Amazon, Google, Meta, and Uber slapped with $2 billion retroactive tax bill as Trump suspends Canada trade talks

China's museums are turning to trendy, Instagram-worthy merchandise to solve their money problems—think cute dolls, quirky stationery, and other collectibles that young shoppers can't resist. Inspired by the wild success of brands like Pop Mart (known for those addictive Labubu blind box toys), cultural institutions are now designing their own viral-worthy souvenirs. Some, like Beijing’s National Museum of China, are already seeing big wins, proving that history and art can cash in on the "emotional consumption" craze.

Editor’s Note: Museums everywhere struggle with funding, but China’s approach—leveraging the same hype that fuels toy frenzies—shows how cultural spaces can stay relevant (and solvent) by meeting consumers where they are: scrolling, shopping, and craving connection. It’s a clever pivot that blends tradition with modern retail therapy.

The US Senate has taken the first step toward passing a major tax and spending bill backed by former President Trump. While the details are still being ironed out, this early approval signals momentum for policies that could reshape government spending and tax rates.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t law yet, but it’s a big deal because it could mean changes to how much Americans pay in taxes and where federal money gets spent. If it moves forward, expect heated debates—supporters say it’ll boost the economy, while critics argue it favors the wealthy or could balloon the deficit. Either way, it’s a policy fight worth watching.

The Indian government has updated its Waste-to-Energy program rules to cut bureaucratic hurdles and speed up project approvals. Under the new guidelines, financial support for energy plants will now be tied to their actual performance—funds will be released in phases as projects hit key milestones. The changes are designed to help small and medium businesses (MSMEs), reduce inspection delays, and improve transparency, all while tackling India’s growing waste problem more effectively.

Editor’s Note: Waste-to-energy projects have been stuck in red tape for years, slowing down India’s push for cleaner waste disposal and renewable energy. By linking funding to real-world results and simplifying approvals, the government is trying to get these plants up and running faster—good news for both businesses and the environment. If it works, it could mean less trash piling up and more clean energy on the grid.

Senate Republicans have pushed forward a bill backed by former President Donald Trump, moving it closer to becoming law. While the details of the bill aren’t spelled out here, the key takeaway is that GOP lawmakers are rallying behind this effort, signaling momentum for Trump’s agenda—or at least the parts that still resonate with his party.

Editor’s Note: Even though Trump’s no longer in office, his influence over the GOP remains strong. This move shows Republicans are still aligning with his priorities, which could shape policy debates—and maybe even the 2024 election. If you’re watching how much sway Trump holds in D.C., this is another data point.

Amazon's offering a steep discount on a $620 laptop that's now priced at just $210, and early buyers are raving about its speed and value, calling it "one of the best" budget-friendly options out there. The deal seems almost too good to pass up—if you're in the market for a no-frills, reliable machine.

Editor’s Note: With inflation squeezing wallets, a high-performing laptop at this price is a rare find. It’s not just about saving money—it’s about getting something that actually works well without breaking the bank. For students, remote workers, or anyone needing an affordable upgrade, this could be a game-changer.