Is the US Board of Peace Aimed at Undermining the UN?

Is the US Board of Peace Aimed at Undermining the UN?

UNITED NATIONS, January 26 (IPS) - Judging by the mixed signals coming out of the White House, is the Board of Peace, a creation of President Donald Trump, eventually aimed at replacing the UN Security Council or the United Nations itself?At a ceremony in Davos, Switzerland last week, Trump formally ratified the Charter of the Board — establishing it as “an official international organization”.

Read the full story, “Is the US Board of Peace Aimed at Undermining the UN?”, on globalissues.org →

https://www.globalissues.org/news/2026/01/26/42191 {"url":"https://static.globalissues.org/ips/2026/01/Board_of_Peace_logo_500-100x100.jpg"}

Is the US Board of Peace Aimed at Undermining the UN?

Is the US Board of Peace Aimed at Undermining the UN?

UNITED NATIONS, January 26 (IPS) - Judging by the mixed signals coming out of the White House, is the Board of Peace, a creation of President Donald Trump, eventually aimed at replacing the UN Security Council or the United Nations itself?At a ceremony in Davos, Switzerland last week, Trump formally ratified the Charter of the Board — establishing it as “an official international organization”.

Read the full story, “Is the US Board of Peace Aimed at Undermining the UN?”, on globalissues.org →

https://www.globalissues.org/news/2026/01/26/42191 {"url":"https://static.globalissues.org/ips/2026/01/Board_of_Peace_logo_500-100x100.jpg"}

Is the US Board of Peace Aimed at Undermining the UN?

Is the US Board of Peace Aimed at Undermining the UN?

UNITED NATIONS, January 26 (IPS) - Judging by the mixed signals coming out of the White House, is the Board of Peace, a creation of President Donald Trump, eventually aimed at replacing the UN Security Council or the United Nations itself?At a ceremony in Davos, Switzerland last week, Trump formally ratified the Charter of the Board — establishing it as “an official international organization”.

Read the full story, “Is the US Board of Peace Aimed at Undermining the UN?”, on globalissues.org →

https://www.globalissues.org/news/2026/01/26/42191 {"url":"https://static.globalissues.org/ips/2026/01/Board_of_Peace_logo_500-100x100.jpg"}

Is the US Board of Peace Aimed at Undermining the UN?

Is the US Board of Peace Aimed at Undermining the UN?

UNITED NATIONS, January 26 (IPS) - Judging by the mixed signals coming out of the White House, is the Board of Peace, a creation of President Donald Trump, eventually aimed at replacing the UN Security Council or the United Nations itself?At a ceremony in Davos, Switzerland last week, Trump formally ratified the Charter of the Board — establishing it as “an official international organization”.

Read the full story, “Is the US Board of Peace Aimed at Undermining the UN?”, on globalissues.org →

https://www.globalissues.org/news/2026/01/26/42191 {"url":"https://static.globalissues.org/ips/2026/01/Board_of_Peace_logo_500-100x100.jpg"}

Is the US Board of Peace Aimed at Undermining the UN?

Is the US Board of Peace Aimed at Undermining the UN?

UNITED NATIONS, January 26 (IPS) - Judging by the mixed signals coming out of the White House, is the Board of Peace, a creation of President Donald Trump, eventually aimed at replacing the UN Security Council or the United Nations itself?At a ceremony in Davos, Switzerland last week, Trump formally ratified the Charter of the Board — establishing it as “an official international organization”.

Read the full story, “Is the US Board of Peace Aimed at Undermining the UN?”, on globalissues.org →

https://www.globalissues.org/news/2026/01/26/42191 {"url":"https://static.globalissues.org/ips/2026/01/Board_of_Peace_logo_500-100x100.jpg"}

Is the US Board of Peace Aimed at Undermining the UN?

Is the US Board of Peace Aimed at Undermining the UN?

UNITED NATIONS, January 26 (IPS) - Judging by the mixed signals coming out of the White House, is the Board of Peace, a creation of President Donald Trump, eventually aimed at replacing the UN Security Council or the United Nations itself?At a ceremony in Davos, Switzerland last week, Trump formally ratified the Charter of the Board — establishing it as “an official international organization”.

Read the full story, “Is the US Board of Peace Aimed at Undermining the UN?”, on globalissues.org →

https://www.globalissues.org/news/2026/01/26/42191 {"url":"https://static.globalissues.org/ips/2026/01/Board_of_Peace_logo_500-100x100.jpg"}

From family farm to climate tech: How one Kenyan woman is helping farmers outsmart drought

From family farm to climate tech: How one Kenyan woman is helping farmers outsmart drought

“Giving up is not an option - so many people depend on you,” the words of Maryanne Gichanga, a participant in a UN supported initiative, which aims to help farmers in Kenya find solutions to alleviate the pressures of climate change on agriculture production.

Read the full story, “From family farm to climate tech: How one Kenyan woman is helping farmers outsmart drought”, on globalissues.org →

https://www.globalissues.org/news/2026/01/25/42190 {}

Auto executives are hoping for the best and planning for the worst in 2026Automakers are entering a new phase of uncertainty as they deal with affordability issues and slowing consumer demand.{}

Automakers are entering a new phase of uncertainty as they deal with affordability issues and slowing consumer demand.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/25/auto-industry-2026.html

Meta to suspend teens’ access to AI characters amid safety overhaulMeta said it will suspend access to AI characters for teenagers across its apps while new safety features are developed.

Meta said Friday it was suspending teenagers' access to its existing AI characters on all social media platforms as it continues to build a new version for those users.

"Starting in the coming weeks, teens will no longer be able to access AI characters across our apps until the updated experience is ready," Meta said in an updated blog post on its website.

Meta said the pause applies to any user who has provided the platform with a teen birthday, as well as anyone the company suspects is a teen based on its age prediction technology.

The announcement comes after Meta previewed a new safety measure in October that would allow parents to disable their teenagers' private chats with AI characters, following criticism over chatbots engaging in flirtatious conversations.

TIKTOK AVOIDS US BAN BY FINALIZING HISTORIC TRUMP-BACKED AMERICAN MAJORITY OWNERSHIP DEAL

The company said the tool would let parents block specific AI characters and look at the broad topics their teens were discussing with chatbots and Meta's AI assistant, without completely turning off AI access.

Meta said that control feature has not yet been launched, adding that the parental controls will be built into the updated version of its AI characters once the new safeguards for teens are rolled out.

Teens will still be able to access Meta’s AI assistant with "age-appropriate protections in place," according to Meta.

The tech giant previously said its AI characters were designed to not engage in age-inappropriate discussions with minors about topics such as self-harm, suicide and eating disorders.

ADS COMING TO CHATGPT FOR SOME US USERS AS OPENAI SEEKS TO GENERATE NEW REVENUE

The company said its AI experiences for teenagers will be guided by the PG-13 movie rating system, with the goal of preventing children from accessing inappropriate content.

The push for new safety measures comes after a report published in September found that several Instagram safety features did not function effectively.

The report also found that Meta's chatbots engaged in "conversations that are romantic or sensual," sparking criticism from parents and child-safety advocates.

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FOX Business reached out to Meta for additional information.

FOX Business' Landon Mion contributed to this report.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/technology/meta-suspend-teens-access-ai-characters-amid-safety-overhaul

Derek Jeter takes on captain role for padel team at Miami’s Reserve CupBaseball legend Derek Jeter traded his Yankees stripes for padel gear, captaining a team at Miami’s Reserve Cup alongside global sports icons.

Derek Jeter will always be the captain, but, this weekend, it's a bit of a different role.

Jeter was the captain of the New York Yankees for the final 12 seasons of his 20-year Hall of Fame career.

Now, Jeter has received the title of captain of a padel team at the Reserve Cup in Miami this weekend.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM 

The Reserve Cup, founded by Wayne Boich, is an annual event where top padel players compete in a tournament. 

"I'm here to support Wayne. I'm no padel expert, he's the panel expert. He first told me about his vision, and I'm proud of what he's been able to build here," Jeter said in an interview with Fox Business.

The first Reserve Cup in Miami was just two years ago, and stars like Jeter, David Beckham and Serena Williams have shown their love for the sport that combines tennis, pickleball, racquetball and squash. Prize money is around $600,000 with over $2 million in sponsorship revenue.

"For me, it came from loving the sport first. I knew nothing about padel in 2013. I played at a wedding," Boich told Fox Business. "And then I was like, ‘Wow, this is an amazing sport.’ I had no idea what it was. And then I started to play with a bunch of ex-tennis players in Miami, and there was barely any courts in the United States. I think under 10 in the whole U.S., but there was three in Miami. 

"We started to play a lot, and then when I went over to Spain and played with the pros, we were like, ‘Wow, this is such a cool sport to watch live, and playing against these guys is amazing.'"

