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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
More 'No Kings' protests planned for March 28 as outrage spreads over Minneapolis deaths
Organizers are planning what they anticipate will be the largest “No Kings” protests yet, targeting what they call authoritarianism under President Donald Trump
Business Travel Global Strategic Business Report 2026: Market to Reach $928.4 Billion by 2030 as Bleisure Emerges as a Major Trend Shaping Market Dynamcs
The business travel market is poised for growth driven by digital innovation, economic globalization, and evolving corporate cultures. There's a surge in digital tools enhancing efficiency, diversification into personalized experiences, and sustainability-driven strategies. Regional growth variances present notable opportunities. Business Travel Market Business Travel Market Dublin, Jan. 28, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Business Travel - Global Strategic Business Report" report has been added t
Where is the Supreme Court’s decision on Trump’s tariffs?
When the Supreme Court agreed last September to hear a dispute over President Donald Trump’s billion-dollar tariffs on foreign goods, it heeded the administration’s plea that time was of the essence.
Vegas sportsbook invests ahead of packed 2026 sports calendar
With Super Bowl Sunday just days away, sportsbooks across the Las Vegas Valley are preparing for one of their busiest days of the year — and looking well beyond
A variety of entertainment on the way in NEPA
The 2026 entertainment options for Northeast Pennsylvania are varied and include big names and local acts.
NAU AD Farkas resigns to focus on health, family
Uri Farkas resigned as Northern Arizona's athletic director on Tuesday, saying he wanted to focus on his "physical and mental health, as well as the overall well-being of my family."
‘Phoenix heat melts ICE’: Zipps Sports Grill Bar raids raise questions
Although the Department of Justice said it was not an official immigration action, Raul Piña, who serves on the Community Advisory Board for the Melendres v. MCSO case about racial profiling, disagreed. Piña said this technique of detaining undocumented immigrants was pioneered by former Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio.
Nature
Genetic variations affect biological processes and can drive disease, but deciphering the precise effects of DNA sequence changes remains a significant...
Tea can improve your health and longevity, but how you drink it matters
Drinking tea, particularly green tea, is linked to better heart health, improved metabolism, and lower risks of chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer. It may also help protect the brain and preserve muscle strength as people age. However, processed teas—such as bottled and bubble varieties—often contain sugars and additives that may cancel out these benefits. Moderation and choosing freshly brewed tea appear key.
Trump hikes tariffs to 25% on South Korean imports
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer discusses President Donald Trump’s decision to raise tariffs on South Korea and a trade agreement between India and the EU on ‘Kudlow.’
Governor’s goal of getting Oregon on CNBC’s Top 10 States for Business is misguided
Not only are the CNBC rankings irrelevant, the goal could serve as a pretext for giving corporate lobbyists what they’re always after: tax cuts.
Peter H. Duesberg, 89, Renowned Biologist Turned H.I.V. Denialist, Dies
His pioneering work on the origins of cancer was later overshadowed by his contrarian views, notably his rejection of the established theory that H.I.V. causes AIDS.
In Wyoming, campus politics sparks a push for deep budget cuts
It’s a familiar scenario: Republican legislators in a cash-rich Western state are looking to slash higher education funding. In this case, though, Idaho is not the battleground.
Keurig recalls more than 80K McCafé decaf K-Cup pods over caffeine mix-up
Keurig Dr Pepper voluntarily recalled 80,640 McCafé decaf K-Cup pods sold in California, Indiana and Nevada after FDA classifies mislabeling as Class II recall due to caffeine error.
WATCH LIVE: Rubio testifies at Senate hearing on U.S. policy toward Venezuela
Abbott executive who led TAVR, Tendyne divisions announces exit
Chris Waddell, a medtech executive focused on various structural heart technologies, is leaving Abbott after several years to "recharge" and pursue a new opportunity.
New Ride Coming to Enchanted Forest
A new ride is set to debut at Enchanted Forest Water Safari this summer.
WinRAR path traversal flaw still exploited by numerous hackers
Multiple threat actors, both state-sponsored and financially motivated, are exploiting the CVE-2025-8088 high-severity vulnerability in WinRAR for initial access and to deliver various malicious payloads.
