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'Impossible' mantle earthquakes actually occur all over the world, study finds
Researchers were once unsure whether mantle earthquakes existed. Now they have a global map of this mysterious phenomenon.
Can Businesses Really Ban ICE From Their Stores? Legal Experts Break It Down
There’s confusion over whether private businesses can protect their employees with these signs.
Is Ubisoft Entertainment (ENXTPA:UBI) Now An Opportunity After Its Sharp Multi‑Year Share Price Slide?
If you are wondering whether Ubisoft Entertainment's beaten down share price now represents value or a value trap, you are not alone. This article is built to help you think that through clearly. The stock has been volatile recently, with a 14.5% gain over the last 7 days but declines of 26.1% over 30 days, 27.2% year to date and 59.2% over 1 year, and an even larger 77.4% and 93.7% slide over 3 and 5 years. Recent coverage has focused on Ubisoft Entertainment's share price swings and what...
Trump vows voter ID requirements for the midterms, 'whether approved by Congress or not'
In social media posts on Friday, the president said that if Congress failed to approve legislation mandating voter ID, he would issue an executive order.
February 13, 2026
An evolutionary biologist weighs in on mating and dating in the age of apps. Is pair bonding passé? Is single the new married? Plus, the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider, or RHIC, has ceased operation. What’s next for particle physics? Add, researchers are homing in on how kids reap long-term health benefits from getting dirty, whether cuddling furry pets or playing with friends.
A Little Grime Can Boost Kids’ Health. But What Kind?
Researchers are homing in on how kids reap long-term health benefits from getting dirty, whether cuddling furry pets or playing with friends.
Business Lookahead: Giddy Up
STORY: From bellwether Walmart reporting earnings... to new economic data out of the UK... these are the stories to watch in business and finance in the coming week.:: The trillion dollar clubFresh off hitting $1 trillion in market value, Walmart posts quarterly results on Thursday.Walmart's report offers a glimpse into consumer spending after recent data showed December U.S. retail sales were unexpectedly flat.A surprisingly strong employment report for January eased some concerns about economic weakening.Economic reports in the coming week include the advance reading of fourth-quarter GDP, a monthly consumer sentiment survey, and the personal consumption expenditures price index, a key inflation measure.:: Heavy metalsEurope's four largest mining companies report earnings in the coming week.Copper, gold, silver and other precious metals all recently hit records - but the January rally has given way to a sharp February sell-off.Last month's rally boosted the market values of Rio Tinto, Glencore, Anglo American and Antofagasta.Their earnings will test whether the momentum can be sustained.:: UK economic data UK labor market data and inflation readings will provide fresh fodder for markets, even though investors are still digesting the fallout from the recent government instability.Labor market numbers due on Tuesday will show if a gradual cooling of wage growth has continued.Then, January inflation data comes Wednesday.The political turmoil has set a tense backdrop, leaving markets highly sensitive to data swings. Fitch is also due to review its UK rating on Friday.
Will Wasserman Let Music Agents Go to Save His Powerhouse Sports Firm?
While the LA28 Olympics board gave the mogul its vote of confidence, some of his own agents are still advising artists to post about the company founder — it's unclear whether there is a music and sports split among clients.
Europe’s open-border dreams meet German politics
Brussels is preparing to scrutinize Germany’s border practices as Friedrich Merz’s government weighs whether to extend internal Schengen checks.
Inside Iowa Politics: Whether EV makers can sell vehicles in Iowa
Iowa legislators face an upcoming deadline if they want to change the law to allow electric vehicle manufacturers to sell directly to consumers in the state.
Health care access a top complaint among troops, top enlisted leaders tell lawmakers
A Democratic senator also questioned whether the services are doing everything they can to increase child care slots.
Health care access a top complaint among troops, top enlisted leaders tell lawmakers
A Democratic senator also questioned whether the services are doing everything they can to increase child care slots.
High school basketball: In both his sports, Hopkinton's Cauley contributes immensely
Whether he’s on the field or the court, Kristof Cauley is a scorer.
These Proteins Harm Your Brain. Scientists Say They Might Also Help Form Your Memories.
Amyloid proteins are typically considered bad guys, but researchers been investigating whether a version may be key to forming long-term memories.
Studies test whether gene-editing can fix high cholesterol
Millions take cholesterol-lowering medicines such as statins, the cornerstone of treatment.
Commentary: Newsom has the power to stop ICE from wearing masks, but it comes with a risk
California's mask ban for law enforcement exempted state officers, which prompted a judge to block it. It is unclear whether Newsom will back a rewritten version that lacks that carve-out.
Help shape local health efforts: Share your voice on nicotine, vaping, and tobacco use
Your Douglas County Health Department wants to better understand what you know, think, and experience when it comes to nicotine, vaping, and tobacco. Whether you’ve used these products, been impacted…
Instagram's leader to testify in court on app design, youth mental health
Instagram's leader is set to face questions in court for the first time on Wednesday about whether the Meta-owned app's design is fueling a youth mental health crisis.
