Slate Auto, backed by Jeff Bezos, introduces a minimalist electric truck challenging the EV market with its affordability and utility. The shape-shifting truck, convertible into an SUV, starts at $20,000 after incentives. Engineered in the US, it prioritizes simplicity and versatility over luxury, targeting everyday drivers with a focus on practicality and a base range of 150 miles.

California homeowners are suing major insurance companies, including State Farm and Allstate, alleging a conspiracy to deny coverage in wildfire-prone areas. The lawsuit claims insurers funneled homeowners into the California FAIR Plan, a less comprehensive and more expensive option. This action highlights a growing national crisis in the housing insurance market due to climate change and increasing natural disasters.

The European Union has levied substantial fines against Apple and Meta, totaling 700 million euros, for violating the Digital Markets Act and GDPR. Apple is penalized for restricting app developers from informing users about cheaper subscription alternatives outside its App Store.

The IMF sharply downgraded the 2025 U.S. growth forecast to 1.8% from 2.7%, triggered by President Trump's new tariffs. These tariffs, aimed at addressing unfair trade practices, have roiled markets and prompted retaliation, acting as a negative supply shock. Rising inflation, now projected at 3%, further complicates the economic outlook, increasing recession likelihood.

New tariffs imposed by President Trump are projected to cost RTX and GE Aerospace over $1 billion. These tariffs, impacting imported goods, steel, and aluminum, challenge the aerospace industry's global supply chains. While GE Aerospace aims to offset costs through cuts and price adjustments, the industry faces uncertainty amid broader aviation concerns and fluctuating demand.

The U.S. dollar's decline is creating challenges for global central banks, forcing them to balance export competitiveness with inflation risks. Many currencies have strengthened against the dollar, while emerging markets face vulnerabilities. Central banks are wary of devaluation, fearing retaliation and a potential currency war, as they navigate a complex economic landscape.

Walgreens has agreed to pay up to $350 million to settle allegations of illegally filling opioid prescriptions, contributing to the opioid crisis. The settlement, stemming from a 2025 federal complaint, involves stricter compliance measures and resolves whistleblower lawsuits. This action is part of a broader effort to hold pharmacies accountable, following similar settlements with CVS and Rite Aid.

Boeing is set to sell parts of its Digital Aviation Solutions to Thoma Bravo for $10.55 billion, as reported by Reuters. This move is part of Boeing's strategy to divest non-core assets and strengthen its aerospace and defense focus. Thoma Bravo aims to boost the digital aviation unit's value through its tech expertise.

Tesla is facing a significant crisis due to tariff impacts and CEO Elon Musk's involvement with President Trump's administration. Tariffs, particularly in China, are hurting sales, while Musk's political ties are alienating investors and customers. The company's stock has plummeted, and promised innovations are delayed, leading to a confidence crisis.

OpenAI is reportedly in advanced talks to acquire Windsurf, an AI startup specializing in code generation, for around $3 billion. This acquisition would be OpenAI's largest to date, signaling its ambition to dominate AI-assisted software development. Windsurf's AI-powered features have gained traction among coders, making this a strategic move for OpenAI.