Can an Indian citizen start a business in the US? Complete guide
Can an Indian citizen start a business in the US? Yes, but business ownership and permission to work are separate issues. This guide explains LLC registration, EIN requirements, taxes, immigration limits and why Indian nationals should check visa rules before operating a U.S. business. An Indian citizen can start or own a business in the United States, including while living in India. But ownership and permission t
Can an Indian citizen start a business in the US? Complete guide
Can an Indian citizen start a business in the US? Yes, but business ownership and permission to work are separate issues. This guide explains LLC registration, EIN requirements, taxes, immigration limits and why Indian nationals should check visa rules before operating a U.S. business. An Indian citizen can start or own a business in the United States, including while living in India. But ownership and permission t
WION Summit 2026 Brings Indian Leaders to New York
The WION Summit 2026 will bring policymakers, entrepreneurs, innovators and Indian diaspora leaders together in New Jersey and New York from September 9 to 14. The programme combines an Indo-US leadership agenda, Global Indian Honours, networking, Bollywood entertainment and New York Fashion Week access. WION Summit 2026 Agenda The Zee Media–WION Global Innovation & Leadership Summit is s
WION Summit 2026 Brings Indian Leaders to New York
The WION Summit 2026 will bring policymakers, entrepreneurs, innovators and Indian diaspora leaders together in New Jersey and New York from September 9 to 14. The programme combines an Indo-US leadership agenda, Global Indian Honours, networking, Bollywood entertainment and New York Fashion Week access. WION Summit 2026 Agenda The Zee Media–WION Global Innovation & Leadership Summit is s
Trump Announces Generic Drug Tariffs Up to 200%
Trump's generic drug tariff plan introduces a phased import duty that could reach 200% within three years, encouraging pharmaceutical companies to manufacture in the United States. The proposal could significantly affect India's pharmaceutical industry, which supplies nearly 40% of generic medicines used in the US. Trump Generic Drug Tariffs Target India Pharma Export
Trump Announces Generic Drug Tariffs Up to 200%
Trump's generic drug tariff plan introduces a phased import duty that could reach 200% within three years, encouraging pharmaceutical companies to manufacture in the United States. The proposal could significantly affect India's pharmaceutical industry, which supplies nearly 40% of generic medicines used in the US. Trump Generic Drug Tariffs Target India Pharma Export
Bangladesh Freezes Sheikh Hasina Family Assets Worth $6.19 Billion
Bangladesh freezes Sheikh Hasina assets worth $6.19 billion as authorities expand investigations into alleged corruption, money laundering and tax evasion. The Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit says asset recovery efforts are underway with support from multiple government agencies. Bangladesh Freezes Sheikh Hasina Assets Worth $6.19 Billion Bangladesh has frozen assets worth Tk 760 billion (about $6.19 billion) linked to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, her family members and ten of the country's largest business groups. The move marks one of the biggest financial enforcement actions since the political transition that followed the 2024 student-led uprising. Sheikh Hasina Investigation Expands Speaking during the release of the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU) annual report in Dhaka, BFIU chief Ikhtiar Uddin Mohammad Mamun said court orders enabled authorities to freeze Tk 570 billion in assets within Bangladesh and another Tk 190 billion overseas. He did not disclose how much of the frozen assets belonged to individual family members or each business group. The investigation began after Sheikh Hasina left office on August 5, 2024, following widespread protests. She later traveled to India, where she has remained since. The interim administration led by Professor Muhammad Yunus directed authorities to examine allegations including corruption, bribery, fraud, forgery, money laundering, foreign currency smuggling and tax evasion involving Hasina's family and several leading corporate groups. Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit Leads Probe According to the BFIU, authorities are concentrating on tracing and recovering assets that investigators believe were transferred outside Bangladesh. Mamun said officials are working with international partners and expressed hope that progress on recovering overseas assets could be announced before the end of the year. The financial investigation is being coordinated by the BFIU with support from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), the National Board of Revenue (NBR) and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). The agencies are examining financial records, banking transactions and ownership structures connected to individuals and companies under investigation. Business Groups Investigation Covers Major Companies Authorities confirmed that the investigation includes S Alam Group, Beximco Group, Nabil Group, Summit Group, Orion Group, Premier Group, Nassa Group, Bashundhara Group, Sikder Group and Aramit Group. Officials have not announced individual findings against any of these companies, stating that investigations remain ongoing. The large-scale asset freeze highlights Bangladesh's efforts to strengthen financial oversight while addressing allegations of illicit financial activity. Officials say legal procedures and court approvals continue to guide the investigation. Asset Recovery Efforts Continue Responding to questions about whether the investigations were politically motivated, Mamun said political affiliation plays no role in financial intelligence work. He stated that authorities focus on suspicious financial transactions regardless of an individual's position or identity. Mamun also said banks are required to freeze accounts whenever suspicious activity is identified. He added that if evidence emerges involving members of the current interim government, those cases would also be investigated under the same legal framework. The BFIU said the investigation remains active, with asset recovery now a priority. Authorities have indicated that additional developments could be announced as financial reviews, legal proceedings and international cooperation continue. Source: Statements by the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU) during the release of its annual report in Dhaka. Suggested internal links: Global News, Business & Economy, Government Policy, Bangladesh news archive, Money & Finance category.
