Markets opened 2026 cautiously: the S&P 500 drifted lower, the Nasdaq was weighed by mega‑cap tech weakness, and the Dow showed defensive stability. Volatility ticked up after Fed minutes flagged short‑term funding risks; commodities — notably copper and gold — outperformed as investors rotated into real assets.
A New Year’s Eve explosion and subsequent fire at the Crans‑Montana ski-resort bar has produced a major casualty toll and triggered international condolences and investigations. The pair of reports track the unfolding death toll and emergency response as authorities probe the cause.
40 – Initial confirmed deaths in the Crans‑Montana ski‑resort bar fire.
Widespread protests over Iran’s failing economy have escalated into deadly clashes and a general slowdown of activity, prompting national disruption. Reports document fatalities and violence as unrest spreads beyond Tehran into provinces.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has frozen federal childcare payments amid alleged fraud linked to specific daycare networks, prompting nationwide disruption for providers. Officials are broadening investigations while states and operators seek clarity on funding and compliance.
BYD sells 4.6M EVs in 2025 – meets revised target
China’s BYD reported 4.6 million new energy vehicle sales in 2025, a solid result that cements its global scale and pressures rivals as it eyes further international growth.
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Enhanced Affordable Care Act tax credits have expired at the start of 2026, triggering higher premiums and financial strain for millions of Americans. Coverage gaps and sticker shock are already appearing as insurers adjust plans and consumers face rate hikes.
The White House delayed proposed tariff hikes on furniture and related goods, while separately moving to cut steep proposed duties on Italian pasta exporters after diplomatic pushback. The moves signal a temporary easing of trade tensions ahead of broader negotiations.
Apple cuts Vision Pro production and marketing after weak sales
Apple reportedly scaled back Vision Pro production and trimmed marketing after the headset failed to meet sales expectations, marking a setback for the company’s spatial computing ambitions.
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Washington has publicly warned Beijing over large military exercises near Taiwan, amplifying tensions in the Taiwan Strait. Multiple U.S. statements underscore concern about escalating pressure and call for restraint from both sides.
Russia has deployed advanced missile assets to Belarus while pressing diplomatic moves at sea, heightening Western security concerns. Reports show Russia expanding its regional military footprint alongside maritime incidents that raise geopolitical friction.
Major short‑term policy moves: the White House delayed tariff hikes on furniture and cabinets for a year and sharply reduced proposed pasta tariffs; ACA subsidy expirations began Jan. 1, lifting premiums; HHS has frozen federal childcare payments pending probe.
Ukraine is lining up diplomatic and security moves in January as Kyiv seeks international support and recovery from recent attacks. Officials are scheduling key meetings while condemning cross‑border strikes on civilian infrastructure.
European banks face mass job cuts as AI-driven efficiency drives restructuring across the sector, while data‑centre buildouts create power and infrastructure stress. The combined effect threatens large-scale labor disruption and forces banks to accelerate tech investments.
“We suffered one of the worst tragedies our country has ever experienced.”
— Swiss President Guy Parmelin
OpenAI is ramping work on audio models and a companion device, signaling a push beyond text interfaces and into new consumer hardware. Insider reporting shows a concerted effort to make audio-first AI a commercial product in 2026.
Three private giants — SpaceX, OpenAI and Anthropic — are preparing blockbuster IPOs that could reshape the tech capital markets, with sources pointing to listings in 2026. The prospect of those floats is already influencing bankers, lawyers and investors.
Washington granted Taiwan Semiconductor an annual licence to import U.S. chipmaking tools, easing supply chains for key foundries. At the same time, analysts warn chip shortages tied to AI demand could push consumer electronics prices sharply higher in 2026.
Berkshire Hathaway is entering a new era as Warren Buffett steps down and leadership transitions to Greg Abel, prompting investor scrutiny over the conglomerate’s future. Coverage focuses on succession risks and where the massive cash pile will be deployed next.
Gold surged to record levels as investors price in macro risk and monetary shifts, while copper miners and related ETFs have ripped higher on supply concerns tied to the AI data‑centre buildout. Commodities are reasserting themselves as portfolio hedges.
Stocks opened 2026 on softer footing after year‑end declines, with markets assessing Fed risks and global shocks. The December FOMC minutes revealed policymakers are worried short‑term funding could seize up, elevating liquidity concerns.
Crypto enters 2026 with fresh regulatory tailwinds for ETFs even as hacks and thefts in 2025 left major losses. Issuers brace for a crowded year amid ongoing debate over investor protections and market structure.
Starlink will lower satellite orbits in 2026 to reduce collision risk and improve safety as constellations proliferate. Alongside that, experts are pressing regulators and operators to tackle radiofrequency and optical pollution from satellites.
Zohran Mamdani has been sworn in as New York City mayor, marking historic firsts and signaling a new policy direction focused on affordability. Early measures include plans to tax the wealthy to fund housing and services, setting up clashes with business and residents.