ECB warns of ‘headwinds’ to Eurozone economy as it cuts rate to 2.75%

Doug Burgum, a former Microsoft executive and governor of North Dakota, was confirmed by the Senate to lead the Interior Department, overseeing drilling and mining policies on federal lands and waters. As a key player in implementing President Trump’s pro-oil agenda, Burgum will also run a White House council promoting oil and gas development. Despite criticism from Democrats, Burgum emphasized the need to extract trillions of dollars worth of oil, gas, and minerals from federal...

Starbucks and the union representing its employees are bringing in a mediator to revive stalled contract talks over wage increases, with a goal of finalizing a framework for contracts at unionized stores. A recent bargaining session saw Starbucks offering a 1.5% annual wage increase, prompting a five-day strike in multiple cities during the holiday season. Despite progress in other work conditions, the two sides remain at odds on key economic provisions, with workers citing concerns...

Entrepreneur contributors emphasize the importance of adapting to AI in content creation, as it empowers creators with efficient tools but also increases competition. To stand out, businesses must engage audiences across multiple platforms and focus on quality and quantity. By leveraging AI tools, maintaining a consistent presence, personalizing messaging, and prioritizing relationship-building, brands can succeed in the evolving digital landscape. Full Article

The housing market has seen a surge in activity as buyers rush to beat the drop in stamp duty thresholds, with new sales agreed up 12% annually and buyer demand increasing by 13% in January 2025. House prices rose 2% in 2024 to £267,700, with Northern Ireland experiencing the highest growth at 7.7%. Despite slower price growth in southern England, the market is expected to remain active due to buyers looking to secure deals before...

Customers at select CVS stores will no longer need to wait for a clerk to unlock glass cabinets thanks to a new app allowing them to open the cabinets themselves, available in three New York City stores and set to expand to the West Coast. The move aims to address customer complaints and combat retail theft, with CVS emphasizing convenience and utilizing technology to enhance the customer experience. The app, which offers various health care...

Howard Lutnick, a wealthy donor to President Trump, defended Trump's tariff plans and tough stance on technology sales to China during his Senate confirmation hearing. If confirmed as Commerce Department head, Lutnick would oversee trade policy, business promotion, and technology programs. He supported broad tariffs on entire countries, opposed inflation concerns, and advocated for stricter oversight of technology sales to China, while also expressing support for semiconductor manufacturing in America and scrutinizing existing contracts. Full...