Wilmington events and entertainment for Valentine's Day weekend
Whether you're looking for somewhere to take a date, or for something to do to distract yourself from the fact that you don't have one, we got you.
Scientists Propose Surprising Link Between Space Weather and Earthquakes
A new theoretical study explores how activity high above Earth could subtly influence processes deep within the planet’s crust. Researchers at Kyoto University are advancing a new idea about how space weather might intersect with earthquake physics. Their model asks whether changes in the ionosph
LA County supervisors vote to add sales-tax hike for health care to June ballot
L.A. County voters will decide in June whether to approve a temporary half-cent sales tax in an effort to support health care services.
Twin Cities small business owners call for state relief amid ICE surge: "Stop talking and start doing"
Whether it's a Venezuelan restaurant on the West Side of St. Paul, Minnesota, or a bakery on Lake Street in Minneapolis, there's widespread economic pain for Latino-owned businesses.
Utah police investigate whether assault on Maxwell Frost should be prosecuted as a hate crime
Multiple accounts show Christopher Young called Frost and a woman with him 'the kind we are going to deport.'
Congressional Researchers Analyze Whether Denying Marijuana Business Tax Deductions Under 280E Is Unconstitutional
As a federal marijuana rescheduling decision remains pending, congressional researchers have released an analysis of tax implications for cannabis businesses under current law—including a review of the idea that depriving the industry of the ability to take federal tax deductions amounts to a constitutional violation. In a report published on Friday, the Congressional Research Service […]
Legality of Trump’s $400M private funding for White House ballroom at issue
A federal judge weighing whether the project may proceed has focused on whether the administration can use private donations to bypass congressional approval.
How sports fandom impacts brain and behavior
Research shows that testosterone levels are impacted by whether a fan's team wins or loses.
Just how healthy is Donald Trump, really?
Why it’s so hard to know whether the president is okay.
Louisiana Department of Health targets fraud with new internal watchdog role
The Louisiana Department of Health is creating a Chief Accountability Officer to strengthen oversight, reduce fraud and assess whether programs are working.
Is Flutter Entertainment (NYSE:FLUT) Attractive After A 43% One Year Share Price Decline
If you are wondering whether Flutter Entertainment's recent share price puts it on sale or still prices in too much optimism, you are not alone. That is exactly what this article aims to unpack. The stock last closed at US$152.53, with returns of 7.6% decline over 7 days, 29.2% decline over 30 days, 30.1% decline year to date, 43.2% decline over 1 year, 5.2% over 3 years and 21.7% decline over 5 years. This may change how some investors think about both its growth potential and risk...
Is a kiss just a kiss? Exploring the art and science behind smooches
A single kiss can leave a lasting impression, whether it's in real life or on the silver screen. But why, exactly?
Record-Breaking One-Off Bugatti Brouillard Could Become the Most Expensive Bugatti Ever
A one-off aimed at a historic record Bugatti’s latest one-off, the Brouillard, steps onto the hypercar stage with the quiet confidence of a record-breaker. The brand’s tradition of bespoke excellence meets a bold new aesthetic, positioning this unique commission to potentially become the marque’s most expensive creation. Built on the proven underpinnings of the Chiron/Mistral architecture, yet transformed by distinctive craft, the Brouillard is both homage and innovation. A name born from equestrian legend More than a century ago, a striking white horse captivated Ettore Bugatti in Molsheim. That equine myth now informs the car’s name and its sensory identity. The result is an automotive portrait of athletic grace—surfaces that read like muscle, curves that suggest motion, and details that quietly speak of discipline and heritage. Embroidered horse motifs on door panels and seat backs echo the story, while a miniature glass sculpture of the steed crowns the shifter. Sculptural design with purpose The Brouillard’s silhouette favors sinuous surfaces over hard creases, allowing light to glide over its form like a tendon under skin. Aerodynamics inform elegance: an integrated ducktail replaces a deployable wing, cleansing the airflow and boosting stability at speed. Its stance is athletic, its volumes taut, and its visual language unmistakably Bugatti. “Sculptural, organic forms—like a tendon beneath the skin—hide immense power behind noble simplicity,” said design chief Frank Heyl, capturing the car’s philosophy in a single stroke. Craft elevated to an art The cabin embraces craftsmanship at an uncommon level. Custom-woven textiles from Paris introduce a discreet tartan pattern, while green-tinted carbon fiber nods to the exterior’s hue. A glazed roof creates a cathedral atmosphere, bathing the cockpit in natural light. A central spine appears to flow from exterior to interior, emphasizing continuity and structure. Highlights include: Custom textiles with subtle tartan motifs Green-tinted carbon fiber matched to the exterior finish A “cathedral” glass roof that elevates cabin ambience A sculptural centerline linking outside to inside Bespoke embroidery and glass equine detail W16 power at its absolute apex Under the sculpted skin, the final evolution of Bugatti’s 8.0‑liter, quad‑turbo W16 delivers a thunderous 1,600 hp at 7,050 rpm and 1,600 Nm of torque. This represents the pinnacle of nearly two decades of Bugatti engineering, honed to an ultimate state. The lightweight