter earnings that exceeded analyst projections Tuesday, powered by increased sales of cardiac equipment and continuous glucose monitors.
The strong performance reflects a broader trend affecting medical technology companies, as healthcare facilities see growing demand for medical procedures. Insurance companies are reporting higher medical loss ratios, suggesting patients are scheduling more treatments and procedures than in recent periods.
The company kept its financial outlook unchanged for fiscal year 2026, projecting adjusted earnings per share between $5.62 and $5.66.
Key growth areas for Medtronic include its advanced pulsed field ablation technology and transcatheter aortic valve replacement systems, both representing less invasive treatment options that physicians are increasingly adopting.
The cardiovascular division, representing approximately 40% of total company sales, posted revenue growth of 13.8% reaching $3.46 billion for the quarter. Much of this increase came from strong performance in the pulsed field ablation product line.
This innovative technology delivers targeted high-energy electrical pulses to eliminate specific heart tissue areas, helping to minimize irregular heartbeat episodes in patients.
In the diabetes monitoring space, Medtronic faces competition from Abbott and Dexcom as the continuous glucose monitoring market grows. Patients are increasingly choosing these convenient devices that eliminate the need for traditional finger-stick blood testing.
Total quarterly revenue reached $9.02 billion, surpassing Wall Street predictions of $8.91 billion based on LSEG data.
The company posted adjusted quarterly earnings of $1.36 per share, topping the average analyst forecast of $1.33 per share.
Healthcare giant Johnson & Johnson, a larger competitor, also reported positive results with medical technology sales rising 7.5% year-over-year during the same period, particularly benefiting from strong electrophysiology and cardiac device sales.
The company behind Cheerios and other popular breakfast cereals announced Tuesday that it’s reducing expectations for yearly revenue and earnings, pointing to consumer concerns about the broader economy as the primary reason.
General Mills stock dropped 4% during pre-market trading hours following the announcement.
The food manufacturer now projects yearly sales will decline between 1.5% and 2%, a more pessimistic outlook than its earlier prediction of a decrease of 1% to an increase of 1%.
The Minneapolis-based company also revised downward its annual adjusted operating profit and adjusted earnings-per-share projections, now expecting decreases of 16% to 20% in constant currency terms. This represents a significant shift from the company’s prior forecast of declines ranging from 10% to 15% in constant currency.
Trade data released Tuesday revealed that Italian goods sold to the United States climbed by more than 7% throughout 2025, contradicting expectations that President Donald Trump’s tariff policies would severely damage transatlantic commerce.
The European Union’s third-largest economy saw its American exports reach 69.6 billion euros ($82.41 billion) last year, representing a 7.2% increase compared to 2024, according to Italy’s national statistics bureau ISTAT.
This growth occurred even as Italian products face a 15% tariff that Trump implemented on most EU merchandise, with pasta manufacturers confronting potential additional penalties under a U.S. Commerce Department anti-dumping investigation.
Italy maintained its biggest trade surplus with the United States at 34.2 billion euros, though this figure dropped 12% from the previous year due to a 36% surge in Italian purchases of American goods.
The country also achieved substantial trade surpluses exceeding 19 billion euros each with both Switzerland and the United Kingdom during 2025.
Trump announced the 15% tariff in a July 27 agreement with the EU following lengthy negotiations that included threats of even steeper duties, creating financial market uncertainty and concern among European exporters.
Italian business lobby leader Emanuele Orsini had cautioned in July that even a 10% tariff on EU merchandise could slash Italian exports to America by 20 billion euros in 2026 while eliminating 118,000 jobs.
December’s Italian exports to the US totaled 5.6 billion euros, showing a slight 0.4% decline from December 2024, ISTAT reported.
Italian sales to America have generally continued growing since the tariffs became effective in August, though monthly figures have shown fluctuation.
Italy recorded a worldwide trade surplus of 6.0 billion euros ($7.15 billion) in December, exceeding the 5.1 billion euro surplus from December 2024, according to ISTAT.
For the entire year 2025, Italy achieved a global trade surplus of 50.7 billion euros, up from 48.3 billion euros in the prior year.
Compass Pathways announced Tuesday that its experimental depression treatment successfully achieved its primary objectives in a comprehensive late-stage clinical trial, causing the company’s stock price to surge nearly 30 percent.
The pharmaceutical company tested its therapy, known as COMP360, across two extensive clinical trials that included over 1,000 participants suffering from treatment-resistant depression.
The innovative treatment utilizes psilocybin, a psychedelic substance, and represents a potential breakthrough as a short-duration, periodic treatment option that could replace daily antidepressant medications.
According to the company’s findings from the most recent trial, participants who received two higher-strength doses administered three weeks apart demonstrated significantly greater improvement in their depression symptoms over a six-week period compared to those who received smaller doses.
American cotton producers are planning to significantly reduce their planted acreage this spring season, according to industry officials who cite economic pressures as the primary factor behind the decision.
The National Cotton Council’s Jody Campiche explains that declining market values are driving farmers away from cotton cultivation. “While there are some changes to the farm safety net that will provide higher support this year, it’s still not enough to cover all the losses,” Campiche stated.
According to Campiche, growers are facing production expenses that have increased by 30 percent, creating additional financial strain for agricultural operations already dealing with reduced commodity prices.
The combination of elevated farming costs and weakened cotton prices has created a difficult economic environment that is prompting producers to shift their planting decisions toward potentially more profitable crops for the upcoming growing season.
Agricultural commodity markets concluded Thursday’s trading session with mixed results across grain and livestock futures contracts.
In grain markets, March corn futures climbed half a cent to close at $4.31 and 3/4. March soybeans experienced a decline, falling 4 and 1/4 cents to finish at $11.33. Soybean meal futures for March delivery gained $1.30, ending the day at $309.20, while March soybean oil dropped 46 points to settle at 57.08.
Wheat futures faced downward pressure, with March Chicago wheat contracts decreasing 3 and 3/4 cents to close at $5.48 and 3/4.
Livestock markets demonstrated similar volatility throughout the trading day. April live cattle futures dipped 2 cents, finishing at $240.62. In contrast, March feeder cattle contracts surged 42 cents higher to end at $366.15. April lean hog futures experienced a significant decline, dropping 55 cents to close at $91.27.
These market movements reflect ongoing fluctuations in agricultural commodity prices that directly impact farmers and agricultural businesses throughout the region.
Livestock farmers across the nation are receiving a major financial boost as the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency distributes $1.89 billion through its Emergency Livestock Relief Program.
The substantial payout represents the concluding round of financial assistance for ranchers and livestock owners who submitted applications for help following devastating floods and wildfires that occurred during 2023 and 2024.
This distribution also includes additional funds for producers who had previously received only partial compensation through the relief program. Many farmers who experienced losses from natural disasters will now receive their complete assistance packages.
The Emergency Livestock Relief Program was designed to help agricultural producers recover from significant losses caused by natural disasters that impacted their livestock operations and feed supplies.
The newly released farm bill from the House Agriculture Committee has sparked both criticism and support from different organizations, with particular focus on sections addressing California’s Proposition 12 and chemical labeling requirements.
The controversial provisions have become focal points in the broader debate over agricultural policy, drawing responses from various stakeholder groups across the farming and advocacy communities.
Organizations are now weighing in on how the proposed legislation could impact both agricultural operations and consumer protections, with reactions highlighting the complex balance between state regulations and federal oversight in farming practices.
The United Soybean Board has announced the departure of Lucas Lentsch from his position as chief executive officer, ending his two-year tenure leading the agricultural organization.
Lentsch’s exit marks a significant leadership change for the soybean industry organization, though details surrounding the circumstances of his departure have not been disclosed.
The United Soybean Board, which represents soybean farmers across the nation including those here in Delaware, will now need to search for new leadership as the organization continues its mission to support the soybean industry through research, marketing, and promotional activities.
Delaware farmers who grow specialty crops now have a 30-day window to submit applications for federal financial assistance through a newly announced USDA program. The Department of Agriculture’s Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers initiative will distribute payments based on different rates for each type of crop, though officials have not yet revealed what those payment amounts will be.
This relief program is designed to help growers whose crops were not covered under the larger $11 billion Farmer Bridge Assistance program. The specialty crop assistance represents an additional layer of support for agricultural producers who may have been left out of previous federal aid efforts.
Farmers interested in applying for the assistance should prepare to submit their applications soon, as the one-month deadline will approach quickly once the application process opens.
Kevin Warsh, selected by the Trump administration to head the Federal Reserve, has long advocated for shrinking the central bank’s massive portfolio of bonds and cash. However, financial experts warn that achieving this goal would prove extremely difficult under current banking regulations and monetary policy frameworks.
The Federal Reserve’s current approach to controlling interest rates relies heavily on banks maintaining substantial cash reserves. This system creates natural limits on how much the Fed can reduce its holdings while still maintaining stable money markets and effective monetary policy control.
According to BMO Capital Markets analysts, reducing the Fed’s market presence significantly faces major hurdles. “There isn’t a straightforward path to a smaller Fed footprint in financial markets,” they noted. “The reality is that much smaller holdings may not be feasible unless there are regulatory reforms that reduce banks’ demand for reserves – a process that will take quarters, not months, to unfold.”
Two prominent economists, Stephen Cecchetti from Brandeis University and Kermit Schoenholtz from New York University, acknowledged concerns about large central bank balance sheets in a February 8th blog post. “We appreciate that when a central bank’s balance sheet is large, it facilitates government financing that is highly undesirable,” they wrote, noting it also interferes with financial markets. However, they cautioned that “shrinking the balance sheet significantly would expose short-term markets to substantial volatility risk – a cure potentially worse than the disease.”
Warsh, who previously served as a Fed governor from 2006 to 2011, was nominated last month to replace current Chair Jerome Powell when his term expires in May. Throughout his career, he has consistently criticized the central bank’s expanded role in financial markets.
The Fed’s holdings grew dramatically during two major crisis periods. First during the 2008 financial crisis, and again during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the central bank purchased massive amounts of Treasury and mortgage bonds to stabilize markets and provide economic stimulus when interest rate cuts alone proved insufficient. These purchases pushed Fed holdings to a peak of $9 trillion in spring 2022.
Currently, the Fed manages this system through automated rate tools established in 2019 that can both absorb and provide cash to financial markets, along with emergency lending facilities when needed. This framework helps maintain the Fed’s target interest rate at desired levels.
Last summer, Warsh criticized the Fed’s approach during a period when the central bank was reducing its holdings through “quantitative tightening” or QT, which began in 2022. This process aimed to remove excess cash from the financial system and continued until money market rates began rising and financial firms needed to borrow directly from the Fed to meet their cash needs.
The Fed successfully reduced its holdings from the 2022 peak to the current level of $6.7 trillion before ending the reduction process. The central bank is now temporarily increasing holdings again as a technical measure to manage money market rates through the spring.
Warsh argues that large Fed holdings distort financial markets and benefit Wall Street at Main Street’s expense. He believes further reductions could allow the Fed to set lower interest rates than would otherwise be possible, directing more liquidity to the broader economy.
The fundamental challenge to Warsh’s vision lies in banking regulations that require institutions to maintain substantial reserves. Reducing Fed holdings by removing liquidity from the financial system could undermine the central bank’s ability to control interest rates and fulfill its inflation and employment mandates.
Morgan Stanley analysts noted on February 6th that regulatory changes could reduce banks’ liquidity needs, but warned of trade-offs. “Lower liquidity buffers could increase financial stability risks,” they cautioned.
