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The article discusses the optimistic outlook for America's economy in 2026, driven by the effects of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (BBB), a tax-cutting law enacted in July. The law's retroactive tax cuts on 2025 income and reduced levies on monthly earnings are expected to boost economic growth. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent predicts a 'very good year' in 2026. The tax cuts, worth $191 billion according to Piper Sandler, are anticipated to stimulate the economy.

The article discusses the upcoming 2026 Brazilian general election, focusing on the likely candidacy of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, a left-wing stalwart. The right-wing is in disarray, and Lula has emerged as the favorite. The article also touches upon the US elections, mentioning Donald Trump's low approval ratings and the potential for his opponents to gain control of the legislature. However, the main focus is on Brazil's election and Lula's potential return to power.

China's property market has been in crisis since 2021, and analysts are finding it increasingly difficult to track its woes due to government censorship. The government has been suppressing negative information on social media and pressuring estate agents to keep unfavorable data under wraps. The property market's struggles are expected to continue until 2030. The article discusses the challenges in analyzing China's property market due to the lack of reliable data and the government's efforts to control the narrative.

The Economist's finance and economics section features various articles discussing global economic trends, investments, and market developments. The articles cover topics such as Donald Trump's involvement in Venezuelan oil, investor optimism, China's property market, and the US economy. Other topics include the decline of philanthropy in America, Europe's housing availability crisis, and investment opportunities in Congo. The overall tone is informative and analytical, with a neutral sentiment. The primary intent is to provide readers with in-depth analysis and insights on finance and economics.

The article argues that Europe is facing an availability crisis rather than just an affordability crisis, with tight regulation being a major contributing factor. While high prices are a concern, the root cause lies in the lack of availability of goods and services due to excessive regulation. The article cites examples such as costly housing and high prices of everyday items, and notes that tackling inflation was considered a top priority by EU respondents in a recent survey.

The article discusses the optimism among investors heading into 2026, with few expecting a market crash. Professionals are attempting to predict the future, while individual investors can adopt a buy-and-hold strategy. The article highlights various economic factors and trends that may impact the market in 2026.

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The article discusses Peru's New Year's traditions, particularly the burning of effigies of hated public figures, and how it reflects the country's sentiment towards its leaders. The tradition is a cathartic way for people to express their frustration and anger towards politicians. The article also touches on the current political climate in Peru and neighboring countries, including Venezuela, where the US has allegedly captured dictator Nicolás Maduro.

The article discusses RedBird, a relatively small investment firm with $12 billion in assets under management, which has been involved in significant media deals. Notably, RedBird backed Paramount's hostile $108 billion bid for Warner Bros Discovery alongside other major investors such as Apollo and several Gulf sovereign-wealth funds. The firm's involvement in such a large deal highlights its growing influence in the media industry, with interests stretching from Hollywood to European football clubs like AC Milan.

A 6-year-old girl and a 90-year-old man were killed in a car crash on Staten Island, New York City, on Friday morning. The crash occurred when a 50-year-old man driving an Audi Q5 attempted to turn left onto Forest Hills Road and collided with a Honda HRV driven by a 70-year-old woman. The victims, Anheli Vasquez-Trinidad and Gerardo Avila, were taken to the hospital along with the 70-year-old driver, who is in critical but stable condition. A GoFundMe page was set up for Vasquez-Trinidad's funeral expenses, describing her as a 'joyful' and 'deeply loved' child. The investigation is ongoing, and no arrests have been made.

Aaron Rodgers led the Pittsburgh Steelers to a dramatic 26-24 win over the Baltimore Ravens, securing their spot in the playoffs. Rodgers experienced a rollercoaster of emotions throughout the game, from frustration to elation, as he watched the Ravens nearly win with a field goal attempt that was missed. The Steelers will now face the Texans in the Wild Card round.

A new scientific review warns that a deadly, drug-resistant fungus called Candida auris (C. auris) is spreading rapidly across US hospitals and globally, posing a significant threat to critically ill patients, particularly those with weakened immune systems. The fungus has been identified in at least 60 countries and approximately 7,000 cases were reported in the US in 2025. Researchers stress the need for new antifungal treatments, improved diagnostics, and better surveillance mechanisms. Despite the challenges, there is hope for new treatments, with scientists discovering a potential weakness in the fungus that could be targeted by future drugs.

