Climate Change

US

Venezuela's Oil Heartland Weighs U.S.-Backed Reforms: A Gamble on Revival or Empty Promise?

In the oil-rich state of Zulia, PDVSA workers and pensioners view sweeping industry reforms, enacted after U.S. political intervention, with a volatile mix of fragile hope and deep-seated skepticism. While some anticipate long-awaited economic relief, others dismiss the changes as political theater unlikely to reverse decades of decline.

Feb 2, 2026

Business

Chicago's Downtown Core Faces Unprecedented Office Vacancy Crisis, Raising Economic Alarm

Chicago's downtown office vacancy rate soared to a historic 28.2% at the close of 2025, more than double pre-pandemic levels, as remote work trends and business climate concerns drive a 14th consecutive quarter of record vacancies. Analysts warn of a deepening economic spiral with implications for city services and residents.

Feb 2, 2026

US

Postal Worker Suspended After Social Media Post on Winter Storm Hazards, Now Advocates for USPS Safety Reforms

An Ohio mail carrier's Facebook post detailing unsafe conditions after a major winter storm led to his suspension without pay. Now reinstated but on stress leave, he is pushing for systemic changes in safety protocols and communication within the U.S. Postal Service.

Feb 2, 2026

Business

NewRiver REIT Reports Robust Q3, Citing Strong Consumer Demand and Portfolio Momentum

UK retail property specialist NewRiver REIT signals a resilient operational performance in its third quarter, driven by sustained consumer spending and strategic capital recycling, while navigating business rate changes.

Feb 2, 2026

Business

Quantum Leap South: D-Wave Relocates HQ from Silicon Valley to Florida, Fueling Tech Exodus Debate

D-Wave Quantum Inc. announces the relocation of its headquarters and core R&D from Palo Alto, California, to Boca Raton, Florida, citing the state's business climate and partnership opportunities, in a move emblematic of a wider coastal tech migration.

Feb 2, 2026

Business

Fashion's Decarbonization Challenge: The Low-Hanging Fruit Is Gone

New industry data reveals fashion's climate progress has stalled, with coal reliance remaining high and renewable energy adoption minimal. As the easy wins fade, experts call for targeted investment and collective action to tackle the sector's most polluting facilities.

Jan 30, 2026

Business

Seeking Shelter in Dividends: Three ASX Stocks for a Turbulent February 2026

With interest rate uncertainty and global headwinds buffeting markets, income-focused investors are turning to dividend-paying stocks for potential stability. We examine three ASX-listed companies offering yields above 3%, assessing their resilience in the current climate.

Feb 2, 2026

World

Spain's Golden Reserves Hit Record High, Echoes of 'Moscow Gold' Linger

The Bank of Spain's gold and foreign exchange reserves soared to nearly €94 billion in 2025, a historic peak fueled by global demand. As bullion's role evolves, the nation's complex history with its gold—from the Civil War-era 'Moscow gold' controversy to modern monetary strategy—offers a poignant backdrop.

Feb 2, 2026

Business

Southern States Pioneers SF6-Free Grid Future with Natural Gas Switchgear

Amid tightening climate regulations, Southern States LLC launches a new line of high-voltage switching products that replace the potent greenhouse gas SF6 with a readily available blend of carbon dioxide and oxygen, promising a dramatic reduction in environmental impact without compromising grid reliability.

Feb 2, 2026

Business

The Vitamin Shoppe Bets on AI with Flagship 'Innovation Store' in New York's Wellness Corridor

The health retailer unveils its first AI-powered 'Shoppe Advisor' in a Manhattan flagship, aiming to blend digital personalization with human expertise in a competitive market, following a year of ownership changes and executive reshuffling.

Feb 2, 2026

Business

Hyperliquid's HYPE Token Jumps 10% on Plans to Expand into Prediction Markets and Options

The decentralized exchange's native token rallied following the announcement of a new proposal to introduce outcome-based contracts, a move seen as a direct challenge to established prediction market platforms.

Feb 2, 2026

World

EU's Green Transition at Risk as Critical Raw Materials Strategy Falters, Auditors Warn

A damning report from the EU's financial watchdog reveals the bloc's struggle to secure the minerals essential for its climate goals, highlighting failed trade deals, stalled recycling, and persistent over-reliance on external suppliers.

Feb 2, 2026

World

EU's Green Ambitions at Risk as Watchdog Warns of Critical Raw Materials Shortfall

A damning report from the European Court of Auditors reveals the bloc is falling dangerously behind in securing the lithium, cobalt, and nickel needed for its energy transition, leaving climate goals and strategic autonomy in jeopardy.

Feb 2, 2026

Business

SEC Overhauls PCAOB Leadership, Appoints Demetrios Logothetis as New Chair

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has ushered in a new era for the accounting watchdog, naming a fresh chair and three board members tasked with refocusing the PCAOB on its core mission of investor protection.

Feb 2, 2026

Business

Fat Brands, Twin Hospitality Delisted from Nasdaq as Bankruptcy Fallout Deepens

The parent company of Fatburger and Round Table Pizza, along with its Twin Hospitality spinoff, will be removed from the Nasdaq exchange effective February 4, transitioning to the over-the-counter market following Chapter 11 filings and over $1 billion in debt.

Feb 2, 2026

Business

Leadership Shuffle Hits Major Grocery Chains: New CEOs at Lidl US, Save Mart, and Walmart's C-Suite Overhaul

The grocery sector begins 2026 with significant executive turnover, including leadership changes at Lidl US, The Save Mart Companies, and a major realignment within Walmart's top ranks ahead of its CEO transition.

Feb 2, 2026

Business

Lucid's Arctic Triumph: Winter Range Victory Spotlights EV Efficiency Battle

Lucid Air Grand Touring secures the top spot in a grueling Nordic winter range test, providing a much-needed technical validation for the luxury EV maker amidst a challenging market climate.

Feb 2, 2026

Business

Kura Sushi USA Gets Price Target Boost from Piper Sandler Amid Loyalty Program Revamp

Piper Sandler raises its price target on Kura Sushi USA (KRUS) following an investor meeting, citing potential from recent changes to its digital loyalty platform. The company also appointed a new marketing-focused director as it eyes U.S. expansion.

Feb 2, 2026

Business

Wisconsin Labor Market Shows Resilience Despite January Layoffs Affecting 366 Workers

Seven Wisconsin employers filed WARN notices in January, yet the state's unemployment rate held steady at a low 3.1%. Economists point to a cooling but stable labor market, with significant workforce changes driven by retirements and sectoral shifts.

Feb 2, 2026

Business

CME Group Raises Metals Trading Margins Amid Historic Volatility, Records Surge in Volume

CME Group has increased margin requirements for precious metals futures and options following extreme price swings, as daily trading volumes hit record highs. The exchange is also introducing new silver products and enforcing compliance measures, highlighting its dual role as a market facilitator and risk manager during turbulent times.

Feb 2, 2026