RBA interest rates: Reserve Bank of Australia cuts cash rate to 3.85% amid lowering inflation

Donald Trump keeps dramatically increasing the dollar figure he claims Middle Eastern nations have promised to invest in the U.S.—now hitting a staggering $7 trillion. This follows his pattern of inflating numbers, something he once called "truthful hyperbole" in his book. There's no clear evidence these commitments exist at the scale he's describing.

What This Mean: This isn't just about big numbers—it's about credibility. If these investment promises are more hype than reality, it raises questions about how much trust to put in such claims, especially when they come from a former president who might run again. It also highlights how economic promises can be used as political talking points, even when the details are fuzzy.

** Treasury yields had another mixed day, with long-term rates creeping up while short-term rates held steady. Investors are still a bit jittery about government spending and debt, but the mood isn’t as gloomy as it was earlier. With little fresh economic data to sway things, the market’s just sort of treading water for now.

What This Mean: ** If you’re not deep into bond markets, this might sound like noise—but it’s a snapshot of how investors are feeling. Rising long-term yields can signal worries about inflation or debt, while the "data lull" means everyone’s waiting for clearer signals. Basically, it’s a holding pattern, but one that hints at bigger questions about where the economy’s headed.

** In response to the US pulling funding from the World Health Organization (WHO), over a dozen countries have stepped up with pledges totaling more than $170 million to fill the financial gap. The move signals global solidarity to keep critical health programs running, even as the US formally begins its withdrawal process.

What This Mean: ** The US exit from the WHO could have left a massive hole in the organization’s budget, threatening everything from pandemic response to vaccine distribution. But this wave of funding from other nations shows that many are still committed to multilateral health efforts—even if the world’s biggest economy is stepping back. It’s a reminder that global health isn’t just one country’s responsibility, but the stakes are high if coordination falters.

** Israel's Bank Leumi just dropped its Q1 2025 financials, and the numbers are looking strong. Net profit hit NIS 2.4 billion (that’s roughly $650 million), and shareholders are getting a sweeter deal with higher dividend payouts. Basically, the bank’s raking in cash and sharing more of it with investors.

What This Mean: ** For anyone tracking Israel’s financial sector—or just curious where big banks stand—this is a solid signal that Leumi’s riding a profitable wave. Higher dividends mean confidence in stability, which could ripple into investor sentiment locally. If you’re holding their stock, this is probably a good day. If not, it’s a peek into how one of Israel’s banking giants is navigating the economy.

Nordstrom Rack is offering a steep 73% discount on a pearl necklace, and customers are raving about its classic appeal—one even called it "the only pearl necklace I'll ever wear." It’s being praised as a timeless, elegant piece at a surprisingly affordable price.

What This Mean: Jewelry shoppers love a good deal, especially when it’s on something as versatile as pearls. This story taps into the thrill of snagging a high-quality item at a bargain—something that feels rare in today’s retail landscape. Plus, pearls never really go out of style, so it’s a win for both wallets and wardrobes.