Cava, the fast-casual Mediterranean restaurant chain, experienced a significant stock jump after reporting record-breaking revenue for fiscal year 2025 and forecasting continued sales growth for 2026. The company defied Wall Street estimates with a 0.5% increase in same-store sales, primarily driven by menu price adjustments and product mix, despite a slight decline in foot traffic. Cava's CFO noted a resurgence in younger consumer engagement and broad improvement across demographics, attributing success to accessible value in a K-shaped economy. The article highlights Cava's strategic focus on minimizing price increases while expanding its culinary offerings, including an upcoming salmon dish.

85/100

President Trump has unveiled a new retirement savings plan aimed at the 56 million Americans lacking employer-sponsored 401(k)s. The proposal, announced during his State of the Union address, would create accounts similar to the federal Thrift Savings Plan, offering a government match of up to $1,000 annually. Financial experts largely praised the initiative for addressing a significant gap in retirement coverage, though some questioned its funding and overall impact. The plan seeks to ensure more Americans can benefit from market growth, building on existing legislation to expand access to retirement savings. (not investment advice)

70/100

Axon Enterprise, known for Tasers and body cameras, saw its stock rise nearly 18% after surpassing fourth-quarter estimates, largely due to increased demand for its AI-enhanced software tools. The company reported strong adjusted earnings and revenue, along with optimistic revenue guidance for 2026. CEO Rick Smith emphasized the transformative role of AI, with capabilities like automatic license plate recognition contributing significantly to bookings. The article notes that Axon's software business, which grew 40% in the quarter, is expected to soon outpace hardware growth, supported by AI advancements.

80/100

British number one Jack Draper was defeated by France's Arthur Rinderknech in the second round of the Dubai Tennis Championships, marking an early end to his return to the ATP Tour. Draper, who had been absent for six months due to a service arm injury, had won his first-round match. Despite an assured start, he failed to convert crucial break points and ultimately lost in three sets. The article details Draper's struggle with injury that caused his world ranking to slip and his determination to rebuild his career after a challenging period.

45/100

Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes, a former U.S. Air Force Academy student, announced his decision to represent Team USA in the World Baseball Classic to honor American servicemen and women. Skenes, who won the National League Cy Young Award last season, expressed his belief in the U.S. as the greatest country and his desire to recognize those fighting for it. He views his participation, alongside stars like Aaron Judge, as an endeavor larger than individual achievement. The article highlights Skenes' commitment to making two starts in the tournament, aiming to help the U.S. team secure a gold medal.

75/100

NASA has rolled its Artemis II moon rocket off the launch pad for repairs to a helium pressurization problem, further delaying the mission for four astronauts. The 6.6-million-pound Space Launch System rocket is being moved back to the Vehicle Assembly Building to address the issue, which emerged after a fueling test. This marks another setback for the mission, originally targeted for February, then March, and now no earlier than April 1. The article explains that engineers will also replace limited-life batteries in the rocket's self-destruct system and upper stage during this unexpected rollback.

50/100

Kalshi, a prediction market platform, has fined and suspended an employee of popular YouTuber MrBeast for insider trading, a significant disciplinary action in the burgeoning industry. Artem Kaptur, an editor for MrBeast, was found to have made bets on video outcomes using non-public information, achieving near-perfect trading success. Kalshi imposed a $15,000 fine, ordered the return of $5,397.58 in profits, and issued a two-year suspension. The article notes that Kalshi has initiated 200 insider trading investigations in the past year and reported this case, along with another involving a political candidate, to the CFTC.

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Four individuals on a US-registered speedboat were killed by Cuban border guards after allegedly opening fire on a coast guard vessel near Cayo Falcones. Cuba's interior ministry stated that six other passengers were wounded in the confrontation, which occurred when the Cuban boat approached for identification. The incident has prompted calls for an urgent investigation from Florida Representative Carlos Gimenez, who termed it a 'massacre.' The article highlights the increased tensions between the US and Cuba, exacerbated by a deepening fuel crisis on the island and US sanctions on oil shipments.

20/100

Casey Means, President Trump's controversial nominee for US surgeon general, faced intense questioning from the Senate health committee regarding her medical background and views on vaccines. Means, a wellness influencer without an active medical license or board certification, defended her focus on lifestyle factors for chronic disease. Democrats raised concerns about her ability to counter misinformation, particularly on vaccine efficacy, as she repeatedly sidestepped direct questions about routine childhood immunizations and autism. The article details Means' alignment with the Trump administration's health policy, which includes skepticism towards the number of recommended childhood vaccines.

