The World Meteorological Organization reports that 2024 was the warmest year on record, marking the first time all 10 hottest years have occurred within the past decade. Greenhouse gas levels continue to rise, with concentrations of carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide reaching unprecedented levels. The oceans are warming at an accelerated rate, leading to coral bleaching and record sea-level rise, while global warming has already exceeded 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels. Full Article

The Justice Department charged Carl Erik Rinsch with an $11 million scheme to defraud Netflix by securing funding for a science-fiction series but using the money for personal investments instead. Mr. Rinsch was arrested and charged with wire fraud, money laundering, and engaging in monetary transactions derived from unlawful activity. After Netflix canceled the series due to Mr. Rinsch's erratic behavior, he went on a spending spree with the remaining production money, leading to Netflix...

The FTC is suing Click Profit for allegedly deceiving investors with false promises of guaranteed passive income through e-commerce stores on platforms like Amazon and TikTok. The company, owned by Craig Emslie and Patrick McGeoghean, claimed to use AI technology to select profitable products, but in reality, investors lost millions as the promised earnings never materialized. Click Profit faces legal action to halt its operations and provide relief to affected clients who were left with...

Financial markets are closely monitoring the Federal Reserve's comments on future interest rates, as well as any potential adjustments to the ongoing balance sheet runoff known as quantitative tightening (QT). This dual focus highlights the significance of not only rate decisions but also the Fed's efforts to reduce its balance sheet. Investors are keenly aware of both factors and their potential impact on market dynamics. Full Article

Citigroup CEO Jane Fraser is maintaining flexible working rules that arose during the pandemic, which are being lauded as a groundbreaking strategy for attracting and retaining skilled working mothers five years later. Her unique approach is seen as a departure from conventional practices and is credited with setting a new trend in the industry. By prioritizing flexibility, Fraser is able to create a work environment that is appealing to talented individuals, particularly working mothers. Full...

Investors looking to top up their stocks and shares ISA before the tax year deadline should consider investment trusts amidst market volatility caused by trade wars. With long-term investing in mind, experts recommend trusts like City of London and Fidelity Special Values for UK exposure, Schroder AsiaPacific for Asian diversification, and defensive options such as Personal Assets. For a global perspective, JPMorgan Global Growth & Income is highlighted for its consistent outperformance and low costs....