A New York City Diamond District jeweler, Maksud Agadjani, claims that a viral fight erupted with his rivals, George and Freddy Akay, after he confronted them for ripping off a customer by selling a $22,000 diamond bracelet and misrepresenting it as a TraxNYC piece. Agadjani alleges that the brothers have a history of stealing his clients and that the fight escalated into a violent brawl, resulting in his hospitalization and the brothers' arrest.

The Atlanta Falcons have fired head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot just hours after their regular-season finale win over the New Orleans Saints. Owner Arthur Blank cited the need for 'new leadership' in both roles, despite expressing personal affinity for both Morris and Fontenot. Morris had a two-season tenure with a 16-18 record, while Fontenot served five seasons without a playoff appearance. The team will begin searching for replacements immediately, with ZRG Partners and Sportsology Group assisting in the head coach and GM selection processes, respectively. Players like Drake London and Bijan Robinson expressed support for Morris, with Robinson stating he would 'support Raheem no matter what' and London saying he wanted Morris back 'with all my heart'.

A 25-year-old Israeli woman, Romi Gonen, who was held captive by Hamas for over a year, has spoken out about her experiences, revealing that she was sexually assaulted multiple times by her captors. Gonen was taken hostage during the Nova music festival on October 7, 2023, and was one of the first three Israeli hostages released as part of the Israel-Hamas cease-fire deal in January 2025. She described being subjected to repeated harassment and assaults, including being followed into the bathroom and shower by her captors. Gonen also revealed that she was offered a place 'at the top of the release list' if she remained silent about the assaults. Thirteen other women and two men confirmed they had also experienced or witnessed sexual violence while being held hostage in Gaza, according to a July 2025 report by the Dinah Project.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is expected to drop his 2026 reelection bid amid a massive Somali fraud scandal in the state. The scandal involves alleged Medicaid and day care fraud, with losses potentially reaching into the multi-billions. Republicans are criticizing Walz and Minnesota Democrats for failing to prevent the losses, with some comparing the alleged scheme to 'organized crime.' The Trump administration plans to freeze certain federal child care funds until states provide additional verification. Walz's office has scheduled a press conference, and Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar is a potential contender to replace him in the race.

Actor Rob Schneider has spoken out against the alleged 'blacklisting' of conservative celebrities in Hollywood, claiming that his own acting opportunities diminished after he publicly expressed his right-leaning views. Schneider believes that this practice is part of a larger problem that is causing Hollywood to 'dismantle itself.' He argues that the industry's reluctance to tolerate controversy and differing opinions is detrimental to a free society and that courageous individuals must speak out despite potential consequences. Schneider predicts that the major film studios in Los Angeles will decline in the next five years as audiences turn to social media for entertainment.

A far-left activist group in Germany, known as the Vulkangruppe (Volcano Group), has claimed responsibility for a suspected arson attack on a power plant in south-west Berlin, leaving tens of thousands of homes, hospitals, and businesses without electricity in freezing temperatures. The attack, which involved incendiary devices on a bridge near the power plant, affected around 45,000 households and 2,200 businesses. The group's statement justified the action as a protest against the fossil fuel economy, expressing solidarity with environmental protectors. Berlin's mayor condemned the attack, citing the endangerment of lives, particularly patients in hospitals. Emergency measures were put in place, including the distribution of emergency power generators to hospitals and care facilities, and the transfer of vulnerable individuals to unaffected areas. As of Sunday, around 10,000 households and 300 businesses had been reconnected, with the capital's electricity operator estimating that it would take until Thursday to restore power to all customers. Some schools that were due to reopen after the Christmas holidays will remain closed. The Vulkangruppe had previously claimed responsibility for a suspected arson attack on Tesla's Berlin car factory in 2024.

The Danish Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, has urged US President Donald Trump to stop making threats against Greenland, saying it 'makes absolutely no sense' to discuss the US taking over the island. Frederiksen emphasized Denmark's commitment to NATO and its existing defense agreement with the US, stating that Greenland is not for sale. Trump has repeatedly expressed interest in Greenland due to its strategic location and mineral wealth, despite polls showing that most Greenlanders oppose becoming part of the US. The exchange comes after a controversial tweet by Katie Miller, wife of Trump's aide Stephen Miller, suggesting the US would soon take over Greenland.

Thousands of passengers are stranded across Europe due to a communications failure that forced Greece to close its airspace, causing widespread cancellations and delays. The issue is believed to be related to a technical fault with the radio system used by air traffic controllers. Athens' main airport and Thessaloniki airport have been severely affected, with over 90 flights impacted in and out of Athens alone. Officials are working to resolve the issue, with Italy, Turkey, and Cyprus assisting Greece in managing the situation.

