Keeping up with America

Trump withdraws the U.S. from 66 international organizations

A massive move to end taxpayer funding for entities the administration claims “no longer serve American interests,” hitting climate and health groups hardest.

Trump to hit European nations with 10% tariffs over Greenland

The trade war enters a new phase as the White House uses tariffs as leverage in its ongoing quest to negotiate for Greenland.

Fifty-state ‘Free America Walkout’ targets Trump policies

Organizers are preparing for massive, coordinated protests across all 50 states to rebuke the administration’s recent executive orders.

Trump sets $1B fee to join his new ‘Board of Peace’

A controversial new committee involving Jared Kushner and Marco Rubio reportedly requires a billion-dollar “seat at the table” for international members.

Supreme Court decision looms over executive tariff powers

The high court is set to rule on whether the President has the unilateral authority to impose the newest round of global trade taxes.

X-class solar flare activity observed by NOAA

Space weather experts detected a “strong” R3-level flare on Sunday, which could lead to minor radio blackouts across the U.S. this week.

Around the World

Trump invites Colombia’s president to the White House after “very positive” call

A surprise tone shift that matters for migration, security, and regional diplomacy.

U.S. seizes Russian-flagged oil tanker ‘Marinera’ tied to Venezuela

Energy policy turns into geopolitics as the U.S. blockade on Venezuelan oil tightens.

U.S. military confirms second sanctioned tanker seized in Caribbean

Part of a larger push to control global oil flows and pressure the Maduro regime’s allies.

Zelenskiy warns of Russian strikes on nuclear power system amid winter

A grim update on the energy infrastructure war as Ukraine seeks further U.S. security guarantees.

Ukraine delegation arrives in U.S. for high-level talks on peace proposals

Kyrylo Budanov leads a team to Miami to discuss security deals with the Trump transition and inner circle.

Security Alert: U.S. Embassy in Guatemala City issues emergency shelter notice

Civil unrest and armed attacks near government buildings trigger high-level security protocols.

Business & Tech

Wall Street mixed as the AI-driven rally cools and labor data sinks in

The vibe shift: “AI forever” meets “okay, but what about the actual economy?” Markets took a breather after a massive rally, as investors digest a cooling labor market and high expectations.

Nvidia valuation enters 2026 at lower premium despite massive growth

The chip giant remains a focal point as investors debate if the price finally matches the potential. Analysts note that with earnings projections for 2026 now in play, the “overvalued” narrative is being challenged by 62% year-over-year growth.

U.S. dollar steady as traders assess latest labor and inflation signals

FX markets are basically in a holding pattern waiting for the next Federal Reserve move. Weak December jobs data has shifted the focus from inflation to labor market resilience as the primary driver for the greenback.

OpenAI launches initiative to focus on ‘Human Agency’ over automation

A pivot in tech philosophy: creating AI that empowers users rather than just replacing tasks. OpenAI’s new jobs platform aims to match candidates based on demonstrated AI competencies, focusing on practical implementation across industries.

3 AI stocks to buy and hold for the long term in 2026

A breakdown of the companies positioned to survive the “bubble” and lead the next tech cycle. Nvidia, Alphabet, and Broadcom are highlighted for their exceptional revenue visibility and expanding hyperscaler relationships.

Oil falls amid Venezuela moves as global risk appetite sours

Energy and politics are glued together this week as the U.S. asserts control over crude exports. Prices dipped as Venezuelan shipments resumed following recent political shifts, easing some immediate supply concerns.

Small-caps hit record highs as domestic-first policy boosts Russell 2000

Investors are moving money into American companies that are less exposed to international tariff wars. The Russell 2000 has outperformed the S&P 500 for a historic 10th straight session.

Economists boost 2026 growth outlook despite ongoing trade tensions

A look at why the U.S. economy remains resilient even as the global rules are being rewritten. The IMF boosted its growth forecast, citing tailwinds from the AI investment boom as a key offset to trade disruptions.

Richer, Wiser, Happier

Emergency Fund: How much you really need and where to keep it

The official CFPB guide on building a financial safety net. It covers the “three-to-six months” rule and provides strategies for where to store your cash so it remains accessible but out of sight for daily spending.

How to create a savings habit that sticks for the long haul

Practical advice on shifting from “trying to save” to “automatic saving.” This guide highlights the “set it and forget it” mentality and using sub-accounts to visualize your progress toward specific 2026 goals.

The mental benefits of a ‘Digital Detox’ for focus and sleep

A deep dive into the science of unplugging. It explains how reducing blue light and notification dopamine loops can recalibrate your brain chemistry for better deep sleep and sharper professional focus.

Accepting your financial situation without judgment to start 2026

Research from Georgetown on “Financial Mindfulness.” It explores how acknowledging your bank balance without shame actually leads to better decision-making and higher credit scores over time.

ACA subsidies fight: what it could mean for your monthly premiums

A breakdown of the current legislative battle. With enhanced tax credits expiring, this report details why some families are seeing premiums double and how the House is moving to address it.

Personal finance reset: budgeting, saving, and debt management

The ultimate “January cleanup” hub. This guide offers a 7-step checklist for reviewing your credit report, tackling high-interest debt, and setting achievable milestones for the rest of the year.

Automate your morning routine with these simple productivity hacks

Fast wins for efficiency. Learn how to use “Applets” to automate your news digest, weather reports, and calendar reminders so you can preserve your willpower for more important tasks.

Using AI to audit your subscriptions and find hidden savings

How to turn AI into a personal financial assistant. This guide explains how to use AI-driven tools to scan your transaction history, flag duplicate subscriptions, and identify where your “budget leaks” are happening.

Sports & Showbiz Shenanigans

Ohio State safety Caleb Downs declares for 2026 NFL Draft

A major decision that reshapes draft boards (and college defenses) for the coming season. The All-American is officially moving on to the pros.

Ravens coach search: Kevin Stefanski emerges as favorite to replace Harbaugh

A coaching reset that could change the AFC picture as Baltimore eyes the former Browns leader.

Zoe Saldana makes history as highest-grossing actor of all time

With a $15 billion career total following the success of the latest Avatar, she officially dethrones Scarlett Johansson.

NFL Playoffs: Patriots and Rams advance to Conference Championships

Scores and updates from a high-stakes Sunday that saw New England and Los Angeles punch their tickets to the final four.

Stranger Things ‘Conformity Gate’ secret episode theory finally debunked

A new documentary confirms there is no hidden ninth episode, ending the conspiracy spiral for fans.

Eagles RT Lane Johnson returns to practice ahead of 49ers clash

A massive health update for Philly’s offensive line as the veteran tackle prepares for the postseason intensity.

Billie Eilish and Finn Wolfhard lead celebrity weekend in NYC

From the MLK Beloved Community Awards to the SNL afterparty, awards season is officially back in full swing.

NHL Recap: Islanders set for road trip after historic 9-0 victory

The New York squad looks to carry their dominant momentum from a record-setting win into a seven-game trek.

Life Hack to Hack Your Life