YANKEES SIGN ALL-STAR OUTFIELDER CODY BELLINGER TO MASSIVE $162.5 MILLION DEAL: REPORTS

Boich then started bringing pro players to Miami, built a court at his house and "it became an event."

"It’s so engaging. ... I noticed how men and women from around 75 years old could get hooked in one session. I found that very telling," Boich said.

"What we have with Reserve Cup. It’s not a tour event, but we’re very much a high-end lifestyle event that people go to for great padel but many other things," Boich added. "Whether it’s networking, watching padel, the events we do on-site, the people they get exposed to. Most of all, I'm very humbled and proud to see all these folks getting into the game and obviously the part that we played in it."

The Reserve Cup is no exhibition, though, as some of the game's best in the world are competing for the prizes.

"That's what draws people here. Any time you're watching a sport, if you have the best players in the world — look at World Series and Super Bowl — people want to go see it," Jeter added. "He's turned this into an event getting some of the top players in the world here."

For Boich, it means the world to have support from someone like the 14-time All-Star and five-time World Series winner.

"I'm just fortunate that I've been around sports for a long time, and those folks have been friends of mine for a long time. And I got them in the padel, they both very much enjoy it. 
Jimmy's an avid player when he can play, and Derek certainly loves it," Boich said. 

"So they're helpful, right? And I think they appreciate and believe what we're building at Reserve, and they're happy to be a part of it. And I'm very lucky before that. It's been great. 

"And then I think, on the Reserve Cup side, it's been really good to see the corporate money starting to flow into it. We’re in a position now where we have some great sponsors at Reserve Cup to help make the event a success. We’ve supplied probably about 20% of the courts that have been sold in the United States. It’s the tip of the iceberg."

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https://www.foxbusiness.com/sports/derek-jeter-returns-captain-fast-growing-racquet-sport-padels-reserve-cup

Store shelves wiped clean as Americans brace for massive winter stormGrocery stores nationwide face empty shelves as Americans rush to prepare for a massive winter storm threatening over 200 million people this weekend.

Grocery store shelves across the country are being emptied as Americans prepare for a massive winter storm expected to impact large portions of the U.S. this weekend.

From Texas to Mississippi to Washington, D.C., shoppers have encountered bare shelves as extreme winter weather threatens more than 200 million people across 40 states. Photos and videos shared from multiple areas show staples disappearing as customers rush to stock up ahead of the storm.

Video from a grocery store in Oxford, Mississippi, shows several aisles picked clean, with milk and bottled water nearly gone. Other essentials, including eggs, sausage and hot dogs, also appeared scarce as shoppers hurried to prepare, FOX Weather reported.

WHAT AMERICANS SHOULD STOCK UP ON TO PREPARE FOR THIS WEEKEND'S MASSIVE WINTER STORM

Similar scenes are playing out in North Texas, where customers cleared out aisles at local supermarkets. Photos from a Kroger in North Richland Hills show depleted shelves in some sections, according to FOX 4 News Dallas-Fort Worth.

The most picked over items included ground beef, vegetables, eggs, milk and canned goods.

One Texas shopper said he had already visited six stores while trying to prepare for the approaching winter storm, according to FOX 4. 

"I'm just looking for a loaf of bread to get me through the weekend," Lauryn Martin told FOX 4. "This is my 6th store I've been to today. I started last night, but the shelves are all empty."

US AIRLINES ISSUE TRAVEL WAIVERS, ANNOUNCE CANCELLATIONS AHEAD OF WIDESPREAD WINTER STORM

Kroger’s director of corporate affairs, John Votava, said stores are seeing a significant surge in customers.

"We are busy, seeing an influx of customers, well above average, working hard to keep up with that demand," Votava told FOX 4. "We have loads of groceries coming from the distribution center in Keller to all 107 stores in North Texas."

The apparent run on grocery stores comes as one of the most powerful winter storms in years is taking shape across the country. 

The storm, which began Friday and lasts through Monday, is expected to stretch more than 2,000 miles and could bury some states under more than a foot of snow. 

Freezing rain and sleet may also disrupt travel and knock out power for thousands, according to FOX Weather.

ESSENTIAL WINTER DRIVING TIPS AS A MAJOR STORM APPROACHES

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The phenomenon known as "panic buying" is not new. During the COVID-19 pandemic, items such as toilet paper and paper towels flew off shelves, prompting officials to urge Americans not to hoard supplies.

"Generally, urgent purchasing of necessities arises from a perceived threat of scarcity of resources, inability to obtain one’s essentials," Amanda Spray, a clinical psychologist and director of the Cohen Military Family Center at NYU Langone Health, told Fox News at the time. "In the case of a crisis situation, it is human nature to want to prepare to have enough necessities to be prepared to feed and care for our families."

https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/store-shelves-wiped-clean-americans-brace-massive-winter-storm

Nissan recalling over 26,000 vehicles due to door issue that could increase risk of crashNissan had announced a voluntary recall for 26,432 vehicles to fix an issue with door components that could cause the door to unintentionally open while driving or during a crash.

Nissan is recalling 26,432 vehicles due to improperly welded door strikers that could increase the risk of injury or crash.

The Japanese automaker said the issue is specific to its model year 2025 Sentra and Altima sedans, model year 2025-2026 Frontier pickups and 2026 Kicks SUVs. No other Nissan or Infiniti vehicles are affected by the issue.

"Certain Nissan vehicles may have been equipped with one or more door strikers that were improperly welded during the supplier’s manufacturing process," the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said in the recall report. 

ESSENTIAL WINTER DRIVING TIPS AS A MAJOR STORM APPROACHES

"As a result, the door striker wire loop may have insufficient strength and in certain cases could crack and separate from the plate."

The door striker is a key safety feature on a vehicle that keeps doors from opening in a crash.

The NHTSA said if the striker separates from the plate, the "door latch may not retain the door as intended while in motion or during a crash" and could increase the risk of injury to vehicle occupants.

The regulator's report included details about what drivers of affected vehicles can do to identify a warning for a door striker failure, though it cautioned that it can do so without warning.

"Customers may notice a rattling noise from the door striker if only one side of the striker wire is cracked; however, if both sides crack, there may be no warning prior to failure," the NHTSA wrote.

NISSAN ISSUES MASSIVE RECALL AS FAULTY PART THREATENS ENGINE FAILURE

According to NHTSA's chronology of the recall, a technician noticed an issue with the door striker wire in August during a door fit on a 2025 Nissan Sentra, which prompted the company to initiate containment measures, a yard audit and an investigation with its supplier.

An audit of about 23,930 2025 Nissan Sentra vehicles at the company's plant in Mexico identified 12 vehicles with potential door striker issues. The supplier's investigation identified issues in the welding process.

NISSAN INCREASES JOB CUTS TO 20K BY 2027

Nissan began evaluating the potential impact of a fractured door assembly on door performance and compliance this month, and, after determining it could potentially lead to the door opening while driving or during a crash, decided to conduct a voluntary recall of potentially affected vehicles.

The NHTSA's announcement noted that Nissan isn't aware of any warranty claims, accidents or injuries related to the issue.

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Of the 26,432 vehicles subject to Nissan's recall, NHTSA's announcement said that an estimated 1% have the defect that prompted the safety recall.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/nissan-recalling-over-26k-vehicles-due-door-issue-could-increase-risk-crash

USPS warns of mail delivery delays in over 30 statesMajor winter storm threatens mail delivery across more than 30 states as the USPS issues service alerts for widespread delivery disruptions.

The United States Postal Service (USPS) is warning that mail delivery could be disrupted in dozens of states due to a severe winter storm that is expected over the weekend.

In its latest alert, which was last updated on Wednesday, the USPS said a widespread winter weather system across much of the U.S. may cause delays to mail and package processing, transportation and delivery across various regions.

Affected areas include parts of the Northern Plains, Great Lakes, Midwest, Ohio Valley, Northeast, Southwest, Southern Plains and Southeast, impacting states from Montana and Maine to Texas and Georgia, as well as Washington, D.C.

ESSENTIAL WINTER DRIVING TIPS AS A MAJOR STORM APPROACHES

"Due to the winter weather sweeping across most of the nation this weekend into next week, the Postal Service anticipates transportation and delivery impacts in many regions," the USPS said in a Thursday statement. "These conditions include heavy snow and blizzard conditions, damaging ice, record low temperatures, high winds, and long duration power outages." 

The USPS said it will continually monitor the situation and will adjust "operations where possible to minimize impact."

FOX Weather reported the mix of freezing rain, sleet and snow could make travel dangerous and result in power outages and tree damage in parts of the Southeast, while heavier snow is expected in the North. AccuWeather said the winter storm is expected to come with cold temperatures not seen in five years.

The postal service posts service alerts about temporary disruptions or changes to mail service when severe weather like this is expected. These alerts impact everyday consumers and small businesses as well as large or commercial mailers and help them plan accordingly.