monocoque blends carbon fiber with aluminum, holding mass to around 1,900 kg for poise and control. Experts suggest the Brouillard could surpass the 282 mph (454 km/h) achieved by the Mistral, aided by more aerodynamic bodywork and the fixed ducktail. Whether or not it sets a new benchmark, its intent is clear: relentless speed paired with refinement. Exclusivity with an exacting timeline The commissioning process is intensive, with roughly 18 months of development leading to a 2027 delivery. Bugatti’s program limits itself to no more than two creations per year, ensuring focus and rarity. Each example leaves the atelier as a singular vision, shaped to the client’s collection and the brand’s ethos. An unveiling is planned for Monterey Car Week 2025, placing the Brouillard amid the world’s most discerning enthusiasts. Its patron is a European collector deeply invested in the Bugatti universe, from historic and modern cars to Carlo Bugatti furniture and Rembrandt Bugatti bronzes. A valuation poised to make history While Bugatti has not disclosed an official price, informed estimates place the Brouillard between €10 million and €30 million. Context matters: a series Mistral begins near €5 million, while the Brouillard adds profound personalization, sculptural changes, and a pace of production that keeps scarcity front and center. In an arena where uniqueness drives value, the path to a brand record is unmistakably open. What it signals for the marque The Brouillard crystallizes Bugatti’s dual identity: traditional savoir‑faire intertwined with boundary-pushing performance. It exhibits a narrative soul—the white horse of Molsheim—woven into modern materials and world-class aerodynamics. As a rolling statement, it reaffirms that the Bugatti idea is larger than speed alone; it is about story, craft, and the courage to pursue an ideal to its logical limit.
Who will win Super Bowl LX? Arguing cases for Seahawks and Patriots
We asked Sporting Green columnists Ann Killion and Scott Ostler for their predictions on whether the Seahawks or Patriots will win Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium, and why.
South Dakota sports betting bill moves to Senate floor
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — A resolution that would allow South Dakotans to vote on whether they want mobile sports betting in the state passed out of committee and is now headed to the Senate floor…
Justice Department casts wide net on Netflix's business practices in merger probe, WSJ reports
The Justice Department is investigating whether Netflix has engaged in anticompetitive tactics as it probes the streaming giant's proposed acquisition of Warner Discovery's studios and streaming service, the Wall Street Journal reported on Friday.
Justice Department casts wide net on Netflix's business practices in merger probe, WSJ reports
The Justice Department is investigating whether Netflix has engaged in anticompetitive tactics as it probes the streaming giant's proposed acquisition of Warner Discovery's studios and streaming service, the Wall Street Journal reported on Friday.
A Reprieve for the Markets, but For How Long?
Technology stocks and Bitcoin are showing signs of a rebound after a disastrous week. But investors remain on edge about whether more pain is in store.
Why colorectal cancer breaks the immune system’s rules
Colorectal cancer has long baffled scientists because, unlike most tumors, patients often do better when their cancers are packed with immune-suppressing regulatory T cells. New research finally explains why. Scientists discovered that these T cells aren’t all the same: one subtype actually helps keep tumors in check, while another shields cancer from immune attack. The balance between these “good” and “bad” cells can determine whether a tumor grows or shrinks.
Work Matters: What to do if ICE arrives at your business
Whether an audit or raid, it is important to try to respond professionally and calmly. Employers do have certain rights and the general requirement to protect their employees.
WATCH: Bessent tells Senate panel it would be president's choice of whether to sue fed chair over interest rates
Officers respond to report of man with gun at California Science Center parking lot
Officers responded Thursday morning to a report of a man with a gun at the California Science Center parking lot south of downtown Los Angeles. LAPD received a call to the museum at about 9:30 a.m. NBCLA has reached out to authorities for more information, including whether shots were fired and whether anyone is in custody. Video posted to the…
With ICE using Medicaid data, hospitals and states are in a bind over warning immigrant patients
The Trump administration’s move to give deportation officials access to Medicaid data is putting hospitals and states in a bind as they weigh whether to alert immigrant patients that their personal information, including home addresses, could be used in efforts to remove them from the country.
Justice Department released 3 million pages of Epstein files. What did we learn? : The NPR Politics Podcast
The Justice Department says it has released all of the relevant documents from its investigation into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. We discuss what we have learned from the millions of pages of documents and whether Republicans or Democrats got what they were hoping for from the release.This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, political reporter Stephen Fowler, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro.This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
In Spending Talks, Senators Clash Over Immigration Crackdown
Democrats’ push to rein in federal agents, and Republican opposition, reflect opposite views of whether the deportation drive should be bound by standard law enforcement rules.
