United and American Airlines beg Congress to end shutdown ahead of busy holiday season as air traffic controllers work overtime without pay

Republicans in Congress are increasingly uneasy about President Trump's trade war, particularly his plan to import beef from Argentina. This week, they voted three times to limit his authority to impose sweeping tariffs, reflecting a growing concern over the economic impact of these policies. This matters because it highlights a rift within the party and raises questions about the future of trade relations and agricultural markets.

As the holiday season approaches, investors are keenly watching top retail stocks that are expected to perform well. With consumer spending projected to rise, companies like Target and Walmart are poised to benefit significantly. This is crucial for investors looking to capitalize on seasonal trends, as strong retail performance can indicate broader economic health and consumer confidence.

Former US Treasury Secretary Lawrence Summers expressed his satisfaction with the recent election results in Argentina, viewing them as a positive reflection of President Javier Milei's leadership. The midterm elections saw Milei's party significantly increase its representation in Congress, which Summers believes is beneficial for the Argentinian people. This development is noteworthy as it indicates a shift in the political landscape of Argentina, potentially leading to impactful changes in governance.

American Airlines is set to launch a second direct flight to a lesser-known city in the UK, responding to the increasing demand for direct access to smaller European destinations. This move not only enhances travel options for passengers but also signifies a shift in airline strategies to cater to evolving consumer preferences. As travelers seek more convenient routes, this initiative could pave the way for more direct flights to various cities across Europe, making travel more accessible and enjoyable.

A new scam known as 'ghost tapping' is emerging, with experts warning that it could become more prevalent during the holiday season. This scam is particularly insidious as it is difficult to detect, leading many victims to lose significant amounts of money. Understanding how it works and being aware of its signs is crucial for consumers to protect themselves from falling prey to this fraudulent scheme.

The recent release of Obamacare prices has revealed significant increases in health insurance costs for next year, which is concerning for many Americans. As Congress struggles to reach an agreement on subsidies, consumers are left to navigate these rising expenses during the open enrollment period. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges in the healthcare system and the impact on individuals' financial well-being.

Tennessee Republican congressman Chuck Fleischmann has voiced concerns that the ongoing government shutdown is damaging the credibility of Congress and negatively impacting the American people. As lawmakers struggle to reach an agreement on funding, the stalemate is raising questions about the effectiveness of government and its leaders, which is crucial for public trust and governance.

Bulgaria has implemented partial restrictions on fuel exports to EU countries following US sanctions against Russia's Lukoil, raising concerns about security and supply within the bloc. This move highlights the ongoing tensions between Western nations and Russia, particularly in the energy sector, and could have significant implications for fuel availability in Europe as countries navigate the complexities of sanctions and energy dependence.

Nigeria has pledged to intensify its efforts against extremism following President Trump's decision to add the country to a watch list. This move highlights the ongoing challenges Nigeria faces with terrorism and violence, and the government's commitment to addressing these issues is crucial for national stability and international relations.

Brazil's Azul has successfully reached an agreement with its unsecured creditors during its Chapter 11 proceedings, marking a significant step towards financial recovery. This deal is crucial as it allows the airline to restructure its debts and continue operations, which is vital for maintaining jobs and services in the aviation sector. The resolution of these negotiations not only stabilizes Azul but also boosts confidence in Brazil's airline industry as it navigates post-pandemic challenges.

Berkshire Hathaway has sold $6.1 billion worth of stock, leading to record cash reserves for the conglomerate. This move comes as Warren Buffett, the company's iconic leader, prepares for retirement. The sale reflects Buffett's strategy to maintain liquidity and possibly invest in future opportunities, which is crucial for the company's ongoing success and stability.

Southwest Airlines, once celebrated for its exceptional customer service, is facing criticism due to recent changes that may prevent some customers from flying. According to JD Power's 2025 North American Airline Satisfaction Study, Southwest has ranked highest in customer satisfaction in the economy segment for four consecutive years. However, these new policies could undermine that reputation, raising concerns among loyal customers about their travel options and the airline's commitment to service.

Berkshire Hathaway has reported record cash levels alongside rising profits, a sign of the company's strong financial health. This is particularly significant as it comes at a time when speculation about Warren Buffett's eventual exit from the company is growing. Investors are keenly watching how Berkshire navigates this transition, making the current financial performance a crucial indicator of its future stability.