Bangladesh Freezes Sheikh Hasina Family Assets Worth $6.19 Billion
Bangladesh freezes Sheikh Hasina assets worth $6.19 billion as authorities expand investigations into alleged corruption, money laundering and tax evasion. The Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit says asset recovery efforts are underway with support from multiple government agencies. Bangladesh Freezes Sheikh Hasina Assets Worth $6.19 Billion Bangladesh has frozen assets worth Tk 760 billion (about $6.19 billion) linked to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, her family members and ten of the country's largest business groups. The move marks one of the biggest financial enforcement actions since the political transition that followed the 2024 student-led uprising. Sheikh Hasina Investigation Expands Speaking during the release of the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU) annual report in Dhaka, BFIU chief Ikhtiar Uddin Mohammad Mamun said court orders enabled authorities to freeze Tk 570 billion in assets within Bangladesh and another Tk 190 billion overseas. He did not disclose how much of the frozen assets belonged to individual family members or each business group. The investigation began after Sheikh Hasina left office on August 5, 2024, following widespread protests. She later traveled to India, where she has remained since. The interim administration led by Professor Muhammad Yunus directed authorities to examine allegations including corruption, bribery, fraud, forgery, money laundering, foreign currency smuggling and tax evasion involving Hasina's family and several leading corporate groups. Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit Leads Probe According to the BFIU, authorities are concentrating on tracing and recovering assets that investigators believe were transferred outside Bangladesh. Mamun said officials are working with international partners and expressed hope that progress on recovering overseas assets could be announced before the end of the year. The financial investigation is being coordinated by the BFIU with support from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), the National Board of Revenue (NBR) and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). The agencies are examining financial records, banking transactions and ownership structures connected to individuals and companies under investigation. Business Groups Investigation Covers Major Companies Authorities confirmed that the investigation includes S Alam Group, Beximco Group, Nabil Group, Summit Group, Orion Group, Premier Group, Nassa Group, Bashundhara Group, Sikder Group and Aramit Group. Officials have not announced individual findings against any of these companies, stating that investigations remain ongoing. The large-scale asset freeze highlights Bangladesh's efforts to strengthen financial oversight while addressing allegations of illicit financial activity. Officials say legal procedures and court approvals continue to guide the investigation. Asset Recovery Efforts Continue Responding to questions about whether the investigations were politically motivated, Mamun said political affiliation plays no role in financial intelligence work. He stated that authorities focus on suspicious financial transactions regardless of an individual's position or identity. Mamun also said banks are required to freeze accounts whenever suspicious activity is identified. He added that if evidence emerges involving members of the current interim government, those cases would also be investigated under the same legal framework. The BFIU said the investigation remains active, with asset recovery now a priority. Authorities have indicated that additional developments could be announced as financial reviews, legal proceedings and international cooperation continue. Source: Statements by the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU) during the release of its annual report in Dhaka. Suggested internal links: Global News, Business & Economy, Government Policy, Bangladesh news archive, Money & Finance category.
