QUICKREADS

Big tech says Australia "rushed" social media ban for youths
Australia has enacted a law banning social media access for youths under 16, prompting backlash from Big Tech firms like Meta and TikTok, which criticized the law as rushed. The legislation aims to protect minors from cyberbullying but raises concerns about pushing them to less safe online spaces. A trial for enforcement will begin in January, with full implementation by November 2025.

Who is Cardinal Becciu? Why isn't he participating in conclave to elect new pope?
Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was once a leading papal candidate, has withdrawn from the upcoming conclave following letters from Pope Francis advising against his participation due to corruption allegations. Becciu, facing legal battles over financial mismanagement linked to a controversial Vatican investment, maintains his innocence amid claims of a manipulated trial. His appeal hearing is scheduled for September.

Pakistan airspace closed for all commercial flights at Lahore, Islamabad airports after India's Operation Sindoor
Pakistan closed airspace at Lahore and Islamabad airports following India's Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror spots in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in response to a previous terrorist attack killing 26 people.

500 billionaires in 4 states while 3 have none- America's shocking wealth divide revealed
Four states (California, New York, Florida, Texas) host 528 of America's 902 billionaires, valued at $2 trillion. Ten states have one billionaire, while Alaska, Delaware, and West Virginia have none, highlighting dramatic wealth concentration.

‘Dave Portnoy ruined my life’: Temple student Mohammed Khan speaks out on antisemitism row and Auschwitz 'trip'
Temple student Mohammed Khan claims Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy ruined his life after an antisemitic incident at a pub. He faces interim suspension from Temple University and potential expulsion, with an Auschwitz learning trip offer now revoked.

Santa Ana stabbing: 3 high school students injured in Orange County
Three high school students were stabbed near Santa Ana High School in Orange County, California, on Wednesday. No arrests have been made yet, and details remain limited as the investigation continues.

Why 'pro-vaccine’ Janette Nesheiwat was replaced last minute as surgeon general nominee
White House replaces Dr. Janette Nesheiwat with Dr. Casey Means as Surgeon General nominee after far-right activist Laura Loomer criticized Nesheiwat's pro-vaccine stance and challenged her medical background. Trump praised Means as an exceptional candidate with strong health credentials.

U.S. judge to consider ordering Trump to return Venezuelans from El Salvador
A U.S. judge will hear arguments regarding the return of 137 Venezuelan migrants deported to El Salvador under Trump's administration, despite a judge's order halting such deportations. The ACLU argues the U.S. remains responsible for their incarceration abroad. This case highlights ongoing tensions between the executive and judicial branches over immigration policies and deportation practices.

‘I never will’: Jerome Powell's powerful message to Donald Trump as Fed holds rate cut
Fed Chair Jerome Powell firmly stated he never seeks presidential meetings, emphasizing the Fed's independence amid Trump's rate-cut demands. The central bank unanimously held interest rates steady, noting economic uncertainties and potential risks from trade policies.

Trump signals China initiated planned trade meeting
President Trump stated he would not reduce U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods ahead of upcoming trade talks, which he suggested China initiated. The planned discussions aim to de-escalate tensions amid a trade war that has significantly raised import duties. Trump's envoy, David Perdue, emphasized his close ties to the president, which may influence negotiations with China.

What does black smoke at the Vatican mean? Papal conclave day 1 ends without a new pope
Cardinals failed to elect a new pope during the first day of conclave, signaled by black smoke emerging from the Sistine Chapel at 21:00 local time. Voting will continue tomorrow following Pope Francis's recent death.

Ex-model takes the stand in Harvey Weinstein's retrial. It's the first time she has testified
Kaja Sokola, a former model, testified against Harvey Weinstein in his retrial for sexual assault. Prosecutors added charges based on her allegations after his 2020 conviction was overturned. Sokola claims Weinstein sexually assaulted her in 2006 and had a history of harassment. Weinstein, who denies all charges, faces scrutiny as more accusers come forward.
Did Trump direct intel agencies to spy on Greenland amid annexation plans? Worried Denmark to summon US envoy
US intelligence agencies reportedly ordered to increase surveillance on Greenland, seeking support for potential annexation. Denmark plans to summon US envoy over concerns. Trump maintains interest, citing strategic importance and rare mineral access.

Prosecutor says Sycamore Gap tree cutters committed 'arboreal equivalent of mindless thuggery'
Two men charged with cutting down the iconic Sycamore Gap tree claimed it was a joke gone wrong, but prosecutors labeled their actions as "mindless thuggery." The tree's destruction sparked public outrage, with evidence linking the men to the crime. Both deny involvement, but video and messages suggest otherwise. Jurors are set to begin deliberations soon.
US Federal Reserve pauses rate cuts again, flags higher inflation risk
The US Federal Reserve announced a pause in interest rate cuts, maintaining the key lending rate at 4.25-4.50%. Policymakers cited rising risks to inflation and unemployment, partly due to President Trump's tariffs. While economic activity remains solid, analysts predict potential price increases and slower growth, delaying expectations for future rate cuts until at least September.
Kash Patel's nightclubs report dismissed by FBI as ‘bogus’; Working at HQ everyday, went home for just three days
FBI spokesman dismisses claims by Frank Figliuzzi that Kash Patel frequents nightclubs more than headquarters. Williamson states Patel worked 70+ days, home only three days, calling the allegations "bogus" and unverified by MSNBC.