WHAT AMERICANS SHOULD STOCK UP ON TO PREPARE FOR THIS WEEKEND'S MASSIVE WINTER STORM

The USPS website also provides information for residential customers and small businesses on whether mail is being delivered and if their local post office is open.

Here are the states and districts where mail could be impacted: 

Alabama

Arkansas

Connecticut

Delaware

Georgia

Illinois

Indiana

Iowa

US AIRLINES ISSUE TRAVEL WAIVERS, ANNOUNCE CANCELLATIONS AHEAD OF WIDESPREAD WINTER STORM

Kansas

Kentucky

Maine

Maryland

Massachusetts

Michigan

Minnesota

Mississippi

Missouri

Montana

Nebraska

New Jersey

New Mexico

New York

North Carolina

North Dakota

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Ohio

Oklahoma

Pennsylvania

South Carolina

South Dakota

Tennessee

Texas

Vermont

Virginia

Washington, D.C.

West Virginia

Wisconsin

https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/usps-warns-mail-delays-over-30-states

HUD orders citizenship verification after audit reveals ineligible tenants in taxpayer-funded housingThe Trump administration ordered public housing authorities to verify tenant citizenship within 30 days or face federal sanctions after HUD audit findings.

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) ordered all public housing authorities and owners receiving department-funded housing Friday to verify tenant citizenship and eligibility after an audit conducted with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) flagged tens of thousands of deceased and ineligible tenants nationwide.

HUD said the audit identified nearly 200,000 tenants requiring eligibility verification, including nearly 25,000 deceased tenants and nearly 6,000 ineligible non-American tenants across federally funded housing programs.

Under the directive, HUD said all public housing authorities and participating owners have 30 days to take corrective action or face potential sanctions.

TRUMP MOVES TO BLOCK WALL STREET FROM BUYING SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES IN SWEEPING NEW EXECUTIVE ORDER

HUD said the review was conducted in coordination with DHS and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which operates the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) system, and was aimed at ensuring compliance with existing federal law.

"We will leave no stone unturned," HUD Secretary Scott Turner said in a statement. "We are proud to collaborate with DHS to execute on the president’s agenda of rooting out abuse of taxpayer-funded resources. Ineligible non-citizens have no place to receive welfare benefits. With this new directive and audit, HUD is putting new processes in place to safeguard taxpayer resources and put the American people first."

HUD Assistant Secretary for Public and Indian Housing Ben Hobbs said the verification effort is intended to ensure limited housing resources are directed to eligible households.

"Today’s action to verify the immigration eligibility of all HUD-assisted households is a major step forward to ensure we put American families first and eliminate waste, fraud and abuse," Hobbs said.

TRUMP SAYS AMERICANS MAY SOON PAY ‘NO INCOME TAX’ AS WHITE HOUSE EXPLORES ALTERNATIVE REVENUE STREAMS

HUD said the directive follows a letter sent last month reminding housing authorities and owners of their legal obligations under Section 214 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1980 and President Trump’s Executive Order 14218, which requires verification of citizenship and immigration status prior to admission to HUD-assisted housing.

As part of that effort, Turner and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem previously signed an "American Housing Programs for American Citizens" memorandum of understanding aimed at preventing what HUD described as the misappropriation of taxpayer dollars under federal housing programs. 

HUD said the agreement led to the first-ever upload of all HUD Section 8 and Section 9 tenant files into the SAVE system to verify immigration status.

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The department said the directive applies to all HUD-funded housing nationwide and is focused on eligibility verification and program integrity.

DHS and USCIS did not immediately respond to FOX Business’ request for further comment.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/hud-orders-citizenship-verification-audit-reveals-ineligible-tenants-taxpayer-funded-housing

LARRY KUDLOW: President Trump checkmates Russia and China in the great gamePresident Trump is a winner. He has completely dominated the world’s chess board

After Davos President Trump once again emerges as the world’s undisputed leader. Dominating the world’s chess board, with America’s economic boom, oil dominance, and national security. Just this week, Mr. Trump’s wins secured a Greenland deal, established a Board of Peace, met with President Volodymyr Zelensky, racked up economic gains, and secured a TikTok deal.

Yet on the world chess board theme, everything Mr. Trump is doing, is reducing the power of Russia and Communist China, while enhancing American security. He is elbowing them out of the Western hemisphere, not only with regime change in Venezuela, but it looks like Cuba will be the next domino to fall.

Of course, these are client states of Russia and China. This is the Trump corollary to the Monroe Doctrine, that rules out any foreign interference in the Western hemisphere. And that is going to include Greenland, where Mr. Trump is successfully negotiating complete American military access in various Greenlandic pockets. Sovereignty will be split as part of the deal. Think Britain’s military bases on Cyprus, which are regarded as British territory, but with Cyprus sovereignty.

This includes the Pituffik Space Base. And then think, oil. "Drill, baby, drill." Plus whatever may come out of Venezuela, or even possible down the road from regime change in Iran. Oil prices are going down, not up. That whacks Russia and China. No more cheap oil discounts for China. And by the way, no oil or money for Cuba.

Mr. Trump has mastered oil politics, and the decline in oil prices is permeating the American economy, bolstering the economic boom. You have to love all the lefty press organizations and their Democratic pals talking about affordability, as the economy is growing at 5 percent or possibly more.

Gasoline prices are coming down, and hundreds of oil related prices as well. Wages for working folks rising more than 4 percent, inflation about to drop below 2 percent. That by itself is worth something like $1,500 extra take-home pay for the middle-class. And probably add another $1,500 to that for tax refunds on overtime and tips. We’re in the middle of a massive productivity boom, from AI and all kinds of technology advances. Mr. Trump has hit the nail on the head in his Davos speech, when he argued that economic growth does not cause inflation.

All those Federal Reserve models have to be thrown out the window. Indeed, he argued economic growth would reduce inflation with more production coming from more factories producing more goods. The American economy is humming. It’s the envy of the world. And again, back to that world chess board, the Trump economic boom is completely unmatched by Russia or China.

And Mr. Trump is a far better diplomat than his critics can possibly understand. He is completely outmaneuvering our Russian and Chinese enemies, now in every part of the world. And that’s why he occupies the commanding heights of this great game. 

Checkmate.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/larry-kudlow-president-trump-checkmates-russia-china-great-game

Trump says he's 'not a huge fan' of 401(k) withdrawal plan for homebuyers' down paymentsTrump says he's "not a huge fan" of letting homebuyers tap 401(k) retirement accounts for down payments, citing strong account performance amid market's rise.

President Donald Trump on Thursday said he's "not a huge fan" of a proposal his administration is developing that would allow prospective homebuyers withdraw from their 401(k) retirement accounts for a down payment.

"I'm not a huge fan," Trump told reporters on Air Force One while preparing to return from his trip to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. "Other people like it. They're talking about taking money out to put a deposit down on a home.

"One of the reasons I don't like it is that their 401(k)s are doing so well. You know, 401(k)s are up 80%-90% in some cases," the president said. "The housing market is good, but the 401(k)s are doing much better than the housing market.

"I like keeping their 401(k)s in great shape," Trump added. "I'm not a huge fan of putting down a deposit, I'm not. I'm so happy with the way 401(k)s are doing. We've got people telling me they're up 88% and over the period of a year, a full year. It's going to be, I mean, it's going to be close to 100%."

HASSETT REVEALS TRUMP HOUSING PLAN WOULD LET AMERICANS TAP 401(K)S FOR DOWN PAYMENTS

Trump's comments come after the administration previewed the 401(k) down payment proposal last week as part of a broader push by the White House to improve the affordability of homeownership.

National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett told FOX Business' Maria Bartiromo last week that the "typical monthly payment about doubled for an ordinary family buying an ordinary home. And the down payment they needed to buy a home went from about $15,000, to about $32,000. And, so, there's a real lot of room to make up."

TRUMP MOVES TO BLOCK WALL STREET FROM BUYING SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES IN SWEEPING NEW EXECUTIVE ORDER

Hassett went on to say that "we're going to allow people to take money out of their 401(k)s and use that for a down payment," adding that the proposal would be unveiled during the president's trip to Davos.

During his address to the World Economic Forum, the president didn't mention the 401(k) down payment proposal and instead focused on other aspects of his affordability agenda.

Trump discussed his call for Congress to set a 10% cap on credit card interest rates for one year and cited rising credit card debt as a challenge to Americans trying to save for a down payment.

EFFORT TO REIN IN WALL STREET LANDLORDS COULD PUSH US HOME PRICES UP, INVESTORS SAY

The president also discussed his plan to restrict institutional investors from buying homes, which he blamed for pushing housing prices higher and said is "just not fair to the public."

Trump's proposed credit card interest rate cap has drawn pushback from the financial services industry, which has warned that a cap on interest rates would restrict consumers' access to credit and cause many existing cardholders to either lose their cards or see rewards and perks eliminated.