India-Maldives trade talks advance investment and FTA plans
India-Maldives trade relations are gaining momentum after senior ministers discussed faster progress on an investment treaty and proposed free trade agreement. The talks covered tourism, digital payments, startups, MSMEs and measures intended to make bilateral commerce more efficient. India-Maldives trade talks gain momentum Maldives Minister of Economic D
India-Maldives trade talks advance investment and FTA plans
India-Maldives trade relations are gaining momentum after senior ministers discussed faster progress on an investment treaty and proposed free trade agreement. The talks covered tourism, digital payments, startups, MSMEs and measures intended to make bilateral commerce more efficient. India-Maldives trade talks gain momentum Maldives Minister of Economic D
Trump Disclosure Shows $2.2 Billion in 2025 Revenue and Income
President Donald Trump’s 2025 financial disclosure shows more than $2.2 billion in reported revenue and income from cryptocurrency ventures, golf properties, licensing agreements, investments and legal settlements. The U.S. Office of Government Ethics released Trump’s certified annual financial disclosure on Tuesday, June 30, 2026. The nearly 1,000-page filing provides an extensive but incomplete picture of his businesses, assets and incom
Trump Disclosure Shows $2.2 Billion in 2025 Revenue and Income
President Donald Trump’s 2025 financial disclosure shows more than $2.2 billion in reported revenue and income from cryptocurrency ventures, golf properties, licensing agreements, investments and legal settlements. The U.S. Office of Government Ethics released Trump’s certified annual financial disclosure on Tuesday, June 30, 2026. The nearly 1,000-page filing provides an extensive but incomplete picture of his businesses, assets and incom
Andhra Pradesh Set To Become India’s Largest Gold Producer
Andhra Pradesh’s Jonnagiri Gold Mine Emerges As A Major Mining Milestone Andhra Pradesh’s Jonnagiri gold mine in Kurnool district has become a major focus after officials estimated nearly 50 tonnes of gold reserves in the area. With commercial production already underway, the state is aiming to emerge as one of India’s leading gold suppliers in the coming years.
Andhra Pradesh Set To Become India’s Largest Gold Producer
Andhra Pradesh’s Jonnagiri Gold Mine Emerges As A Major Mining Milestone Andhra Pradesh’s Jonnagiri gold mine in Kurnool district has become a major focus after officials estimated nearly 50 tonnes of gold reserves in the area. With commercial production already underway, the state is aiming to emerge as one of India’s leading gold suppliers in the coming years.
Cuba unveils major reforms to expand private sector
Cuba proposes major shift in economic policy Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero has presented lawmakers with a sweeping economic reform package aimed at reshaping parts of the island’s tightly controlled economy. The proposals, backed by the Communist Party and former leader Raúl Castro, come as Cuba faces rising pressure from US sanctions, a fuel blockade and worsening shortages of basic goods. The package still requires approval from th
Cuba unveils major reforms to expand private sector
Cuba proposes major shift in economic policy Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero has presented lawmakers with a sweeping economic reform package aimed at reshaping parts of the island’s tightly controlled economy. The proposals, backed by the Communist Party and former leader Raúl Castro, come as Cuba faces rising pressure from US sanctions, a fuel blockade and worsening shortages of basic goods. The package still requires approval from th
New Jersey ranks last in NJBIA business climate report
New Jersey ranked last in a regional business climate report from the New Jersey Business and Industry Association, as high taxes and business costs continued to weigh on employers. The New Jersey business climate report compared seven Northeast and mid-Atlantic states and placed Pennsylvania first, followed by Maryland and Delaware. New Jersey finished at the bottom for the eighth consecutive year. New Jersey business climate report highlights tax burden
New Jersey ranks last in NJBIA business climate report
New Jersey ranked last in a regional business climate report from the New Jersey Business and Industry Association, as high taxes and business costs continued to weigh on employers. The New Jersey business climate report compared seven Northeast and mid-Atlantic states and placed Pennsylvania first, followed by Maryland and Delaware. New Jersey finished at the bottom for the eighth consecutive year. New Jersey business climate report highlights tax burden
INNOPROM India 2026 to boost Russia-India trade ties
India and Russia are preparing to host the first INNOPROM International Industrial Technology Exhibition in India, marking a fresh push in their expanding economic and industrial partnership. The event is scheduled to take place from September 9 to 11 at Bharat Mandapam Exhibition and Convention Centre in New Delhi, bringing together manufacturers, investors, technology companies, industrial buyers and government representatives. The exhib
