Economy

US inflation holds but underlying prices creep up

US inflation holds steady though underlying prices rise

America's consumer price index (CPI) has remained steady, yet a closer look reveals a gradual increase in underlying prices. This development indicates a nuanced economic situation where headline inflation figures might not fully capture the evolving pressures on household budgets. While the overall inflation rate appears to be holding its ground, the subtle rise in core prices suggests that the cost of goods and services, excluding volatile categories like food and energy, is steadily creeping upward. This trend is a key focus for economists and policymakers, as it often provides a more accurate picture of persistent inflationary trends within the…
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China's unemployed young adults who are pretending to have jobs

China’s young jobless population faking employment

In recent years, a growing number of young adults in China who face unemployment have resorted to pretending they hold jobs, creating a complex social phenomenon driven by economic challenges, cultural expectations, and the pressures of modern life. This behavior, often referred to as “fake employment” or “pretend work,” reflects deeper issues within the country’s job market and the personal struggles of a generation caught between ambition and reality.China’s rapid economic growth over the past few decades has transformed its society, creating new opportunities while also intensifying competition for quality employment. Despite overall progress, many young adults find themselves struggling…
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The US is taking a cut from chip sales to China - what does it mean?

US takes percentage from chip sales to China – what does it mean?

The United States has introduced a new measure that effectively takes a portion of the revenue generated from semiconductor chip sales to China. This development signals a shift in trade dynamics between two of the world’s largest economies and carries significant implications for the global technology market, international relations, and the semiconductor industry itself. Understanding the scope and potential consequences of this move requires a closer examination of its background, rationale, and expected effects.Semiconductor chips, which are frequently referred to as the core of contemporary electronics, are essential to devices ranging from mobile phones and PCs to cars and military…
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Crocs US sales tumble as shoppers choose trainers

Crocs US sales tumble as shoppers choose trainers

The U.S. shoe market has experienced a considerable shift in consumer tastes, with new sales statistics indicating a substantial decline in the buying of Crocs' iconic foam clogs. This decrease arises as more consumers lean towards classic sneakers and athletic footwear aimed at performance, highlighting a change from the surge during the pandemic that catapulted the comfortable, breathable shoes into high demand.Market analysts point to several factors behind this sales slump. The return to office work and social activities has many consumers choosing more conventional footwear options. Additionally, the current fashion cycle has moved toward sleek, minimalist sneaker designs rather…
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Trump opens door for crypto in retirement accounts

Trump to permit crypto in retirement accounts

Recent regulatory changes have created opportunities for American workers to include digital assets in their long-term retirement planning strategies. The updated guidelines permit certain cryptocurrencies to be included in 401(k) and other qualified retirement accounts, marking a significant shift in how retirement savings can be allocated.Financial analysts indicate that this change signifies increasing acceptance by institutions of digital currencies as valid investment options. According to the updated guidelines, managers of retirement plans can now provide cryptocurrency choices in addition to conventional stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. Nonetheless, the rules come with particular protective measures to shield investors from the inherent…
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India has 20 days to avoid 50% Trump tariffs - what are its options?

India’s 20-day countdown to 50% Trump tariffs – what choices does it have?

With just three weeks remaining before potential 50% tariffs take effect on key Indian exports to the United States, policymakers in New Delhi are weighing their strategic options to avoid damaging economic consequences. The looming deadline presents India with complex diplomatic and economic challenges that require careful navigation of international trade relations.The proposed tariff hike would primarily affect Indian steel and aluminum exports, sectors that employ millions of workers and contribute significantly to the country's manufacturing output. Industry analysts estimate the increased duties could reduce India's export volumes to the U.S. by approximately $3.5 billion annually, with ripple effects throughout…
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High whey protein prices take chunk out of THG profits

Whey protein inflation takes toll on THG profits

The Hut Group (THG), a prominent British e-commerce company known for its health, beauty, and nutrition brands, has reported a decline in its profitability due in part to the continued rise in whey protein prices. The cost pressure on this essential ingredient has proven significant for THG’s nutrition division, particularly for its flagship brand Myprotein, which relies heavily on whey-based supplements.Whey protein, a byproduct of cheese production, is a key component in many fitness and nutrition products. In recent years, its price has been influenced by a combination of global supply constraints, higher input costs in agriculture, and shifts in…
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Chinese nationals charged with exporting Nvidia AI chips to China

Chinese nationals accused of exporting Nvidia AI chips to China

Un grupo de ciudadanos chinos ha sido formalmente acusado en Estados Unidos por cargos de exportar ilegalmente chips de IA de alto rendimiento de Nvidia a China, lo que genera preocupaciones sobre la transferencia de tecnología, la seguridad nacional y el cumplimiento de las regulaciones comerciales internacionales. Los cargos, anunciados por las autoridades estadounidenses, subrayan los esfuerzos continuos para evitar que tecnologías sensibles lleguen a entidades extranjeras sin la debida autorización, especialmente en medio de las crecientes tensiones entre Washington y Beijing.The situation revolves around the purported illicit dispatch of sophisticated artificial intelligence (AI) semiconductors—uniquely crafted by Nvidia—to receivers in…
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Trump hits India with extra 25% tariff for buying Russian oil

Trump’s 25% tariff on India in response to Russian oil imports

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a new 25% tariff on Indian goods in response to the country’s ongoing purchase of oil from Russia, a move that has reignited debate over global trade policy, energy alliances, and geopolitical strategy. The tariff, described by Trump as a necessary measure to address what he views as unfair trade practices and strategic alignments, signals a sharp escalation in U.S.-India economic tensions.India, being a major importer of energy worldwide, has upheld solid commercial relations with Russia despite global calls to curb this interaction after Moscow's activities in Ukraine. By persisting in acquiring Russian…
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US may demand ,000 deposit for visas

$15,000 deposit proposed for US visa applicants

El gobierno de EE.UU. está aparentemente considerando una política que exigiría a algunos ciudadanos extranjeros desembolsar un depósito considerable — posiblemente de hasta $15,000 — como un requisito para obtener un visado. La propuesta, que ha generado discusión entre expertos en inmigración y viajeros internacionales, tiene como objetivo fomentar el cumplimiento de los términos del visado y disminuir los casos de permanencia más allá del tiempo permitido.While the measure has not yet been fully implemented, discussions around the visa bond have been ongoing in recent years, particularly in the context of immigration enforcement and national security. The idea is to…
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