Palestinians Return to Their Homes in Gaza

Small-cap stocks, once expected to benefit from President Donald Trump's policies, entered bear market territory after a steep stock market decline following the administration's aggressive tariff rollout. The Russell 2000 Index plummeted around 6% on Thursday, marking a 22% loss from its November record close. With the economy softening and high debt interest payments squeezing profits, small caps have seen a sharp reversal from their post-election gains as they struggle to navigate challenging market conditions....

In response to a surge in gang violence in Haiti, the leader of the transitional presidential council, Fritz Alphonse Jean, announced measures to address the crisis, acknowledging the country's dire situation. Protesters clashed with police demanding an end to gang violence, leading to the biggest protest since the council's installation a year ago. More than 4,200 people have been killed, 1,356 injured, and over 60,000 left homeless due to recent gang violence, prompting the council...

Syria has accused Israel of destabilizing the country through attacks on airbases and a ground incursion, leading to casualties and destruction. Israel justified the actions as responses to threats, with the Israeli army seizing weapons and destroying terrorist infrastructure. The United Nations envoy for Syria condemned the escalations, urging Israel to cease the attacks to avoid violations of international law. Full Article

Tom Cruise paid tribute to Val Kilmer at CinemaCon while presenting footage from "Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning." Cruise honored Kilmer's work and expressed gratitude for their collaboration in "Top Gun: Maverick," before asking for a moment of silence for the late actor. Kilmer, known for roles in "Batman Forever" and "Tombstone," died at 65 from pneumonia, leaving behind a legacy of impactful performances and a lasting friendship with Cruise. Full Article

Hunter Metcalf, the twin brother of the 17-year-old high school football star Austin Metcalf who was fatally stabbed at a Texas track meet, revealed that they didn't know the murder suspect, Karmelo Anthony, who allegedly attacked Austin in a violent outburst over a seating dispute that lasted under 30 seconds. The tragic incident occurred during the UIL District 11-5A championship track meet in Frisco, Texas, leading to Karmelo Anthony's arrest and charge with first-degree murder...

At the Shoptalk retail conference, Gap Inc CEO Richard Dickson emphasized the company's minimal reliance on China, with less than 10% of products sourced from there, as they diversify suppliers to countries like Vietnam, India, and Indonesia. However, following the Trump Administration's announcement of punitive tariffs on imports from these countries, including a 46% levy on Vietnam, both Gap and Levi's saw significant stock declines, raising concerns about the challenges of quickly shifting production. Retailers...