JPMorgan Unveils 2025 Summer Reads: From AI Futures to the Art of Living Well
JPMorgan has unveiled its 2025 Summer Reading List, a curated selection of 16 books that delve into themes of happiness, resilience, artificial intelligence, and the future of global finance. Now in its 26th year, this annual list is compiled from over 1,000 suggestions by JPMorgan's client advisors and refined by a dedicated review committee. The list serves as a guide for the affluent seeking insightful and transformative reads during the summer months. Darin Oduyoye, Chi
JPMorgan Unveils 2025 Summer Reads: From AI Futures to the Art of Living Well
JPMorgan has unveiled its 2025 Summer Reading List, a curated selection of 16 books that delve into themes of happiness, resilience, artificial intelligence, and the future of global finance. Now in its 26th year, this annual list is compiled from over 1,000 suggestions by JPMorgan's client advisors and refined by a dedicated review committee. The list serves as a guide for the affluent seeking insightful and transformative reads during the summer months. Darin Oduyoye, Chi
Stablecoin legislation gains momentum in Senate with bipartisan support
The United States Senate has taken a major step toward regulating stablecoins, a rapidly expanding segment of the cryptocurrency market. In a procedural vote on Monday, the Senate voted 66-32 to advance a bill designed to establish a federal regulatory framework for stablecoin issuers, marking a significant development in a legislative process that had previously stalled due to political tensions. Stablecoins are digital currencies tied to tangible assets such as the US dollar or
Stablecoin legislation gains momentum in Senate with bipartisan support
The United States Senate has taken a major step toward regulating stablecoins, a rapidly expanding segment of the cryptocurrency market. In a procedural vote on Monday, the Senate voted 66-32 to advance a bill designed to establish a federal regulatory framework for stablecoin issuers, marking a significant development in a legislative process that had previously stalled due to political tensions. Stablecoins are digital currencies tied to tangible assets such as the US dollar or
Japan sees surprise GDP contraction amid weak exports, US trade risk
Japan's economy contracted in the first quarter of 2025 for the first time in a year, and the decline was sharper than expected. This latest data highlights the fragile nature of the country's recovery, now under added pressure from anticipated US trade actions that threaten to weigh further on exports and consumer sentiment. According to newly released government statistics, Japan’s real gross domestic product (GDP) shrank at an annualized rate of 0.7% from January
Japan sees surprise GDP contraction amid weak exports, US trade risk
Japan's economy contracted in the first quarter of 2025 for the first time in a year, and the decline was sharper than expected. This latest data highlights the fragile nature of the country's recovery, now under added pressure from anticipated US trade actions that threaten to weigh further on exports and consumer sentiment. According to newly released government statistics, Japan’s real gross domestic product (GDP) shrank at an annualized rate of 0.7% from January
US-China 90-day tariff truce lifts global markets as inflation data weakens dollar
Markets across the globe rallied after a major breakthrough in US-China trade relations led to a temporary easing of tariffs, injecting optimism into an environment recently weighed down by economic uncertainty. A new agreement between the two economic giants saw both sides commit to a 90-day reduction in tariffs, effectively pausing years of escalating trade hostilities. The United States agreed to cut tariffs on Chinese imports from 145% to 30%, while China responded by lowering its tariffs on
US-China 90-day tariff truce lifts global markets as inflation data weakens dollar
Markets across the globe rallied after a major breakthrough in US-China trade relations led to a temporary easing of tariffs, injecting optimism into an environment recently weighed down by economic uncertainty. A new agreement between the two economic giants saw both sides commit to a 90-day reduction in tariffs, effectively pausing years of escalating trade hostilities. The United States agreed to cut tariffs on Chinese imports from 145% to 30%, while China responded by lowering its tariffs on
GOP Tax Plan: No Tax on Tips, 5% Remittance Fee, Senior Bonus
House Republicans have unveiled a sweeping new tax proposal dubbed the “One Big, Beautiful Bill” aligning with President Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign promises. The bill includes major tax breaks for workers, significant penalties for elite educational institutions, and the introduction of a 5% tax on money transfers sent abroad, a move likely to impact immigrant families across the country. The proposed legislation eliminates federal income taxes on tips and o
GOP Tax Plan: No Tax on Tips, 5% Remittance Fee, Senior Bonus
House Republicans have unveiled a sweeping new tax proposal dubbed the “One Big, Beautiful Bill” aligning with President Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign promises. The bill includes major tax breaks for workers, significant penalties for elite educational institutions, and the introduction of a 5% tax on money transfers sent abroad, a move likely to impact immigrant families across the country. The proposed legislation eliminates federal income taxes on tips and o
Trade deal hopes rise as US-China talks yield positive momentum
The United States and China are expected to provide more clarity on the progress made during a series of marathon trade discussions held over the weekend in Geneva. These talks brought together high-level officials from both countries, and their outcomes may mark a turning point in ongoing efforts to resolve longstanding economic tensions between the two largest global economies. While full details have not yet been disclosed, early signals from both sides suggest cautious optimis