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Investors have also critiqued the president's plan to block firms from purchasing single-family homes. 

They note that it would likely push prices even higher as the policy wouldn't expand the supply of housing and that corporate investment has helped with the construction of new homes and broadening the supply available on the market.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/trump-says-hes-not-huge-fan-401k-withdrawal-plan-home-buyers-down-payments

This capital city is now the hottest housing market in the US for 2026The Hartford, Connecticut, housing market is No. 1 in the nation, according to Zillow. A majority of homes in the city sold above their list price as competition grows.

Move over Buffalo, there's a new top housing market in town.

Hartford, Connecticut, dethroned the northwest New York city as Zillow's top housing market for the year. Buffalo was No. 1 on Zillow's annual hottest markets forecast for back-to-back years. 

Hartford sits at the top partly because inventory is 63% below pre-pandemic levels, which is the largest deficit among the 50 largest U.S. metros by population. Well over half of all homes in the area, 66%, also sold above list price in Hartford last year, topping all other major metros. The area also had the second-lowest share of homes with a price cut, at just 16.5%.

To make matters worse, "Injections of inventory aren't likely to come from either existing owners or builders; buyers should be prepared for bidding wars and broken hearts," according to Zillow.

AFFIRM TO OFFER BUY NOW, PAY LATER OPTION FOR RENT PAYMENTS

Zillow's 2025 predictions list, which calls out a nation-leading appreciation forecast, ranked Hartford within the top five metros. This proved accurate, as home values grew faster in Hartford than in any other major metro last year, up 4.6%, according to the report.

Zillow projected that this climb will continue in the new year as the area is forecast to lead price growth yet again in 2026, albeit at a slightly more relaxed pace of 3.9% annually.  

'BUY NOW, PAY LATER' SERVICES ARE DANGEROUS TRAP FOR YOUNG AMERICANS, FINANCIAL EXPERT WARNS

Zillow chief economist Mischa Fisher said competition among buyers will be stiff, meaning sellers will have the upper hand in this year's hottest markets like Hartford. 

"Shoppers will need to tap all the resources they can muster in these fast-moving markets, from their team of experts to tech aids to financial assistance, but successful buyers will quickly gain equity," Fisher said. 

HOUSING EXPERT WARNS PRE-PANDEMIC AFFORDABILITY LEVELS MAY NEVER RETURN IN AMERICA

Buffalo, which ranked as the hottest housing market in both 2024 and 2025, is in the No. 2 spot on the latest list. Sellers maintained a strong negotiating advantage there throughout last year, giving the metro the highest competition score on Zillow’s market heat index among major cities.

The New York metro area, which includes parts of New Jersey and Pennsylvania, isn't far behind.

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It ranks third on the list due to a positive home price forecast, strong employment and the lowest share of listings, with a price cut among major metros at just 13.5%.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/capital-city-now-hottest-housing-market-us-2026

Wall Street braced for a private credit meltdown. The risk of one is risingPrivate credit is expected to grow from $3.4 trillion in 2025 to an estimated $4.9 trillion by 2029. Wall Street is starting to raise alarms about the risks.{}

Private credit is expected to grow from $3.4 trillion in 2025 to an estimated $4.9 trillion by 2029. Wall Street is starting to raise alarms about the risks.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/23/wall-street-private-credit-risk-rising.html

Sen. Warren blasts CFPB director for undermining Trump's credit card affordability pushSen. Elizabeth Warren seized on contradictions within the Trump administration when it comes to his push to make credit cards more affordable for Americans.{}

Sen. Elizabeth Warren seized on contradictions within the Trump administration when it comes to his push to make credit cards more affordable for Americans.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/23/warren-cfpb-director-letter-undermining-trump-credit-card-affordability.html

Trump admin cancels $30B in Biden-era loansThe Trump administration canceled $30 billion in Biden-era green loans, saying they were part of the "Green New Scam," the Energy Department announced.

The Trump administration is canceling nearly $30 billion in green loans enacted under the Biden administration and is revising another $53 billion. 

The Energy Department's Office of Energy Dominance Financing (EDF) said the funds are part of the "Green New Scam loans" from the previous administration.

"Over the past year, the Energy Department individually reviewed our entire loan portfolio to ensure the responsible investment of taxpayer dollars," said Energy Secretary Chris Wright said. 

MINNESOTA FRAUD SCANDAL SPARKS PUSH TO SCRUTINIZE BILLIONS IN BIDEN-ERA ENERGY GRANTS

"We found more dollars were rushed out the door of the Loan Programs Office in the final months of the Biden Administration than had been disbursed in over fifteen years," he added. "President Trump promised to protect taxpayer dollars and expand America’s supply of affordable, reliable, and secure energy."

In a statement, the department said it has eliminated about $9.5 billion in financing for wind and solar projects and was replacing them with investments in natural gas and nuclear updates to make energy more affordable. 

US FEDERAL AGENCIES TO 'UNLEASH' COAL ENERGY AFTER BIDEN 'STIFLED' IT: 'MINE, BABY, MINE'

The Trump administration has repealed funding for green projects under the Biden era. 

In October, it canceled nearly $8 billion in grants that supported hundreds of clean energy projects in 16 states.

At the time, the Energy Department halted 223 projects after a "thorough, individualized review."

"President Trump promised to protect taxpayer dollars and expand America's supply of affordable, reliable, and secure energy. Today's [cancellations] deliver on that commitment," Wright said in a statement at the time "Rest assured, the Energy Department will continue reviewing awards to ensure that every dollar works for the American people."

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The EDF currently has more than $289 billion in loan authority to finance projects such as nuclear reactors and other Trump administration priorities. 

FOX Business has reached out to the Energy Department. 

https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/trump-admin-cancels-30b-biden-era-loans

Nvidia CEO says AI boom will create 'six-figure' construction jobsJensen Huang calls AI infrastructure development the "largest buildout in human history," creating massive job opportunities and wage growth for skilled trades workers.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said that the build-out of infrastructure to support the artificial intelligence (AI) technology boom is boosting the salaries of construction trade workers who are involved with those projects.

The Nvidia co-founder spoke at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, and was asked by BlackRock CEO Larry Fink, who is the WEF interim co-chair, about how the rise of AI will change the nature of work.

"First of all, this is the largest infrastructure build-out in human history. That's going to create a lot of jobs," Huang said. "It's wonderful that the jobs are related to tradecraft – we're going to have plumbers and electricians and construction and steelworkers and network technicians and people who install and fit out the equipment."

"We're seeing quite a significant boom in this area. Salaries have gone up nearly double, and so we're talking about six-figure salaries for people who are building chip factories or computer factories or AI factories," Huang said. 

NVIDIA CEO SAYS AI BOOM IS FUELING THE 'LARGEST' INFRASTRUCTURE BUILDOUT IN HISTORY

"We have a great shortage in that, and I'm really delighted to see so many people in so many countries recognizing this important area," he added. "Everybody should be able to make a great living. You don't need to have a PhD in computer science to do so."

During his discussion with Fink, the Nvidia CEO went into detail about the different levels of AI infrastructure and how they rely upon each other.

TRUMP PUSHES FOR EMERGENCY POWER AUCTION TO MAKE BIG TECH PAY FOR SOARING ENERGY COSTS

"When you think about AI, you think about the AI models, but it's really important to understand that industrially, AI is actually essentially a five-layer cake. At the bottom is energy. AI, because it's processed in real time, and it generates intelligence in real time, it needs energy to do so," he said.

Huang said that the layers above energy are chips and then cloud services. Above those are AI models, as well as the top layer in his analogy – the application layer in which AI is used for some productive use to generate economic benefits.

ELON MUSK SAYS TESLA WILL LIKELY SELL HUMANOID ROBOTS BY END OF NEXT YEAR

"The important thing, though, because this computing platform requires all of the layers underneath it, it has started – and everybody is seeing it right now – it has started the largest infrastructure build-out in human history," Huang said.

He added that AI's rise will require "trillions of dollars of infrastructure that needs to be built out" and said that investment will be "sensible because all of these contexts have to be processed so that the models can generate the intelligence necessary to power the applications that sit on top."

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https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/nvidia-ceo-says-ai-boom-create-six-figure-construction-jobs

‘Freedom Always Returns – but Only If We Hold Fast to Our Values and Sustain the Struggle’

‘Freedom Always Returns – but Only If We Hold Fast to Our Values and Sustain the Struggle’

CIVICUS speaks with Belarusian activist, blogger and journalist Mikola Dziadok about his experiences as a two-time political prisoner and the repression of dissent in Belarus. Mikola was jailed following mass protests in 2020.

