Reuters World News

The U.S. Justice Department unveils heavily-redacted Epstein files, stirring political tensions involving Clinton. Anthony Joshua delivers a shocking knockout to Jake Paul live on Netflix. Meanwhile, government employees who resigned in protest under Trump are now campaigning for Congress. Iraq faces a wheat crisis due to upstream dam issues. On a tech front, businesses are grappling with the unrealized promises of AI. Amidst all this, a treasured 101-year-old barista keeps Italy's espresso tradition alive.

A tragic twist in the Brown University shooting unfolds with the suspect found dead, linked to another killing. The EU commits a staggering $105 billion loan to Ukraine, navigating complex financial strategies. In a surprising move, Pope Leo XIV appoints Bishop Ronald Hicks as New York's new cardinal, marking a shift from the previous conservative leadership. Additionally, discussions of inflation's mixed impact and Japan's first interest rate hikes in decades add layers to this global news tapestry.

China has made a groundbreaking move by secretly developing a prototype AI chipmaker, a feat compared to the Manhattan Project. Meanwhile, tensions rise as the U.S. arms a major package to Taiwan. President Trump's holiday address highlights his achievements, while domestic concerns grow as Congress allows Affordable Care Act subsidies to expire. In entertainment news, Warner Bros opts for Netflix over a $100 billion takeover bid. Lastly, a Los Angeles court hears the shocking case of Nick Reiner accused of murdering his parents.

In this discussion, Mike Dolan, a seasoned markets reporter, delves into the implications of Trump's blockade on Venezuelan oil tankers and its potential impact on oil prices and U.S. petrol costs. He analyzes the recent U.S. job growth rebound amidst economic distortions, while also unpacking Ford's drastic cuts to its electric vehicle lineup amidst dwindling demand. The conversation touches on Australia's tightened gun control laws following tragic events, highlighting the global economic and political landscape.

Join Trevor Honeycutt, a White House reporter for Reuters, as he dives into some of the most pressing news today. He discusses the shocking classification of fentanyl as a ‘weapon of mass destruction’ by Trump, unpacking its implications for international relations with Mexico. The podcast also touches on the alarming connections between recent violent incidents in Australia and Islamic State ideology. Plus, the legal troubles facing a Wisconsin judge accused of aiding a migrant highlight the complexities surrounding immigration policy.

Australia is clamping down on gun laws following a tragic shooting at Bondi Beach. Meanwhile, Ukraine's President hints at dropping NATO membership aims. In Hong Kong, media mogul Jimmy Lai faces severe legal repercussions under the national security law. Chile has shifted politically to the right with a new presidential victory, while Republicans maintain an edge among older voters, amid concerns about the economy. It's a whirlwind of global events shaping today's headlines.

A deadly shooting during a Jewish holiday event at Bondi Beach leaves two suspects in custody. At Brown University, a classroom attack claims two lives and injures nine, sending the campus into lockdown. In Syria, a suspected Islamic State ambush results in the deaths of two U.S. soldiers and a civilian interpreter. Chaos erupts in India as fans riot over Lionel Messi's brief visit. Also discussed is Prada's new collection inspired by traditional Indian footwear amidst cultural appropriation debates.

Dara Ranasang, a market commentator and host of the Morning Bid podcast, shares insights on the recent turbulence in financial markets, alongside discussions about AI concerns and potential Fed rate cuts. On-the-ground reporters like David Ryder offer vivid accounts of flood rescues in the Pacific Northwest, while Ernest Scheider elaborates on the Army's portable refineries for critical minerals. They also delve into the implications of newly released Epstein photos featuring Trump, and a peculiar trend showing Americans drinking less, but only slightly.

Don Durfee, a U.S. foreign policy reporter, sheds light on the U.S. plans to intercept Venezuelan oil tankers, highlighting geopolitical implications. Various Reuters correspondents delve into the Senate's rejection of healthcare bills, emphasizing the personal stakes involved. The resignation of Bulgaria's government due to anti-corruption protests signals a political shake-up. Additionally, Disney's intriguing deal with OpenAI allows its characters to be used in Sora videos, raising industry concerns about artist compensation and control.

Howard Schneider, a seasoned journalist known for his insightful interviews with the Federal Reserve Chair, discusses the recent quarter-point rate cut and what it means for the economy. Mike Dolan, a keen markets commentator, analyzes Wall Street's upbeat reaction to the Fed's decision and the impact on corporate earnings. They also touch on the U.S. seizure of a Venezuelan tanker, military tensions in East Asia, Elon Musk's hints at a SpaceX IPO, and the controversy surrounding Pride plans during a World Cup match. It's a whirlwind of global stories!