European stocks mixed; Trump's 30% tariffs on EU imports weigh

Silicon Valley's latest hot-button issue? Pouring money into Chinese AI startups. When top-tier VC firm Benchmark invested $75 million in a company called Manus, it didn't expect backlash—but some investors are suddenly treating China deals like political grenades. The investment community is split between seeing dollar signs and seeing red flags.

Editor’s Note: Money and geopolitics are colliding in venture capital. As tensions between the U.S. and China simmer, even straightforward business deals now come with unspoken risks—like getting caught in crossfire from trade wars or national security debates. This isn’t just about returns anymore; it’s about picking sides.

Apple is jumping into the foldable phone game—but not until 2026, according to reports. UBS analysts predict it might start around $1,800 (which, for Apple, is actually on the "cheaper" side for a first-gen flagship). Production will be tight at first, with only 10–15 million units expected in the initial run.

Editor’s Note: Foldable phones aren’t new, but Apple’s entry could shake up the market. That $1,800 price tag (if accurate) suggests they’re aiming for premium-but-not-insane pricing—way below some rivals’ early attempts. Limited supply hints at cautious testing rather than a full-blown revolution, but it’s a big bet on where smartphones are headed. For Apple fans, it’s a "wait and see" moment. For competitors? Probably a "brace yourselves."

Long-term US government bonds (30-year Treasuries) are taking another hit, marking their third straight day of losses. This drop has driven yields—what investors earn for holding them—to their highest point in over a month. The big worry? An upcoming inflation report that could signal whether the Federal Reserve will keep interest rates high for longer.

Editor’s Note: When Treasury yields rise, it usually means investors are nervous—either about inflation sticking around or the Fed staying hawkish. Higher long-term yields can ripple through the economy, pushing up borrowing costs for everything from mortgages to business loans. This isn’t just a bond-market story; it’s a sign of how jittery everyone is about where prices (and rates) are headed next.

Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey is calling for stronger international teamwork to keep the global financial system steady. He’s stressing that no single country can tackle financial risks alone—especially with challenges like inflation, market volatility, and geopolitical tensions shaking things up.

Editor’s Note: Financial stability isn’t just a local issue anymore. Bailey’s warning highlights how interconnected economies are—when one country stumbles, others feel it. His push for cooperation signals that central banks might need to sync up more to avoid crises, which could shape policies affecting everything from interest rates to your savings account.

Bitcoin just smashed another record, hitting an all-time high of $123,000 as investors bet big on upcoming U.S. policies that could give crypto a major boost. The surge reflects growing optimism that regulatory clarity or favorable legislation might be on the horizon, pulling more institutional money into the market.

Editor’s Note: This isn't just another price jump—it signals a potential turning point for Bitcoin's mainstream acceptance. If U.S. policies shift in crypto's favor, we could see even wider adoption, more stability (or volatility, depending on the day), and deeper integration into traditional finance. For everyday folks, it’s a reminder that crypto’s wild ride isn’t over yet.