Read the full story, “‘Freedom Always Returns – but Only If We Hold Fast to Our Values and Sustain the Struggle’”, on globalissues.org →

https://www.globalissues.org/news/2026/01/23/42179 {"url":"https://static.globalissues.org/ips/2026/01/Mikola-Dziadok-100x100.jpg"}

Advisors to the ultra rich say AI isn't a gamechanger for landing new clientsReferrals are still the name of the game when it comes to earning the trust of the ultra-rich.{}

Referrals are still the name of the game when it comes to earning the trust of the ultra-rich.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/23/wealth-client-prospecting-ria-ai.html

Why a niche category of CRE lending is suddenly seeing record dealsC-PACE stands for commercial property assessed clean energy and is a type of financing that differs from a traditional bank loan. It's seeing explosive growth.{}

C-PACE stands for commercial property assessed clean energy and is a type of financing that differs from a traditional bank loan. It's seeing explosive growth.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/23/c-pace-cre-lending-record-deals.html

Essential winter driving tips as a major storm approachesWinter weather traffic crashes affect thousands of drivers each year. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers tips on how to stay safe on the roads.

A wide swath of winter weather is expected to slam the U.S. through the weekend, moving from the Southwest through Texas and Oklahoma, across the South and Tennessee Valley. It will eventually reach the Mid-Atlantic coast.

Tens of thousands of accidents occur during snow and sleet conditions, according to federal auto regulators. In 2023, there were an estimated 101,390 police-reported traffic crashes linked to wintry weather, 22,293 of which resulted in injuries and 320 of which were fatal, according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

NHTSA maintains a standing list of safety tips for drivers during hazardous conditions. That guidance is especially critical as a potentially severe winter storm threatens more than 35 states and places millions under winter storm watches.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Tips from NHTSA on how to stay safe during wintry driving conditions:

The auto regulator said the most basic tip to stay safe in dangerous weather is to slow down because it's harder to control or stop a vehicle on a slick or snow-covered surface. Another simple but critical step is to increase the following distance from vehicles ahead so that there is plenty of time to stop.

It's also important to keep a safe distance from a snow plow and to avoid traveling beside the truck.

"Snow plows travel slowly, make wide turns, stop often, overlap lanes, and exit the road frequently. If you find yourself behind a snow plow, stay far enough behind it and use caution if you pass the plow," NHTSA said.

Tire pressure will also drop when the outside temperature falls, so it is important to ensure each tire is filled to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended inflation pressure. That will be listed in the owner’s manual and on a label located on the driver's side door frame. 

SOUTHERN CITY COULD SEE A TOP FIVE WORST SNOWSTORM IN RECORDED HISTORY FROM BREWING MAJOR WINTER STORM

It's important not to inflate tires to the pressure listed on the tire itself, because that is the maximum pressure the tire can hold, not the recommended pressure for the vehicle. 

In cold weather, gasoline and diesel engines take more battery power to start, and electric and hybrid-electric vehicles’ driving range can be reduced when the temperature drops, so it is important to have a mechanic check the battery, charging system, belts and for any other needed repairs or replacements.

WHAT ARE ICE STORMS AND WHY ARE THEY DANGEROUS?

If the car stops or stalls in the middle of bad weather, drivers need to stay focused on themselves, their passengers, the car and surroundings. 

It's also important to stay with the vehicle and not to overexert oneself.

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The vehicle needs to be seen if it's stalled, thus it is important to put bright markers on the antenna or windows and keep the interior dome light on.

It's so important to be mindful of carbon monoxide poisoning. Drivers need to make sure their exhaust pipe is clear of any snow. They also need to run their car only sporadically, just long enough to stay warm.

Drivers should not run their car for long periods of time with the windows up or in an enclosed space.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/essential-winter-driving-tips-major-storm-approaches

David Beckham explains why his Bank of America sports deal isn't your traditional sponsorshipFrom East London to global success, David Beckham teams up with Bank of America to give children opportunities that he says he was "lucky" to have had.

Sir David Beckham considers himself "one of the lucky ones." Now, the soccer legend is partnering with Bank of America in a multiyear initiative designed to give more children access to sports, coaching and opportunity — a mission fully unveiled this week at the World Economic Forum in Davos.

"I feel very lucky to be in partnership with Bank of America, and more importantly, in partnership with Brian [Moynihan], because we first met here last year and we spoke about the initiatives and what Bank of America really want[s] to bring into this moment," Beckham told FOX Business' Maria Bartiromo.

"And to have this — the access to inclusion, to great facilities, to great coaches to give these children the empowerment, is such an important thing," he continued.

MIAMI EYES MASSIVE $3B SPORTS ECONOMIC BOOST AS TRUMP EXPECTED TO ATTEND COLLEGE FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

Beckham signed a five-year agreement with Bank of America (BofA) to be their "sports ambassador," which focuses on the bank’s debut as a 2026 FIFA World Cup sponsor and an emphasis on access to a variety of youth sports like running and golf.

"It's interesting because we met here last year for the first time," BofA Chairman and CEO Brian Moynihan also told Bartiromo, "but what we're trying to do is, we have Bank of America investing in sport, and not sport just for sponsorship… but for enabling the kids and the enabling of the excellence that David represents… David is such an icon in this sport, but as an entrepreneur and a capitalist and understands business, it's great to work with him."

"Soccer is doing great right now. [Inter Miami] won the championship last year, which was a very special moment for me to become a champion as an owner, but also to have won that trophy quite a few years ago was a very special moment," Beckham expanded. 

"But soccer in America is growing. You know, I first moved to LA in 2007, and I knew there was a real opportunity. I knew that it was going to be challenging. But the way the game has grown in the last 15 years has been incredible, and I'm glad to have played a small part in that."

The Manchester United legend has poured his own investments into the U.S. soccer landscape with Inter Miami, signing Lionel Messi to the team in 2023 and now preparing to open the more than $1 billion Freedom Park stadium in April. The Magic City will also host seven World Cup matches this year.

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"There's a lot going on in Miami with Miami Freedom Park, which we're really excited about. But I think back to… what Bank of America can do is really support a young generation that is coming through, that is excited about sports, and it gives these young children the opportunity," Beckham said.

"I grew up in the East End of London, and I was one of the lucky ones. I had a park over, right near my house where I could go and play soccer every day. I had a soccer pitch at my school. You know, a lot of children around the world don't have this. And what Bank of America and Brian are doing, and the team, are giving these children an opportunity, they're giving them a safe space. They're giving them the facilities, the great coaches. And that's what we're excited about."

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https://www.foxbusiness.com/sports/david-beckham-explains-why-his-bank-america-sports-deal-isnt-your-traditional-sponsorship

Moving Towards Agroecological Food Systems in Southern Africa

Moving Towards Agroecological Food Systems in Southern Africa

CHONGWE, Zambia, January 23 (IPS) - In a quiet village known as Nkhondola, in Chongwe District, Eastern Zambia, Royd Michelo and his wife, Adasila Kanyanga, have transformed their five-acre piece of land into a self-sustaining agroecological landscape. With healthy soils built over time, the farm teems with diverse food crops, fruit trees, livestock and birds, nourishing their family and the surrounding community.

Read the full story, “Moving Towards Agroecological Food Systems in Southern Africa”, on globalissues.org →

https://www.globalissues.org/news/2026/01/23/42177 {"url":"https://static.globalissues.org/ips/2026/01/Royd-Michelo-on-his-farm-in-Eastern-Zambia-1-100x100.jpg"}

Beyond Shifting Power: Rethinking Localisation Across the Humanitarian Sector

Beyond Shifting Power: Rethinking Localisation Across the Humanitarian Sector

ABUJA, Nigeria, January 23 (IPS) - For the last decade, many in the foreign aid sector have emphasised the need for localisation, and in the last 5 years, the calls have been louder than ever. I am one of such voices.

Read the full story, “Beyond Shifting Power: Rethinking Localisation Across the Humanitarian Sector”, on globalissues.org →

https://www.globalissues.org/news/2026/01/23/42178 {"url":"https://static.globalissues.org/ips/2026/01/truelocalisation-100x100.jpg"}

Capital One is buying startup Brex for $5.15 billion in credit card firm's latest dealCapital One's acquisition of Brex is the latest deal under Rich Fairbank, a rare founder-CEO of a major U.S. bank, after its Discover Financial acquisition.{}

Capital One's acquisition of Brex is the latest deal under Rich Fairbank, a rare founder-CEO of a major U.S. bank, after its Discover Financial acquisition.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/22/capital-one-is-buying-startup-brex-for-5point15-billion-in-credit-card-firms-latest-deal.html

What obesity drugmakers see next in the market: More pills, easier access and drug combinationsCNBC spoke to executives from Eli Lilly, Novo Nordisk, Pfizer and other drugmakers at the annual JPMorgan Healthcare Conference in San Francisco.{}

CNBC spoke to executives from Eli Lilly, Novo Nordisk, Pfizer and other drugmakers at the annual JPMorgan Healthcare Conference in San Francisco.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/23/weight-loss-glp-1-drugs-next-steps-for-eli-lilly-novo-nordisk-pfizer.html

US airlines issue travel waivers, announce cancellations ahead of widespread winter stormA winter storm threatened thousands of flights heading into the weekend across two dozen states, as airlines issue travel waivers for customers impacted by the snow.