Trade deal hopes rise as US-China talks yield positive momentum
The United States and China are expected to provide more clarity on the progress made during a series of marathon trade discussions held over the weekend in Geneva. These talks brought together high-level officials from both countries, and their outcomes may mark a turning point in ongoing efforts to resolve longstanding economic tensions between the two largest global economies. While full details have not yet been disclosed, early signals from both sides suggest cautious optimis
U.S. Bay Area warehouse demand surges as tariffs reshape import strategies
A logistics company in the Bay Area is experiencing unexpected business growth due to rising tariffs introduced under the Trump administration. These policy changes have reshaped international trade routes and transformed how companies handle imported goods, particularly increasing demand for bonded warehouses — specialized storage spaces where tariffs don’t apply until items are officially brought into the domestic market. Francisco Garcia, founder of Lynx Logistics i
U.S. Bay Area warehouse demand surges as tariffs reshape import strategies
A logistics company in the Bay Area is experiencing unexpected business growth due to rising tariffs introduced under the Trump administration. These policy changes have reshaped international trade routes and transformed how companies handle imported goods, particularly increasing demand for bonded warehouses — specialized storage spaces where tariffs don’t apply until items are officially brought into the domestic market. Francisco Garcia, founder of Lynx Logistics i
Medicaid cuts could impact all DC residents, not just low-income patients
A new congressional proposal to reduce Medicaid funding for Washington D.C. is causing concern among officials and health experts, who warn that such cuts would have wide-reaching consequences beyond the program’s low-income beneficiaries. Medicaid is deeply integrated into the region’s health care infrastructure, and any funding reduction could disrupt care for patients across the income spectrum, affecting hospitals, clinics, and community health providers. House Rep
Medicaid cuts could impact all DC residents, not just low-income patients
A new congressional proposal to reduce Medicaid funding for Washington D.C. is causing concern among officials and health experts, who warn that such cuts would have wide-reaching consequences beyond the program’s low-income beneficiaries. Medicaid is deeply integrated into the region’s health care infrastructure, and any funding reduction could disrupt care for patients across the income spectrum, affecting hospitals, clinics, and community health providers. House Rep
528 billionaires live in just 4 US states exposing stark economic imbalance
The economic disparity among US states has been sharply illustrated by new data showing that more than half of the nation’s billionaires reside in just four states, while three states do not have a single billionaire. Out of a total of 902 billionaires across the country, 528 live in California, New York, Florida, and Texas. This geographic clustering of immense wealth reveals growing inequality in wealth distribution across the United States. California tops the list with 1
528 billionaires live in just 4 US states exposing stark economic imbalance
The economic disparity among US states has been sharply illustrated by new data showing that more than half of the nation’s billionaires reside in just four states, while three states do not have a single billionaire. Out of a total of 902 billionaires across the country, 528 live in California, New York, Florida, and Texas. This geographic clustering of immense wealth reveals growing inequality in wealth distribution across the United States. California tops the list with 1
Apple shifts iPhone output to India amid rising China-US trade tensions
Apple is taking a major strategic step by shifting a significant portion of its iPhone production for the US market to India. The move, confirmed by CEO Tim Cook, is largely driven by economic factors, especially the sharp difference in tariff rates between goods produced in India and China. According to Cook, the cost of exporting iPhones from India to the United States is much lower due to the 10 percent tariff, compared to the far higher rate imposed on Chinese imports. While Apple cont
Apple shifts iPhone output to India amid rising China-US trade tensions
Apple is taking a major strategic step by shifting a significant portion of its iPhone production for the US market to India. The move, confirmed by CEO Tim Cook, is largely driven by economic factors, especially the sharp difference in tariff rates between goods produced in India and China. According to Cook, the cost of exporting iPhones from India to the United States is much lower due to the 10 percent tariff, compared to the far higher rate imposed on Chinese imports. While Apple cont
Wedding Debt in 2025: Two-Thirds of Couples Regret Overspending, Says LendingTree Report
A recent report from LendingTree has revealed a concerning trend among newlyweds in 2025: the financial burden of weddings is pushing a growing number of couples into debt, with long-lasting effects on their relationships and financial stability. According to the survey, two-thirds of couples took on debt to fund their big day, and many are left with serious regrets after the festivities have ended. The report paints a stark picture of modern weddings extravagant affairs often driven by s
Wedding Debt in 2025: Two-Thirds of Couples Regret Overspending, Says LendingTree Report