30/100

UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves indicated the economy is 'beginning to turn a corner,' citing falling energy bills and recent positive economic indicators. Households are set to see a 7% cut in electricity bills in April, partly due to the government shifting green levies. While acknowledging past challenges and ongoing issues like sluggish growth and rising unemployment, Reeves expressed optimism that people will 'feel the change in their pockets' this year. The article notes broader improvements in high street spending, service sector surveys, and consumer confidence, alongside falling inflation and anticipated interest rate cuts.

65/100

President Trump telephoned Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum following the death of cartel leader 'El Mencho,' inquiring about the situation in Mexico. Sheinbaum affirmed strong cooperation between the nations in the operation that led to Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes' death. However, Trump later claimed sole U.S. success in his State of the Union address, drawing criticism from Mexican commentators who highlighted the 25 Mexican National Guard casualties. The article underscores the differing narratives on the high-risk takedown, with Sheinbaum subtly correcting Trump's account while maintaining a cordial stance on bilateral efforts against cartels.

50/100

Newly released Department of Justice documents indicate that Jeffrey Epstein successfully hid a significant trove of potential evidence from investigators for more than ten years. Internal correspondence reveals that a private investigator, retained by Epstein's defense team, removed computers, phone directories, and sexually explicit materials from his mansion shortly before a 2005 police raid. State and federal prosecutors seemingly never accessed these materials, which a 2020 DOJ report deemed 'potentially critical' to the case. The article details how these items, including surveillance footage and explicit content, were passed between Epstein's representatives and remained out of law enforcement's hands, impacting the trajectory of his criminal investigations.

10/100

A former Yosemite National Park employee is suing the federal government, alleging unlawful termination after being fired for hanging a transgender pride flag from El Capitan. Shannon 'SJ' Joslin, a wildlife biologist, contends their dismissal violated First Amendment rights, arguing the flag was hung off-duty to celebrate the trans community amidst political attacks. The National Park Service cited regulations against demonstrations outside designated areas, but Joslin's attorneys claim selective enforcement, noting Yosemite's history of activism and past flag displays. The article highlights the lawsuit's challenge to park policies and its assertion that the termination was a 'vindictive campaign' against protected speech.

40/100

Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos is scheduled to visit the White House for discussions regarding his company's bid to acquire parts of Warner Bros. Discovery, as Paramount intensifies its rival offer. This visit follows President Trump's demand that Netflix fire former Obama official Susan Rice from its board, linking her to the WBD merger. The acquisition battle has become entwined with political dynamics, raising antitrust concerns and attracting scrutiny from the Department of Justice. The article notes Paramount's raised all-cash bid and the political connections of its CEO, David Ellison, adding layers to the complex business deal.

55/100

With $50,000 saved, understanding where to store it for optimal interest earnings in 2026 is crucial. This article compares the interest-earning potential of various savings accounts over nine months, assuming stable variable rates. High-yield savings accounts and money market accounts offer significantly better returns (around 4%) compared to traditional savings accounts (0.39%). While CDs provide guaranteed fixed rates, variable accounts offer flexibility that might fluctuate with market conditions. The article strongly advises against traditional savings accounts due to their low returns, emphasizing the importance of selecting an account that aligns with financial goals for maximum benefit. (not investment advice)

65/100

The Metropolitan Police has issued an apology to Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle for inadvertently revealing him as the source of information regarding Lord Mandelson's recent arrest. Sir Lindsay had passed on details suggesting Lord Mandelson might be a flight risk, which prompted the peer's detention in a probe into misconduct allegations. Lord Mandelson's lawyers criticized the arrest, claiming he had agreed to a future interview and the flight risk suggestion was 'baseless.' The article highlights the serious breach of protocol by the Met and the ongoing investigation into Lord Mandelson's alleged ties to Jeffrey Epstein.

50/100

Major technology companies, including Amazon, Google, Meta, Microsoft, and OpenAI, are slated to meet President Trump at the White House to sign a pledge to supply their own power for new AI data centers. This initiative aims to prevent rising electricity bills for American consumers as AI demand escalates. The Trump administration, which embraces the AI industry, is keen to mitigate public backlash over energy consumption. The article emphasizes that companies will be responsible for building or acquiring their power supplies, ensuring that the expansion of AI infrastructure does not burden existing grids or increase utility costs.

70/100

The US Treasury Department has announced a policy shift, permitting the resale of Venezuelan oil to Cuba, provided the transactions benefit the Cuban private sector rather than the government. This easing of the blockade comes as Cuba faces a severe fuel crisis, leading to widespread power outages and disruptions. The previous US policy aimed to force regime change by blocking fuel shipments from Venezuela, Cuba's key oil supplier. The article notes that Canada has also pledged CAN $8 million in humanitarian aid to Cuba, while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio attends a Caribbean summit where leaders express concern over a destabilized Cuba.

