Amazon confirms 16,000 job cuts after accidental email
US technology giant Amazon has confirmed it will cut 16,000 jobs - hours after it told staff about a new round of global redundancies in an email apparently sent in error.
The email, which has been seen by the BBC, was sent late on Tuesday and refers to a swathe of employees in the US, Canada and Costa Rica having been laid off as part of an effort to "strengthen the company."
Trump warns Minneapolis mayor he's 'playing with fire' after immigration enforcement conversation
President Donald Trump asserted that Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey "is PLAYING WITH FIRE," issuing the warning in a Truth Social post on Wednesday morning.
"Surprisingly, Mayor Jacob Frey just stated that, ‘Minneapolis does not, and will not, enforce Federal Immigration Laws.’ This is after having had a very good conversation with him," the president said in the post.
US to conduct military exercises in Middle East as tension with Iran builds
US forces will conduct a multi-day air exercise in the Middle East as Washington bolsters its military presence in the region amid tensions with Iran.
The exercise would allow airmen to prove “they can disperse, operate, and generate combat sorties under demanding conditions — safely, precisely and alongside our partners,” said a statement from Lt. Gen. Derek France, commander of US Central Command’s Air Forces Central and Combined Forces Air Component.
Man accused of spraying Omar has criminal record as congresswoman vows 'a--holes' won't win
The man accused of attacking Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., has a criminal record, according to records reviewed by Fox News Digital.
During a town hall event hosted by Omar on Tuesday, a man later identified as 55-year-old Anthony James Kazmierczak allegedly attacked the congresswoman with an unknown chemical spray that had a foul odor. Kazmierczak was charged with third-degree assault and was booked at the Hennepin County Jail.
CURRENT EVENTS
Threat of US-Iran war escalates as Trump warns time running out for deal
The threat of war between the US and Iran appeared to loom closer after Donald Trump told Tehran time was running out and that a huge US armada was moving quickly towards the country “with great power, enthusiasm and purpose”.
Trump raises US tariffs on South Korea imports to 25%
US President Donald Trump has announced he is raising tariffs on South Korean imports to 25% after accusing Seoul of "not living up" to a trade deal reached last year.
Trump says US role in Venezuela could last for years
United States President Donald Trump has said that “only time will tell” how long his country will call the shots in Venezuela after the recent abduction of President Nicolas Maduro by US special forces, as the Venezuelan interior minister said 100 people were killed in the operation.
5 Things About the Latest Minneapolis Shooting
This much is not in dispute: On Saturday morning, federal agents from the Customs and Border Protection shot and killed a 37-year-old Minneapolis resident and U.S. citizen named Alex Pretti after scuffling with him on a city street.
US consumer confidence dives to a more than 11-1/2-year low
U.S. consumer confidence slumped to the lowest level in more than 11-1/2 years in January amid mounting anxiety over a sluggish labor market and high prices, which could see households becoming more cautious about spending.
EVOKE Marketplace Featured on ABC4 News Holiday Gift Guide
We’re proud to share that EVOKE Marketplace was recently featured on ABC4 News as part of a holiday wellness gift segment highlighting thoughtful and meaningful gift ideas.
The feature spotlighted the Peace Watch, a signature product from EVOKE Marketplace that represents purpose-driven design and conscious gifting. Selected for its message of peace, intention, and mindful living, the Peace Watch stood out as a wellness-inspired gift aligned with the values of balance, gratitude, and positive impact.
Being featured on ABC4 News underscores EVOKE Marketplace’s commitment to offering products that go beyond aesthetics — products that tell a story and reflect a deeper mission. The recognition reinforces the Peace Watch as not just a timepiece, but a symbol of intentional living and meaningful connection.
As EVOKE Marketplace continues to grow, we remain focused on curating products that inspire purpose, elevate everyday life, and resonate with a global community seeking more mindful choices.