Seals Are Seemingly Vanishing Off the Dutch Coast. These Scientists Are Trying to Get to the Bottom of the Mysterious Disappearances
Recent counts of the Wadden Sea’s adult harbor seal population have revealed a surprising trend of decline, prompting a consortium of researchers to investigate whether the animals are dying off, relocating or experiencing something else altogether
Firefighter, lawyer advance in pivotal Michigan Senate race
The field of candidates for a special election to decide whether Michigan Democrats keep their majority in the state Senate is set.
Super Bowl pop culture prop bets: Cardi B proposal? Kendall Jenner-Devin Booker relationship?
Oh, and you can put money on whether Bill Belichick and Jordon Hudson will get married before next year...
Decision over 35 Castle Donington business units pushed back
Councillors have deferred whether to approve 35 new commercial units at Hill Top Farm in Castle Donington.
How music's biggest stars protested Trump's immigration crackdown at the Grammys
Entertainment’s awards season has coincided with the Trump administration’s mass deportation campaign in Minneapolis, forcing artists to decide whether and how to join the growing cultural revolt against immigration crackdowns. Pushback from music’s biggest stars was visible Sunday from the Grammys red carpet and throughout the telecast. Activists spent the week pressing celebrities to don pins protesting the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement presence in cities, working with their teams to spread the message and
The New Science of Craving
We often view our cravings—whether for drugs, alcohol, food, or approval—as indictments of our character. Yet neuroscience and psychology say otherwise; here's why.
An incredible sports week arrives with Olympics, Super Bowl. Plus: NFL coaching carousel wraps up
The Pulse Newsletter 📣 | This is The Athletic’s daily sports newsletter. Sign up here to receive The Pulse directly in your inbox. Good morning! It’s the start of a brilliant sports week. Coming up: 🏅 Olympic stars to know 🏈 Super Bowl week, baby ✍️ Coaching carousel problem We often talk about the unmatched glory of a great sports weekend, whether that’s the first two rounds of the NCAA Tournament, MLB’s Opening Day blitz, Thanksgiving weekend in the football world, whatever. We have arrived at one of those junctures — and it’s a full week. Let’s start...
The Grammys bring more celebrity pushback to the Trump administration's immigration crackdown
Artists this awards season are having to decide whether and how to join the growing cultural revolt against the Trump administration’s immigration crackdowns
Book Review: “Do Aliens Speak Physics?” asks whether science is truly universal or shaped by the limits of human experience
Andy Warner and Daniel Whiteson have created a witty, illustrated inquiry into what the search …
The 6-6-6 Walking Challenge Is Going Viral for Weight Loss and Other Benefits. Does It Work?
Discover whether the latest fitness trend is safe and effective.
CSC opens investigation into LSU for possible unreported NIL deals, per report
The CSC will look into whether LSU failed to properly report NIL deals
College Sports Commission opens first public investigation, targets LSU for NIL reporting
The College Sports Commission is investigating whether an LSU staffer failed to report one or more NIL deals.
New guidance aims to guide UTI treatment in age of virtual health care
The guidelines will help clinicians determine whether patients seeking care via telehealth and virtual visits need urine tests or empiric antibiotics.
Coalition seeks LA County sales tax vote to offset federal healthcare funding cuts
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors will consider whether to place a half-cent sales tax measure in front of voters. Revenues would be used to create a coverage program for people who lose their Medi-Cal.
High school sports top performers on Thursday delivered in the clutch
Whether on the mat, mountain or court, these four high school athletes couldn't be stopped Thursday. See which top performers made the cut.
Gray wolves are hunting sea otters and no one knows how
On a remote Alaskan island, gray wolves are rewriting the rulebook by hunting sea otters — a behavior few scientists ever expected to see. Researchers are now uncovering how these coastal wolves adapted to marine hunting, what it means for land–sea ecosystems, and whether this ancient predator–prey relationship is re-emerging as sea otters recover.
UPS pilots union supports 'Fatigued Pilot Protection Act'
Lawmakers have introduced a bill to ensure commercial pilots follow the same rules for flight time and rest, whether they fly passengers or cargo.
How widespread sports betting affects NFL players: ‘People have said they’d kill me’
We asked NFL players about their interactions with sports bettors and fantasy players — and whether they participate themselves.
Analysis: Why the Minnesota deportation impasse will be so hard to solve
What happens now that the tough Minnesota deportation crackdown has turned tragic depends on whether President Donald Trump concludes he simply has an optics problem or whether he’s ready to make genuine changes to unpopular hardline policies that are central to his political identity.
WATCH: Coons, Rubio disagree on whether Congress should’ve been consulted before Maduro ouster
Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., said the Trump administration failed to properly consult with Congress in the months leading up to the dramatic U.S. military raid that ousted President Nicolás Maduro. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said it was "a trigger-based operation."