INNOPROM India 2026 to boost Russia-India trade ties
India and Russia are preparing to host the first INNOPROM International Industrial Technology Exhibition in India, marking a fresh push in their expanding economic and industrial partnership. The event is scheduled to take place from September 9 to 11 at Bharat Mandapam Exhibition and Convention Centre in New Delhi, bringing together manufacturers, investors, technology companies, industrial buyers and government representatives. The exhib
PM Modi Reviews India Growth Plan as GDP FY26 Hits 7.7%, Fuel Savings and Reforms Take Focus
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reviewed India’s economic growth strategy with members of the PM-Economic Advisory Council as global uncertainty, trade pressures and tensions in West Asia continue to create risks for major economies. The discussion focused on strengthening India’s economic resilience, improving business conditions and ensuring that growth benefits both companies and ordinary citizens. The meeting also looked at how India can maintain momentum while protecting itsel
PM Modi Reviews India Growth Plan as GDP FY26 Hits 7.7%, Fuel Savings and Reforms Take Focus
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reviewed India’s economic growth strategy with members of the PM-Economic Advisory Council as global uncertainty, trade pressures and tensions in West Asia continue to create risks for major economies. The discussion focused on strengthening India’s economic resilience, improving business conditions and ensuring that growth benefits both companies and ordinary citizens. The meeting also looked at how India can maintain momentum while protecting itsel
Hello Kitty Cafe Coming to Skokie’s Old Orchard Mall: What We Know
Hello Kitty Cafe is coming to Westfield Old Orchard in Skokie, giving Chicago-area Sanrio fans another reason to visit the north suburban shopping center. The mall announced that the cafe is “coming soon” as part of a broader summer update, but it has not confirmed an opening date or the exact location inside Westfield Old Orchard. Opening Date and Location Still Not Confirmed For now, key details remain limited. Westfield Old Orchard has n
Hello Kitty Cafe Coming to Skokie’s Old Orchard Mall: What We Know
Hello Kitty Cafe is coming to Westfield Old Orchard in Skokie, giving Chicago-area Sanrio fans another reason to visit the north suburban shopping center. The mall announced that the cafe is “coming soon” as part of a broader summer update, but it has not confirmed an opening date or the exact location inside Westfield Old Orchard. Opening Date and Location Still Not Confirmed For now, key details remain limited. Westfield Old Orchard has n
US-China Summit: Trump and Xi Discuss Trade, Taiwan, and Iran
On May 14, US President Donald Trump will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing for an important summit that could reshape the US-China relationship. This high-level meeting comes after years of trade disputes, rising tensions over Taiwan, and concerns about Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The two leaders are expected to tackle these critical issues head-on, with major global implications. This marks Trump’s first visit to China since 2017, and the atmosphere surrounding the trip is tense, yet optimistic. Alongside the president, top business leaders, including Nvidia’s Jensen Huang and Tesla’s Elon Musk, will be part of the delegation, emphasizing the US’s desire to push for commercial deals that strengthen trade ties with China. The summit is taking place against the backdrop of escalating tensions, including the ongoing trade war between the two powers, China’s rare earth restrictions, and the fierce competition in artificial intelligence (AI). Trade Tensions: A Fragile Truce One of the central issues on the table is trade. The US and China have been at odds for years, with both countries imposing tariffs on each other's goods. While last year saw a brief period of truce, many unresolved issues remain. President Trump is expected to press China for further trade reforms and better deals for American businesses, especially in the face of high tariffs and economic uncertainty.Both sides are aware that the trade dynamics have far-reaching consequences for the global economy, so finding common ground will be critical. Taiwan: A Stubborn Point of Contention Another major issue will be Taiwan, which has long been a flashpoint between the two nations. China views Taiwan as an inseparable part of its territory, while the US has shown strong support for the island’s autonomy. With tensions rising, especially after China increased military activity near Taiwan, the US's stance on Taiwan remains a key area of friction. Trump’s administration has been vocal about its support for Taiwan, and it remains to be seen how this will affect the overall talks. How the two leaders address this issue will set the tone for future interactions between the two countries, especially considering the delicate balance the US must strike between its relationship with China and its support for Taiwan. Iran: A Strategic Challenge Trump is also expected to address the situation in Iran, seeking China’s cooperation on curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions. With China’s significant economic ties to Iran, Trump hopes Beijing can use its influence to help rein in Tehran’s nuclear program and reduce instability in the Middle East. China’s role in global diplomacy has been growing, and this summit could serve as a turning point for its involvement in international peace efforts. The Stakes of the Summit Both leaders face high stakes at this summit. Trump’s goal is clear: to secure deals that will benefit American businesses and address concerns about China’s rising influence in global trade and AI. For China, maintaining its geopolitical power while ensuring economic growth is paramount. Despite the challenging topics, both leaders know the importance of maintaining a functional relationship for global stability. As the summit unfolds, eyes will be on whether the two leaders can navigate their differences and strike a deal that addresses the critical issues of trade, Taiwan, and Iran. The outcome will not just shape US-China relations, but could influence global geopolitics for years to come. This meeting is more than just diplomacy; it's a chance to shape the future of international relations, with consequences that reach far beyond the negotiating table.
US-China Summit: Trump and Xi Discuss Trade, Taiwan, and Iran
On May 14, US President Donald Trump will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing for an important summit that could reshape the US-China relationship. This high-level meeting comes after years of trade disputes, rising tensions over Taiwan, and concerns about Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The two leaders are expected to tackle these critical issues head-on, with major global implications. This marks Trump’s first visit to China since 2017, and the atmosphere surrounding the trip is tense, yet optimistic. Alongside the president, top business leaders, including Nvidia’s Jensen Huang and Tesla’s Elon Musk, will be part of the delegation, emphasizing the US’s desire to push for commercial deals that strengthen trade ties with China. The summit is taking place against the backdrop of escalating tensions, including the ongoing trade war between the two powers, China’s rare earth restrictions, and the fierce competition in artificial intelligence (AI). Trade Tensions: A Fragile Truce One of the central issues on the table is trade. The US and China have been at odds for years, with both countries imposing tariffs on each other's goods. While last year saw a brief period of truce, many unresolved issues remain. President Trump is expected to press China for further trade reforms and better deals for American businesses, especially in the face of high tariffs and economic uncertainty.Both sides are aware that the trade dynamics have far-reaching consequences for the global economy, so finding common ground will be critical. Taiwan: A Stubborn Point of Contention Another major issue will be Taiwan, which has long been a flashpoint between the two nations. China views Taiwan as an inseparable part of its territory, while the US has shown strong support for the island’s autonomy. With tensions rising, especially after China increased military activity near Taiwan, the US's stance on Taiwan remains a key area of friction. Trump’s administration has been vocal about its support for Taiwan, and it remains to be seen how this will affect the overall talks. How the two leaders address this issue will set the tone for future interactions between the two countries, especially considering the delicate balance the US must strike between its relationship with China and its support for Taiwan. Iran: A Strategic Challenge Trump is also expected to address the situation in Iran, seeking China’s cooperation on curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions. With China’s significant economic ties to Iran, Trump hopes Beijing can use its influence to help rein in Tehran’s nuclear program and reduce instability in the Middle East. China’s role in global diplomacy has been growing, and this summit could serve as a turning point for its involvement in international peace efforts. The Stakes of the Summit Both leaders face high stakes at this summit. Trump’s goal is clear: to secure deals that will benefit American businesses and address concerns about China’s rising influence in global trade and AI. For China, maintaining its geopolitical power while ensuring economic growth is paramount. Despite the challenging topics, both leaders know the importance of maintaining a functional relationship for global stability. As the summit unfolds, eyes will be on whether the two leaders can navigate their differences and strike a deal that addresses the critical issues of trade, Taiwan, and Iran. The outcome will not just shape US-China relations, but could influence global geopolitics for years to come. This meeting is more than just diplomacy; it's a chance to shape the future of international relations, with consequences that reach far beyond the negotiating table.