A hacker posted a Marine vet’s health info online and bragged about it
A man pleaded guilty to accessing the VA’s healthcare platform and posting stolen health records on social media.
Air Partner U.S. private jet business folded under Wheels Up
In a move to leverage synergy with Delta Air Lines, Wheels Up is merging Air Partner's non-cargo private jet business into a single unit
Google just made it even harder for thieves to access your Android device
Google has steadily offered a variety of theft protection and security features on Android, and it's now announced more additions and tweaks.
Clawdbot creator says Anthropic 'forced' name change
Clawdbot, the viral AI agent that caused techies to buy up Mac Minis, is now Moltbot after Anthropic reached out about name and mascot similarities.
Guides offer strategies on preparing for public health emergencies, cybersecurity incidents
Two AHA guides offer strategies for hospitals and health systems in preparing for public health emergencies and disasters and managing cybersecurity incidents.
This odd vine contradicts long-standing evolutionary theory
‘They don’t follow the classic ideas of how we would have imagined the species evolved.’
The Carter Center to Host Third Annual Mental Health Parity Day Feb. 3 at Georgia State Capitol
Mental Health Parity Day will discuss how to advance implementation of the bipartisan Georgia Mental Health Parity Act of 2022.
Hospitals and Epic demand better security for patient records
In this edition of STAT Health Tech: More than 60 health systems demand better security around health records sharing, and more.
Protests in Iran: Ali Karimi leads sports' call for support
Former Iran and Bayern Munich footballer Ali Karimi has signed an open letter, asking FIFA to act. He is not the only athlete to be vocal.
Patriot League and CBS Sports Reach Multi-Year Television Extension
BETHLEHEM, Pa. – The Patriot League and CBS Sports announce a multi-year television deal that will extend their 23-year relationship. Under the agreement, CBS Sports Network will air Patriot League men’s and women’s basketball, men’s and women’s lacrosse and a variety of other sports.
Largest Entertainment Arena In US Partners With Cannabis Businesses To Sell THC Drinks At Concerts And Sports Games
The largest entertainment arena in the U.S. is entering into a historic partnership with two cannabis drink brands, with plans to provide adult guests with a selection of hemp-derived THC beverages to enjoy. The brands—Señorita and RYTHM—announced the years-long partnership with the United Center in Chicago on Tuesday. Adults 21 and older will have the […]
My internship mapping toxic microbes: The power of community in coastal health monitoring
Hello! I’m Taylor Hart, a 2024 NOAA Hollings scholar studying earth system science with a minor in biological sciences at the University of California, Irvine. This summer, I had the amazing opportunity to intern at the National Coastal Centers for Ocean Science Hollings Marine Laboratory in Charleston, South Carolina! My research was focused on mapping the dis
Launch of the United Advocacy Working Group for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH)
A new United Advocacy Working Group for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH) has been officially launched to strengthen coordination and collective voice across global, regional and country levels. Established as a light-touch platform, the Working Group aims to align advocacy efforts, share evidence and political intelligence, and coordinate key messages and moments in support of EWENE-CSA priorities and the broader MNCH agenda.
O’s prospects are continuing to get praise
Eight Orioles have been ranked as top-100 prospects in various lists so far.
Tesla FSD test reveals glaring problem with camera-only approach
My front camera had problems with condensation, especially in direct, low sunlight. Tesla cleaned it, but this could be a challenge for full autonomy.
Arizona Wildcats outlast BYU to remain undefeated
The No. 1 Arizona Wildcats remain undefeated after outlasting the No. 13 BYU Cougars on the road on Monday night.
Democrats have continuously sided with criminal illegal aliens, political strategist says
Legal and political strategist Katie Zacharia discusses President Donald Trump’s reaction to the CBP-involved Minneapolis shooting and his push to end sanctuary city policies on ‘Fox News @ Night.’
Japan Business Lobby Warns of Tariff Impact as Wage Talks Start
The head of Japan’s biggest business lobby warned that the impact of US tariffs on the nation’s industry needs to be carefully monitored, in comments signaling caution as formal wage negotiations between employers and labor unions get underway.