Investment and Statecraft: The International Politics of Sovereign Wealth Funds - Georgetown Journal of International Affairs
In 1953, Kuwait established the world’s first sovereign wealth fund to invest the country’s oil revenues and generate returns that would reduce its reliance on a single resource. Since then, over 100 separate funds have been created to preserve national wealth and ensure long-term fiscal sustainability. Today, they manage over $10 trillion in global assets. In this discussion with GJIA, political economist Kathryn Lavelle explains the increasingly novel dynamics that surround fund behavior and what the world can come to expect from their growing presence in international financial markets. GJIA: When it comes to the roles sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) play in global markets and politics, what would you say makes them unique? Kathryn Lavelle: Sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) operate on behalf of governments as investors. That in itself is a strange relationship. Within them, a core contest takes place between the state’s interests (or sovereign) part of the dynamic, and the money interests (or wealth) part of it, and these two aspects are frequently in contradiction, serving fundamentally different goals. SWFs are also quite fascinating because when you talk to the people who manage these funds, they have an interest in convincing you that the decisions are made almost exclusively on a financial basis—they really will go to great lengths to differentiate their government owners and those who make the management decisions. At the same time, these people ultimately answer to someone in power. Therefore, for most SWFs, it remains deeply unclear who is actually making the investment decisions and for what purposes. Of course, it is not always clear how other vehicles, such as hedge funds and private equity make the decisions they do, but I think what a lot of people find particularly disconcerting about SWFs is that they seem to act on behalf of people who have a different identity from their own. People who could be trying to manipulate politics and markets in a way that would have a long-term effect on their own populations. Regular investors come and go at will, and they only share an interest in profit as far as most of us understand. However, SWFs have that extra “sovereign” part right behind them that obscures their true interest. GJIA: These funds can be found in countries all across the globe, in both authoritarian states and democracies. Would you say SWFs differ in their goals and structures between regime-type? KL: It is not necessarily regime type that makes the goals and structures of SWFs different. It has to do with their economies. Let’s look at a country like China. There’s going to be a debate about exactly how to characterize the regime, but it is a country with many different kinds of sovereign wealth funds, and a particularly opaque state connection to each. At one time, some of the state-owned Chinese oil companies created specialized investment vehicles listed outside Chinese markets that excluded parts of the firms that were more associated with human rights violations. At the same time, the China Investment Corporation (CIC)—China’s largest SWF—draws a lot of concern, not necessarily because of its investment activities, but because of the dynamics of global politics. So, I wouldn’t really tie differences to regime types themselves in a wholesale way, but rather to how such funds are perceived and how they are structured. Saudi Arabia’s SWF is getting all kinds of attention for its involvement in Hollywood, and this takes me right back to when I was a student in the 1980s, when people were concerned about Japanese investment entities buying assets in Hollywood. They aren’t quite the same in financial terms, but it’s the same kind of concern about foreign investment that drives people to be suspicious, and the whole idea that “foreigners are influencing Hollywood.” This holds true across industries, and it reflects where politics are in places like the United States right now. One metric we can try to look at is transparency, where all the funds will tell you, “we are transparent.” The problem you’ll keep running into with this approach is how you value things. When trying to do comparative studies of equity markets, you’ll find that every country doesn’t use Generally Accepted Accounting Principles like we do in the United States. A fund may appear opaque politically and not want people to show what they’re invested in or what their intent with that investment is, but they could also just not be able to report it because of the way it was purchased, or the kinds of shares they purchased. There are some assets out there that really are difficult to put a monetary value on. GJIA: To what extent do domestic politics shape SWF behavior in both the investing “home” country and the recipient “host” country? KL: This depends on the type of fund present and also on the extent to which voters’ political views are able to influence the fund. For example, in a democratic home state like Norway, the SWF doesn’t invest in nuclear weapons or tobacco because of social concerns, but there is a continuing debate over whether it should invest in oil, even though that’s where most of the money comes from. The degree to which Norway will continue to make those investments, and whether they contradict the government’s overall climate goals, is an open question in Norwegian politics. Because of the way the fund’s governance is structured, it may not be easy to resolve. On the other hand, some people consider pension funds, like the State Teachers Retirement System (STRS) in Ohio, to be quasi-SWF. They have a very strict separation between the people who make up the management division and the fund owners. No teacher or professor would want to invest in things that may harm the future of their students. At the same time, a fund manager might see an opportunity in a diversified multinational corporation that offers a good return, despite it deriving part of its revenue from e-cigarettes. These contests are very apparent. Domestic politics can work in host countries too. A good example is Singapore’s SWF, Temasek, investing in Thailand’s telecommunications sector. If you study political economy, you already know that countries everywhere are uncomfortable with foreign ownership of their telecom sectors because a foreign entity could monitor or manipulate our communications with each other. In the case of Temasek, there was significant pushback from Thai citizens surrounding the deal, which went on to influence national political sentiment toward Singapore as a whole, underscoring the risks some SWFs may face with their investment choices. In this case, fund behavior led