On his last day as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, Warren Buffett shared timeless advice on investing, ethics, and life, emphasizing the importance of understanding industries, maintaining integrity, and believing in America's economic potential.
Trump Media & Technology Group launched five America-First themed ETFs on the NYSE, offering investors a way to support American industries and values through index-backed funds focused on security, defense, energy, icons, and red state REITs, with plans for additional funds in 2026.
Under President Trump, the U.S. manufacturing sector is experiencing a significant boom with billions in investments from major corporations like Stellantis, Whirlpool, and GE Aerospace, leading to thousands of new jobs and a focus on revitalizing American industry and economic dominance.
Berkshire Hathaway's Class A shares reached a record high, closing at $652,997.17, reflecting strong investor confidence in Warren Buffett's company. The market value of Berkshire is now approximately $937 billion, with shares up 20% this year. Despite significant donations, Buffett remains a major shareholder and one of the world's richest individuals.
CNN presidential historian Timothy Naftali and Eurasia Group President Ian Bremmer discuss with Fareed Zakaria the global admiration for America's economy and technology, juxtaposed with growing concerns about the state of US democracy.
Despite robust economic indicators such as low unemployment and brisk consumer spending, many Americans feel pessimistic about the economy due to concerns about long-term financial security, vulnerability to social and political threats, and uninspiring leadership. Even those who have experienced personal financial success express a sense of uncertainty and a lack of hope, leading to a widespread feeling that the American dream is no longer attainable. The disconnect between economic data and public sentiment has left economists and experts puzzled.
A viral TikTok video showing a man paying $16 for a McDonald's meal continues to circulate, highlighting the issue of rising fast food prices and fueling public concern about the state of the American economy. Despite the video's exaggeration, it has become a problem for Democratic political strategists and economists who are struggling to convey the message that the economy is actually doing well. While fast food prices have increased, they have not risen as much as the video suggests. However, the video's popularity reflects a broader sentiment of frustration over the rising costs of food, housing, and gas. Despite this, consumer spending remains strong, contributing to the growth of the US economy.
Martha Stewart is urging Americans to return to their offices, warning that the American economy will "go down the drain" if they don't. She believes that hybrid or remote work is not effective and that people can't get everything done working three days a week in the office and two days remotely. Stewart continued to work five days a week during the pandemic and expanded her business, including launching "The World of Martha" with Amazon Stores, a partnership with Roku for three TV shows, and a new restaurant in Las Vegas called The Bedford.
Americans who rely on government assistance to make ends meet fear the consequences of the ongoing debt-ceiling negotiations in Washington. Congressional Republicans are pushing for tougher work requirements for federal benefits, while President Joe Biden has suggested he's open to such restrictions. Families across America are watching with trepidation as the decisions made in those debt-ceiling talks could have real-life consequences. The negative economic effects of a default could cause instability in interest rates, increases in credit card rates, and difficulty borrowing money. Some Americans hope for a default to "wake up" the American people to whom they elect into office.
The collapse of a third US bank this week has worsened the credit crunch for American households and businesses, leading to a decline in lending and tighter lending standards. This could lead to less spending by consumers and businesses, and a potential recession this year. The Federal Reserve is expected to approve a 10th straight interest-rate hike at the conclusion of their two-day meeting on Wednesday and hint at a coming pause in increases.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and 18 other GOP governors formed an alliance to reject President Joe Biden's environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) "agenda," claiming the push is a "direct threat" to the economic freedom of American retirees. The governors are concerned that American retirement funds are being used for "woke" investments and want to ensure corporations are focused on maximizing shareholder value, rather than the proliferation of woke ideology. The White House has assured that President Biden "will veto" a disapproval resolution passed by the Senate to end the Department of Labor rule encouraging investors to consider ESG when making investment decisions.