Homeland Security executes warrant at popular Arizona sports grill chain ‘Zipps’
Homeland Security agents were at the scene of multiple locations of Valley-based Zipps Sports Grill as part of a criminal investigation, federal authorities said Monday afternoon.
Homeland Security agents raid popular Arizona sports grill chain ‘Zipps’
Multiple locations of Valley-based Zipps Sports Grill have been raided by federal agents.
Scientists finally explain Earth’s strangest fossils
The Ediacara Biota are some of the strangest fossils ever found—soft-bodied organisms preserved in remarkable detail where preservation shouldn’t be possible. Scientists now think their survival in sandstone came from unusual ancient seawater chemistry that created clay “cements” around their bodies after burial. This process captured delicate shapes that would normally vanish. The finding helps clarify how complex life emerged before the Cambrian Explosion.
Scientists say quantum tech has reached its transistor moment
Quantum technology has reached a turning point, echoing the early days of modern computing. Researchers say functional quantum systems now exist, but scaling them into truly powerful machines will require major advances in engineering and manufacturing. By comparing different quantum platforms, the study reveals both impressive progress and steep challenges ahead. History suggests the payoff could be enormous—but not immediate.
New golf performance business to blend simulators, high-tech short-game complex
A new indoor golf performance business in northeast Sioux Falls is nearing its opening.
UCF feeling whole again, takes on Arizona State
With coach Johnny Dawkins getting another leader back in his lineup, things are looking up as UCF prepares to host Arizona State on Tuesday night in Orlando, Fla.
New Orleans leaders, congressional Democrats condemn Trump’s anti-immigrant campaign
The hearing follows ICE killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. It's one of several the group of Democratic Congress members plans to hold across the country to hear from immigrant and civil rights advocates and call attention to the treatment of people during the crackdowns.
Trump's war on immigration entangles business in PR disaster and the literal site of contested arrests
In Minneapolis, hotels, restaurants and other businesses have temporarily closed their doors or stopped accepting reservations amid widespread protests.
Livingston Parish chamber announces 2025 ‘Businesses of the Year’
The Livingston Parish Chamber of Commerce on Monday announced the recipients of its 2025 Business of the Year Awards. The annual awards program is designed to celebrate businesses in the parish wi… Already an INSIDER? Sign in. Already an INSIDER? Sign in
Immigrant-owned and staffed businesses frightened by ICE activity in Maine
Some are temporarily closing their doors or making contingency plans.
Another shutdown appears likely after Minnesota shooting prompts revolt by Democrats
The standoff has also revealed fractures among GOP lawmakers, who have called for a federal and state investigation into the shooting and congressional hearings.
Charli xcx exits her 'Brat' era in 'The Moment': How the singer is 'flipping the form' on tour documentaries
The "365" singer is ready to move on from her "Brat" era, and her string of acting credits in forthcoming films is proof of that.
Fox Entertainment Inks Deal With Dhar Mann Studios for Slate of 40 Scripted Vertical-Video Shows to Premiere on Holywater App
Fox Entertainment signed a multiyear deal with Dhar Mann Studios for a slate of 40 of original scripted vertical-video shows, to be distributed on the Holywater app.
The St. Louminaries Show offers ephemeral entertainment with a local focus
In the hot months, every second Sunday at ‘ssippi wine bar, you could catch the inaugural season of the St. Louminaries series: An in-person talk show hosted by Kyle Olson. The catch is this—it’s not recording. Now hosted at Tschüss bar on Cherokee Street for the cold months, the series sees Olson sit down with […]
5 Key Moments from Ways and Means Committee Hearing with Health Insurance CEOs
CEOs of the nation’s largest health insurers and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) appeared before the Ways and Means Committee to...
‘Highguard’: Wildlight Founders on How Their Debut Game Is Not Like ‘Concord’ or ‘Overwatch’
As "Highguard" is released, founders at game studio Wildlight address comparisons to "Overwatch" and the now-canceled "Concord."
House Democrats hear testimony in New Orleans on 'Catahoula Crunch' immigration raids
Democrats on the U.S. House Homeland Security Committee used a hearing in New Orleans to excoriate Republican colleagues for failing to do more to rein in federal immigration raids.