to the dissolution of the entire Thai government in 2006 and a subsequent coup d’état. GJIA: To address some of this unease, the Santiago Principles were established in 2009 to ostensibly promote trust and transparency. From your perspective, have these mechanisms actually changed fund behavior? KL: In international relations theory, we always like to have a clear set of norms and best practices—the orientation we want the proverbial ship to be going in. In that regard, the Santiago Principles at least got the discussion going about which direction SWFs should take at a time when people were very skittish about the growing size of these funds. Nobody wanted them to be out there and potentially destabilizing economies, so talks about disclosure, conditions for withdrawal, and the independence of managers were helpful when initiated. The biggest stumbling block was that there wasn’t exactly a good way to measure compliance with the Principles, let alone how to hold funds to them. If you read the Principles, they’re overall quite vague. In general, a fund doesn’t want to reveal how and why they make certain investment decisions because that information is proprietary—a fund makes money off of how and why it makes decisions—so how do you reconcile that with loosely-defined ideas of openness? Some decisions might have a political purpose. The bottom line is that trying to figure out and assign a score to compliance is not easy, and it is therefore the reason why the Santiago Principles never really got off the ground to the point where they could truly direct fund behavior. GJIA: Many emerging markets are looking to build their own SWFs from mineral and oil revenues. Historically, have funds shaped development trajectories in these countries? KL: I think the big story in international emerging markets investment is that the investment is increasingly no longer unidirectional. In the past multinational corporations of primarily Western background were the main form of foreign direct investment in a country. That has changed dramatically, to the point where you have companies from so-called “developing countries” taking over companies in the United States. Therefore, the landscape of international investment has changed, and I think SWFs are certainly a possibility to be the next step in the game. Historically, you didn’t need an entire financial vehicle to reinvest commodity revenues in your country, but as emerging markets get more financially sophisticated, their capacity to operate such funds has increased. SWFs would allow treasuries to move from relying on holding foreign exchange assets like cash or government bonds to having broader financial markets and targeted growth areas, while easing pressure on welfare expenditures. GJIA: With their increasing financial weight, do you see the presence of SWFs being a factor in the political choices leaders will have to make with regard to domestic and foreign policy? KL: It will depend on just how big the funds get. One of the reasons people are already apprehensive is because of their scale, and if certain SWFs in certain countries achieve a large-enough size, the presence will absolutely be cause for concern. The other factor political leaders will have to consider are their objectives. It’s not always clear how to define a SWF, or even where its activity is concentrated, but it is certainly a worry from the perspective of national security of opaque external investment. More than that, I think one of the most interesting questions going forward is whether the United States, the home to the world’s largest financial markets, will develop its own fund, for which the Trump administration announced a plan. There have also been several proposals in Congress. Were it to come into being, it would have tremendous weight. At the same time, one of the hallmarks of U.S. capitalism is a lack of government ownership of shares, so it would not be clear how such a fund would be received in domestic politics, or which direction it would take. Given how politically fragmented the country is, a Democratic administration would likely be concerned about different sectors of the economy, such as healthcare, and want investment there, rather than a Republican administration, which might prefer defense industries. No investment vehicle could thrive under conditions of such instability. Moreover, it remains unclear where the money to fund a theoretical U.S. SWF would come from. It would be a fundamentally different entity depending on whether it is financed with debt, economic surplus, commodities, or the sale of state companies, as in the case of Singapore. If it is debt, or government borrowing of some form, then the fund would have to outperform whatever the cost of that debt is, which is not an easy thing to do. I think our political leaders have enough on their plate. Our system has worked well keeping political and investment functions generally separate. We have seen different forms of business rise and fall, and even the perception of different countries, all of which funds are tied to. Unless a major SWF either starts—like in the case of the United States—or collapses—an issue that concerns the Saudis, I don’t see any political tsunamis on the horizon. . . . Kathryn Lavelle is the Ellen and Dixon Long Professor of World Affairs at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. Her research explores the exchange between domestic and international and political institutions with a particular emphasis on political economy and multilateralism. Dr. Lavelle’s first book, The Politics of Equity Finance in Emerging Markets, explored the political circumstances that surround large issues of stock in the developing world. After being granted tenure at Case Western, she was awarded an American Political Science Association Congressional Fellowship and named the William A. Steiger fellow, a designation given to the most promising political scientist in her class of fellows. While in Washington during 2006-2007, she worked on the staff of the House Committee on Financial Services on issues related to domestic and international monetary policy. Dr. Lavelle holds a PhD in political science from Northwestern University; an M.A. in government and foreign affairs from the University of Virginia; and a bachelor’s degree in international economics from Georgetown University. She is a permanent member of the New York Council on Foreign Relations. This transcript has been lightly edited for clarity and length. Interview conducted by Sid Mehrotra. Image Credit: Jason Leung, Unsplash Content Licenses, via Unsplash
One Supreme Court Case Is Most Responsible for Our Oligarchy. It’s Not the One You Think.
Whether or not money is the root of all evil, the root of our current American oligarchy is a single Supreme Court case.
