Skip to main content

Featured

Fed Poised for First 2025 Rate Cut as Weak Jobs Data Outweigh Inflation Concerns

  The Federal Reserve seal at its Washington, D.C. headquarters, where policymakers are set to decide on the first interest rate cut of 2025. The U.S. Federal Reserve is expected to lower its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points today, marking its first rate cut of 2025 and the first since December last year. The move would bring the federal funds target range down to 4.00%–4.25%, as policymakers respond to slowing job growth and rising unemployment, even as inflation remains above the Fed’s 2% target. Recent labor market data showed just 22,000 jobs added in August, with earlier months revised downward, while the unemployment rate has climbed to around 4.3%. Inflation, measured by the Fed’s preferred PCE index, has edged higher in recent months, partly due to tariffs pushing up consumer prices. Markets have largely priced in the cut, with investors watching the Fed’s updated “dot plot” for clues on whether more reductions will follow in October and December. The decision ...

article

U.S. Announces Departure from World Health Organization, Effective January 22, 2026

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the global health community, the United States has formally announced its decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) on January 22, 2026. This decision, confirmed by the United Nations, follows a formal notification from President Donald Trump, who has criticized the WHO for its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other international health crises.

The U.S., which is the WHO's largest financial contributor, accounting for around 18% of its budget, will cease negotiations on the WHO pandemic treaty and recall all government personnel working with the organization. Experts warn that this departure could jeopardize critical global health programs, including those targeting tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and other health emergencies.

The WHO has expressed regret over the decision, emphasizing the importance of U.S. involvement in global health initiatives. The future of international health cooperation remains uncertain as the world awaits further developments.


Comments