In downtown Wilmington, Live Oak shutting down inclusive small business center
Live Oak Bank is turning Channel off. Described by Live Oak as an inclusive small business center, Channel opened in November 2021 to serve as a free resource for small business owners, helping numerous minority-owned and other small businesses from its headquarters downtown at 106 Market St. "After careful consideration, we’ve decided to bring Channel ... to a close at the end of this month. Live Oak determined that the needs of Wilmington’s small business community have evolved. Since Channel opened, the local small business ecosystem has grown significantly, with many strong organizations now offering education, technical assistance and community programming for entrepreneurs," stated Claire Parker, managing director of corporate communications for Live Oak Bank, in an email Monday. "With those resources firmly in place, Live Oak is refocusing on what we do best – providing banking and financing solutions that help small businesses grow and thrive." Channel's demise also resulted in the elimination of two positions – those of Channel's director, Chakema Clinton-Quintana, and Atiba Johnson, the certified professional business advisor (CPBA) at Channel. On Monday, Clinton-Quintana, who was elected to the Wilmington City Council in November, said of her immediate plans after Channel: "I will continue my work serving the public while I look for other full-time opportunities." She said Channel "served over 1,000 small business owners in the greater Wilmington area, as well as some of the surrounding areas, such as Brunswick and Pender. A lot of folks had reached out to us needing those resources because they were free, and we were able to assist them in that capacity." Johnson said he will be devoting his time to the Wilmington Minority Chamber of Commerce, which is not affiliated with the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce. The minority chamber is celebrating its launch from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the Wilmington Sportsman Club, 1111 Castle St., Wilmington. Johnson, the founder and executive director of the new chamber, said about 50 businesses are on board to join the Wilmington Minority Chamber of Commerce. According to a news release, the new chamber "was established to foster growth, networking, and advocacy for underrepresented business owners. By providing essential resources and community engagement, the chamber aims to build a more inclusive and prosperous local economy." Johnson said the creation of the new chamber is in response to "lapses in funding, education, advocacy for minority businesses...Some of the things that are going on now just don't reach all the way down to those businesses." For Lynne Jones, owner of LJ Design Studio LLC, the loss of Channel also means a reduction in income. She had contracted with Channel to run the center's social media and to provide some marketing for small business owners. "It's pretty disappointing to hear that it is closing...it was a place to connect with other small business owners and collaborate. It was like a family for those of us who were there. If you had issues or things that you needed to talk through concerning your business, there was always someone there that you could sit down with and talk things through, recalibrate, and they set you off on your way to make that pivot and move in a different direction," Jones said Monday. She said she worked with many Channel participants creating their websites and will miss seeing the joy on their faces when those websites were up and running. Dawn McDowell, owner of Creatively Covered Co. LLC, credits Channel with helping her business grow and regrow after her social media pages were hacked and shut down in 2023. "Channel was a great resource for small businesses, for women-owned businesses, for minority-owned businesses; they provided a lot of assistance, especially when you needed it," McDowell said. "If it wasn't for Channel, I don't know if I'd be where I am now, in my business, and regrowing my business and even finding out about some of the certifications and things that were out there for small businesses that I just didn't know about ... because there was no one really sharing that information for small businesses, for minority- and women-owned businesses in particular." Parker said shutting down Channel was not part of an overall cost-cutting plan. She stated in the email, "Live Oak’s commitment to Wilmington remains strong. We are continuing to support entrepreneurs by focusing our efforts where we deliver the greatest value – through specialized banking and financing solutions aligned with our mission to be America’s small business bank." As for Channel's downtown office, Live Oak had leased the 5,000-square-foot space above Seabird restaurant in 2021. The bank’s lease for the office is up in March, Parker said.
Top 25 And 1: No. 1 Arizona on the road to take on BYU and AJ Dybantsa
In addition to the Wildcats taking on the Cougars, Duke faces Louisville on Monday in games certain to impact the Top 25 And 1
Political polarization in Pittsburgh communities is rooted in economic neglect − not extremism
Voters in places like Aliquippa and Braddock aren’t becoming more radical; they’re responding to decades of disinvestment and institutional failure.
UNCG Nursing Innovates Training to Improve Maternal Health Outcomes
Professors Tammy Hall and Lisa Anders use simulation training to address maternal mortality disparities at UNCG.