J.P. Morgan economists Jay Barry and Michael Feroli suggested Wednesday that improving the Fed’s on-demand lending operations might encourage banks to hold less cash. However, they concluded, “we do not think it is likely the Fed can restart QT.”
Some analysts believe closer coordination between the Treasury Department and the Fed could create room for smaller Fed holdings.
Despite Warsh’s public positions, many Fed observers expect practical realities will moderate any dramatic policy shifts. Evercore ISI analysts wrote Tuesday that “we think he will not push for a return” to pre-financial crisis monetary policy, when the Fed operated with limited market liquidity and managed rates through frequent interventions amid significant interest rate volatility.
They also ruled out resuming quantitative tightening, arguing it would signal reluctance to use balance sheet tools in future crises, potentially driving up borrowing costs immediately.
Leading Wall Street executives and government officials will gather Wednesday at President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, for a discussion on the “future of finance and technology.”
The World Liberty Forum, sponsored by the Trump family’s cryptocurrency company World Liberty Financial, will feature high-profile speakers including Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon, Franklin Templeton CEO Jenny Johnson (who oversees $1.7 trillion in assets), New York Stock Exchange President Lynn Martin, and Nasdaq CEO Adena Friedman.
Government representatives scheduled to participate include Trump appointees Michael Selig, who chairs the Commodity Futures Trading Commission; Kelly Loeffler, head of the U.S. Small Business Administration; and Jacob Helberg, Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs.
The gathering will be led by the president’s sons Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump, both co-founders of World Liberty, along with Zach and Alex Witkoff, sons of White House special envoy Steve Witkoff.
Ethics experts who spoke with Reuters offered mixed opinions on whether the forum creates significant conflicts of interest. Some critics view it as problematic mixing of regulators, financial companies, and a Trump family enterprise, suggesting participants might appear to endorse the business to gain political favor. Others argue all presidents face inherent conflicts and see no constitutional violations.
World Liberty spokesperson David Wachsman defended the event, stating it focuses on “deepening relationships and extending U.S. dollar dominance in the digital economy.” He likened it to established conferences like the Milken Institute Global Conference or Sun Valley gatherings.
Wachsman emphasized that media will attend the event, speakers receive no payment for participating, and all announcements will be made public. The company also plans to invite prominent online supporters of its “WLFI” crypto token and USD1 stablecoin.
Several organizations declined comment or didn’t respond to inquiries, including the CFTC, Goldman Sachs, Franklin Templeton, NYSE, and Nasdaq.
A Small Business Administration representative noted that Loeffler is “attending the event in her personal capacity” and referred additional questions to World Liberty. The State Department explained that “a core component of Mr. Helberg’s mandate is to engage the nation’s most prominent business leaders.”
President Trump is not expected to attend the conference, unlike a dinner he hosted in May for major purchasers of his meme coin.
The forum represents a meeting point of Trump family business interests, regulatory officials, political appointees, allied lawmakers, and financial leaders who influence developing cryptocurrency policies.
Chris Swartz, formerly with the U.S. Office of Government Ethics during both Trump administrations, expressed concern about the appearance of the Trump family leveraging the president’s position for their private crypto ventures.
“Any reasonable person would have serious questions about the propriety of this event,” said Swartz, now senior ethics counsel for Democracy Defenders Action, a legal advocacy organization.
University of Iowa law professor Andy Grewal noted it’s typical for business leaders to seek alignment with current administrations.
“The presidency has inescapable conflicts. It’s up to the voters to decide who they believe will or will not ethically handle those,” Grewal explained.
Wachsman responded that “there is nothing unprecedented about leaders in finance, technology, and government convening to discuss the future of critical markets,” arguing that “characterizing standard cross-sector dialogue as a ‘conflict of interest’ misrepresents both the event and its participants.”
World Liberty Financial has become a significant source of Trump family wealth since launching shortly before the 2024 presidential election, drawing criticism from Democratic politicians and others who claim President Trump is using his public position for personal benefit.
Reuters analysis shows the Trump family has earned over $1 billion from cryptocurrency projects during the president’s first year in office. Much of this income stems from World Liberty, whose primary offering, the USD1 stablecoin backed by U.S. dollars, has reached more than $5 billion in circulation, making it the world’s fifth-largest stablecoin, according to Wachsman.
Just days before President Trump’s inauguration in January 2025, an investment entity connected to an Abu Dhabi royal family member acquired a 49% equity stake in World Liberty Financial for $500 million, as reported by the Wall Street Journal and confirmed by Wachsman.
White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly stated that the president’s assets are held in a trust managed by his children and “there are no conflicts of interest.”
White House Counsel David Warrington added that “the president has no involvement in business deals that would implicate his constitutional responsibilities.”
As a beneficiary of the trust that controls the Trump Organization, Trump will receive income from these ventures after leaving office.
Financial experts believe the U.S. dollar could be ready for a comeback following a prolonged four-month downturn, as economic conditions and political factors begin shifting in favor of the American currency.
According to market analysts, several pressures that have weighed down the dollar are now easing. These include the European currency’s strong performance, expectations that the Federal Reserve would cut interest rates, and uncertainty surrounding President Donald Trump’s trade and economic policies.
At the same time, positive developments are emerging that could support dollar strength. These include better U.S. economic growth outlook, increased business optimism, continued foreign investment in American stocks and bonds, and expectations that Trump may adopt a less confrontational approach as midterm elections approach.
The dollar index, which tracks the currency’s performance against six major trading partners, has remained under the 100 mark since November. Since Liberation Day, it has dropped 6.7% and hit a four-year low in January. The currency has suffered its steepest losses against the Australian dollar this year, while also declining against the typically weaker Japanese yen.
Should the dollar reverse course, the effects would spread throughout international markets, influencing global trade patterns, multinational company profits, and investment approaches for trillions in international capital. Such a turnaround would also relieve stress on developing nation currencies and alter risk management strategies for investors globally.
“We are dollar bulls in a world of dollar bears right now,” said Dan Tobon, head of G10 FX strategy at Citi in New York.
Tobon anticipates dollar gains lasting through at least the third quarter, particularly versus the euro, Canadian dollar, and British pound, despite potential headwinds like foreign investor hedging and concerns about Federal Reserve independence under the Trump administration.
A Trump presidency focused more on economic growth and less on political controversy before midterms would provide additional currency support, Tobon noted.
“We think animal spirits will be coming back a bit. All of these things in conjunction, in our view, should actually be quite positive for the dollar.”
Jane Foley, head of currency strategy at Rabobank in London, thinks much pessimistic sentiment has already been factored into dollar pricing, while strong U.S. consumer spending continues attracting investment to America.
The dollar’s decline has influenced international trade flows, multinational corporate earnings, emerging market currencies, and investment strategies involving trillions in cross-border capital. Last year, investors increased their hedging ratios, with these trades contributing to the currency’s fall.
However, derivatives positioning indicates a gradual shift in market sentiment.
January currency options data revealed traders were purchasing protection against additional dollar declines while maintaining optimism about the euro, based on CME Group information.
Yet data shows hedging activity has decreased since Kevin Warsh’s Federal Reserve nomination, with risk reversals measuring currency option imbalances in euro and sterling retreating from January highs.
Market watchers say Warsh’s reputation as a stable leader who opposes expanded Fed asset purchases has calmed worries about excessive monetary easing and potential loss of central bank independence.
While Warsh’s nomination addresses one factor behind the recent dollar weakness, it represents only part of the equation, explained Garrett DeSimone, head of quantitative research at OptionMetrics.
OptionMetrics data revealed growing interest in butterfly structures, which wager on currency pairs remaining relatively stable.
“Taken together, this suggests the market is dialing back bets on U.S. dollar debasement, while investors are still paying for convexity in either direction,” DeSimone said.
However, not all analysts share this optimistic outlook for dollar strength. Experts at J.P.Morgan and BofA remain skeptical about significant currency gains.
Francesca Fornasari, head of currency at Insight Investment, also questions the dollar’s recovery potential, noting recent shifts in perceptions about the administration’s currency preferences.
“We are in an environment in which the administration would like to have a weaker dollar,” said Fornasari. “We think that the dollar is going to continue to grind lower over the course of the year.”
Law enforcement agencies are grappling with an unprecedented surge in cocaine production and distribution that’s creating widespread problems across the United States and internationally.
The dramatic increase in cocaine availability has reached record-breaking levels, according to drug enforcement statistics, leading to significant public health and safety challenges in communities nationwide.
This resurgence of the illegal drug trade is generating serious consequences that extend far beyond traditional trafficking routes, affecting families and communities with devastating results.
Officials say the current cocaine crisis represents one of the most significant drug enforcement challenges in recent years, requiring coordinated responses from multiple agencies and international partners.
The situation continues to evolve as authorities work to address both the supply chain issues and the growing demand that’s fueling this dangerous trend.
MARSEILLE, France – French officials have released an oil tanker suspected of helping Russia evade international sanctions after the vessel’s owners paid a multi-million euro fine, France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot announced Tuesday.
The tanker GRINCH was permitted to depart French waters following the substantial financial penalty, Barrot revealed.
“Circumventing European sanctions comes at a price. Russia will no longer be able to finance its war with impunity through a ghost fleet off our coasts,” Barrot wrote in a social media post.
French maritime authorities had detained the GRINCH in the Mediterranean Sea last month before directing it to waters near the port city of Marseille. Officials suspected the vessel was operating as part of Russia’s shadow fleet – a network of ships designed to transport Russian oil while avoiding international sanctions.
According to French authorities, the tanker had departed from the Russian Arctic port of Murmansk in early January while flying under the flag of Comoros.
Officials stated that the ship’s operating company was required to pay the financial penalty after failing to provide adequate justification for the vessel’s flag registration.
NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Officials in Kenya have established a comprehensive national carbon credit tracking system, positioning the East African nation as a leader in legitimate climate offset programs amid growing global concerns about fraudulent environmental projects.
Government representatives from Kenya’s Ministry of Environment and the National Environment Management Authority introduced the new system in Nairobi, creating a centralized database to monitor carbon offset initiatives, confirm actual emission reductions, and eliminate duplicate credit counting that has plagued international climate markets.
This development occurs as nations across the developing world pursue increased access to climate funding through carbon credit sales under frameworks created by the Paris Climate Agreement. The international accord, established more than ten years ago, requires participating nations to maintain global temperature increases by 2100 at levels “well below” 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) compared to pre-industrial measurements, with efforts to restrict warming to just 1.5 degrees Celsius.
With its abundant forest coverage, grassland areas, and clean energy potential, Kenya seeks to draw international funding while guaranteeing advantages for local populations.
Carbon credit systems enable nations and corporations to balance their greenhouse gas emissions by purchasing credits from initiatives that decrease or eliminate carbon dioxide, including forest protection programs or clean energy projects. However, critics have consistently highlighted how insufficient monitoring, exaggerated results, and unfair profit distribution have damaged confidence in offset systems.
“Today, that narrative changes,” said Deborah Mlongo, cabinet secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry.
“This launch sends a clear signal to investors and the international community,” Mlongo said. “Kenya is ready to participate in global carbon markets with transparency, integrity and strong governance.”
Government representatives explain the registry will establish a clear national monitoring framework following international guidelines. The system documents project authorizations, monitors emission reductions, and approves carbon credit transactions.
