QUICKREADS

US stock market to close on Jimmy Carter's national day of mourning in January
U.S. stock markets will close on January 9 in honor of former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at 100. The New York Stock Exchange, Nasdaq, and Cboe Global Markets will suspend trading as part of a long-standing tradition following a president's death. The bond market will close early at 2 p.m. New York time.
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.

China's Xi visits Moscow for talks with Putin after Russian strikes in Ukraine
Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Moscow for talks with President Vladimir Putin amid heightened tensions, as Ukrainian drones targeted the city before his arrival. Xi's visit, aimed at reinforcing economic ties and showcasing Russia's global connections, coincides with a military parade commemorating World War Two. Ukraine condemned the visit, urging countries not to send military representatives.

Houston weather forecast: Baytown, Sugar Land, Pearland brace for storms, hail, and possible tornadoes today
Houston braces for severe storms, hail, and possible tornadoes near I-10. Flood warnings issued for Chambers, Liberty, and Walker counties. Rainfall up to 3 inches expected. Weather improves Thursday, with sunny Mother's Day weekend ahead.
Pakistan shuts airspace briefly after India’s Operation Sindoor
Following India's Operation Sindoor targeting terror camps in Pakistan, Islamabad temporarily closed its airspace for 48 hours, later reopening it after eight hours. The closure affected flights over major cities, with air traffic redirected to Karachi. Indian forces reported successful strikes on nine camps in retaliation for a deadly April terror attack, emphasizing minimal civilian impact.

‘That’s it': US Congressman RO Khanna warns Pak against retaliating to Indian strikes
US Congressman Ro Khanna urges Pakistan's army chief to avoid retaliation after India's military strikes on terrorist targets, emphasizing de-escalation and warning against potential nuclear conflict between the two nations.

What is Linda Mcmahon's education and net worth? Trump Edu Secy dubbed as ‘barely literate’ for bizarre Harvard letter
Linda McMahon, Trump's Education Secretary, faced criticism for a grammatically challenged letter to Harvard, threatening research grants. Co-founder of WWE, she holds significant assets, multiple honorary doctorates, and earns $250,600 annually as a government official.

Disney announces first Middle East theme park in UAE: Disneyland Abu Dhabi to open on Yas Island
The Walt Disney Company announced plans for a new theme park on Abu Dhabi's Yas Island, in partnership with Miral, aiming to attract tourists from various regions. Disney CEO Robert Iger emphasized the park's blend of iconic Disney experiences with Emirati culture. This announcement coincides with Disney's strong quarterly revenue growth, reflecting a successful expansion strategy.

Grisly Peru mining murders spotlight 'gold curse' in the Andes
Thirteen mine workers were killed in Peru's Pataz province, victims of suspected illegal mining gangs. The incident, one of the worst mining massacres in the country, led to a temporary halt of mining activities and military intervention. The surge in illegal mining, driven by high gold prices, has resulted in significant violence, exceeding even drug trafficking in economic impact.

Guinea moves to cancel EGA's mining licence, sources say
Guinea is moving to revoke Emirates Global Aluminium's mining licence amid ongoing disputes over customs duties and suspended operations. This action reflects a broader trend of resource-rich nations seeking increased control over mineral wealth, as seen in military-led governments in the region. EGA, which operates a significant bauxite mine in Guinea, has faced declining exports since the suspension.

Will GTA VI have Counter-Strike 2 skins? Trader has an answer
GTA VI delayed to 2026, with new character Jason Duval teased. A CS2 skin crossover rumor was quickly dismissed by traders, despite fan speculation about potential collaborations across gaming platforms.

REAL ID deadline today: TSA just banned a common item from checked luggage
TSA enforces REAL ID requirement for domestic flights and bans loose lithium-ion batteries in checked luggage. Travelers must have compliant ID and keep batteries in carry-on bags to avoid screening delays or boarding issues.
Rishi Sunak backs India's right to strike terror hubs in Pakistan: ‘There can be no impunity for terrorists’
Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed strong support for India's actions against cross-border terrorism, stating that India is justified in targeting terrorist infrastructure. Meanwhile, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy called for restraint and dialogue between India and Pakistan following India's Operation Sindoor, which aimed to destroy terror sites in response to a recent attack in Pahalgam.