Stories that are getting the most attention from our readers this week.
Researchers unveiled an “artificial leaf” that converts carbon dioxide into carbon-carbon molecules using sunlight, a method that could transform fuel and plastic production. In another study, scientists mapped massive iceberg grooves on the North Sea floor, suggesting that giant icebergs once drifted far closer to the UK than previously believed. Each discovery highlights how understanding natural processes—past and present—could guide future climate strategies.
Russia unleashed its deadliest attack on Kyiv in nearly a year, killing at least 12 and injuring dozens more. President Donald Trump responded with a rare rebuke, urging Vladimir Putin to cease strikes—only to later portray Russia’s forbearance from seizing “the whole country” as a major concession. While US-backed peace proposals call for Ukraine’s acceptance of Russian-held land, Kyiv remains adamant about preserving territorial integrity. Observers see little prospect of a breakthrough as each side accuses the other of stalling.
The U.S. House passed a bill today banning the Federal Reserve from issuing a government-backed digital dollar. Supporters say it protects financial privacy, while critics argue it could hold the U.S. back in digital innovation.
Kenyan runner Sharon Lokedi shattered the women’s course record by 2‑plus minutes, earning $150,000 in prize money and a $50,000 bonus. John Korir won the men’s race in the second‑fastest Boston time ever.
A fresh social‑media attack from President Trump calling Fed Chair Jerome Powell a “major loser” rattled markets Monday, knocking the U.S. Dollar Index to a three‑year low and sparking a 2.4% drop in the S&P 500. Fears about Fed independence and an escalating tariff war drove investors toward gold and other safe‑haven assets.
A recent study suggests that regular brisk walks can greatly lower stress and anxiety. Researchers followed participants who consistently walked at least 20 minutes per day and found they reported calmer moods compared to those living more sedentary lifestyles. Experts say this underscores walking’s benefits as an accessible, cost-free activity suitable for all fitness levels. Beyond physical health, daily walks can also improve mental well-being through fresh air, exposure to sunlight, and social interaction if done with friends. While more vigorous workouts also help, many see daily walks as a sustainable way to weave exercise into a busy routine.
Zara is set to open a new flagship store in San Francisco's Union Square, signaling a potential retail revival in the area. The new location will replace Zara's current store and nearly double its square footage. This move is seen as a vote of confidence in the city's future, as San Francisco has faced challenges with business closures and reduced foot traffic since the pandemic. Mayor Daniel Lurie has been working to revitalize the downtown area, and Zara's commitment is a positive step in this direction.
Three-time Olympic champ Faith Kipyegon will attempt the first sub-4-minute women’s mile on June 26 in Paris under Nike’s “Breaking4” campaign. She needs to shave eight seconds off her current 4:07.64 record; Nike hints at advanced gear and full performance science support.
The Federal Reserve signaled a possible increase to interest rates in an effort to address persistent inflation concerns. Officials released a statement emphasizing the importance of stabilizing consumer prices, citing wage growth and continued consumer spending as factors that could lead to further tightening. Financial analysts say this move suggests the Fed wants to balance economic expansion with caution over inflation. If approved, a rate hike would likely make borrowing more expensive, affecting mortgages, auto loans, and credit cards. Consumer confidence, however, has stayed relatively stable so far. Observers note this stance aligns with global central banks also aiming to cool down rising prices. Still, it remains unclear whether the Fed will enact more changes this year.
Spring marks the traditional start of homebuying season, yet elevated mortgage rates and tight inventory cast a complicated picture. Home prices, while no longer surging like in 2021 and 2022, remain stubbornly high in many regions. Sellers locked into ultra-low rates are often hesitant to list, limiting new supply hitting the market. Buyers who can handle higher borrowing costs may find slightly reduced competition, plus opportunities for seller concessions. Economic uncertainty—fueled by tariff disputes and cautious consumer sentiment—further cools the once-frenzied pace. Though conditions are less cutthroat than during peak bidding wars, financing a purchase still stretches many budgets.
Major retailers, including giants like Target and Walmart, have been flooding their warehouses with inventory in case import disruptions from new tariffs cripple supply lines. This strategy aims to prevent the dreaded sight of empty shelves—an outcome that can erode consumer confidence and pinch company margins. But it’s a tightrope: If consumer demand softens more than expected, firms might be stuck discounting surplus products, risking profitability. Meanwhile, manufacturers and shipping firms watch for a prolonged trade standoff that could further upend delivery schedules and logistics budgets. In a twist, too much stock or none at all can each prove equally damaging.
A year into Sudan’s civil conflict, millions remain displaced and humanitarian aid is still blocked from many regions. The U.N. renewed calls today for a ceasefire and international mediation.