U.S. airlines have announced travel waivers as a winter storm that is forecast to spread heavy snow, sleet and dangerous ice across two dozen states could disrupt air travel heading into the weekend.

FOX Weather has said the mix of freezing rain, sleet and snow could make travel dangerous and result in power outages and tree damage in parts of the Southeast, while heavier snow is expected in the North. AccuWeather, a weather forecasting company, said the winter storm is expected to come with cold temperatures not seen in five years.

"This will likely result in thousands of flight cancellations on Saturday, Sunday and Monday," Dan DePodwin, vice president of forecasting operations at AccuWeather, said in a statement.

ONE AIRLINE SOARS ABOVE THE REST IN 2025 RANKINGS WHILE MAJOR CARRIERS CRASH TO BOTTOM

Travel booking app Hopper estimates that upwards of 15,000 flights could be delayed because of the storm, noting a 17% increase in travelers adding Disruption Assistance to trips for this upcoming weekend.

Delta Air Lines canceled flights on Thursday at select airports in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana and Tennessee, saying the move seeks to ensure the safety of its customers. The airline said it would automatically rebook customers to the next best itinerary and that it would offer flexibility to customers with existing bookings to change their travel with no fees.

Southwest Airlines said it expects disruptions across parts of the South and East, offering customers flexibility to rebook or travel standby within a two-week window.

BUDGET FLIGHTS HANG IN BALANCE AS BANKRUPT SPIRIT AIRLINES TURNS TO PRIVATE EQUITY FOR LIFELINE: REPORT

American Airlines is offering similar flexibility across major hubs such as Dallas-Fort Worth and Charlotte, while United Airlines issued a waiver covering much of the Mid-Atlantic, the Northeast, and parts of the Carolinas and Ohio Valley, including its Newark and Washington-area operations.

JetBlue issued a waiver for the Northeast that covers New York and Boston-area airports and said it will waive change and cancel fees for customers traveling to and from 11 cities.

Ultra-low-cost carrier Frontier Airlines said travelers can request a refund if flights are canceled or delayed for more than three hours for domestic flights or six hours for international flights. Spirit Airlines announced it is waiving modification charges and fare differences across 13 cities for travel between Friday and Sunday.

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Carriers said the mix of ice, snow and strong winds could slow airport operations, force delays and cancellations, and complicate rebookings.

Airlines urged travelers to monitor their flight status closely and use mobile apps and airline websites for the fastest rebooking options as the storm approaches.

"Even in locations far away from the storm, such as the West Coast hubs, Denver, Chicago and Minneapolis, ripple effects of this widespread travel-halting winter storm will be felt," DePodwin said.

Reuters contributed to this report. 

https://www.foxbusiness.com/fox-news-travel/us-airlines-issue-travel-waivers-announce-cancellations-ahead-widespread-winter-storm

Arkansas winner claims $1.8B Powerball jackpot, chooses cash optionAn Arkansas resident has claimed the $1.8 billion Powerball jackpot and opted to receive the prize as a lump-sum cash payment, according to the lottery.

An Arkansas resident who purchased the winning ticket for Powerball's $1.817 billion jackpot has claimed their prize.

The winner recently claimed the prize from the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery, opting to receive the prize as a one-time cash payment, according to the lottery.

Before taxes, the lump-sum amount was $834.9 million — the second-largest lottery jackpot ever won in the U.S., the lottery said. 

GEORGIA RESIDENT IDENTIFIED AS WINNER OF $983M MEGA MILLIONS JACKPOT, LARGEST EVER IN STATE

The largest lottery jackpot in U.S. history was won on Nov. 7, 2022, when a California ticket claimed a $2.04 billion prize.

The lottery previously announced that a ticket sold in Arkansas matched the winning numbers drawn on Christmas Eve.

"Everyone was anxiously waiting for the winner to step forward, but we are happy they took the time to seek legal counsel and financial advice first, as we recommended. We are thrilled that the winner is from Arkansas," Arkansas Scholarship Lottery Executive Director Sharon Strong said in a statement.

Strong continued, "We’re proud to celebrate this moment, not only for our Arkansas winner and for Murphy USA, the Arkansas-based company that sold the winning ticket, but also for the positive impact this historic jackpot will have on our state and our mission to raise funds for in-state scholarships."

NEW TAX DEDUCTION COULD PUT MORE MONEY BACK IN SENIORS’ POCKETS THIS YEAR

The winner has decided to remain anonymous, the lottery said.

If the winner had chosen the annuity option, they would have received one immediate payment followed by 29 annual payments that increase by 5% each year.

According to the lottery, the jackpot spanned a record 47 consecutive drawings, generating more than $15 million in ticket sales in Arkansas, with retailers taking home nearly $750,000 in commissions.

The winning ticket was sold at the Murphy USA convenience store in Cabot, which will also receive a $50,000 commission check.

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The white balls drawn on Christmas Eve were 4, 25, 31, 52 and 59. The red Powerball was 19, and the Power Play was 2X.

The odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 292.2 million.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/arkansas-winner-claims-1-8b-powerball-jackpot-chooses-cash-option

Amazon to cut thousands of jobs in sweeping corporate layoffsAmazon is preparing to lay off thousands of employees in a broad corporate workforce reduction that could begin as early as next week.

Amazon is planning to cut thousands of jobs as part of a broader push to eliminate nearly 10% of its corporate workforce, according to Reuters.

After initially cutting roughly 14,000 white-collar jobs in October, Amazon is expected to launch a second round of layoffs impacting a similar number of employees, with an overall target of about 30,000 jobs, although the scope may change, according to two sources cited by Reuters.

If fully realized, the cuts would amount to the largest layoffs in Amazon’s history, surpassing the roughly 27,000 jobs the company cut in 2022.

According to Reuters, the layoffs could begin as early as next week and impact employees across Amazon Web Services, retail, human resources (known internally as People Experience and Technology) and Prime Video.

AMAZON DIGS DEEP FOR AI GOLD AS COPPER MINE PARTNERSHIP FUELS MASSIVE DATA CENTER EXPANSION

Reuters reported that the e-commerce giant linked the October cuts to the rise of artificial intelligence software, saying in an internal letter to staff that "this generation of AI is the most transformative technology we’ve seen since the internet, and it’s enabling companies to innovate much faster than ever before."

Amazon CEO Andy Jassy said last year he expected the retailer's corporate workforce to diminish resulting from the efficiencies stemming from using AI.

But Jassy later told analysts during the company’s third-quarter earnings call that the layoffs were not financially driven or directly connected to AI, but rather the result of excessive bureaucracy, Reuters reported.

"You end up with a lot more people than what you had before, and you end up with a lot more layers," Jassy said.

POPULAR ALCOHOL BRANDS COULD BE FORCED TO SELL OFF INVENTORY AFTER BANKRUPTCY SETBACK

In its internal message sent in October, Amazon told employees they could remain on the payroll for roughly three months while seeking other job opportunities.

"We’re working hard to support everyone whose role is impacted, including offering most employees 90 days to look for a new role internally (the timing will vary some based on local laws), and our recruiting teams will prioritize internal candidates to help as many people as possible find new roles within Amazon," the message said. 

That 90-day window is set to expire Monday.

Jassy also launched an initiative last year to reduce the number of managers at the company by creating an anonymous complaint line to identify inefficiencies, which he said generated roughly 1,500 responses and led to more than 450 process changes.

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Amazon did not immediately respond to FOX Business’ request for comment.

FOX Business' Bonny Chu and Pilar Arias contributed to this report.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/retail/amazon-cut-thousands-jobs-sweeping-corporate-layoffs

FDA upgrades cookie recall to highest danger level over undeclared peanutsThe FDA upgraded the Gregory's Foods cookie dough recall to its most serious risk category over the potential presence of undeclared peanuts.

The Food and Drug Administration announced that a recall of cookie products has been upgraded to its most serious risk category over the potential presence of undeclared peanuts.

Gregory's Foods first issued a recall last month of its 2-pound 8.5-ounce packages of "Bag Full of Cookies" White Chocolate Macadamia Nut frozen cookie dough after learning that some packages were mistakenly filled with Monster Cookie Dough, which contains peanuts.

"People who have allergies to peanuts run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products," the FDA said in its announcement at the time.

RECALL OF CHEESE PRODUCTS UPGRADED TO HIGHEST DANGER LEVEL OVER LISTERIA-CAUSING BACTERIA: FDA

The FDA then announced on Wednesday that the recall has been reclassified as Class I, its highest level of concern. A Class I recall means there is a "reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, [the] product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death."

The recall affects more than 300 cases, with six bags in each case. The impacted products have a best by date of Dec. 6, 2026.