Paris Hilton says ADHD is her "superpower" as an entrepreneur
Hilton was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, and although she struggled to cope with some of the symptoms as a teen, she now calls it her "superpower."
A Call to Action: Safeguarding SRHR in the UN80 Reform
As the UN advances discussions on UN80 reform, a proposal endorsed by 525 organizations outlines measures to safeguard sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) within any future UN configuration, reaffirming SRHR as central to gender equality, health, and sustainable development.
What happened in Iowa politics the week of Jan. 19-23
Listen to IPR's Katarina Sostaric and Meghan McKinney review the latest from the Iowa Capitol. In week two of the legislative session, lawmakers considered bills related to property tax relief, eminent domain and higher education.
NCAA lied about NIL. College sports have never been more popular
The NCAA lied. You’re shocked, I know. Amateurism was not the glue to college sports' popularity.
Gun rights groups and legal experts question Trump administration’s stance on the Second Amendment after shooting
Claims by Trump administration officials that the man fatally shot by a federal agent in Minneapolis lacked a right to possess a firearm and that his killing was justified are being dismissed by legal experts and assailed by gun rights groups ordinarily aligned with the president.
Gold soars past $5,000 an ounce, silver hits new record on tariff and US shutdown fears
Both precious metals hit all-time highs as investors pile into safe-haven assets amid Donald Trump’s threat of 100% tariffs on Canada and shutdown fears
Entertainment Listing: Jan. 28
Wednesday Jan. 28 Hangar 9 • Carbondale Open deck competition night and dollar night, 8 p.m. Hawthorne Art • Carbondale Hey Neighborino Club: Comedy and storytelling open mic, 2 p.m. PK’s • Carbondale Advertisement Trivia, 8 p.m. Little Nashville • Marion Bingo, 6 p.m. Thursday Jan. 29 Booby’s • Carbondale Karaoke, 8:30 p.m. Hangar...
Mathieu Lehanneur On Turning Science Into Emotional Design
From childhood influences to global recognition, Paris-based Mathieu Lehanneur, one of France’s leading designers, reveals how curiosity and experimentation drive his singular approach.
Harrah’s Resort Southern California releases upcoming entertainment lineup
Harrah’s Resort Southern California is hosting a variety of live shows, interactive events, and culinary experiences in February and March 2026, featuring legendary musicians, top comedians, …
Sleep-tracking devices have limits. Experts want users to know what they are
Millions of people rely on phone apps and wearable devices like rings, smartwatches and sensors to monitor how well they're sleeping, but these trackers don't necessarily measure sleep directly.
NH's Business: The impact of tariffs on the timber industry
Fred Kocher sits down with Jasen Stock, Executive Director of the New Hampshire Timberland Owners Association, about the state of the industry and the potential impact of tariffs.
What al-Maliki’s return would mean for Iraq and the region
Nouri al-Maliki's third term as prime minister is likely to escalate sectarian politics in the country.
Birmingham business will donate sales to immigrant group amid Minneapolis ICE protests
Thank You Books is donating 10 percent of its sales to HICA in solidarity with the anti-ICE protests in Minneapolis.
Washtenaw County health care aid program could close after Trump administration cuts
The program will likely need between $2-4M from various methods of funding to continue providing coverage.
Super Mario Galaxy Movie's New Trailer Shares A "First Look" At Yoshi
New galaxies, new friends
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie Nintendo Direct: Everything Announced
Nintendo has revealed a new trailer for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie during this weekend's surprise Nintendo Direct, revealing Yoshi in full.
Smart Buoys, Deep-sea Mining, Marine Careers, and Dungeons & Dragons: 2025 in Ocean Science Podcasts
2025. Holy Mola was that a long year. I made a concerted effort to appear on more podcasts last year across more topics than I usually do. Excepting the weekly ocean science podcast I’m a par…
How safe are spit hoods — and do they actually work?
Research on the use of spit hoods in real-world scenarios, like when someone is under arrest or being restrained in a medical setting, is virtually nonexistent.
Anthony Weaver receives second interview with Arizona Cardinals
The Arizona Cardinals will bring in former Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver in for a second interview.