Beijing has warned of war over the Taiwanese ruling party's proposal to rebrand the cross-strait relations law, viewing it as a move towards 'de jure independence' for Taiwan. The proposed changes, put forth by legislators from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), include renaming the Act Governing Relations Between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area to 'Taiwan and the People's Republic of China (PRC) Relations Act'. Chen Binhua, spokesman for the Taiwan Affairs Office, condemned the proposal, stating that it disregards mainstream public opinion in Taiwan, challenges the historical and legal fact that Taiwan is part of China, and promotes 'de jure Taiwan independence'. Chen emphasized that 'Taiwan independence means war' and that Beijing has the confidence and capability to crush any form of 'de jure Taiwan independence' plot.

Hong Kong homeowners are being warned to be cautious of proxy harvesting amid a corruption crackdown in the renovation sector. Property management professionals and legislators are advising homeowners not to sign proxy forms for unknown individuals, as syndicates may use these to manipulate voting on multimillion-dollar contracts. The warning comes after a deadly fire at Tai Po's Wang Fuk Court last year and recent arrests in an anti-corruption operation.

Chinese President Xi Jinping made a veiled criticism of the United States, accusing it of 'hegemony undermining international order' during a meeting with Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin. Xi emphasized the importance of respecting other nations' development paths and adhering to international law and the UN Charter. He also called for greater coordination and cooperation between China and Ireland in global affairs, promoting multilateralism and a more just global governance system.

The article discusses the market trends and news from 2025 and the beginning of 2026. It highlights that 2025 was a banner year for markets, with the S&P 500 rallying 16.39% due to enthusiasm over artificial intelligence. The article also covers various news stories, including the U.S. military operation in Venezuela, the rise of Chinese automaker BYD as the top seller of electric vehicles, and the expected U.S. nonfarm payrolls report for December. Additionally, it mentions the potential IPO of SpaceX and its valuation. The article provides a round-up of CNBC's end-of-the-year retrospectives, including the performance of various stock markets and the surprise leader of the pack, Colombia's stock market.

Elon Musk's Starlink is offering free broadband internet service to users in Venezuela following U.S. airstrikes and the capture of ousted leader Nicolás Maduro. The satellite internet provider is adding service credits to both active and inactive accounts as it monitors evolving conditions and regulatory requirements. Starlink's service bypasses local networks, providing connectivity amid political upheaval and internet outages in Caracas. The company's availability map lists Venezuela as 'coming soon,' suggesting it had not formally launched service there. Starlink has been utilized in similar conflict zones, such as Ukraine, and its growing global influence has raised questions about the role of private companies in providing internet services during wartime. The U.S. Department of Defense has brought Starlink's activities in Ukraine under its formal oversight, and it remains unclear how the company's services and pricing will evolve in Venezuela after February 3.

Dozens of people were killed and several others kidnapped when armed attackers raided a rural market in central Nigeria. The attack occurred in the Daji market in Demo village, Niger state, on Saturday at around 4:30 p.m. Witnesses reported seeing gunmen on motorcycles opening fire and torching stalls. The attack is the latest in a wave of mass kidnappings and violence in Nigeria, with growing insecurity and insurgent violence driving hunger to record levels.

British and French warplanes conducted a joint airstrike on a suspected ISIS weapons facility in Syria's Homs province on Saturday. The strike, which was carried out by Royal Air Force Typhoon FGR4 fighter jets and French aircraft, targeted an underground site believed to be used by Islamic State militants to store weapons and explosives. The operation was part of the U.S.-led Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, and was seen as a demonstration of Britain's commitment to preventing the resurgence of the extremist group. The strike was carried out using Paveway IV precision-guided bombs, and initial indications suggested that the target was successfully hit. The operation came amid continued U.S. military activity in Syria, where American forces have conducted counterterrorism missions in the country.

The article discusses the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, detailing the events leading up to the riot and how it unfolded. It highlights how then-President Trump and his allies promoted false claims of election fraud, encouraged the 'Stop the Steal' movement, and pressured state officials to overturn the election results. The article draws on an NPR database tracking Jan. 6 prosecutions and thousands of hours of footage to provide a detailed account of the planning and brutality of the violence, which continues to shape American politics.