A recent report from LendingTree has revealed a concerning trend among newlyweds in 2025: the financial burden of weddings is pushing a growing number of couples into debt, with long-lasting effects on their relationships and financial stability. According to the survey, two-thirds of couples took on debt to fund their big day, and many are left with serious regrets after the festivities have ended. The report paints a stark picture of modern weddings extravagant affairs often driven by s
Global CEOs back Trump’s $2T business drive with major US factory plans
President Donald Trump on Wednesday hosted top global business executives at the White House for the “Investing in America” event, where he revealed over $2 trillion in new investment commitments aimed at strengthening U.S. manufacturing, infrastructure, and artificial intelligence leadership. Speaking in front of industry leaders from companies including Nvidia, SoftBank, GE Aerospace, Oracle, and OpenAI, Trump framed the gathering as a milestone in what he described as the most
Global CEOs back Trump’s $2T business drive with major US factory plans
President Donald Trump on Wednesday hosted top global business executives at the White House for the “Investing in America” event, where he revealed over $2 trillion in new investment commitments aimed at strengthening U.S. manufacturing, infrastructure, and artificial intelligence leadership. Speaking in front of industry leaders from companies including Nvidia, SoftBank, GE Aerospace, Oracle, and OpenAI, Trump framed the gathering as a milestone in what he described as the most
Six-figure salary now considered low income in Bay Area counties
In an eye-opening revelation that underscores the worsening cost-of-living crisis in California, new data shows that individuals earning over $100,000 annually in four Bay Area counties are now classified as "low income." According to a recent report from the California Department of Housing and Community Development, single residents in Marin, San Mateo, San Francisco, and Santa Clara counties fall into this category despite salaries that would be considered high in most parts of the
Six-figure salary now considered low income in Bay Area counties
In an eye-opening revelation that underscores the worsening cost-of-living crisis in California, new data shows that individuals earning over $100,000 annually in four Bay Area counties are now classified as "low income." According to a recent report from the California Department of Housing and Community Development, single residents in Marin, San Mateo, San Francisco, and Santa Clara counties fall into this category despite salaries that would be considered high in most parts of the
Adidas warns of US price hikes due to Trump tariffs despite strong quarterly profit
Adidas has confirmed that U.S. tariffs introduced under former President Donald Trump will eventually lead to price increases on all of its products sold in the American market. The German sportswear company made the statement on Tuesday while presenting a strong financial performance for the first quarter, though it acknowledged that continued global trade uncertainty was holding back its growth forecast. The sportswear giant said it could not yet determine exactly how much
Adidas warns of US price hikes due to Trump tariffs despite strong quarterly profit
Adidas has confirmed that U.S. tariffs introduced under former President Donald Trump will eventually lead to price increases on all of its products sold in the American market. The German sportswear company made the statement on Tuesday while presenting a strong financial performance for the first quarter, though it acknowledged that continued global trade uncertainty was holding back its growth forecast. The sportswear giant said it could not yet determine exactly how much
How Houston Spent $180 Million: A Deep Dive Into the City's Procurement and Purchasing Process
The City of Houston spent $180 million from its general fund on purchasing goods and services during the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, according to newly released public financial records. Overseeing that massive flow of public funds was the Strategic Procurement Division of the Finance Department, which itself cost about $9.5 million to operate last year. City officials emphasize that purchasing within a government body like Houston is far different from everyday consumer spending. Unlik
How Houston Spent $180 Million: A Deep Dive Into the City's Procurement and Purchasing Process
The City of Houston spent $180 million from its general fund on purchasing goods and services during the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, according to newly released public financial records. Overseeing that massive flow of public funds was the Strategic Procurement Division of the Finance Department, which itself cost about $9.5 million to operate last year. City officials emphasize that purchasing within a government body like Houston is far different from everyday consumer spending. Unlik
Gold Emerges as Top Safe-Haven Amid U.S. Treasury and Dollar Declines
Gold has once again taken center stage in the global financial landscape, reasserting itself as a preferred safe-haven asset at a time when traditional pillars like U.S. Treasurys and the dollar are facing significant challenges. As economic instability, inflation fears, and geopolitical risks rise, investors are increasingly turning to gold as a reliable store of value. The recent depreciation of the U.S. dollar has been a key factor in gold’s renewed strength. Several econ
Gold Emerges as Top Safe-Haven Amid U.S. Treasury and Dollar Declines
Gold has once again taken center stage in the global financial landscape, reasserting itself as a preferred safe-haven asset at a time when traditional pillars like U.S. Treasurys and the dollar are facing significant challenges. As economic instability, inflation fears, and geopolitical risks rise, investors are increasingly turning to gold as a reliable store of value. The recent depreciation of the U.S. dollar has been a key factor in gold’s renewed strength. Several econ
Gold vs Mutual Funds: Which Investment Offers Better Returns in 2025?