60/100

Los Angeles Unified School District Superintendent Alberto Carvalho's San Pedro home and LAUSD headquarters were raided by the FBI as part of an ongoing investigation. No specific details about the investigation's target were immediately available, and Carvalho has not yet commented. Carvalho, a nationally recognized education leader, arrived in LA in 2022 and has been credited with improving academic performance and standing up for immigrant families. The article also touches on his past challenges, including an AI chatbot initiative that faced issues and federal charges against its provider, though the current investigation's scope remains unclear.

35/100

Nvidia is expected to announce robust fiscal fourth-quarter results, with analysts forecasting significant revenue growth, continuing its streak as a primary beneficiary of the artificial intelligence boom. The company, which now derives approximately 90% of its revenue from data center hardware, supplies its high-priced graphics processing units to major tech giants and AI startups. Investors will closely monitor Nvidia's gross margin, given the global shortage and soaring prices of memory, a critical component for its AI systems. The article suggests that the company's ability to manage these costs and pass them to customers will be a key focus.

75/100

Former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers announced his resignation from all academic and faculty appointments at Harvard University, effective at the end of the academic year. This decision comes amidst ongoing review by the university of documents related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Summers, who previously stepped back from public life in November, expressed deep shame for his interactions with Epstein, which included flights on his private jet and Harvard receiving millions in gifts during Summers' presidency. The article notes that while Summers has not been accused of wrongdoing, his communication with Epstein continued even after the financier's 2008 guilty plea.

30/100

TJX Companies, the parent of T.J. Maxx and Marshalls, delivered another strong quarterly report with revenue and earnings per share exceeding analyst estimates. Despite conservative guidance, the off-price retailer's business model, focused on selling discounted brand-name merchandise, continues to resonate with cost-conscious shoppers. All four operating segments—Marmaxx, HomeGoods, TJX Canada, and TJX International—posted better-than-expected results, with annual sales surpassing $60 billion for the first time. The article notes healthy gross margin expansion and lower-than-expected expenses, leading to a reiterated 'buy' rating and an increased price target from analysts. (not investment advice)

75/100

Joshua Kushner's Thrive Capital reportedly invested approximately $1 billion in OpenAI in December, valuing the artificial intelligence startup at $285 billion. This preferential deal positions Thrive, a long-time backer, for continued involvement in OpenAI's massive ongoing funding round, which could push the company's valuation to $800 billion. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has lauded Kushner as a committed and thoughtful investor, highlighting their close relationship. The article notes Kushner's political connections and OpenAI's recent ownership stake in Thrive Holdings, underscoring the intertwining of finance, tech, and influence in the AI sector.

80/100

Nexstar Media Group is reducing its workforce across its TV stations, impacting several long-standing on-air personalities at Los Angeles outlet KTLA, including anchors Glen Walker and Lu Parker, and meteorologist Mark Kriski. These layoffs are part of a company-wide cost-reduction strategy as traditional TV viewing declines and advertising revenue faces pressure from streaming platforms. Nexstar, the largest TV station ownership group in the U.S., is seeking savings amidst its proposed merger with Tegna. The article notes similar cuts at other Nexstar stations, drawing criticism from SAG-AFTRA for eroding local news resources.

25/100

The BBC has apologized and launched a fast-tracked investigation after a racial slur, made by Tourette's campaigner John Davidson, was broadcast during the Bafta Film Awards. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy called the incident 'completely unacceptable and harmful,' urging the BBC to prevent future occurrences. The slur was audible while black actors Michael B Jordan and Delroy Lindo were on stage, prompting widespread condemnation. The article notes that producers editing the delayed broadcast reportedly did not hear the slur, and the ceremony has since been removed from iPlayer as the corporation takes full responsibility.

25/100

German police have arrested an 81-year-old suspect in connection with the sexual assault and murder of American tourist Amy Lopez, a case that remained unsolved for over three decades. Lopez's body was discovered in 1994 near Koblenz, bearing severe head wounds. Advances in DNA technology allowed investigators to reopen the cold case, leading to a match with the suspect's DNA, which was on file from a 1999 conviction for attempted sexual assault. The article highlights the persistence of law enforcement and the use of modern forensic science to bring closure to long-unresolved crimes, informing Lopez's father of the arrest.

70/100

Bill Gates addressed his association with Jeffrey Epstein and admitted to past affairs with a Russian bridge player and nuclear physicist during a town hall meeting with Gates Foundation employees. Gates stated he 'did nothing illicit' with Epstein and never stayed overnight, despite their meetings in several countries. The discussion followed the release of emails detailing his interactions with the late sex offender. The article notes Gates' long-standing regret over his involvement with Epstein and the foundation's clarification that no funds were ever transferred to Epstein for philanthropic purposes, emphasizing the harm Epstein inflicted on women and girls.

