IMF nudges up 2025 growth forecast but says tariff risks still dog outlook | Business and Economy News

Power spikes threaten cascading outages for homes and businesses, as seen in Virginia last summer when backup generators caused excess supply issues. Data centers, consuming vast amounts of water and energy, face scrutiny over their environmental impact, with companies like Microsoft and Meta sourcing significant water from stressed areas, while advanced cooling methods are being developed to manage the heat generated by increasingly dense chip technology. Want More Context? 🔎

Two resolutions proposed by Senator Bernie Sanders to block arms sales to Israel over civilian casualties in Gaza were defeated in the U.S. Senate, although they received more support than earlier proposals. The votes, which saw all Democratic support against Republican opposition, reflect a growing concern among some lawmakers about Israel's military actions, as international calls for humanitarian assistance in Gaza increase. Want More Context? 🔎

The Arkansas Department of Public Safety announced the arrest of 28-year-old James Andrew McGann for the alleged double homicide of Clinton and Cristen Brink, who were killed while hiking with their daughters at Devil’s Den State Park. McGann faces two counts of capital murder, and authorities have praised the collaborative efforts of law enforcement in capturing him swiftly. Want More Context? 🔎

The U.S. Treasury has imposed sanctions on over 100 Iran-linked entities, including 52 vessels tied to Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani, son of a senior adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader. These actions aim to disrupt a significant shipping network generating billions from oil transport, with officials stating it will complicate Iran's oil sales while not disrupting global markets significantly. Want More Context? 🔎

Israeli forces reportedly killed at least 30 people and injured 300 when they opened fire on a crowd awaiting humanitarian aid in northern Gaza, while the Israeli military claimed no knowledge of any casualties. The UN criticized the insufficient pauses in military operations for aid delivery amidst a deepening hunger crisis, as the ongoing conflict has left Gaza's population facing famine and resulted in over 60,000 deaths since the war began. Want More Context? 🔎

Authorities are investigating the fatal attack of Clinton and Cristen Brink, who were killed while hiking at Devil's Den State Park in Arkansas, with their daughters unharmed; a composite sketch and photo of a person of interest have been released. The suspect, described as a white male wearing dark clothing and driving a black sedan, may have sustained an injury during the attack, and police are urging the public to provide tips. Want More Context?...