Greg Abbott Courts Wall Street as Mamdani Backlash Hits NYC
Texas Governor Greg Abbott is courting Wall Street firms as criticism grows over New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s rhetoric toward wealthy business leaders and billionaire CEOs. The political clash has sharpened concerns about New York City’s business climate, especially among financial firms weighing taxes, regulation and long-term expansion plans. Texas Sells Low-Tax Business Climate Abbott’s office said Texas remains open to compani
Greg Abbott Courts Wall Street as Mamdani Backlash Hits NYC
Texas Governor Greg Abbott is courting Wall Street firms as criticism grows over New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s rhetoric toward wealthy business leaders and billionaire CEOs. The political clash has sharpened concerns about New York City’s business climate, especially among financial firms weighing taxes, regulation and long-term expansion plans. Texas Sells Low-Tax Business Climate Abbott’s office said Texas remains open to compani
Texas hemp ban forces CBD shop closures ahead of new rule rollout
ADDISON, Texas — A new state rule banning certain products in CBD and vape shops is set to take effect on Tuesday, April 1, 2026, prompting immediate closures and raising concerns among retailers across the Dallas-Fort Worth region. The regulation eliminates smokable hemp products, significantly increases licensing fees, and introduces stricter compliance requirements for businesses operating in the sector. The impact is already being felt. A CBD retail store near Addison ceased operations on Monday, March 31, 2026, its final day before the rule takes effect. Store employees reported a steady stream of customers purchasing remaining inventory, as shelves were largely cleared in anticipation of the ban. For many retailers, smokable hemp products represent a substantial share of revenue, making the restriction particularly disruptive. Business operators say the timing of the regulation has compounded existing challenges. One retail manager noted that the store had been preparing to relocate, but the combined effect of losing a major product category and facing sharply higher licensing costs made continued operations unsustainable. Industry leaders argue that such restrictions could push consumers toward unregulated markets, raising broader concerns about product safety and oversight. The updated rule also increases annual licensing fees for CBD and vape retailers from just over $150 to $5,000, a steep rise that many small businesses say is difficult to absorb. Some operators estimate that prior restrictions, including a ban on disposable vape products introduced in September 2025, had already reduced revenues by as much as 25%, with the latest changes potentially doubling that impact. Despite the challenges, some businesses are choosing to remain open and adapt. Executives at one Dallas-based hemp company reported strong customer demand in the days leading up to the rule’s implementation, as consumers stocked up on affected products. However, they anticipate losing approximately 30% of their sales moving forward. In addition to product restrictions and fee increases, the regulation mandates child-resistant packaging, updated labeling standards, and raises the legal purchasing age to 21. Businesses that fail to comply risk losing their licenses and could face fines of up to $10,000 per day for violations.
Texas hemp ban forces CBD shop closures ahead of new rule rollout
ADDISON, Texas — A new state rule banning certain products in CBD and vape shops is set to take effect on Tuesday, April 1, 2026, prompting immediate closures and raising concerns among retailers across the Dallas-Fort Worth region. The regulation eliminates smokable hemp products, significantly increases licensing fees, and introduces stricter compliance requirements for businesses operating in the sector. The impact is already being felt. A CBD retail store near Addison ceased operations on Monday, March 31, 2026, its final day before the rule takes effect. Store employees reported a steady stream of customers purchasing remaining inventory, as shelves were largely cleared in anticipation of the ban. For many retailers, smokable hemp products represent a substantial share of revenue, making the restriction particularly disruptive. Business operators say the timing of the regulation has compounded existing challenges. One retail manager noted that the store had been preparing to relocate, but the combined effect of losing a major product category and facing sharply higher licensing costs made continued operations unsustainable. Industry leaders argue that such restrictions could push consumers toward unregulated markets, raising broader concerns about product safety and oversight. The updated rule also increases annual licensing fees for CBD and vape retailers from just over $150 to $5,000, a steep rise that many small businesses say is difficult to absorb. Some operators estimate that prior restrictions, including a ban on disposable vape products introduced in September 2025, had already reduced revenues by as much as 25%, with the latest changes potentially doubling that impact. Despite the challenges, some businesses are choosing to remain open and adapt. Executives at one Dallas-based hemp company reported strong customer demand in the days leading up to the rule’s implementation, as consumers stocked up on affected products. However, they anticipate losing approximately 30% of their sales moving forward. In addition to product restrictions and fee increases, the regulation mandates child-resistant packaging, updated labeling standards, and raises the legal purchasing age to 21. Businesses that fail to comply risk losing their licenses and could face fines of up to $10,000 per day for violations.