Is Teladoc Health (TDOC) A Potential Opportunity After Prolonged Share Price Weakness
If you are wondering whether Teladoc Health at around US$5.91 is a bargain or a value trap, this breakdown is designed to give you a clear, structured view of where the stock stands today. The share price has retreated recently, with a 2.6% decline over the last 7 days, a 17.0% decline over 30 days, a 16.2% decline year to date, and a 43.8% decline over the past year, on top of a much larger 79.9% decline over 3 years and 97.8% over 5 years. Recent coverage around Teladoc Health has focused...
What should the 49ers do with Kendrick Bourne this offseason?
The San Francisco 49ers have several decision to make this offseason, including whether or not to re-sign Kendrick Bourne in free agency.
Climate-risk scores shape billion-dollar decisions, and new study says science behind them needs to be more transparent
A new paper published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences argues that trustworthiness of climate-risk scores depends not just on the sophistication of the models used to produce the scores but also on whether the science behind them is open, reusable and transparent enough for others to examine, test and improve.
Confusion and questions: Where investigations stand in the killing of Alex Pretti
Two days after Department of Homeland Security officers shot and killed Alex Pretti, a confused investigation is unfurling. The Justice Department has not opened a civil rights investigation, a crisis coordination center was erected in Minneapolis to investigate protesters and senior administration officials won’t definitively say whether Pretti had been disarmed before the shooting.
Does Alex Pretti’s death mark a turning point for Trump? : The NPR Politics Podcast
The fatal shooting by federal immigration officers of 37-year-old Alex Pretti, a U.S. citizen and an intensive care unit nurse at the VA, escalated tensions surrounding the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement surge in Minneapolis and prompted bipartisan calls for investigation. We discuss whether the incident could mark a turning point for the president.This episode: senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, Minnesota Public Radio host Clay Masters, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro.This podcast was produced by Casey Morell and Bria Suggs, and edited by Rachel Baye.Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.Listen to every episode of the NPR Politics Podcast sponsor-free, unlock access to bonus episodes with more from the NPR Politics team, and support public media when you sign up for The NPR Politics Podcast+ at plus.npr.org/politics.
The Sports Rapport
Welcome to The Sports Rapport. We explore the teams, athletes, and stories that shape sports across Vermont, from major matchups to niche, local pursuits. Guided by host Mitch Wertlieb and fueled by many voices, we dig into what sports mean to Vermonters in a way that feels accessible, human, and alive.Whether you’re a diehard fan or just sports-curious, this is a place to pull up a chair and join the conversation! Join us live on YouTube every Monday at 2 p.m. for lively conversation and thoughtful storytelling, all with the depth and curiosity you expect from Vermont Public. Subscribe on YouTube, listen wherever you get your podcasts or tune in on the radio Monday nights at 8.
Rams’ Matthew Stafford reflects on season amid uncertain future
Matthew Stafford did not have too many words when asked about his performance for the Rams this year and whether he would return.
Eleanor Holmes Norton Files to End Re-election Campaign
It was not clear whether Washington’s 88-year-old veteran delegate, who has been in declining health but has insisted she would seek re-election, was aware of the filing.
Is Melco Resorts & Entertainment (MLCO) Attractive After Recent Share Price Swings?
If you are wondering whether Melco Resorts & Entertainment is a bargain or a value trap at around US$6.35, you are not alone. The answer starts with looking closely at what you are really paying for its business today. The stock has had a mixed run, with a 3.6% gain over the last 7 days, a 20.7% decline over the last 30 days, a 15.4% decline year to date, but a 13.4% gain over the last year, set against much larger declines of 53.1% and 60.3% over the last 3 and 5 years. Recent coverage of...
Is Live Nation Entertainment (LYV) Pricing Fair After Strong Multi‑Year Share Gains?
If you are wondering whether Live Nation Entertainment is priced attractively today, it helps to step back from the headlines and look closely at what the numbers are saying about the stock. The shares recently closed at US$146.97, with returns of 1.8% over the past week, 0.8% over the last month, 1.1% year to date, 4.4% over 1 year, 82.9% over 3 years and 121.2% over 5 years. These figures may shape how the market currently views its potential and risks. Recent news coverage around Live...
Crockett, Talarico take on affordability, ICE and Trump during Texas primary debate
The Democratic U.S. Senate candidates weighed in on everything from foreign policy and the recent U.S. military actions in Venezuela to healthcare costs and whether they'd support raising taxes on billionaires.
Salem City Council to vote on repealing downtown parking tax
Salem City Council will vote on Jan. 26 on whether to advance a bill repealing the Downtown Parking Tax District.
Letters to Sports: Readers debate whether the Dodgers are ruining baseball
Readers of the Los Angeles Times give their thoughts on the Dodgers signing Kyle Tucker, the Rams, the LeBron James-Jeanie Buss rift and college football.
Yes, alcohol is bad for you. But could it make us less lonely?
When the Trump administration changed the dietary guidelines for alcohol consumption, it fueled a debate over whether booze helps Americans connect.