"Observable through the clear window in the bag, the Monster Cookies frozen dough has visible chocolate chips and colored candy-coated pieces whereas the White Chocolate Macadamia Nut frozen cookie dough does not," the FDA said in December.

The cookie products were sold in retail grocery stores in Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota and Wisconsin.

TRIO OF DAIRY GIANTS RECALL INFANT FORMULA OVER CONTAMINATION FEARS

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Customers are urged not to consume the product and to return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund.

The FDA said the issue was isolated to certain units in one day’s production and has been corrected.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/fda-upgrades-cookie-recall-highest-danger-level-over-undeclared-peanuts

TikTok avoids US ban by finalizing historic Trump-backed American majority ownership dealTikTok finalizes historic deal creating majority American-owned joint venture structure, aiming to avert potential U.S. ban affecting 200 million users nationwide.

TikTok announced Thursday that it has finalized a historic deal to launch a majority American-owned joint venture, a move aimed at averting a potential U.S. ban on the popular social media app.

The deal marks a major milestone for TikTok, coming after years of legal and political battles that began in 2020, when President Donald Trump raised national security concerns about the Chinese-owned platform.

The Joint Venture LLC, built on the foundation of the TikTok U.S. Data Security (USDS) organization, will satisfy U.S. regulatory requirements established by Trump’s executive order on Sept. 25 of last year, allowing millions of American users and businesses to continue operating on the platform. 

"I am so happy to have helped in saving TikTok! It will now be owned by a group of Great American Patriots and Investors, the Biggest in the World, and will be an important Voice," Trump said in a post on Truth Social Thursday. 

TIKTOK REACHES AGREEMENTS ON NEW US JOINT VENTURE WITH CLOSING SET FOR 2026

"Today, TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC has been established in compliance with the Executive Order signed by President Trump on September 25, 2025, now enabling more than 200 million Americans and 7.5 million businesses to continue to discover, create, and thrive as part of TikTok's vibrant global community and experience," the company added. 

The company added that TikTok’s sister apps, such as CapCut and Lemon8, will also be brought under the joint venture’s U.S. oversight.

Under the TikTok agreement, American entities will hold an 80.1% stake in the new joint venture, with the original parent company ByteDance retaining 19.9%. 

Three companies, including cloud computing giant Oracle, private equity group Silver Lake and Abu Dhabi-based MGX, will serve as managing investors, each holding a 15% stake.  

TRUMP SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDER ALLOWING TIKTOK DEAL TO PROCEED

The venture will establish a domestic cloud environment under Oracle, through robust data privacy and cybersecurity measures, to secure U.S. user data, apps and algorithms, the company said. 

"The content recommendation algorithm will be secured in Oracle's U.S. cloud environment," the company said. 

The new entity is governed by a seven-member, majority-American board of directors, including representatives from major investment firms and technology companies.

Adam Presser has been appointed chief executive officer of the new joint venture. Other corporate representation on the board includes TikTok CEO Shou Chew, Oracle’s Kenneth Glueck, Silver Lake’s Egon Durban and MGX's David Scott.

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The Joint Venture will be designed to ensure that U.S. users retain a "global TikTok experience," allowing creators to be discovered worldwide while allowing American entities to continue managing commercial activities such as e-commerce, advertising and marketing. 

https://www.foxbusiness.com/technology/tiktok-avoids-us-ban-finalizing-historic-trump-backed-american-majority-ownership-deal

What Americans should stock up on to prepare for this weekend's massive winter stormHere are some essential supplies to stock up on as a massive winter storm is expected to affect more than 40 states and over 235 million people this weekend.

Americans are being urged to prepare as a massive winter storm is expected to stretch more than 2,000 miles across the U.S. this weekend, potentially affecting more than 235 million people in over 40 states.

The storm is forecast to bring heavy snow, sleet and freezing rain beginning Friday and lasting through Monday, raising concerns about widespread power outages, dangerous travel conditions and prolonged disruptions, according to National Weather Service Director Ken Graham.

"Prepare now," Graham told FOX Weather Thursday. "If you think about power outages, you think about the cold, you need to be prepared to have what you need for a week."

CHRISTMAS TRAVELERS LEFT STRANDED AS AIRPORTS SEE MASS FLIGHT CANCELLATIONS, DELAYS

The National Weather Service recommends stocking up on essential supplies ahead of a winter storm, including:

A YEAR AFTER HURRICANE HELENE, COMMUNITIES AND BUSINESSES ARE REBUILDING WITH RESILIENCE

Officials are also reminding the public to never run generators indoors or in enclosed spaces and to ensure carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.

"When the power goes out, a lot of people have generators. I just beg everybody, please use them correctly," Graham said. "We lose a lot of people due to improper use of generators. … Keep them far away from the house. They're fine to use, but use them properly because it could be dangerous if you don't."

The National Weather Service also recommends people keep a winter survival kit in a vehicle. 

That kit should include a phone and charger, blankets, flashlights, a first-aid kit, nonperishable food, extra clothing, cat litter or sand for traction, a shovel, ice scraper and brush, waterproof matches, a basic tool kit and paper maps.

GOOGLE, PARTNERS LAUNCH SATELLITES INTO SPACE TO DETECT FIRES

Farmers and pet owners are also encouraged to move animals indoors or to sheltered areas, stockpile extra feed and ensure access to water.

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"More than half the population of the country is going to experience winter weather," Graham said. "The sheer size of this — stretching from New Mexico all the way to New England — it's going to be a big impact for a whole lot of people."

For more information about how to prepare for a winter storm, visit the National Weather Service's website.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/what-americans-should-stock-up-prepare-weekends-massive-winter-storm

CEO pleads guilty in massive $380M Ponzi scheme that bankrolled luxurious lifestyleCEO Todd Burkhalter, accused of masterminding Georgia's largest Ponzi scheme, pleaded guilty to defrauding more than 2,000 investors of $380 million.

The CEO of a financial advisory empire accused of masterminding Georgia’s largest Ponzi scheme to fund a life of opulent extravagance has pleaded guilty to "shamelessly" bilking investors out of a staggering $380 million, authorities announced Wednesday.

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Georgia said 54-year-old Todd Burkhalther, founder of Drive Planning LLC, defrauded more than 2,000 people between September 2020 and June 2024. 

He reportedly used the stolen funds to charter private jets and buy a yacht, a multimillion-dollar condo in Mexico, a lavish wardrobe and luxury vehicles like Land Rovers and an RV.

The former trusted advisor of St. Petersburg, Florida, pleaded guilty to wire fraud, according to officials. He is one of two executives, including the company’s former COO, who admitted playing a role in the yearslong Ponzi scheme, the attorney's office said.

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"Todd Burkhalter perpetrated what is likely the largest Ponzi scheme in Georgia history," U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg said. "Unbelievably, Burkhalter shamelessly continued to scam his victims even while under federal investigation. Today’s guilty plea is just the first step in holding Burkhalter accountable for the considerable harm he caused."

"Todd Burkhalter built a massive Ponzi scheme on lies, exploiting trust to steal hundreds of millions of dollars from more than 2,000 victims while funding an extravagant lifestyle," Paul Brown, special agent in charge of FBI Atlanta, said.  

According to federal investigators, Drive Planning lured ordinary people by claiming they did not need to be accredited investors to participate and encouraged them to invest money from retirement accounts, savings and lines of credit.

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Burkhalter then promised high returns, including a 10% return every three months from a fabricated real estate loan and a 22% annual return from tax liens, while falsely claiming that investors’ money was government-protected or fully collateralized by real estate, officials said.

To perpetuate the lies, Burkhalter reportedly created a list of imaginary or irrelevant properties with fabricated valuations to present as collateral.  

OLDER AMERICANS LOST UP TO $81.5 BILLION IN THE PAST YEAR TO FINANCIAL FRAUD, FTC REPORT SAYS

Burkhalter and Drive Planning also misrepresented the scope of their relationships with real estate developers, federal investigators said. For instance, a prominent Atlanta developer reportedly discovered that Burkhalter was using a property’s name to promote Drive Planning and subsequently sued the company.

Authorities said Burkhalter did not use investors’ money for its intended purpose. Within the first few months of marketing his real estate offerings, he allegedly used the funds to repay an earlier Drive Planning investor, cover his ex-wife’s legal fees and pay expenses related to recreational vehicles.

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If Burkhalter meets the conditions of his plea agreement, prosecutors will recommend that the judge sentence him to at least 17 years in prison.

His former colleague, David Bradford, also pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud Dec. 16, 2025, officials said. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for March 17. 

https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/ceo-pleads-guilty-massive-380m-ponzi-scheme-bankrolled-luxurious-lifestyle

Christian kids app claims Google, TikTok blocked ads as Congress is pressed to act: 'It's devastating'TruPlay Games said dozens of Bible game ads were rejected by major platforms despite removing religious terms, sparking calls for hearings.

