Explainer-What are the fuel switches at the centre of the Air India crash probe?

A recent report on the Air India plane crash reveals a shocking detail: the engines lost power because someone manually cut off their fuel supply. Investigators are still piecing together how and why this happened, but it raises serious questions about potential human error or system failures.

Editor’s Note: Plane crashes are rare, but when they happen, understanding the cause is critical to preventing future tragedies. If fuel was deliberately cut off—whether by mistake or malfunction—it could lead to major changes in cockpit procedures or aircraft design. For travelers, it’s a sobering reminder that even routine flights rely on complex systems (and human decisions) working perfectly.

The article dives into the growing uncertainty in global trade as former President Donald Trump’s mixed signals on tariffs—like floating massive new levies while backtracking on others—leave businesses and allies scrambling. It’s not just about the policies themselves but the erratic way they’re being rolled out, which is upending long-standing norms of predictable commerce. The piece suggests this volatility is fraying trust in international trade systems, with no clear strategy in sight.

Editor’s Note: Tariffs might sound like a dry economic topic, but when they’re thrown around unpredictably, it hits everyday prices, supply chains, and even diplomatic relationships. This story matters because it’s not just about taxes on imports—it’s about whether the global economy can function smoothly when the rules keep changing on a whim. Businesses hate uncertainty, and right now, they’re drowning in it.

Ford is recalling more vehicles due to a safety issue, adding to its already high number of recalls in recent years. The company topped the list for most recalls in the U.S. last year, and now it’s expanding that tally in 2024—raising concerns about recurring quality problems.

Editor’s Note: If you own a Ford, this is another heads-up to check if your vehicle is affected. Recalls aren’t unusual in the auto industry, but Ford’s repeated issues suggest deeper quality control challenges—something drivers and regulators will be watching closely. For consumers, it’s a reminder to stay on top of recall notices before small problems turn into big risks.

The EU is reportedly considering a new tax on large corporations to help fill its budget, according to the Financial Times. The move comes as the bloc faces rising costs, including military spending, and needs fresh revenue streams.

Editor’s Note: If this goes through, big companies in Europe could soon be paying more—money that would fund things like defense and other EU priorities. It’s part of a broader debate about who foots the bill for big public spending, especially as governments tighten their belts post-pandemic and amid global tensions. Not everyone will love this idea, but it shows how budgets are getting squeezed.

Walmart is offering a steep discount on a "sleek" soundbar, slashing the price from $180 to just $60—and early buyers are raving about the surprisingly high quality for the price, with one shopper calling it "absolutely amazing."

Editor’s Note: If you've been eyeing an affordable audio upgrade, this deal might be worth a look. Big-box retailers don’t always nail budget-friendly tech, but when shoppers actually love a discounted product, it’s a rare win for value-conscious buyers. Plus, it’s a sign that decent sound doesn’t always have to break the bank.