The platform will assist Kenya in meeting international carbon trading regulations that govern how emission reductions transfer between nations while avoiding duplicate accounting.
Project developers and financial backers have demonstrated significant enthusiasm, submitting over 80 carbon initiative proposals, according to government sources.
“This registry becomes the backbone of an efficient market,” said Ali Mohamed, Kenya’s special climate envoy. “It enables tracking of projects, issuance of units and corresponding adjustments, strengthening trust in Kenya as a serious and reliable carbon market jurisdiction.”
Government projections suggest carbon markets could produce substantial investment opportunities while advancing conservation efforts, employment generation, and sustainable growth initiatives.
Environment Principal Secretary Festus Ng’eno explained the framework ensures carbon trading advantages reach communities alongside investors. The effort represents part of broader initiatives to develop African institutions capable of securing climate financing while safeguarding national and community priorities.
“We are building a system grounded in fairness, transparency, and inclusivity, one that ensures communities, particularly those who conserve and protect our forests, are recognized and equitably benefit from carbon market participation,” Ng’eno said.
The new system will incorporate a forestry-focused carbon registry introduced previously to advance Kenya’s nationwide tree planting initiative, representing one of Africa’s most extensive forest restoration programs.
German authorities contributed funding and expertise for the national registry through their development organization, GIZ. Officials announced additional support totaling 2.4 million euros ($2.6 million) to enhance Kenya’s carbon market capabilities.
Industry experts emphasize that centralized national registries remain essential for carbon markets, which face heightened examination regarding questionable credits and varying quality standards.
The registry system should reach full operational status within the current year.
A tragic blaze at a residential building in northeastern Spain has claimed five lives and left five additional people with minor wounds, according to regional emergency officials who reported the incident Monday evening.
The deadly flames erupted in a storage area within a five-story residential complex located in Manlleu, a community of approximately 21,000 residents situated north of Barcelona, Catalonian regional officials confirmed in an official statement.
Authorities indicated that the five victims became trapped in the building’s upper-level storage area and were unable to flee, though the circumstances preventing their escape remain unclear. Officials have not yet determined what ignited the destructive fire. The process of identifying the deceased will take place Tuesday, as several bodies sustained severe burn damage.
Law enforcement officials from Catalonia revealed that all five fatalities were young individuals who were not residents of the affected building.
Salvador Illa, Catalonia’s regional leader, shared his sympathies for the victims and their loved ones through social media, stating he was “deeply saddened by the death of five people.”
Medical officials reported Tuesday that four of the wounded individuals received treatment at area hospitals before being discharged, while the fifth injured person did not require hospital care.
Catalonian law enforcement has launched a formal inquiry to determine what caused the fatal fire. Investigators have not disclosed whether they are examining the incident as a potential criminal matter.
DHAKA, Bangladesh — Tarique Rahman officially assumed the role of Bangladesh’s prime minister on Tuesday following his political party’s commanding victory in recent parliamentary elections, marking the nation’s first vote since the major 2024 civil unrest that reshaped the country’s political direction.
The 60-year-old Rahman, whose leadership term spans the next five years, carries significant political lineage as the child of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and late President Ziaur Rahman. His inauguration breaks a 35-year streak of female leadership, as Bangladesh’s governance since its 1991 return to democratic rule had alternated between Rahman’s mother and her political opponent Sheikh Hasina.
President Mohammed Shahabuddin conducted the official swearing-in ceremony for Rahman on Tuesday, with numerous cabinet appointees and government officials also taking their oaths of office during the proceedings.
Electoral results showed Rahman’s Bangladesh Nationalist Party and allied groups capturing 212 positions in the 350-seat legislative body, while an opposition coalition of 11 parties headed by Jamaat-e-Islami, the nation’s primary Islamic political organization, secured 77 parliamentary seats.
Among the opposition alliance was the newly established National Citizen Party, created by student activists who spearheaded the 2024 demonstrations, which obtained six legislative positions.
Bangladesh’s electoral system allows citizens to directly choose 300 parliamentary representatives, with the remaining 50 positions designated for women and allocated based on each party’s electoral performance.
Rahman returned to Bangladesh in December after spending 17 years in voluntary exile in London, arriving shortly before his mother’s passing. He has pledged to champion democratic principles in the South Asian nation of 170 million residents.
The election process was supervised by an interim administration headed by Nobel Peace Prize recipient Muhammad Yunus, which assumed control after Hasina’s government fell. International election monitors characterized the voting as largely peaceful and legitimate.
Tuesday’s inauguration drew various international representatives, including Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, Bhutan’s Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, and delegations from India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and other regional nations.
Earlier Tuesday, election commission leader A.N.M. Nasir Uddin separately administered oaths to all newly elected parliamentary members.
The Bangladesh Awami League, Rahman’s primary opposition party previously led by Hasina, was prohibited from participating in the election following her removal during the 2024 mass protests. The Yunus administration had also suspended all party activities for Hasina’s organization, which had governed Bangladesh for a decade and a half.
Speaking from her refuge in India, where she has resided since August 5, 2024, Hasina criticized the electoral process as biased against her political movement, which maintains considerable influence. Domestically, she received a death sentence on crimes against humanity charges related to the hundreds of fatalities during the uprising.
Hasina has rejected these accusations and dismissed the court proceedings as a “kangaroo court.”
CHICAGO (AP) — Rev. Jesse Jackson received coverage from The Associated Press during his preparation for a groundbreaking 1984 presidential bid when he was 41 years old and actively involved in civil rights work. The AP is sharing that original story again, written by the late AP journalist Sharon Cohen, exactly as it ran on Aug. 7, 1983.
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Jackson envisions himself walking the isolated, challenging path of religious prophets — someone called by divine purpose and sent forward like Jesus, Gandhi or Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. to guide others from difficult times.
“I’m very much driven by my religion to rise,” he says. “There’s a push that comes from religious duty. Gandhi couldn’t stop. Martin couldn’t stop. Jesus couldn’t stop.”
And according to his own words, Rev. Jesse L. Jackson cannot stop either.
“I’m in the prophetic ministry,” he says. “It’s the kind of ministry ancient prophets engaged in when they challenged the conduct of kings and queens.”
Jesse Louis Jackson — the 41-year-old Southern native, product of the civil rights era and potential 1984 black presidential contender — represents someone consumed, nearly fixated with his chosen calling.
Jackson carries a message of hope wherever he travels. His approach involves rhythm and rhyme. He excels at creating memorable phrases.
“If you are behind in a race, you CAN’T run equally,” he tells church audiences. “The race does not go to the fast or to the strong but to those who hold out.”
“If you pickle your brains with liquor, you CAN’T hold out. If you shoot cocaine in your membrane, you CAN’T hold out. If you put dope in your veins, rather than hope in your brains, you CAN’T hold out.”
His presentations captivate listeners. Before long the crowd responds with chants of “Preach, brother. Preach it.” And he continues.
“We’re not the result of accidents, we’re the result of providence. We’re not here because we’re lucky. We’re here because we’re blessed.”
Following his presentations, people surround him, taking photographs, requesting autographs and asking him to kiss their children. He accommodates everyone.
“My gift is a gift of the spirit,” he says.
This spiritual gift appears in various ways throughout the development of this multifaceted individual from an eager, impulsive aide to King into a charismatic — though sometimes disputed — political presence in his own capacity.
During the 1960s, he fought for civil rights, organizing restaurant protests and participating in open housing demonstrations.
The 1970s brought emphasis on dignity and economic fairness. Push-Excel emerged as a self-improvement initiative encouraging academic commitment. Corporate partnerships began ensuring equitable black participation.
Currently, his focus centers on leadership. He promotes voter registration throughout the South. He advocates for increased black representation in government. His ultimate goal involves electing a black president, potentially Jesse Jackson himself.
“It’s not enough to get in the mainstream and swim,” Jackson says. “You must get in the mainstream and redirect its course.”
Jackson has attempted to make his contribution for years through highly public methods, sometimes causing frustration and annoyance among others.
He has criticized inappropriate content in disco songs, intervened in local employment conflicts and organized boycotts against major corporations.
He has supported the rights of Haitians, Palestinians and Polish people.
He traveled to Panama to evaluate the canal agreement and addressed 20,000 South African blacks about apartheid.
Jewish Americans were disturbed when he embraced Yasser Arafat, the Palestine Liberation Organization leader. Alabama legislators welcomed his historic address as the first black speaker before their body this century.
Recently, Jackson has been considering a Democratic primary presidential campaign and increasingly sounds like someone seeking office, generating mixed responses from fellow black leaders who question the political wisdom of a black candidacy currently.
Polling data shows him performing better than some declared candidates. “God did not limit genius to white males,” says Jackson. “He distributed it all over town.”
Jackson has never sought elected office. His formal base remains Chicago’s Operation PUSH (People United to Serve Humanity), though he essentially embodies the organization. Jackson established the group in 1971, initially calling it the more ambitious People United to Save Humanity, after leaving the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. He has served as president continuously, currently earning $40,000 annually.
When supporters and critics discuss Jackson, they consistently mention identical characteristics — his self-regard, his ambition, his grand concepts, his organizational limitations, and his skillful media cultivation.
“He seems himself on a messianic mission,” says half-brother Noah Robinson. “What is it that motivates a person to grow? For Jesse, it’s his ego. God bless him for having that ego.”
“I always describe a visionary as someone who looks at cloudy skies and does not see the clouds, but sees the sun,” says Gary, Ind., Mayor Richard Hatcher, a friend and PUSH chairman of the board. “He’s able to do that.”
Mary Frances Berry, a member of the U.S. Civil Rights Commission, added though that “Jesse’s not really an organization man. His strong suit is not really running an organization.”
“The most pungent criticism is that he is constantly announcing campaigns and crusades that evaporate after the TV set is turned off,” says Don Rose, a political strategist who worked with Jackson in the 1960s civil rights movement.
Jackson, says Hatcher, “seems to have the ability to elicit from people either a very strong feeling of support … or a very strong feeling of dislike, and sometimes a feeling that borders almost on hatred.”
Several prominent black leaders indeed accuse Jackson of opportunism, claiming he exploits situations and takes credit for others’ achievements. However, virtually none have publicly opposed him.
Nobody questions Jackson’s commanding presence. Standing 6-foot-2 with an athletic build, he wears carefully fitted conservative suits that long ago replaced the flashy dashikis he favored in the 1960s, along with his prominent Afro hairstyle.
He maintains his Baptist minister’s speaking ability, avoids smoking and drinking, yet displays humor that leads friends to believe Jackson could have succeeded as an entertainer.
Constantly traveling, he still makes time to check with teachers about his son’s academic progress. Jesse Jr., 18, his oldest of five children, attends a private Episcopal school in Washington, D.C. “He wants us to be an example of what he preaches,” says Jesse Jr.
Though Jackson addresses many topics, one message remains constant throughout his words and life: an unwavering determination to achieve success.
“When you do less than your best, it’s a SIN,” he tells audiences. “To be black in America, you have to be superior to be equal.”
Jackson was born Oct. 8, 1941, in Greenville, S.C., and completed his education at North Carolina A&T, earning degrees in sociology and economics, and meeting Jacqueline Davis, his 1962 bride.
Following college, Jackson attended Chicago Theological Seminary and participated in King’s civil rights demonstrations.
King named him Operation Breadbasket director, the SCLC’s economic division, in 1967. Following King’s 1968 assassination, he created Operation PUSH four years later.