Green card holders barred from SBA small business loans under new US rules
Green card holders will no longer be eligible for government-backed small business loans in the United States beginning March 1, 2026, following a policy change by the US Small Business Administration that tightens citizenship and residency requirements for borrowers. The revised rules limit access to key SBA lending programs exclusively to US citizens and nationals who maintain their principal residence within the country or its territories, effectively barring lawful permanent residents from participation. According to an official policy notice issued in early February, the agency updated its Standard Operating Procedure 50 10 8, the framework that governs lender and development company loan programs. The revision rescinds earlier procedural guidance that permitted limited ownership by foreign nationals or certain residents living outside the United States. Under the new language, every direct and indirect owner of a small business applicant must meet the citizenship criteria. The SBA said the updated rules require 100 percent of ownership interests in any applicant or borrowing entity to be held by eligible US citizens or nationals. As a result, even minority ownership by a legal permanent resident will disqualify a company from receiving SBA-backed financing. The policy applies broadly to applicants, operating companies, and entities tied to the loan structure, leaving little flexibility for mixed-ownership businesses. The change is expected to affect a wide range of small and early-stage firms that rely on SBA loans for working capital, equipment purchases, and expansion. Many startups and family-owned enterprises depend on these lending programs because they offer lower interest rates and government guarantees that make financing more accessible. With the new restrictions in place, businesses that include green card holders among their owners may need to reconsider ownership arrangements or seek alternative sources of credit from private lenders. Agency officials indicated that the revisions align loan eligibility standards with existing federal regulations and a recent executive directive emphasizing stricter residency compliance. The policy will take effect for all new applications submitted on or after the effective date. Existing and prospective borrowers are being advised to review their ownership structures carefully to ensure continued eligibility under the updated requirements. The move marks a significant shift in how federal small business lending programs define qualification, narrowing access to public funds and reshaping the financing landscape for immigrant entrepreneurs. As the implementation date approaches, legal and financial advisers expect increased demand for guidance from affected business owners who must evaluate their options within the new framework.
Green card holders barred from SBA small business loans under new US rules
Green card holders will no longer be eligible for government-backed small business loans in the United States beginning March 1, 2026, following a policy change by the US Small Business Administration that tightens citizenship and residency requirements for borrowers. The revised rules limit access to key SBA lending programs exclusively to US citizens and nationals who maintain their principal residence within the country or its territories, effectively barring lawful permanent residents from participation. According to an official policy notice issued in early February, the agency updated its Standard Operating Procedure 50 10 8, the framework that governs lender and development company loan programs. The revision rescinds earlier procedural guidance that permitted limited ownership by foreign nationals or certain residents living outside the United States. Under the new language, every direct and indirect owner of a small business applicant must meet the citizenship criteria. The SBA said the updated rules require 100 percent of ownership interests in any applicant or borrowing entity to be held by eligible US citizens or nationals. As a result, even minority ownership by a legal permanent resident will disqualify a company from receiving SBA-backed financing. The policy applies broadly to applicants, operating companies, and entities tied to the loan structure, leaving little flexibility for mixed-ownership businesses. The change is expected to affect a wide range of small and early-stage firms that rely on SBA loans for working capital, equipment purchases, and expansion. Many startups and family-owned enterprises depend on these lending programs because they offer lower interest rates and government guarantees that make financing more accessible. With the new restrictions in place, businesses that include green card holders among their owners may need to reconsider ownership arrangements or seek alternative sources of credit from private lenders. Agency officials indicated that the revisions align loan eligibility standards with existing federal regulations and a recent executive directive emphasizing stricter residency compliance. The policy will take effect for all new applications submitted on or after the effective date. Existing and prospective borrowers are being advised to review their ownership structures carefully to ensure continued eligibility under the updated requirements. The move marks a significant shift in how federal small business lending programs define qualification, narrowing access to public funds and reshaping the financing landscape for immigrant entrepreneurs. As the implementation date approaches, legal and financial advisers expect increased demand for guidance from affected business owners who must evaluate their options within the new framework.