If you're wondering whether to invest in gold or mutual funds this year, you're not alone. With rising market uncertainty, inflation concerns, and global geopolitical tensions, investors are reevaluating traditional assets. Gold and mutual funds have long stood as two prominent options for Indian investors. While both offer potential returns, they cater to different investment styles, goals, and risk appetites. Financial experts suggest that a well-balanced investment portfolio, tailo
Gold vs Mutual Funds: Which Investment Offers Better Returns in 2025?
If you're wondering whether to invest in gold or mutual funds this year, you're not alone. With rising market uncertainty, inflation concerns, and global geopolitical tensions, investors are reevaluating traditional assets. Gold and mutual funds have long stood as two prominent options for Indian investors. While both offer potential returns, they cater to different investment styles, goals, and risk appetites. Financial experts suggest that a well-balanced investment portfolio, tailo
Maryland’s New 3% IT Tax Set to Impact Small Businesses and Consumers Alike
Maryland’s latest budget cycle has ended, but its financial aftershocks are just beginning to ripple through the state's residents and businesses. One of the most significant changes coming into effect is a new 3% tax on information technology and data services, a move intended to help fill a substantial budget deficit left behind by mounting fiscal obligations. Set to begin in July, this new levy is expected to have wide-ranging impacts on both service providers a
Maryland’s New 3% IT Tax Set to Impact Small Businesses and Consumers Alike
Maryland’s latest budget cycle has ended, but its financial aftershocks are just beginning to ripple through the state's residents and businesses. One of the most significant changes coming into effect is a new 3% tax on information technology and data services, a move intended to help fill a substantial budget deficit left behind by mounting fiscal obligations. Set to begin in July, this new levy is expected to have wide-ranging impacts on both service providers a
Tesla Struggles Deepen: Musk Steps Back from Government Role to Regain Control
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has announced a partial retreat from his high-profile government role to refocus on Tesla, a move that comes in the wake of a dramatic downturn in the company’s sales and profits. During a recent earnings call, Musk informed investors that starting in May, his commitment to the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) would be scaled back to just one or two days per week. He defended his involvement with DOGE, stating it was part of a mission to combat national was
Tesla Struggles Deepen: Musk Steps Back from Government Role to Regain Control
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has announced a partial retreat from his high-profile government role to refocus on Tesla, a move that comes in the wake of a dramatic downturn in the company’s sales and profits. During a recent earnings call, Musk informed investors that starting in May, his commitment to the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) would be scaled back to just one or two days per week. He defended his involvement with DOGE, stating it was part of a mission to combat national was
Texas House Debates Budget: Paxton Backpay, Immigration Costs, and Lottery Funding
In a series of intense deliberations, the Texas House of Representatives has embarked on finalizing the state's budget, with debates centering around Attorney General Ken Paxton's backpay, healthcare costs associated with undocumented immigrants, and the future of the Texas Lottery. The budget process, typically procedural, took an unexpected turn when discussions arose about compensating AG Ken Paxton for the period he was suspended during his impeachment proceedings in 2023. Represe
Texas House Debates Budget: Paxton Backpay, Immigration Costs, and Lottery Funding
In a series of intense deliberations, the Texas House of Representatives has embarked on finalizing the state's budget, with debates centering around Attorney General Ken Paxton's backpay, healthcare costs associated with undocumented immigrants, and the future of the Texas Lottery. The budget process, typically procedural, took an unexpected turn when discussions arose about compensating AG Ken Paxton for the period he was suspended during his impeachment proceedings in 2023. Represe