Jackson accompanied King on that fatal day in 1968 when he was killed in Memphis, Tenn. He appeared at a Chicago City Council session the next day wearing a shirt reportedly stained with the murdered civil rights leader’s blood.
Leading PUSH, Jackson has functioned as an urban motivational figure, encouraging and praising, persuading and challenging blacks to work diligently, succeed academically, and claim their rightful share of influence.
Jackson’s Operation PUSH reports securing over $1 billion in business agreements with Burger King, Coca-Cola, Heublein, and Seven-Up that establish additional distributorships and increased advertising in black-oriented publications.
Not every initiative has generated support.
When PUSH declared an Anheuser-Busch beer boycott last year, some St. Louis blacks, where the company operates, criticized him for targeting the wrong business.
Others claim Jackson’s programs benefit too few people.
Another Jackson creation, PUSH-EXCEL — Push for Excellence, a 1976 program promoting daily study time, teacher commitment and student discipline — has encountered additional challenges.
Seven Department of Education audit reports completed this year seek to disallow PUSH-EXCEL’s use of $736,000. They indicated the funds apparently supported items not covered under the organization’s federal grants and contracts.
Additionally, officials noted that approximately $1 million in expenditures has been questioned due to insufficient documentation. This money represents part of roughly $6 million granted to PUSH-EXCEL over three or four years.
The audits do not suggest criminal wrongdoing. Jackson states PUSH representatives are collaborating with auditors to address the issues.
As Jackson began discussing presidential matters like American re-industrialization, employment, or military spending, some critics challenged his credentials for addressing such national topics.
Jackson rejects this criticism.
“I wasn’t trained in auto mechanics and brick masonry,” he says. “I had a liberal arts education … So if on a given day Mr. Reagan can speak about agricultural policy and trade policy and international affairs and art and culture and science, who’s to suggest I should be less able to speak to a broad range of issues?”
Jackson indicates his Southern registration drive’s success, funding and organization will influence his decision about seeking the Democratic nomination. If he declines, he believes another black candidate should run.
The Democrats, he argues, “have in many ways made us like the Harlem Globetrotters. We can provide the thrills and excitement, but not participate in the other room where policy decisions are made.”
While supporters and black leaders remain split on a Jackson candidacy, some recognize advantages from considering the possibility.
“He’s made the party more cognizant of black voters,” says Georgia state Sen. Julian Bond. “It has made race — in a positive way — an agenda item in the campaign for the Democratic nomination.”
CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy – American alpine skiing legend Mikaela Shiffrin faces her final opportunity to claim Olympic hardware at the Milano Cortina Games when she takes to the slopes Wednesday for the slalom competition, capping off the alpine skiing program.
The 30-year-old athlete enters the race as the clear frontrunner, having established herself as the most accomplished World Cup alpine skier in history. Her season statistics paint a picture of complete dominance – capturing seven victories in eight slalom competitions while placing second in the remaining event.
Shiffrin’s credentials in the discipline are unmatched. She claimed Olympic gold in 2014 and has secured four world championship titles in slalom. This season alone, she clinched the women’s World Cup slalom crystal globe for an unprecedented ninth time. Among her 108 World Cup victories, an impressive 71 have come in slalom events – more than any alpine competitor has achieved in a single discipline.
However, mounting expectations continue to intensify as observers frequently reference her inability to medal at the Beijing 2022 Olympics. Her last Olympic podium appearance dates back to 2018, creating additional pressure despite her remarkable World Cup achievements.
Earlier in these Games, Shiffrin entered the team combined event as the gold medal favorite. Following downhill specialist Breezy Johnson’s strong opening performance, the competition hinged on the slalom portion. Shiffrin recorded the 15th-fastest time in that segment, ultimately placing fourth alongside her teammate.
The giant slalom proved equally challenging for the American star, where she finished 11th following her second run. The course for that event was set by her coach Karin Harjo, who made history as the first woman to design an Olympic alpine course. Shiffrin has struggled with giant slalom since sustaining a puncture wound during a November 2024 race.
Prior to the giant slalom competition, Shiffrin addressed the intense scrutiny through social media, acknowledging that while Olympic coverage centers on medal outcomes, athletes face “vulnerability to erroneous judgment and narratives built on a limited understanding of what this sport truly demands.”
Reflecting on her performance after the giant slalom, Shiffrin analyzed her struggles during the opening week.
“There were a lot of turns where I was quite quick on the team combined day, and a handful where I missed. There was just a misalignment, and it was a combination of course setting, equipment, and conditions, and then my mentality was not matching the day,” she explained.
“So I’m kind of going into it (the slalom) with my eyes open that we can see a very similar situation, and I will try to handle it differently in my head.”
Shiffrin’s competitors are hoping course conditions and slope design will work in their favor come race day.
Switzerland’s Camille Rast stands as the only skier to defeat Shiffrin in slalom this season. The current world champion seeks her first Olympic medal. Her Swiss teammate, 32-year-old Wendy Holdener, earned silver at the 2025 world championships where Shiffrin placed fourth. The five-time Olympic medalist chose to skip Sunday’s giant slalom to focus additional training time on slalom preparation.
Several other contenders have reached World Cup podiums this season, including Austria’s Katharina Truppe, Germany’s three-time Olympic silver medalist Emma Aicher, and Lara Colturi, who was born in Italy but competes for Albania. Germany’s Lena Duerr and American Paula Moltzan, who earned bronze in the team combined, also pose potential threats.
The host nation Italy will field only three competitors after officials denied their request to replace injured 16-year-old Giada d’Antonio.
Cricket legends from around the world, including Indian superstars Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, have united in a humanitarian plea for Pakistan’s imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan, demanding better treatment for the cricket icon behind bars.
The 73-year-old Khan, who transitioned from cricket stardom to politics, has remained incarcerated since August 2023 after being found guilty in multiple cases he claims were politically motivated revenge following his removal from office through a 2022 parliamentary no-confidence vote.
Concerns mounted last week when Khan’s legal representative informed Pakistan’s Supreme Court that the former cricket champion had suffered substantial vision loss in his right eye during his imprisonment. Medical officials reported Monday that swelling has decreased following treatment and his eyesight has shown improvement.
Setting aside the tense relationship between India and Pakistan, which included military confrontations in the past year, former Indian team leaders Gavaskar and Kapil Dev added their signatures to a petition voicing “deep concern” regarding Khan’s treatment and jail conditions.
“Many of us competed against him, shared the field with him, or grew up idolizing his all-round brilliance, charisma, and competitive spirit,” the petition stated.
“Recent reports concerning his health — particularly the alarming deterioration of his vision while in custody — and the conditions of his imprisonment over the past two and a half years have caused us profound concern.
“As fellow cricketers who understand the values of fair play, honour, and respect that transcend the boundary rope, we believe that a person of Imran Khan’s stature deserves to be treated with the dignity and basic human consideration befitting a former national leader and a global sporting icon.”
The petition garnered support from numerous cricket luminaries, including former Australian captains Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Allan Border, Steve Waugh, as well as Belinda Clark and Kim Hughes from Australia.
English cricket stars Mike Atherton, Nasser Hussain, Mike Brearley and David Gower also signed the appeal, joined by West Indies legend Clive Lloyd and New Zealand’s John Wright.
The cricket veterans “respectfully” called upon Pakistan’s government to guarantee immediate and proper medical care, respectful treatment, and unrestricted access to legal proceedings for Khan.
“Our shared history on the field reminds us that rivalry ends when the stumps are drawn—and respect endures. Imran Khan embodied that spirit throughout his career.”
Khan’s cricket career spanned from 1971 to 1992, during which he played 88 Test matches and 175 one-day internationals for Pakistan, leading the national team to their sole ODI World Cup championship in 1992.
Speaking to Reuters, Khan’s son Kasim Khan emphasized that while his father’s health remains the immediate priority, other critical issues include “his freedom, abiding by correct human rights processes and also the rule of law and just ensuring that he’s allowed a proper, fair trial.”
KYIV – A devastating Russian assault on Ukraine’s electrical systems left three energy workers dead and tens of thousands without electricity or heating on Tuesday, occurring just hours before planned peace negotiations were set to begin.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy denounced the overnight bombardment that struck 12 regions across the country, timing the attack to coincide with the start of U.S.-supported three-way discussions between Kyiv and Moscow scheduled for Geneva.
“It was a combined strike, specially calculated to cause as much damage as possible to our energy sector,” Zelenskyy posted on X, demanding that diplomatic efforts be supported by “justice and strength.”
Since launching its comprehensive military offensive against Ukraine in February 2022, Russia has repeatedly targeted Ukrainian power facilities throughout this winter season, disrupting electricity and heating systems across the nation.
According to Ukraine’s deputy energy minister, the three fatalities occurred when a Russian unmanned aircraft hit their vehicle close to the Sloviansk power facility, located in a contested border region that Moscow demands Ukraine surrender as part of any peace agreement.
The strategic Black Sea port of Odesa experienced “incredibly serious” harm to its power supply network, according to private utility company DTEK.
“Repairs will take a long time to restore the equipment to working order,” the company announced on social media platforms.
Deputy Energy Minister Artem Nekrasov reported that residential areas in five regions experienced electrical outages due to the bombardment, while also confirming heating disruptions in Odesa and Sumy, a regional center in northern Ukraine located near the Russian frontier.
Ukrainian air defense forces reported that Russia deployed almost 400 unmanned aircraft and 29 missiles in the attack. While most were intercepted, 13 locations within Ukraine sustained direct hits, military officials confirmed.
Nigeria’s data protection authority has launched an investigation into the Chinese-owned shopping platform Temu following allegations of privacy law violations, officials announced Tuesday. The inquiry could result in significant financial penalties for the company in one of Africa’s largest consumer markets.
The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) cited multiple areas of concern that prompted the investigation, including digital surveillance activities, unclear data handling procedures, international data transfers, and potential violations of data minimization requirements.
This investigation occurs as Temu faces increasing international examination of its aggressive global expansion strategy.
Vincent Olatunji, who leads the NDPC, authorized the investigation and cautioned that data processors may face accountability for any regulatory violations.
Temu has not yet provided a response to requests for comment regarding the investigation.
The Nigerian data protection agency previously imposed substantial penalties, including a 766 million naira fine ($565,990) against Multichoice Nigeria, the continent’s leading pay-television provider, for privacy regulation violations last year.
According to the NDPC’s statement, Temu processes personal information for approximately 12.7 million Nigerian customers and serves roughly 70 million users worldwide each day.
The platform, which operates under the publicly-traded PDD Holdings on the Nasdaq exchange, has experienced swift growth in Nigeria through its mobile application that provides significant price reductions on clothing, technology products, and home items.
Intense snowfall disrupted Winter Olympic competition schedules in Livigno, Italy on Tuesday, forcing officials to call off the women’s snowboard slopestyle medal competition and postpone qualifying rounds for freestyle skiing aerials.
Event organizers kept the aerials competition on standby while monitoring weather conditions to determine if snowfall would subside enough to start competition later in the day. Crews worked with shovels attempting to clear the steep launching ramp that competitors would use at the Livigno Aerials and Moguls Park, where temperatures remained at a frigid -6 degrees Celsius.
At another venue across the city, officials made the decision to cancel Tuesday afternoon’s women’s slopestyle event at the Livigno Snow Park, announcing plans to reschedule the competition for a later date.
New Zealand’s Zoi Sadowski-Synnott enters as the top contender for the slopestyle championship after topping the qualifying rounds. The defending Olympic champion and current world titleholder faces strong competition from Japan’s Murase Kokomo among others.