40/100

Spanish and German police have arrested a suspect in Germany for the 2025 killing of Andrii Portnov, a former pro-Russian Ukrainian politician, outside a Madrid school. Portnov, a senior aide to ousted President Viktor Yanukovych, was shot multiple times as children arrived at the American School of Madrid. Spanish police believe the arrested individual fired the fatal shots. The article notes Portnov's past investigations in Ukraine for treason and embezzlement, as well as his placement on the US Treasury Department's sanctions list in 2021 for alleged bribery connections within Ukraine's judicial system.

55/100

A federal judge has ruled that the Trump administration's policy allowing the deportation of migrants to 'third countries' without prior notice or opportunity to object is unlawful. U.S. District Judge Brian Murphy sided with noncitizens in a class-action lawsuit, asserting the policy violates federal immigration law and due process rights. The judge criticized the administration for providing false information and repeatedly violating court orders during earlier stages of the proceedings. The article highlights how this policy, part of a mass deportation campaign, failed to protect vulnerable migrants from potential persecution and torture, even those granted protection from their home countries.

60/100

Samsung has unveiled its Galaxy S26 series, prominently featuring Google's Gemini artificial intelligence, providing an early look at advanced AI mobile capabilities before Apple's anticipated Siri revamp. The S26 integrates three AI engines—Gemini, Perplexity, and an upgraded Bixby—demonstrating a multi-agent approach to smartphone AI. Samsung's deepened partnership with Google allows Gemini to perform autonomous actions within third-party apps, such as booking Uber rides, a significant leap from previous iterations. The article highlights Samsung's role as a crucial distribution channel for Google's consumer AI, showcasing features that Apple's revamped Siri is expected to eventually adopt.

75/100

President Trump's promise of the largest tax refunds in American history, including 'no tax on tips,' has tipped workers anticipating a financial boost this year. A new tax deduction of up to $25,000 for tipped wages, enacted through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, is expected to increase refunds or lower tax balances. While some workers, like waitress Ashlee Armstrong, foresee significant relief, others express skepticism about the long-term impact, as the deduction is set to expire in 2028. The article notes confusion surrounding eligibility and filing, with experts recommending careful documentation of tipped earnings. (not investment advice)

60/100

President Trump reiterated his call to ban institutional investors from purchasing single-family homes, blaming them for driving up housing prices, while Democrats introduced a bill to limit tax deductions for large-scale homebuyers. Both proposals aim to improve housing affordability but experts suggest neither addresses the core issue of housing supply shortage. While institutional investors own a small percentage of homes nationwide, their impact is more significant in specific cities. The article highlights the bipartisan frustration with Wall Street's role in the housing crisis, but analysts doubt these measures alone will make homes substantially more affordable. (not investment advice)

55/100

Spain's government has released 153 classified documents related to the 1981 attempted coup, a pivotal moment in the country's transition to democracy. The coup, led by Antonio Tejero Molina, aimed to overthrow the fledgling democracy, but failed when King Juan Carlos refused support. The declassification, coinciding with Tejero Molina's death, is intended to dispel long-standing conspiracy theories, including those questioning the king's role. The article notes the immense public interest in the files, which include police reports and foreign government reactions, as Spain seeks to correct a 'historical anomaly' and reinforce its democratic narrative.

60/100

Big Bear's celebrity bald eagle couple, Jackie and Shadow, have laid a new egg, offering renewed hope for offspring this season after ravens destroyed their previous clutch. Jackie's 'pancaking' behavior signaled the impending arrival, much to the delight of their numerous fans who have followed their nesting season closely. The news comes after a period of tragedy, including the loss of their first two eggs and the passing of Sandy Steers, executive director of Friends of Big Bear Valley. The article notes that Jackie typically lays two to three eggs, so fans are eagerly watching for more additions.

90/100

The article explores the possibility of settling debt for a low percentage, such as 20% of the balance, highlighting that while it's possible, it's not typical and rarely an opening offer. Several factors influence a debt collector's willingness to accept deep discounts, including the age of the debt, who owns it, and the debtor's financial hardship. Lump-sum payments and strong negotiation leverage significantly increase the chances of a favorable settlement. The article advises debtors to plan strategically, document hardship, and consider professional debt relief experts to achieve the best possible outcome. (not investment advice)

60/100

Oliver 'Power' Grant, a pivotal figure in the Wu-Tang Clan's rise and the driving force behind their successful Wu Wear fashion line, has died at 52. Grant, a childhood friend of RZA, was instrumental in structuring the group's finances and record deals, ensuring autonomy and creative control during hip-hop's commercial boom. His work set a precedent for artists to retain ownership and support collective members. The article highlights his significant, non-performing role in the sprawling collective's ascent, as well as his acting cameos and executive producer credits, mourning his profound loss to the group.

20/100