Montana prepares to funnel $233 million into rural health projects
Some advocates have questioned whether the compressed 2026 timeline for using the federal windfall is even feasible.
Is Caesars Entertainment (CZR) Pricing Reflect Its Value After Prolonged Share Price Weakness
If you are wondering whether Caesars Entertainment's share price reflects its underlying value or potential, this article walks through what the current valuation really suggests. The stock closed at US$23.61, with returns of a 6.9% decline over 7 days, a 3.4% decline over 30 days, roughly flat at 0.2% year to date, plus a 30.9% decline over 1 year and 55.1% and 68.0% declines over 3 and 5 years respectively, which can change how investors view both risk and opportunity. Recent news around...
Why singing, dancing and engaging with art is good for your health
Whether it be singing, dancing or crafting, engaging in the arts is good for our health, and we're beginning to understand how this behaviour affects our biology
NFL: Last Super Bowl appearance of conference champ teams
The last Super Bowl appearance of each conference champion offers a snapshot of how recently these franchises have competed on the NFL’s biggest stage. Whether ending in a championship or a narrow defeat, each appearance reflects a defining moment in…
Make your health a priority during extreme winter weather with these tips
Whether you are a caregiver or a person with underlying health conditions, there are ways to prepare now for inclement weather to ensure you are staying safe.
Questions are being raised about microplastics studies – here’s what’s solid science and what isn’t
Scientists question whether alarming reports of plastic particles in human organs are accurate or the result of laboratory contamination.
Johnson Health Tech Expands Recall to Include Matrix Retail and Vision Treadmills Due to Fire Hazard
Consumers should inspect their treadmills to confirm whether they have a power cord bracket installed on the unit. If there is no power cord bracket, consumers should ensure that the power cord is completely inserted into the treadmill’s power socket before each use, until the treadmill is repaired. Consumers should contact Johnson Health Tech North America to receive a free replacement power cord with an automatic locking-style plug by mail for self-installation. To facilitate consumer participation in this recall, the installation of the replacement power cord does not require any tools.
A US return to the World Health Organization could hinge on whether Trump approves of its next leader
Trump’s withdrawal from the disease-fighting alliance took effect Thursday.
The Coalition has collapsed, will Ley’s leadership?
Political editor Tom McIlroy speaks to Reged Ahmad about the lead-up to the split and whether this is the end of Sussan Ley’s leadership
Top six Virginia sports events to look forward to this semester
Whether at JPJ, the AFC, Scott Stadium or Palmer Park, Virginia’s home slate for the spring gives Cavalier fans plenty to look forward to.
6 People Who Actually Accomplished Their Health Goals Last Year Share Their Best Advice So You Can, Too
Whether they were learning to move again, processing a devastating loss or starting a fitness journey, these people all had one thing in common: They kept showing up.
FCC says "The View," "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" may not be exempt from "equal time" rules for politicians
FCC appears to be taking a dim view of whether late-night and daytime TV talk shows that interview politicians deserve an exemption from the "equal time" rules
Sports-Betting Scandals Are Ubiquitous. Whether Fans Will Care Is an Open Question.
Breaches of ethics in sports are almost as old as professional competitions. Here’s when they have affected the business — and when they haven’t.
Cellphone health risks in focus of new government study: 'Very concerned'
A cell phone radiation health study has been launched by the HHS to investigate whether electromagnetic radiation from phones and cell towers could harm Americans.
Netflix Debated Launching a Theatrical Movie Business Before Warner Bros. Deal, Co-CEOs Say
Netflix in the past debated whether to launch its own business to distribute original films in theaters, but that fell short of its top priorities, co-CEOs Ted Sarandos and Greg Peters said.
Worcester councilor looks to loosen tobacco regulations to spur business
The Board of Public Health will have the final say in whether the restriction is changed.
EXCLUSIVE: Justice Department leadership presses FBI to investigate campaign contributions to Minnesota officials
Top Justice Department officials pushed the FBI to investigate political campaigns in Minnesota over whether they illegally benefited from fraud in public service organizations, according to two people familiar with the internal discussions.
Is AI going to take over entertainment?
On a new podcast episode, an expert digs into whether AI is coming to a screen near you.
Trump Threatens New Trade War as Court Weighs Whether to Check Him
President Trump may be on the verge of having his authority on imposing tariffs curtailed, but that hasn’t slowed down his threats.
iPhone 18 Pro Leak: Smaller Dynamic Island, No Top-Left Camera Cutout
Over the last few months, rumors around the iPhone 18 Pro's front-panel design have been conflicted, with some supply-chain leaks pointing to under-display Face ID, reports suggesting a top-left hole-punch camera, and debate over whether the familiar Dynamic Island will shrink, shift, or disappear entirely. Today, Weibo-based leaker Instant Digital shared new details and imagery that appear to clarify the situation.
Dual citizenship: Bangladesh’s latest political flashpoint before elections
A divide over whether dual citizens should be allowed to contest is threatening Bangladesh's February elections.