Female aerials athletes managed to finish their practice sessions moments before organizers announced the postponement of their qualifying event.
The men’s aerials qualifying rounds remain on the schedule for later Tuesday.
The aerials discipline involves skiers propelling themselves from a jump to execute aerial maneuvers before touching down.
Among the women’s medal favorites are China’s Xu Mengtao, who won gold in the previous Olympics, and Belarus native Hanna Huskova, who is participating under neutral athlete status.
Federal officials announced Friday they have distributed $1.89 billion in emergency financial assistance to livestock farmers across the nation.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture says the disaster relief funds are designed to help producers recover from significant losses they suffered during 2023 and 2024. The payments address damages caused by severe weather events including prolonged drought conditions, devastating floods, and destructive wildfires.
The substantial aid package represents the federal government’s response to help agricultural communities rebuild after facing multiple natural disasters over the past two years that impacted livestock operations nationwide.
Federal officials have announced they will abandon legal support for certain agricultural assistance initiatives designed to help socially disadvantaged farming operations across the country.
In correspondence addressed to House Speaker Mike Johnson, Solicitor General John Sauer confirmed that the Department of Justice plans to withdraw its defense of farm program components that specifically benefit producers classified as “socially disadvantaged.”
This policy shift could impact Delaware’s farming community, as these federal programs have historically provided support to agricultural producers who face barriers in accessing traditional farming resources and opportunities.
The decision represents a significant change in how the federal government approaches agricultural equity programs that have been designed to level the playing field for minority and disadvantaged farmers nationwide.
Congressional efforts to boost corn-based ethanol sales across America are meeting strong resistance from medium-sized oil refining companies, who warn they may be forced to cease operations if the legislation moves forward.
The House Republican Party’s newly formed Rural Domestic Energy Council faces a Sunday deadline to present legislative proposals that would permit nationwide, year-round distribution of fuel blends containing higher concentrations of ethanol.
This development represents another obstacle for E15 fuel expansion efforts, even as former President Trump has advocated for increased ethanol market opportunities. The proposed changes would significantly alter current fuel distribution patterns and could have major implications for both the agricultural sector and oil refining industry.
Good morning, Delmarva! We’re starting this Tuesday with some patchy fog across the peninsula, but don’t worry – it should clear out by 8 AM as we transition to mostly cloudy skies.
Today’s looking pretty mild for mid-February, with temperatures climbing to around 51 degrees. You’ll barely feel any breeze with light southwest winds at 0 to 5 mph, making it a comfortable day to get outside despite the cloud cover.
Tonight, we’ll stay mostly cloudy with temperatures dipping to a chilly 38 degrees – perfect weather for cozy indoor activities.
Looking ahead to Wednesday, it starts off cloudy with highs reaching a pleasant 57 degrees, but keep that umbrella handy! We’re tracking a chance of light rain moving in during the day, continuing into Wednesday night as temperatures settle around 40 degrees.
Nothing too dramatic in our forecast – just typical February weather with mild temps and a gentle rain system midweek. Stay warm and dry out there, Delmarva!
This is your TV Delmarva weather team keeping you informed.
Delaware motorists are encountering hazardous driving conditions today as thick fog has settled across the First State, creating visibility challenges of different severity levels in various locations.
The Delaware Department of Transportation is tracking the foggy conditions, which are affecting roadways from New Castle County in the north to Sussex County in the south. The dense moisture in the air is reducing visibility significantly, making travel particularly treacherous for morning commuters.
Drivers are advised to exercise extreme caution when traveling on Delaware roads today, reducing speed and increasing following distance to account for the limited visibility. The fog conditions are expected to impact traffic flow and could lead to delays throughout the state’s highway system.
DelDOT continues to monitor the weather situation and will provide updates as conditions change throughout the day.
Federal immigration enforcement efforts in Maine are creating unexpected political hurdles for Republicans working to preserve their grip on Congress, with particular attention falling on GOP Senator Susan Collins.
The enforcement actions have thrust immigration policy into the spotlight as a defining issue in what could be a pivotal Senate race. Collins finds herself navigating the political fallout from President Trump’s immigration initiatives in her home state.
On January 21, Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials began a targeted operation dubbed “Operation Catch of the Day” in Maine, focusing on locating and detaining individuals without legal immigration status. The operation sparked immediate controversy and protests, including an anti-ICE demonstration in Lewiston on January 24.
The enforcement activities represent part of the broader Trump administration’s approach to immigration policy, but they’re creating complications for Republican lawmakers who must balance party loyalty with constituent concerns in their home districts.
Political observers note that immigration enforcement actions like those seen in Maine could influence voter sentiment in key Senate contests, potentially affecting the Republican Party’s ability to maintain control of the upper chamber of Congress.
Collaborative efforts between Immigration and Customs Enforcement and local police departments have seen dramatic growth during President Trump’s second administration, according to data examined by NPR.
The expansion of these federal-local partnerships marks a significant shift in how immigration enforcement is being carried out across the country. Under these arrangements, local law enforcement officers can work directly with federal immigration agents during operations.
While Washington D.C. does not participate in the formal 287(g) partnership program, the city’s Metropolitan Police Department can still coordinate with federal immigration enforcement agencies during joint operations, as demonstrated in recent traffic stops involving multiple agencies including the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, and ICE officers.
The increased cooperation represents a notable change from previous years when such partnerships were less frequently utilized, highlighting the current administration’s emphasis on expanding immigration enforcement capabilities through local partnerships.
Republican officials in Minnesota are standing behind their decision to invite social media influencers to investigate alleged fraud within the state’s social services system, even as Democrats argue this move contributed to a subsequent increase in immigration enforcement actions.
The controversy centers around the GOP’s strategy of using online personalities to examine potential misconduct in social welfare programs. While Republicans maintain they were justified in pursuing these fraud allegations, Democratic leaders are placing responsibility on the Republican party for what they describe as creating conditions that led to heightened ICE operations in the area.
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between the two parties over immigration policy and enforcement priorities, with each side attributing different causes and consequences to recent developments in Minnesota’s immigration landscape.
While snow may still be on the ground, agricultural producers across Delaware are already looking toward spring planting season as they grapple with continued economic pressures affecting their bottom line.
During a recent Managing for Profit discussion, Jeremy Walstrom, who serves as a regional sales manager with RCIS, outlined strategies for local farmers to better leverage their crop insurance coverage. Walstrom highlighted several important updates to insurance programs that could help producers navigate financial uncertainty in the coming growing season.
The timing of this guidance comes as many farming operations continue to experience disappointing financial returns that are impacting their overall business stability. These economic challenges are prompting agricultural professionals to emphasize the importance of risk management tools like crop insurance as farmers prepare for another potentially difficult year.
Rev. Jesse Jackson, a towering figure in America’s civil rights movement, passed away Tuesday at 84 years old.
Jackson spent his entire career championing social justice and equality causes throughout the United States. His decades-long commitment to civil rights activism made him one of the most recognizable voices in the fight for racial equality.
The influential religious leader and activist remained dedicated to his advocacy work right up until his death this week.
MILAN (AP) — The world of Olympic hockey is experiencing an unexpected cultural phenomenon.
A television series called “Heated Rivalry,” which follows the romantic relationship between two gay hockey players from rival teams, has captured the attention of both athletes and spectators, drawing new audiences to the sport and generating discussions about diversity in professional hockey.
The dramatic storyline centers on Canadian player Shane Hollander and Russian athlete Ilya Rozanov, whose passionate but secretive romance has resonated with viewers worldwide. According to reports, the NHL has experienced increased ticket purchases, suggesting the show’s influence extends beyond entertainment.
The series made headlines even before the Milan Cortina Olympics began, with lead actors Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie participating in the Olympic torch ceremony. Now, North American athletes and supporters are witnessing the program’s growing influence firsthand.
Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski, competing for Team USA, acknowledged that teammates have been discussing the series in their locker room.
“Everyone is saying how great it is, I just haven’t seen it yet,” Werenski shared with The Associated Press following a 5-1 win against Latvia. “It’s definitely good for the sport of hockey. Whenever you can add more eyes to the game and have people talk about the game and talk about inclusivity, I think it’s just great for the sport.”
Fellow U.S. defenseman Jake Sanderson from the Ottawa Senators admitted he’s aware of the show but lacks detailed knowledge about it. When questioned about the timeline for an openly gay NHL player, Sanderson referenced Luke Prokop, who made history in 2021 as the first contracted NHL player to publicly come out while with the Nashville Predators organization, though he hasn’t yet competed at the professional level.
“You never know if that show (will) instill some confidence in some people,” Sanderson remarked, emphasizing that any openly gay teammate would receive complete support. “I don’t think we would treat them any differently. They’re our teammate, we love them no matter what, and obviously embrace them, absolutely.”
The television adaptation stems from Rachel Reid’s 2019 novel of the same name. Initially created for Canadian streaming platform Crave, the series achieved top ratings on HBO Max during its debut season and has secured approval for a second season.
Canadian Olympic team members appear to be among the show’s most enthusiastic supporters.
During the Olympic experience, competitors received potted plants as gifts. According to team press liaison Tara MacBournie, numerous Canadian athletes chose to name their plants either Shane or Ilya, referencing the main characters.
Canadian alpine skier Kiki Alexander extended this tribute further by sharing on TikTok that the Olympic village’s Canadian moose mascot had been dubbed Shane.
“If you know, you know,” she posted.
Adam van Koeverden, who won Olympic gold in canoeing in 2004 and currently serves as Canada’s secretary of state for sport, expressed enthusiasm for the program.
“We’re the perfect country to be having the conversation and be putting that art out there that I think is advancing the conversation on diversity in hockey,” van Koeverden explained to AP during the Games. “Hockey is for everyone and ‘Heated Rivalry’ makes it clear.”
The series debuted in Europe during January and has surprisingly succeeded in Russia, despite that nation’s restrictive policies toward LGBTQ+ individuals. Due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the IOC permitted only a small number of Russian competitors to participate in the Milan Cortina Games as independent athletes, with no official team representation.
Spectators are also embracing the “Heated Rivalry” phenomenon. Calgary resident Kim Sweet, currently watching Episode 3, finds the storyline compelling.
“The show has me very intrigued,” Sweet, age 50, commented before entering the venue to watch Canada face Czechia recently. “How a very male-dominated sport has two guys having to work through the privacy of it all, and whether you ever want to come out.”
“It’s great having more eyes on the sport,” added Sweet, who identifies as “a huge hockey fan.”
California visitor Angie Campos attended games wearing apparel featuring the jerseys of the show’s protagonists.
Campos represents a new hockey convert attracted by the series, joining many others in this trend. Data from ticketing service SeatGeek indicates that weekly NHL ticket purchases increased by more than 20% following the show’s late November premiere, with no comparable increase during the previous year’s corresponding timeframe.
“The series didn’t just light up social media feeds, it may have sent fans straight to hockey games themselves,” SeatGeek stated in their January 16 analysis. “While it’s impossible to attribute all of this growth to a single show, the timing is hard to ignore.”
Campos drew parallels between her new interest and that of other “Heated Rivalry” watchers to the increase in female NFL viewership after Taylor Swift began dating Kansas City Chiefs player Travis Kelce and attending their games.
“It just makes it a little bit more relatable and it has definitely opened eyes to a human side of competition,” she explained.
