The Federal Reserve raises interest rates for the first time since 2023 The Fed lifted its benchmark rate a quarter point to a range of 3.75 percent to 4 percent, citing inflation pressure tied largely to higher oil prices, and signaled it may raise rates again this year. Full story → · 4 sources
Stocks steady after Wednesday's selloff, as bond yields ease from the Fed decision Major U.S. stock indexes fell Wednesday as the Fed hiked rates, then stabilized Thursday as Treasury yields eased and futures rose on the Fed chair's comments. Full story → · 3 sources
AI chipmakers stay under pressure as safety warnings and rate worries collide Shares of Nvidia, AMD, Broadcom, Intel and other chipmakers have been volatile this week after prominent AI industry figures called for a slowdown in development, adding to jitters already stirred by rising interest rates. Full story → · 4 sources
Congress sends Russia sanctions bill, and new tariff powers, to the president's desk The House gave final approval to a bipartisan Russia sanctions package that also grants the president broad new authority to impose tariffs on countries buying Russian oil and gas, and it now heads to the White House for a signature. Full story → · 3 sources
The European Union invites Canada toward a new 'associate member' status European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposed making Canada the EU's first ever associate member, a step beyond their existing trade deal, as Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed the European Parliament. Full story → · 4 sources
The Middle East conflict involving Iran passes its 200th day, with the Strait of Hormuz still disrupted The conflict centered on Iran, now in its seventh month, continues to disrupt shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and keep global oil prices elevated, even as diplomats push for a political settlement. Full story → · 3 sources
Hong Kong unveils its first ever five-year plan, looking beyond finance Chief Executive John Lee presented Hong Kong's first five-year development plan, aiming to broaden the city's economy into technology and higher education while aligning with mainland China's development goals. Full story → · 4 sources
Venezuela's oil sector opens further to foreign investment under new U.S. partnership Weeks after Venezuela's government signed a major deal giving a U.S.-linked company development rights over billions of barrels of oil reserves, acting President Delcy Rodriguez is pressing ahead with plans to sharply raise production. Full story → · 4 sources