Trump pause applies to all foreign aid; Israel, Egypt get waiver, says State Dept memo

Trump's 90-day foreign aid pause affects all assistance, with exceptions for military financing for Israel and Egypt, and waivers for emergency food aid amid humanitarian crises.

FTC Chair Ferguson wins first vote over Trump's DEI purge

FTC Chair Andrew Ferguson secures authority to abolish DEI policies, increasing tensions with Democrats and highlighting disputes over the agency's independence amid compliance with Trump's executive order.

• GD
• LMT
• NOC

US arms exports hit record in 2024 on Ukraine-related demand

U.S. military equipment sales to foreign governments reached a record $318.7 billion in 2024, driven by global demand following conflicts, particularly in Ukraine.

Shein tells UK lawmakers it does not allow Chinese cotton in products sold in US

Shein requires manufacturers to source cotton from approved regions only, excluding China, complying with U.S. laws banning forced labor. Concerns about transparency persist amid upcoming IPO plans.

• DGE
• LVMH

Diageo exploring potential spin-off or sale of Guinness, Bloomberg News reports

Diageo is reportedly considering a sale of its beer brand Guinness. The brand's strong performance raises questions about this strategy, especially given shifts in market demand towards spirits.

• US500

Hedge fund industry reaches $4.5 trillion in 2024

The hedge fund industry grew to $4.51 trillion in 2024, a 9.75% increase, showing regained traction despite recent inflows and outflows dynamics.

Half of investors want to spend more on hedge funds, says BofA survey

A Bank of America survey shows increased hedge fund investments in 2025, with concerns over performance, crowded trades, and strategy changes, while investors successfully negotiate better fees.

• LNG

Appetite for IPOs is strong, but watch those valuations, analysts say

Venture Global's underwhelming IPO highlights the need for realistic valuations as investor scrutiny increases, despite ongoing opportunities for tech companies to go public.

• US500

2025 is a crucial year for the 'roaring '20s', UBS says

UBS analysts warn that while the U.S. economy thrives, 2025 will determine the sustainability of the Roaring ‘20s, hinging on productivity growth and inflation risks.

British growth plans get positive response in Davos, minister says

British Industry Minister Sarah Jones reported positive talks with CEOs in Davos, emphasizing the need for governmental action to promote growth amid economic stagnation and rising debt concerns.