Hockey traditionally features intense physical play, occasional fights, and aggressive contact, even during important matches where penalties can be decisive. During Canada’s recent victory on Sunday, Tom Wilson from Canada and France’s Pierre Crinon both received ejections for fighting.
This masculine and combative atmosphere makes the ice rink an unexpected and bold backdrop for examining sensitive emotions around forbidden romance and societal attitudes toward male sexual identity. Throughout the NHL’s century-long history, no active player has publicly identified as gay.
While “Heated Rivalry” has gained tremendous popularity among female viewers, male audiences are beginning to appreciate its appeal.
At the Canada-France match, 20-year-old Christopher Ryan York said he had joined the growing fanbase. The show’s widespread popularity made it difficult to avoid, he noted, and he appreciates its role in creating new hockey enthusiasts.
“Anything to grow the sport, for sure,” he commented.
His father, 60-year-old Kevin York, hasn’t viewed the series but constantly hears about it in Alberta. He believes the program must be genuinely inspiring, citing the case of Canadian hockey player Jesse Kortuem from Vancouver, who left the sport at age 17 due to fears about acceptance and shared his coming-out message on Instagram January 13.
“Something has sparked in me (ok — yes credit to #HeatedRivalry),” Kortuem wrote. “I thought I would share because I want to speak to the athletes out there who are still in the closet or struggling to find their way. I want you to know that there is hope and you’re not alone.”
GENEVA — Representatives from Russia and Ukraine gathered in Switzerland on Tuesday for another attempt at American-facilitated peace negotiations, occurring just days before marking four years since Russia launched its full-scale military assault on Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed his nation’s diplomatic team had arrived in Switzerland, while Russian state media outlet Tass reported their delegation was also present. The scheduled two-day negotiations were set to begin later Tuesday.
According to a source with knowledge of the proceedings who requested anonymity due to the delicate nature of the discussions, challenging conversations regarding Russian-controlled Ukrainian territories are anticipated. President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner will facilitate meetings with both delegations, though Russian representatives continue demanding Ukraine surrender its eastern Donbas territory.
Military commanders from all three nations will examine ceasefire oversight mechanisms and implementation requirements during the Geneva sessions, the informed source revealed. Earlier negotiations in Abu Dhabi focused on establishing demilitarized zones and maintaining military communication channels between the parties.
However, prospects for significant progress appear limited, as both sides remain firmly entrenched in their territorial positions despite America’s June deadline for reaching an agreement.
Ukraine’s undermanned military continues grinding warfare against Russia’s larger forces across approximately 750 miles of front lines. Ukrainian citizens face ongoing Russian air strikes that consistently disable electrical systems and demolish residential areas.
Central issues include the fate of nearly 20% of Ukrainian territory currently under Russian occupation or desired by Moscow, along with Kyiv’s insistence on post-conflict security assurances backed by American support to prevent future Russian aggression.
Trump characterized the Geneva gathering as “big talks.”
“Ukraine better come to the table fast,” he stated to reporters Monday evening while returning to Washington from Florida.
The meaning behind Trump’s remarks about Ukraine remained unclear, given the country has consistently participated in negotiations seeking to end Russia’s destructive campaign.
U.S. military representation includes Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, commander of American and NATO forces in Europe, and Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, who will engage with their Russian and Ukrainian counterparts, confirmed Col. Martin O’Donnell, Grynkewich’s spokesman.
Russia launched nearly 400 long-range drones and 29 various missiles overnight against 12 Ukrainian regions, wounding nine individuals including children, according to the Ukrainian president.
Zelenskyy reported tens of thousands of residents in the southern port city of Odesa lost heating and water service.
The Ukrainian leader demanded Moscow face consequences for the persistent attacks, arguing they undermine American peace efforts.
“The more this evil comes from Russia, the harder it will be for everyone to reach any agreements with them. Partners must understand this. First and foremost, this concerns the United States,” Zelenskyy posted on social media Monday evening.
“We agreed to all realistic proposals from the United States, starting with the proposal for an unconditional and long-term ceasefire,” Zelenskyy added.
Military leadership discussions will focus on potential ceasefire monitoring following any peace agreement, the source indicated.
Previous Abu Dhabi meetings addressed demilitarized zone establishment in contested areas and maintaining military communications between all parties.
Grynkewich arrived in Switzerland Monday from Germany for the negotiations.
The Geneva discussions occurred simultaneously with separate American-Iranian indirect talks in the same Swiss city.
Following the second Abu Dhabi round, delegation members described the talks as “pretty good,” suggesting peace could be achieved “if everyone just agrees to it,” according to the source.
After those earlier negotiations, the United States announced restored direct military communication with Russia, with Grynkewich hoping to establish high-level dialogue with Russian military chief Gen. Valery Gerasimov.
CHICAGO — Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, the influential civil rights leader who worked closely with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and twice sought the presidency, passed away Tuesday at the age of 84.
Family members confirmed Jackson’s death in an online statement, saying he died peacefully with loved ones by his side.
Jackson first gained prominence as a young activist in Chicago when King summoned him to the Lorraine Motel in Memphis just before the civil rights icon’s assassination. Following King’s death, Jackson stepped forward to carry on the movement’s mission.
Throughout his life, Jackson championed causes for marginalized communities both domestically and internationally, fighting for voting rights, employment opportunities, educational access, and healthcare reform. He achieved significant diplomatic breakthroughs with global leaders and used his Rainbow/PUSH Coalition to push corporate America toward greater diversity and fairness.
Jackson became famous for his empowering message delivered through a poem he frequently recited: “I am Somebody.” The verse continued: “I may be poor, but I am Somebody; I may be young; but I am Somebody; I may be on welfare, but I am Somebody.”
This philosophy reflected Jackson’s own journey from humble beginnings in the segregated South to becoming the nation’s most prominent civil rights figure following King’s legacy.
Even while battling serious health issues in recent years, including a neurological condition that impaired his movement and speech, Jackson remained active in protests against racial inequality during the Black Lives Matter era. As recently as 2024, he made public appearances at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago and attended a City Council session supporting a ceasefire resolution in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Speaking to protesters in Minneapolis during the George Floyd case, Jackson said: “Even if we win, it’s relief, not victory. They’re still killing our people. Stop the violence, save the children. Keep hope alive.”
Jackson’s distinctive speaking style, rooted in Black church traditions, commanded audiences wherever he went. He was known for memorable phrases like “Hope not dope” and “If my mind can conceive it and my heart can believe it then I can achieve it.”
While Jackson faced criticism from some who viewed him as seeking publicity, he reflected on his life’s work in a 2011 interview with The Associated Press, expressing gratitude for continuing the work of previous leaders while paving the way for future generations.
“A part of our life’s work was to tear down walls and build bridges, and in a half century of work, we’ve basically torn down walls,” Jackson explained. “Sometimes when you tear down walls, you’re scarred by falling debris, but your mission is to open up holes so others behind you can run through.”
During his final months, Jackson required round-the-clock medical care and lost his ability to speak, instead communicating through hand squeezes with family and visitors.
His son, Jesse Jackson Jr., told the AP in October: “I get very emotional knowing that these speeches belong to the ages now.”
BRUSSELS (AP) — Belgian officials called in the United States ambassador Tuesday following his social media comments that characterized the nation as engaging in antisemitic targeting of its Jewish population, according to the country’s top diplomat.
Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot responded Monday on X, stating “Labeling Belgium as antisemitic is not just wrong, it’s dangerous disinformation that undermines the real fight against hatred.” Such diplomatic summons between close allies are uncommon.
“An ambassador accredited to Belgium has a responsibility to respect our institutions, our elected representatives, and the independence of our judicial system,” Prévot declared. “Personal attacks against a Belgian minister and interference in judicial matters violate basic diplomatic norms.”
According to national broadcaster VRT, Belgian law enforcement is examining whether three individuals in Antwerp conducted circumcisions lacking proper medical certification.
US Ambassador Bill White posted on X that this probe represented “unacceptable harassment of the Jewish community here in Antwerp and in Belgium.”
White announced plans to meet with the three individuals under investigation in Antwerp and requested Belgium’s health minister accompany him.
“You must make a legal provision to allow Jewish religious MOHELS to perform their duties here in Belgium,” White wrote, referencing the Hebrew word for specially trained Jewish religious officials who perform circumcisions, which represents a fundamental religious practice.
The ritual is essential for Jewish males, as those who haven’t undergone circumcision typically cannot participate in bar mitzvahs, Jewish weddings, or burial in Jewish cemeteries.
Foreign Minister Prévot explained that “Belgian law permits ritual circumcision when performed by a qualified physician under strict health and safety standards” while declining to discuss the active investigation.
MANILA, Philippines — Washington will expand its deployment of advanced missile defense systems to the Philippines as tensions escalate with China over disputed South China Sea territories, according to officials from both allied nations.
During annual security discussions held Monday in Manila, American and Philippine representatives announced plans to strengthen military cooperation and increase the presence of sophisticated U.S. weaponry in the region. The two countries issued a joint statement Tuesday criticizing what they described as China’s hostile and unlawful conduct in contested waters.
Beijing has consistently objected to America’s military buildup in the northern Philippines, particularly the 2024 installation of the Typhon mid-range missile system and last year’s deployment of anti-ship missile technology. Chinese officials argue these weapons target their nation’s growing influence and threaten regional peace.
Despite Beijing’s demands for removal of the missile systems, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his administration have refused to comply with China’s requests.
The joint statement released Tuesday outlined specific military initiatives for the coming year, including expanded joint training exercises, U.S. assistance in modernizing Philippine armed forces, and commitments to enhance the deployment of America’s most advanced missile and drone technologies to Philippine territory.
Both nations emphasized their commitment to maintaining open sea lanes and protecting commercial shipping rights. The statement declared that the allies “condemned China’s illegal, coercive, aggressive and deceptive activities in the South China Sea, recognizing their adverse effects on regional peace and stability and the economies of the Indo-Pacific and beyond.”
Maritime confrontations between Chinese and Philippine coast guard vessels have intensified recently in the disputed region, where Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan also maintain competing territorial claims.
Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez, who participated in Monday’s discussions, revealed that defense officials explored deploying enhanced versions of American missile systems that the Philippines might eventually purchase for its own military.
“It’s a kind of system that’s really very sophisticated and will be deployed here in the hope that, down the road, we will be able to get our own,” Romualdez explained to reporters.
According to Romualdez, both the Typhon system positioned in Luzon’s northern region since April 2024 and the Navy Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System deployed to the same area last April remain operational in the Philippines.
American forces have conducted training sessions with Filipino military personnel to demonstrate the weapons’ capabilities and operational procedures during joint military exercises, according to military sources.
Romualdez emphasized that the U.S. missile presence serves defensive rather than provocative purposes. “It’s purely for deterrence,” he stated. “Every time the Chinese show any kind of aggression, it only strengthens our resolve to have these types.”
The land-based Typhon launchers can fire both Standard Missile-6 and Tomahawk Land Attack Missile systems. Tomahawk missiles possess a range exceeding 1,000 miles, potentially reaching Chinese territory from their northern Philippine positions.
Last year’s deployment of the anti-ship missile system occurred on Batan island in Batanes province, the Philippines’ northernmost territory facing the strategically important Bashi Channel near Taiwan.
This waterway represents a crucial shipping and military corridor where both American and Chinese forces seek strategic dominance.
The world of prediction markets is experiencing rapid growth, and with that expansion comes increasingly fierce competition among traders seeking any possible advantage.
