Toyota denies promising to invest $10bn in US after Trump announcement

US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping are preparing for a crucial meeting to discuss a potential trade deal. This meeting comes after a series of tit-for-tat tariffs that have created significant tension between the two nations. The outcome of their discussions could have far-reaching implications for global trade and economic stability, making it a pivotal moment for both countries and the international market.

Starbucks has reported a modest sales increase in its latest quarter, but the overall picture isn't rosy. The company's net income plummeted by 85 percent due to significant charges from store closures and corporate layoffs. This decline in profitability highlights ongoing challenges, as customer traffic and spending at Starbucks locations have been decreasing for over a year, especially in the United States. This news matters because it reflects broader trends in consumer behavior and the impact of economic pressures on major retail brands.

Darmstadt 98 is making strides to expand its presence in the United States by partnering with San Antonio FC for an upcoming match. This move highlights the growing interest of European football clubs in the American market, which is significant for both teams as it opens up new opportunities for fan engagement and brand growth.

The US Federal Reserve has cut interest rates for the second time this year, lowering them to a range of 3.75% to 4%. This decision comes amid significant economic uncertainty caused by the federal government shutdown and tariffs imposed by Donald Trump. The rate cut aims to provide some relief and stimulate economic activity during these turbulent times, highlighting the Fed's response to ongoing pressures in the economy.

The recent decision by the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates has led to a significant downturn in the markets, raising concerns among investors. While some policymakers advocate for further cuts to stimulate the economy, others, including Fed Chair Jerome Powell, are hesitant to commit to additional reductions. This uncertainty is crucial as it affects borrowing costs and economic growth, making it a pivotal moment for both the markets and the broader economy.

Argentina's recent congressional elections saw rightwing president Javier Milei and his allies claim victory, but the implications are troubling. The $40 billion rescue package that helped Milei through the midterms has increased Argentina's dependence on Washington, raising concerns about the future of its democracy and economy. This situation highlights a shift towards a more Trumpian influence in Latin America, which could have lasting effects on the region's political landscape.

Donald Trump and Xi Jinping are set to meet in South Korea to finalize a trade truce between the US and China, marking a significant step towards improving relations between the two economic giants. This meeting is crucial as it could pave the way for a new era of trade cooperation, potentially benefiting both nations and the global economy.

The Federal Reserve has decided to lower interest rates once again, a move that has sparked a mix of reactions among policymakers. While some express caution about further reductions, President Donald Trump and his recent appointee advocate for more significant cuts. This decision is crucial as it impacts borrowing costs and economic growth, reflecting ongoing debates about the best approach to stimulate the economy.

Starbucks has reported a modest sales increase in its latest quarter, reflecting a positive trend in consumer demand for its coffee and beverages. This growth is significant as it indicates the company's resilience in a competitive market and suggests that customers are returning to their favorite coffee shops. The increase in sales not only boosts Starbucks' financial outlook but also highlights the brand's ability to adapt and thrive amidst changing consumer habits.

Microsoft's recent surge in AI investments has raised eyebrows among investors, especially as its cloud business continues to thrive. While the tech giant is pushing forward with ambitious AI projects, concerns about the sustainability of such spending are growing. Investors are questioning whether the heavy financial outlay will yield the expected returns, particularly in a competitive market. This situation highlights the balancing act companies face between innovation and financial prudence.

Australia's Pepper Money is in discussions to acquire Westpac's mortgage broking portfolio, a move that could significantly enhance its market position. This acquisition is important as it reflects the ongoing consolidation in the financial services sector, allowing Pepper Money to expand its offerings and reach more customers. Such strategic moves are crucial for companies looking to thrive in a competitive landscape.

After a recent global outage that affected Microsoft 365 and Azure, the websites are now back online. This incident, which was similar to a previous outage experienced by AWS, highlights the vulnerabilities in cloud services. The swift recovery is a relief for users and businesses that rely on these platforms for their daily operations.

Nvidia has reached a remarkable milestone, now valued at $5 trillion, highlighting its rapid evolution from a specialized graphics-chip manufacturer to a key player in the global AI sector. This achievement not only reflects the company's innovative capabilities but also signifies the growing importance of AI technology in various industries, making Nvidia a pivotal force in shaping the future.

A Republican lawmaker has raised concerns about the potential implications of providing China with Nvidia's Blackwell chip. This statement highlights ongoing tensions between the U.S. and China regarding technology transfer and national security. The lawmaker's warning underscores the importance of safeguarding advanced technology from potential misuse, which could have significant ramifications for both countries' economic and security landscapes.