The trial of Adrian Gonzales, a former Uvalde schools officer, has begun in Corpus Christi, Texas. Gonzales is accused of failing to protect children during the 2022 Uvalde school shooting, in which 19 students and two teachers were killed. He faces 29 counts of child abandonment or endangerment and is one of the first police officers to respond to the scene. The prosecution alleges that Gonzales failed to engage the shooter and did not follow his active shooter training, while his attorney claims he tried to save children. The trial is expected to last up to three weeks and has sparked strong emotions among the families of the victims.

The article reports on the aftermath of US missile strikes in rural Nigeria on Christmas Day, which were ordered by President Trump to combat Islamist terrorists. The strikes have caused fear and uncertainty among Muslims in the region, with some residents believing that the US is targeting Muslims rather than terrorists. The article highlights the complex security situation in Nigeria, where various groups, including the Lakurawa, are terrorizing communities. While some residents have seen the Lakurawa as initially helpful in maintaining order, they have since imposed a strict form of Islam and extorted money from locals. The US and Nigerian governments have said that the strikes were aimed at Islamic State terrorists, but residents are still grappling with the consequences.

The Critics Choice Awards 2026 took place on Sunday night, with 'One Battle After Another' winning the best-picture prize. The film, directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, also won awards for directing and adapted screenplay. Other major winners included Timothée Chalamet for best actor, Jessie Buckley for best actress, and Jacob Elordi for supporting actor. The awards ceremony was notable for its deviation from the usual pattern of following the Golden Globes, as it took place a week before the Globes this year. The Critics Choice Awards are presented by a group of over 500 broadcast critics and journalists.

The article discusses how climate change is affecting Bangladesh, particularly in the low-lying coastal regions, leading to increased frequency and severity of natural disasters such as floods and storms. This has resulted in many young people, like 24-year-old Md Emran Hosain, being forced to migrate to other countries, including Singapore, in search of work to support their families. The article highlights the devastating impact of climate change on the livelihoods of people in Bangladesh, with many losing their homes, land, and livelihoods due to rising sea levels, saltwater incursions, and increased frequency of cyclones. The government predicts that by 2050, one in every seven Bangladeshis will be displaced due to climate change, with 28 million refugees expected. Many are migrating to cities or abroad, with the number of workers taking up overseas employment increasing significantly in recent years.

The article discusses how Trump's trade war and tariffs imposed on Chinese imports have affected the toy industry in the United States, particularly small businesses. Jennifer Bergman, owner of West Side Kids toy store in Manhattan, struggled to keep her business afloat due to increased costs from tariffs, ultimately leading to its closure. The tariffs, which reached as high as 145%, had a disproportionate impact on small retailers, who were unable to absorb the costs like larger retailers such as Walmart and Target. The article highlights the consequences of the trade war on the toy industry, including a split in the Christmas economy between big-box retailers and small businesses.

Indonesian rescuers have recovered a second body believed to be one of the missing victims of a tourist boat that sank on December 26 in Komodo National Park. The boat was carrying Spanish soccer coach Fernando Martín, his wife, and their four children, along with four crew members and a local guide. Martín's wife and one child were rescued, but he and three of their children are still missing. The search operation, which has been extended to January 4, involves over 160 personnel, police, and navy personnel, who are combing the waters with inflatable boats, navy ships, and rescue vessels equipped with sonar equipment and underwater navigation gear.

Around 35,000 homes in Berlin, Germany are without power after left-wing extremists allegedly attacked high-voltage power lines on Saturday. The attack caused a fire on a cable bridge over the Teltow Canal, damaging the power grid and leaving thousands without electricity, heating, or internet. Authorities have opened community centers and converted sports halls into emergency accommodation for those affected. The power outage is expected to last until Thursday, with sub-zero daytime temperatures exacerbating the situation. Berlin's mayor, Kai Wegner, condemned the attack, stating that it was 'unacceptable' and endangered human lives.

Evangeline Lilly, a Canadian actor known for her roles in Lost, The Hobbit films, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, has revealed that she has brain damage after sustaining a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in May. She fainted on a beach and hit her head on a rock, resulting in a concussion. A recent brain scan showed that 'almost every area in my brain is functioning at a decreased capacity.' Lilly shared the news on her Instagram, stating that she will work with doctors to address the damage and 'embark on the hard work of fixing it.' Her Marvel costar Michelle Pfeiffer praised her, saying 'You are a warrior. Nothing - not even this will defeat you my friend.' Lilly has been on hiatus from acting for three years and has been devoting her time to humanitarian work and writing.