These betting enthusiasts are willing to go to extraordinary lengths to obtain information that could give them even the slightest edge over their competitors, sometimes resulting in substantial financial rewards.
One notable example occurred during this year’s Super Bowl on February 8th, when singer Charlie Puth delivered the national anthem. A clever trader managed to earn thousands of dollars by attending a rehearsal of the performance and accurately predicting the exact duration of Puth’s rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
This type of information gathering represents just one of many creative strategies that prediction market participants employ in their quest for profitable trades. The competitive nature of these markets has pushed traders to develop increasingly sophisticated methods for collecting data that others might overlook.
The booming prediction market industry has created an environment where even the smallest informational advantage can translate into significant financial gains, motivating traders to invest considerable time and resources into their research efforts.
The head of Olympic Broadcasting Services revealed ambitious plans Tuesday for the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympics, promising an unprecedented viewing experience powered by artificial intelligence and Hollywood star power.
Yiannis Exarchos, CEO of OBS, outlined his vision during an interview from Milan, where the current Winter Games have captivated audiences with cutting-edge drone technology. Fifteen First-Person View drones have been racing alongside skiers at speeds reaching 120 kilometers per hour and following luge and skeleton competitors through ice tracks, creating spectacular footage that has become the visual highlight of these Games.
The success in Milan has established high expectations for Los Angeles, according to Exarchos, whose organization creates the global television feed distributed to broadcasters worldwide.
“If the destination is a city which is a metropolis of story-telling and one of the greatest metropolises of technology in the world then expectations are very, very big,” Exarchos explained to Reuters. “This is a nice challenge to have. We need to think about how we can excite people.”
Currently, OBS operates more than 1,300 cameras and 1,800 microphones in Milan to document every angle of competition. By 2028, advancing artificial intelligence capabilities will transform how viewers interact with Olympic coverage, potentially allowing them to pause action, access instant statistical information, or compare current performances with historical records in real-time.
“AI unleashed new opportunities with the way people are interacting with content. By the time of LA we will have many more opportunities to use AI technologies to further personalise the experience,” Exarchos stated.
The technology will enable viewers to engage conversationally with broadcasts, Exarchos explained. “In LA we will start facilitating viewers to be having a conversation. To be able to say ‘Stop here, show me this image again’ or ‘Show me what this reminds me of’ or ‘Has anyone done this better?’,” he said. “This is the vision that will start being manifested.”
Beyond technological advances, the Los Angeles Games will leverage the entertainment industry’s talent pool to attract broader audiences beyond traditional sports fans. The International Olympic Committee seeks to expand viewership by incorporating major celebrities into Olympic programming.
OBS pioneered celebrity integration with the “Prelude to the Olympics” red carpet event before Paris 2024, featuring stars like Zendaya, Charlize Theron, and Serena Williams. A comparable gathering at Milan’s La Scala opera house included American actors Stanley Tucci, Jeff Goldblum, and Marisa Tomei, along with singer Usher and fashion designer Donatella Versace. Los Angeles plans to expand this celebrity presence significantly.
“The Olympics are being watched not just by sports fans. Half of the viewers are what we call casual viewers, so there will be this mix of entertainment culture and sports culture,” Exarchos noted.
“Increasingly the presentation of all these events involves a wider number of talent. Apart from sports talent we see a tendency to bring into the Olympics talent from other entertainment industries. Just what NBC has been doing with (rapper) Snoop Dogg.”
Snoop Dogg has maintained a prominent presence at both Paris and Milan Games as NBC’s entertainment ambassador, energizing Team USA supporters and performing at Long Beach during the LA 2028 handover ceremony.
“The Olympics remain one of only a few massive audience aggregators in the world. They have the capacity to focus the attention of the whole world in the event,” Exarchos concluded.
Pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly is positioning India as a central manufacturing location for worldwide distribution, according to a top company official, as the drugmaker moves forward with its previously announced $1 billion commitment to contract manufacturing in the region.
The popularity of Mounjaro, the company’s weight-loss medication, has skyrocketed in India, with sales doubling shortly after its introduction in the South Asian nation. The drug has become Lilly’s highest-revenue product there, highlighting the rising demand for obesity medications in a country expected to rank second globally for obese population by 2050.
Currently operating without its own manufacturing plant in India, the pharmaceutical giant intends to use the nation’s strong contract manufacturing infrastructure to produce medications locally for international distribution as part of its expanded supply network.
“We are actually looking at India to be a hub, part of our global supply chain, and therefore supplying the world,” stated Winselow Tucker, president of Lilly India, during an interview with Reuters at the BioAsia conference in Hyderabad.
“We will continue to look at that (investment) and scale that over time,” Tucker added, though he declined to identify specific contract manufacturers or reveal details about plans for a dedicated facility.
The pharmaceutical company also intends to introduce additional medications to the Indian market, including donanemab for Alzheimer’s treatment and potential future obesity therapies like the experimental oral weight-loss medication orforglipron, pending regulatory clearance, Tucker noted.
In the Indian market, Lilly faces competition from Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk, manufacturer of Wegovy.
The world’s most populous country is preparing for a significant expansion in weight-loss drug availability this year as domestic companies rush to introduce lower-cost generic alternatives to Wegovy following the expiration of Novo’s semaglutide patent in India next month.
Novo reduced Wegovy’s pricing by as much as 37% last year in an effort to maintain market position.
Tucker downplayed worries about Mounjaro experiencing similar competitive pressure, explaining that the medication’s formulation provides better effectiveness and would maintain its competitive edge.
“We have priced it (Mounjaro) for value, and we believe it is priced appropriately,” Tucker stated.
Instead, Lilly is concentrating on enhancing digital marketing and social media efforts to increase obesity awareness and extend Mounjaro’s availability to smaller Indian cities. The company has expanded distribution beyond major metropolitan areas through partnerships, including collaborations with Indian pharmaceutical company Cipla and digital healthcare platforms Tata 1MG, Practo and Apollo.
Legendary civil rights activist Jesse Jackson has passed away at the age of 84, his family confirmed Tuesday in a public statement.
“Our father was a servant leader – not only to our family, but to the oppressed, the voiceless, and the overlooked around the world,” the Jackson family said.
The influential Baptist minister, who had called Chicago home for many years, received his Parkinson’s disease diagnosis in 2017.
Jackson became a prominent voice for African American rights and other underserved populations during the transformative civil rights era of the 1960s, working closely under the guidance of his mentor, Martin Luther King Jr., the renowned Baptist preacher and social justice champion.
Despite facing various scandals throughout his career, Jackson maintained his position as the nation’s leading civil rights advocate for many decades.
His political aspirations led him to seek the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination twice, in 1984 and 1988, where he energized Black voters and progressive white supporters with surprisingly competitive campaigns, though he ultimately did not become the first African American to secure a major party’s presidential nomination. Throughout his career, he never won elected office.
The activist established two Chicago-headquartered civil rights organizations: Operation PUSH and the National Rainbow Coalition. During the 1990s, he served as a special diplomatic representative to Africa under Democratic President Bill Clinton. Jackson also played key roles in negotiating the freedom of numerous Americans and foreign nationals detained in countries such as Syria, Cuba, Iraq and Serbia.
POWERFUL SPEAKING ABILITY
During the 1980s, Jackson leveraged his captivating speaking skills to advance his political goals. No other African American candidate achieved Jackson’s level of success in pursuing a major party presidential nomination until Barack Obama, also from Chicago, won the presidency in 2008.
During his 1984 campaign, Jackson secured 3.3 million votes in Democratic primary elections, representing approximately 18% of total votes cast, placing third behind eventual nominee Walter Mondale and Gary Hart in the contest to challenge Republican President Ronald Reagan. His campaign suffered setbacks after reports emerged that Jackson had used derogatory terms when referring to Jewish people and New York City in private conversations.
Four years later in 1988, Jackson presented himself as a more refined and mainstream contender, finishing as runner-up in the Democratic primary race against Republican George H.W. Bush. Jackson provided strong competition to eventual Democratic nominee Michael Dukakis, capturing victories in 11 state primaries and caucuses, particularly in Southern states, and earning 6.8 million votes in primary contests, representing 29% of the total.
Jackson positioned himself as someone who would break down barriers for minorities, the economically disadvantaged, and those without political power. He delivered a memorable address at the 1988 Democratic convention, sharing his personal journey and urging Americans to seek unity.
“America is not a blanket woven from one thread, one color, one cloth,” Jackson told the delegates in Atlanta.
“Wherever you are tonight, you can make it. Hold your head high, stick your chest out. You can make it. It gets dark sometimes, but the morning comes. Don’t you surrender. Suffering breeds character, character breeds faith. In the end, faith will not disappoint,” Jackson added.
At age 76 in 2017, Jackson revealed his Parkinson’s disease diagnosis, a neurological condition characterized by tremors, muscle rigidity, and impaired balance and movement coordination, noting he had experienced symptoms for three years prior to the announcement.
CHILDHOOD IN THE SOUTH
Jackson entered the world on October 8, 1941, in Greenville, South Carolina, born to a 16-year-old high school student mother and a 33-year-old married neighbor. His mother subsequently wed another man who legally adopted Jackson. His childhood unfolded during America’s Jim Crow period, a system of harsh racist legislation and customs primarily originating in the South designed to oppress Black Americans.
After receiving a football scholarship to the University of Illinois, Jackson transferred to a historically Black institution due to what he described as discriminatory treatment. His civil rights involvement began during his time at North Carolina Agricultural & Technical College, where he faced arrest for attempting to access a segregated public library in South Carolina.
Jackson studied at Chicago Theological Seminary and received Baptist ministerial ordination in 1968, despite not completing his degree requirements.
He became a trusted aide to civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. and frequently accompanied him on travels. When King was murdered by white assassin James Earl Ray on the balcony of Memphis’s Lorraine Motel, Jackson was present one floor below. Jackson angered some of King’s other colleagues when he told media he had held the dying King and was the final person King addressed, claims they challenged.
King, who led the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, had appointed the dynamic Jackson to a leadership position focused on creating economic opportunities within Black communities.
Following disagreements with King’s SCLC successor Ralph Abernathy, Jackson established his own civil rights organization in Chicago called Operation PUSH during the early 1970s. In 1984, he created the National Rainbow Coalition, which expanded civil rights advocacy to include women’s and LGBTQ+ rights, with both organizations combining in 1996. After more than fifty years of leadership and advocacy, he resigned as president of the Rainbow-PUSH Coalition in 2023.
Jackson married Jacqueline Brown, whom he met during college, in 1962, and they raised five children together. Their son Jesse Jackson Jr. won election to the U.S. House of Representatives but later resigned and served prison time following a fraud conviction. Jackson also fathered a daughter in 1999 with a staff member from his civil rights organizations, creating a public scandal.
Jackson gained recognition for his diplomatic efforts. Following his successful 1984 negotiation for Syria’s release of U.S. naval aviator Robert Goodman Jr., President Ronald Reagan welcomed Jackson to the White House and thanked him for his “mission of mercy.” In 1990, Jackson met with Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein to secure freedom for hundreds of Americans and others following Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait. He also facilitated the 1984 release of numerous Cuban and American prisoners from Cuban facilities and the 1999 release of three U.S. airmen detained in Serbia.
From 1992 to 2000, he hosted a weekly CNN program, advocated for corporate initiatives supporting Black economic advancement, and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, America’s highest civilian recognition, from Clinton in 2000.