Trump Admits 100% Tariff “Not Sustainable” Ahead of Xi Meeting
U.S. President Donald Trump conceded in a recent interview that imposing a 100% tariff on Chinese imports would not be a lasting policy, saying, “It’s not sustainable, but that’s what the number is.” He asserted that Beijing “forced me to do that,” pointing to China’s tighter export controls—especially on rare earth elements—as justification for the heightened measur
Trump Admits 100% Tariff “Not Sustainable” Ahead of Xi Meeting
U.S. President Donald Trump conceded in a recent interview that imposing a 100% tariff on Chinese imports would not be a lasting policy, saying, “It’s not sustainable, but that’s what the number is.” He asserted that Beijing “forced me to do that,” pointing to China’s tighter export controls—especially on rare earth elements—as justification for the heightened measur
Palmetto Superfoods Expands to Livermore, Bringing Fresh Açaí Bowls to Tri-Valley
Palmetto Superfoods, the popular Bay Area chain known for its delicious Brazilian-inspired açai bowls and smoothies, has expanded to Livermore. This marks another milestone for the company, which first opened in San Francisco's Inner Richmond neighborhood in 2019. The Livermore location, located at 3052 West Jack London Boulevard, opened its doors with a soft opening this week, bringing its refreshing, nutrient-packed bowls and smoothies to the Tri-
Palmetto Superfoods Expands to Livermore, Bringing Fresh Açaí Bowls to Tri-Valley
Palmetto Superfoods, the popular Bay Area chain known for its delicious Brazilian-inspired açai bowls and smoothies, has expanded to Livermore. This marks another milestone for the company, which first opened in San Francisco's Inner Richmond neighborhood in 2019. The Livermore location, located at 3052 West Jack London Boulevard, opened its doors with a soft opening this week, bringing its refreshing, nutrient-packed bowls and smoothies to the Tri-
India and UK Sign Historic Free Trade Agreement, Set to Boost Trade by USD 34 Billion
On July 24, 2025, India and the United Kingdom signed a historic Free Trade Agreement (FTA) during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to London, marking a key milestone in their economic relationship. The agreement, expected to increase bilateral trade by USD 34 billion annually, is the largest trade deal the UK has signed since its departure from the European Union in 2020. The deal was finalized between India's Commerce Minister Piyush G
India and UK Sign Historic Free Trade Agreement, Set to Boost Trade by USD 34 Billion
On July 24, 2025, India and the United Kingdom signed a historic Free Trade Agreement (FTA) during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to London, marking a key milestone in their economic relationship. The agreement, expected to increase bilateral trade by USD 34 billion annually, is the largest trade deal the UK has signed since its departure from the European Union in 2020. The deal was finalized between India's Commerce Minister Piyush G
Subway falls below 20,000 US locations for the first time in two decades
Subway, one of America's most recognized fast food franchises, has seen its number of US locations drop below 20,000 for the first time in over 20 years. In 2024 alone, the chain shuttered 631 restaurants, reducing its US footprint to 19,502 outlets. This marks the eighth consecutive year that Subway has scaled back its presence in its home country. Despite this consistent decline, Subway still holds the distinction of being the largest restaurant chain in the United States by number of loca
Subway falls below 20,000 US locations for the first time in two decades
Subway, one of America's most recognized fast food franchises, has seen its number of US locations drop below 20,000 for the first time in over 20 years. In 2024 alone, the chain shuttered 631 restaurants, reducing its US footprint to 19,502 outlets. This marks the eighth consecutive year that Subway has scaled back its presence in its home country. Despite this consistent decline, Subway still holds the distinction of being the largest restaurant chain in the United States by number of loca