A Christian gaming creator is urging Congress to examine advertising policies at Google and TikTok after the company says its ads were repeatedly rejected despite being aimed at general audiences and family-friendly content.

The American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ) said Wednesday it had sent a letter to members of Congress on behalf of its client, TruPlay Games, calling for an investigation into how the two platforms enforce their advertising rules.

According to the ACLJ, TruPlay has faced dozens of ad rejections since 2023, including for ads that were not targeted based on religious belief.

"This is repeated behavior in the dozens," TruPlay CEO Brent Dusing told FOX Business. "We would get rejections multiple times a week."

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TruPlay Games produces Bible-based video games designed for children and families, including titles such as "King David’s Battles" and "Chirp Song: Words of Praise."

Dusing said the company’s mission is to offer families a faith-based alternative in children’s entertainment, centered on Christian values and biblical storytelling.

Dusing said TruPlay began advertising on Google in 2023 and on TikTok in January 2024. He said restrictions on Google began roughly a month after advertising started, while TikTok rejections escalated more sharply in 2025.

In its letter, the ACLJ said TruPlay’s ads were rejected under Google’s policy governing "religious belief in personalized advertising," even though the ads were directed to broad audiences such as parents and mobile game users rather than users selected based on religious belief.

The ACLJ said TruPlay modified ad language multiple times in an effort to comply with platform rules, including removing terms such as "Christian" and "Bible," but that ads continued to be rejected.

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Examples cited by the group include ads originally labeled "Christian Games for Kids" and "Safe Bible Games for Kids," which were later revised but still flagged, according to TruPlay.

"Our ads were targeted to general audiences — families and parents — not to users based on religious belief," Dusing said.

Dusing said the loss of access to Google and TikTok advertising had a "devastating" business impact.

Dusing noted that Google and TikTok represent a substantial share of the digital advertising market for consumer-facing businesses. 

"When you lose those platforms, you lose a massive ability to reach your potential audience," he said.

He added that TruPlay has advertised successfully on Meta platforms, including Facebook, Instagram and X without encountering similar issues.

TikTok took similar enforcement action, according to the ACLJ, permanently suspending TruPlay’s advertising account after what the platform described as "repeated violations." In one instance cited in the letter, the ACLJ said TikTok rejected an advertisement that included the word "church." In another case, the group said TikTok declined ads because preview images in Apple’s App Store showed a cartoon depiction of Jesus.

In a statement to FOX Business, the ACLJ said it has yet to hear back from Congress.

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In a blog post published Wednesday, ACLJ Senior Associate Counsel Nathan Moelker said the organization is asking Congress to hold hearings and review whether current advertising policies that amount to viewpoint discrimination against faith-based businesses.

The ACLJ also pointed to broader concerns about how Big Tech applies content and advertising rules, citing a recent letter from FCC Chair Brendan Carr questioning Google’s removal of the Great American Family network from YouTube TV.

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Dusing pointed to automated content-moderation systems as a central issue, telling FOX Business that "these decisions aren’t being made by a person on the phone, they’re being made by automated systems."

In a statement to FOX Business, a Google spokesperson said, "Ads containing religious content are allowed to run on our platforms. Our policies prohibit targeting people based on their sensitive information, including their religious affiliations, and these are applied consistently regardless of their beliefs."

Google said TruPlay’s ads ran as recently as November, including ads containing religious terminology.

TikTok did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the ACLJ’s claims or how their advertising policies are enforced when it comes to religious content.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/christian-kids-app-claims-google-tiktok-blocked-ads-congress-pressed-act-its-devastating

LARRY KUDLOW: On the economy also, Mr. Trump is trying to save Europe from itselfPresident Trump has completely rejuvenated American capitalism with his supply-side prosperity program. Europe should take notes

President Trump, in his blockbuster speech yesterday, told the Davos crowd that "the USA is the economic engine of the planet. And when America booms, the entire world booms." So reminiscent of Ronald Reagan. Including Mr. Trump’s tried and true observation that economic security at home is the fountainhead of national security abroad. Again, ditto Reagan. I’ll tell you, if Ronald Reagan was the greatest president in the 20th century, right now Donald Trump looks like the greatest president in the 21st century.

That Davos crowd yesterday should have been sitting there taking copious notes on yellow legal pads, that they could go home and use to deliver some prosperity to their stagnant European countries, that haven’t grown in years and years. They’ve made every economic mistake in the book. Confiscatory taxes, regulatory strangleholds, phony climate change, and unfair trade practices. Four years into the Ukraine war, the Europeans are still buying oil and gas from their supposed arch-enemy Russia. And their extreme climate change policies nearly ended their industrial development. The most popular European economic policy today is bashing American companies, especially our tech companies through unfair trading practices, digital sales taxes, and the like.

Mr. Trump has completely rejuvenated American capitalism with his supply-side prosperity program of tax cuts, deregulation, "drill, baby, drill," and reciprocal fair trade. He may step on some toes to make a point for a year or so, on things like a 10 percent credit card interest rate, or jaw-boning defense companies, but Mr. Trump is a capitalist who believes in the incentive model of economic growth.

To quote my pal Art Laffer, if it pays more after tax, you will get more work. Or investment. Or risk taking. Or deregulating. Or putting the private sector back to work and stuffing the big government socialist model into tiny little moth balls. Mr. Trump has always believed in rewarding success, not punishing it. He knows, say, that today’s strong economic growth will be putting people back to work, building new factories, and producing more of virtually everything. And that can’t possibly be inflationary.

In fact, more production will bring inflation down. He knows that. He said it several times at Davos yesterday. And he’s made it clear that this old root-canal, no-growth, austerity model has to be scrapped and ended at the Federal Reserve with new people in charge.

Just a cursory look at the numbers released today enhanced the Trump boom. For the three quarters of  his second Presidency, the first year, last year, thus far, GDP is on a run rate of 4.4 percent and when all the other incentives, including energy, kick in this year, you could be running 5 percent, 6 percent, or 7 percent economic growth.

For some reason, people don’t want to talk about it, but inflation is coming down. The Fed’s allegedly most important indicator is the core Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index deflator, which is now running at two tenths of a percent per month, or only 2.3 percent annually for the past three months.

Durable goods are running at 2 percent. And the obsessively feared tariff inflation has never materialized, even with modest Trumpian 15 percent tariffs that have already significantly reduced our trade deficit. Adding even more to economic growth.

You know, if the Europeans had any common sense, they would follow Mr. Trump’s economic lead, and bring prosperity to their people, because the truth is, the president is trying to save them from themselves.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/larry-kudlow-economy-also-mr-trump-trying-save-europe-from-itself

Popular cleaning product recalled over bacterial contamination fearsSome Angry Orange cleaning products recalled due to potentially harmful bacteria that poses risks to people with weakened immune systems and lung conditions.

Roughly 1.5 million bottles of a popular household cleaning product sold nationwide are being pulled from shelves over concerns they may be contaminated with potentially harmful bacteria, federal regulators say.

Boston-based company Thrasio has issued a recall of its Angry Orange Enzyme Stain Removers after determining the products could contain Pseudomonas aeruginosa, according to a notice released Thursday by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

Pseudomonas aeruginosa can pose serious health risks to people with weakened immune systems, lung conditions or external medical devices, the CPSC warned.

"The bacteria can enter the body if inhaled, through the eyes, or through a break in the skin," the CPSC stated. "People with healthy immune systems are usually not affected by bacteria."

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The recall, with the number 26-201, covers Angry Orange Enzyme Stain Removers in Fresh Clean Scent and Orange Twist Scent sold in 24-ounce, 32-ounce and one-gallon sizes.

The bottles are orange and white, with "Angry Orange" and "Stain & Odor Remover" clearly printed on the front.

Some recalled items were also sold as part of a bundle with a UV light spray attachment, officials said.

13K POUNDS OF READY-TO-EAT GRILLED CHICKEN BREASTS RECALLED OVER POSSIBLE LISTERIA CONTAMINATION

The recalled stain removers were manufactured in the U.S. and sold between March 2019 and December 2025 for prices ranging from $4 to $60.

They were available at major retailers nationwide, including Walmart, Target, The Home Depot, Meijer, Staples and TJ Maxx. 

The products were also sold online through Amazon, Walmart, Target, AngryOrange.com and Chewy.com, according to the CPSC.

In addition to the U.S. recall, roughly 43,700 bottles were sold in Canada, the CPSC said.

No injuries or illnesses have been reported in connection with the recall so far.

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Consumers are urged to immediately stop using the recalled products and contact Thrasio to receive a full refund. They are also urged to dispose of the product in its original container.

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"Do not empty the product prior to disposal. Do not attempt to recycle the product bottle," the CPSC said.

Angry Orange did not immediately respond to FOX Business' request for comment.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/popular-cleaning-product-recalled-over-bacterial-contamination-fears