Even in his later years, Jackson remained active in social justice causes, speaking out against the police killing of George Floyd and other Black Americans during the 2020 global racial justice protests.
Italy’s financial hub of Milan is poised for accelerated economic growth in 2026, fueled by industrial recovery, robust service sector performance, and the economic impact of co-hosting the Winter Olympics, a new analysis from regional business group Assolombarda reveals.
The research projects Milan’s gross domestic product will surge by 1.7% in 2026, a substantial increase from the anticipated 0.7% growth rate in 2025.
The Winter Olympic Games by themselves are projected to create approximately 2.5 billion euros worth of total production throughout Milan’s metropolitan region, translating into 1.045 billion euros in added value.
Assolombarda President Alvise Biffi expressed optimism about the city’s trajectory, stating “Milan is experiencing a positive phase.”
He continued, “GDP is growing again at a solid pace, major events are strengthening the city’s international visibility and tourism continues to expand.”
Biffi characterized the Winter Olympics as a “powerful catalyst” for enhancing Milan’s global reputation and speeding up urban development initiatives.
The city has witnessed significant real estate growth following its hosting of Expo 2015, with favorable tax policies drawing affluent international residents. This boom has sparked concerns among some residents who feel priced out by increasing living expenses.
Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala noted the Olympics generate greater media coverage compared to the previous Expo event.
“We are delighted that so many foreign tourists have come. These are the most watched Olympics in history and will have a longer-term impact,” Sala commented, though he did not provide additional details.
Milan’s Olympic-specific budget totals 735 million euros, with 379 million allocated for infrastructure improvements and event-related investments, while 356 million covers operational expenses.
The city serves as the venue for approximately 90 indoor ice competitions, with the opening ceremony taking place at the renowned San Siro stadium.
Local spending from tourists, competing athletes, and Olympic personnel is anticipated to reach roughly 1 billion euros.
Two officials serving on the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation’s board of directors were dismissed from their roles last week through correspondence from a top agriculture department official.
The board members, who had been selected by former Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack for four-year appointments, received notification of their removal in a letter sent by Richard Fordyce, who serves as Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation.
During Wednesday’s congressional hearing, numerous Republican lawmakers took turns highlighting the advantages of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, even as President Donald Trump has shown little enthusiasm for the trade deal.
The senators’ vocal support for the trade agreement’s agricultural provisions stands in stark contrast to the president’s apparent lack of interest in promoting the pact’s benefits for American farmers and agricultural businesses.
House Republicans appear unlikely to reach a consensus on year-round E15 ethanol fuel sales before their Sunday deadline approaches, with no agreement currently in sight. Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson has informed Agri-Pulse that E15 provisions will be excluded from the forthcoming farm bill legislation, even if Republican legislators manage to broker an agreement before the deadline expires.
The development represents a setback for supporters of expanded ethanol fuel availability, who had hoped to see year-round E15 sales authorized through the agricultural legislation. Currently, E15 fuel faces seasonal restrictions that limit its sale during summer months in certain areas due to air quality concerns.
A significant aviation fuel leak has contaminated the James River after thousands of gallons spilled from a major shipbuilding facility in Newport News, Virginia, just south of our region.
The environmental disaster unfolded on February 13, 2026, when JP-5 aviation fuel escaped during a refueling procedure for the future USS John F. Kennedy aircraft carrier at the Huntington Ingalls Industries Newport News Shipbuilding facility located on Washington Avenue.
What initially appeared to be a minor leak of around 50 gallons has proven far more serious. Detailed analysis and fuel tank inspections revealed that 7,749 gallons of jet fuel actually entered the waterway. Residents across Newport News and Hampton reported strong fuel odors and visible oil slicks on the water surface.
Emergency response teams from multiple agencies quickly mobilized, including the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, Virginia Department of Emergency Management, U.S. Coast Guard, and fire departments from both Newport News and Hampton.
Cleanup crews have deployed oil containment barriers and are using specialized boats and vacuum trucks to remove the spilled fuel from the water. Weather conditions with helpful wind patterns and tidal movements have aided in keeping the contamination from spreading further.
Coast Guard officials used drone technology to monitor the spill from above, confirming that response efforts are successfully containing most of the leaked fuel near the original spill location.
Pollution monitoring teams from Coast Guard Sector Virginia, working alongside boat crews from Coast Guard Station Portsmouth and unmanned aircraft operators, are tracking the contamination by land, air, and sea to respond quickly to any changes in conditions.
Health officials from the Virginia Department of Health are warning the public to stay away from waterfront areas where fuel smells are present or where oil sheens are visible on the water. Boat operators are also advised to avoid areas with visible contamination or fuel odors while cleanup operations continue.
The multi-agency response includes the U.S. Coast Guard, Virginia Department of Emergency Management, Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, Virginia Department of Health, and officials from Hampton, Newport News, and Suffolk.
Investigators are still working to determine what caused the fuel transfer operation to fail, leading to this major environmental incident.
Bird enthusiasts participating in Baltimore’s annual Christmas Bird Count this past December documented a diverse collection of avian species, including several rare sightings that caught researchers’ attention.
The 2025 season represented a milestone as Baltimore City’s first official Christmas Bird Count, expanding from a successful trial run the previous year. Organizers established three designated counting areas: Loch Raven, Middle River, and Baltimore City.
Several locations managed by Maryland’s Dredged Material Management Program fell within two of these counting zones. The Middle River area encompasses Hart-Miller Island Dredged Material Placement Site, while the Baltimore City zone covers multiple facilities including Cox Creek, Swan Creek Wetlands, Masonville sites, and Hawkins Point.
Weather conditions initially hampered the Middle River survey scheduled for December 14, 2025, with strong winds blocking access to Hart-Miller Island. Tim Carney from the Maryland Environmental Service conducted a makeup count on December 16, identifying 13 additional species during the extended counting period. Among these discoveries were uncommon birds such as a rough-legged hawk, short-eared owl, and tree swallow.
Improved conditions on December 20, 2025, enabled survey teams to complete comprehensive counts at all three Baltimore City dredged material sites.
Notable discoveries at each location included:
Cox Creek and Swan Creek Wetlands:
Counters recorded an impressive 2,500 ruddy ducks alongside single sightings of a Virginia rail, plus multiple American kestrels, common ravens, American pipits, and purple finches.
Masonville facilities:
Observers spotted individual examples of a common goldeneye, red-breasted merganser, common loon, and eastern phoebe.
Hawkins Point location:
Teams documented single specimens of an American kestrel, common raven, orange-crowned warbler, and notably, a blue-headed vireo – considered among the two most unusual species recorded during the entire counting effort.
The second rarest bird discovery occurred at Fort McHenry National Monument, where volunteers observed a brant. These Arctic-breeding waterfowl typically migrate to Chesapeake Bay waters each winter season, according to the Chesapeake Bay Program.
Understanding Christmas Bird Counts
These scientific surveys operate within standardized 15-mile diameter circles, ensuring data consistency for annual comparisons. Volunteer teams systematically cover assigned sections within each circle, recording every bird species encountered. The counting period extends three days before and after the official date to include “count week” observations.
This community science initiative traces its roots to early conservation efforts over a century ago.
“Holiday ‘side hunts’ were once common Christmas activities where people competed to kill the most birds,” explained Tim Carney, Senior Environmental Specialist with MES. “Ornithologist Frank Chapman introduced a conservation alternative in 1900, proposing bird counting instead of hunting. Today’s National Audubon Society coordinates this annual program, which has generated over 100 years of North American bird population data.”
Those interested in participating in future bird counts or related activities around Baltimore can visit the Baltimore Bird Club’s website for scheduling information.
A former National Public Radio host has taken legal action against tech giant Google, claiming the company illegally used his distinctive voice to develop an artificial intelligence application.
David Greene, who previously served as host of NPR’s popular Morning Edition program, filed the lawsuit alleging that Google created the vocal characteristics of one of its AI tools by mimicking his speaking patterns and tone without securing his authorization.
The legal complaint centers on Greene’s assertion that Google deliberately modeled the synthetic voice after his own recognizable broadcasting style, which listeners knew from his years anchoring the morning news program.
Authorities examining the vanishing of Nancy Guthrie have extracted genetic material from a glove discovered in proximity to her residence. Should direct matching efforts prove unsuccessful, law enforcement may explore family tree databases for potential leads.
Legal proceedings commenced Monday in Hall County, Georgia, for Colin Gray, whose son stands accused in the Apalachee High School shooting case.
The court proceedings mark a significant development in the case that has drawn widespread attention to the role of parents in school violence incidents.
A federal trial commenced Tuesday for nine defendants accused of participating in a violent incident at an immigration enforcement facility in North Texas during July 4th celebrations. The suspects face terrorism-related charges brought forward by Trump administration prosecutors.
The shooting occurred at a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facility, prompting federal authorities to pursue serious criminal charges against those allegedly involved in the attack.
Federal prosecutors have decided to pursue terrorism charges in connection with the Independence Day incident, signaling the severity with which authorities are treating the case.
Three talented American figure skaters who might have been fierce competitors against each other have instead formed a supportive team known as the ‘Blade Angels.’
Amber Glenn, Alysa Liu, and Isabeau Levito are carrying Team USA’s hopes in women’s figure skating competition, marking the nation’s strongest chance at capturing gold in this event since 2002.
Rather than viewing each other as opponents, these three athletes have embraced a collaborative approach as they represent the United States on the Olympic stage. Their partnership could prove crucial as America seeks to end these Winter Games with a memorable triumph in figure skating.
The women’s figure skating competition offers one of the final opportunities for Team USA to secure a major victory before the Olympic closing ceremonies.
Maryland’s Board of Public Works has given the green light to more than $29 million in state funding for critical water infrastructure improvements across two key projects, the Maryland Department of the Environment revealed on January 28, 2026.
The substantial investment will fund essential upgrades at Baltimore’s Patapsco Wastewater Treatment Plant and advance ongoing efforts to connect Kent Island residences to public sewer systems, moving them away from problematic septic tanks.
More than $18 million of the approved funding will go toward fixing and upgrading equipment at the Patapsco treatment facility. These improvements aim to help the plant meet compliance requirements under an agreement addressing unauthorized pollution releases and permit violations. This latest allocation brings the current administration’s total commitment to the Patapsco project to over $87 million through a combination of grants and loans.
Patapsco Plant Upgrades Address Compliance Issues
Baltimore City faces legal requirements under a consent decree related to permit violations at both the Patapsco and Back River treatment facilities.
The planned enhancements at Patapsco are intended to boost the plant’s operational effectiveness and return it to complete working capacity while ensuring dependable wastewater processing.
The state has also committed more than $32 million toward improvements at the Back River facility.
Environmental progress at both locations has been significant, with nitrogen contamination decreasing by over 78 percent at Patapsco and more than 60 percent at Back River. Phosphorus contamination has fallen by 80 percent at both treatment plants.
Kent Island Sewer Connection Project Moves Forward
The approved funding will support the fourth phase of the Southern Kent Island Sanitary Project, a multi-year initiative to transition residential properties from septic systems to public sewerage.
This project tackles groundwater pollution issues caused by elevated water tables and inadequate soil conditions in the area, where residents currently depend on individual septic systems for waste treatment.
The construction phase will establish public sewer connections for approximately 1,500 residential properties and eight commercial buildings. These properties will be linked to the Kent Narrows-Stevensville-Grasonville Wastewater Treatment Plant for enhanced waste processing.