Chrome And Safari Warning—If You See This, You’re Being Hacked
These attacks put your passwords, accounts and data at risk — what to know.
Natrona County health and food inspections (1/16/26–1/22/26)
CASPER, Wyo. — The Casper-Natrona County Health Department inspects restaurants, grocery stores, convenience stores, mobile food units, commissaries and
Building a punk rock roller derby business
Roller Derby brings the thrills, and bruises, to the roller rink. The sport grew in popularity in the 1950s and in recent years has had a surge in fandom.
This Ferrari 12Cilindri Will Never Be Built Again, And You’ll Understand Why
The one-off 12Cilindri blends translucent accents, a color-shifting paint, and Mongolian horsehair trim into a wild creation
Cornerstone Energy Park names Director of Business Development and Marketing to help advance responsible development
For more than 70 years, Cornerstone Chemical Company, LLC has been a proud community partner in Jefferson Parish. Today, as the company advances a long-term vision centered on modernization, sustainability
2025 PFWA All-AFC team: Full roster
The PFWA announced all-NFL and all-conference teams this past week. This is the roster for the AFC.
'Food Babe': Until you experience 'true health,' you 'cannot determine your calling in life'
'Food Babe' Vani Hari shares her personal story about her health growing up and why she strives to help 'Make America Healthy Again' on 'My View with Lara Trump.'
William H. Foege, Key Figure in the Eradication of Smallpox, Dies at 89
His containment strategy helped wipe out the disease in the 1970s, one of the world’s greatest public health triumphs. He also led the C.D.C. and promoted childhood vaccination worldwide.
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.
Dennis leads Wyoming past San Jose State 66-62
LARAMIE, Wyo. (AP) Damarion Dennis scored 16 points to lead Wyoming and sealed the victory with a layup with 14 seconds remaining as the Cowboys defeated San Jose State 66-62 on Saturday.
Democrats Running for U.S. Senate in Texas Call for Overhaul of ICE
In a debate, Jasmine Crockett and James Talarico differed in their political styles but agreed that violent immigration agents needed to be held to account.
Takeaways from the first Texas Senate Democratic primary debate
The first debate in the Texas Senate Democratic primary on Saturday revealed few policy differences between US Rep. Jasmine Crockett and state Rep. James Talarico. The contrast was instead between their styles and the approaches each would take to try to flip a Republican-held seat. No Democrat has won a statewide election in Texas in more than three decades.
Rayman 30th Anniversary Edition has surfaced for Nintendo Switch
A new rating has surfaced for Rayman 30th Anniversary Edition, and it’s apparently on the way to Nintendo Switch. The listing has appeared within the official Australian Classification database. As of now there has been no official announcement. The only information available is that Atari is apparently not only developing, but also publishing. The original Rayman released in 1995. We...
Iraq Shia alliance nominates former PM Nouri al-Maliki as its candidate
Al-Maliki remains potent force despite longstanding claims he fuelled sectarianism and failed to stop ISIL expansion.
Idol winner Abi Carter headlines first week of BNP Paribas Open entertainment
The annual BNP Paribas Open Family Day will return on Saturday, February 28 as families with children of all ages can enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of interactive clinics, player appearances, live music, and more activities to kick off the fortnight in Tennis Paradise.
‘Tracker’ Season 3 Casts Erica Durance, Setting Up ‘Smallville’ Reunion
Durance is once again sharing the screen with Justin Hartley, who played Oliver Queen opposite her Lois Lane on ‘Smallville.’
Fosston discusses primary health care, new clinic during community meeting
An upcoming hearing between Fosston and Essentia Health regarding the future of arbitration, initially scheduled for Feb. 5, has been postponed.
Science teachers from Queensland Open Brethren schools told to teach students about vegetarian dinosaurs on Noah’s Ark
Teachers who attended ‘compulsory’ creationist conference run by US-based fundamentalist group told radiometric dating techniques were flawed
Google AI Overviews cite YouTube more than any medical site for health queries, study suggests
Exclusive: German research into responses to health queries raises fresh questions about summaries seen by 2bn people a month
Google AI Overviews cite YouTube more than any medical site for health queries, study suggests
Exclusive: German research into responses to health queries raises fresh questions about summaries seen by 2bn people a month