TECHNOLOGY
TikTok US pushes back on claims it is censoring content
TikTok has denied claims that its new US operations are heavily-controlling what users post after thousands reported glitches with the video streaming platform.
Is China quietly winning the AI race?
Every month, hundreds of millions of users flock to Pinterest looking for the latest styles.
US lawmaker scrutinizes Ford plan to produce batteries with technology from CATL
The Republican chair of a U.S. House committee is scrutinizing Ford's plan to repurpose its existing U.S. battery manufacturing facilities to produce lithium iron phosphate cells and grid-scale energy storage systems using technology licensed from China's CATL.
Intel, which has US government as its largest shareholder, makes a promise of 'Trump accounts'
Intel has announced that it will match the Trump administration's $1,000 payout for children of its US employees. The contribution will be made under the
530A 'Trump Accounts' programme for eligible children of US employees.
Salesforce (CRM) Wins $5.6 Billion U.S. Army Technology Contract
Salesforce, Inc. (NYSE:CRM) ranks among the best AI stocks to buy according to analysts. On December 4, Piper Sandler reaffirmed its Overweight rating and $315 price target for Salesforce, Inc. (NYSE:CRM) following the company’s third-quarter results, noting solid advancements in its artificial intelligence products.
Charity & Impact
Since launching on November 13, 2025, EVOKE Marketplace has grown into a global hub for purposeful shopping—uniting luxury, lifestyle, and measurable impact in one place. Together with our community, we have already supported 111 children through Akshaya Patra, powered by every transaction and the EVOKE Gratitude Token (EGT). With vendors worldwide and customers choosing which partner charity to uplift, each purchase becomes a visible act of kindness. EVOKE is not just a marketplace; it is a movement built on gratitude and shared responsibility.
Customers Select Causes at Checkout
Visitors now choose the charity they wish to support directly on the platform, making impact personal and transparent.
Vendors Join “Purpose Before Profit” Initiative
Marketplace sellers align products with giving commitments, from water projects to education and wellness programs.
Community Gratitude Circles Go Digital
Members share stories of impact scores, rewards, and real lives changed through commerce.
OUR CHARITY PARTNERS
SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Ex-FIFA President Sepp Blatter joins those calling for boycott of World Cup in United States
Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter on Monday backed a proposed fan boycott of World Cup matches in the United States because of the conduct of President Donald Trump and his administration at home and abroad.
Australian Open: Novak Djokovic doesn't win a set in quarterfinal match, yet advances to semifinals
Novak Djokovic won zero sets in the fourth round of the 2026 Australian Open. He won zero sets in the quarterfinal of the 2026 Australian Open.
Halle Berry to play President in gender-swapped movie adaptation of Bill Clinton novel
Halle Berry is gearing up to play the leader of the free world after landing a role in the film adaptation of former president Bill Clinton's novel The President Is Missing.
The Monster's Ball star, 59, will play the President of the United States in the gender-swapped movie adaptation of the book.
REAL ESTATE
Apartment rents just dropped to the lowest level in 4 years
Apartment rents continued their slide into the new year, as fresh supply still makes its way through the market, and landlords strive to gain pricing power over a struggling consumer.
The national median rent in January was $1,353, a drop of 1.4% compared with one year ago, according to Apartment List. This is now the fourth consecutive winter with a “pronounced” offseason dip, and is the largest annual drop since September 2023 and the lowest January rent since 2022. Rents are now 6.2% lower than their last peak in the summer of 2022.
FINANCE
US dollar sinks to its lowest level in four years
The US dollar has fallen to its lowest level in four years after Donald Trump brushed off concerns over the currency’s fall, sending investors fleeing to traditional havens including gold and the Swiss franc.
US core capital goods orders rise for fifth straight month, boosting economic outlook
New orders for key U.S.-manufactured capital goods increased more than expected in November, indicating business spending on equipment maintained a steady growth pace in the fourth quarter.
UK Credit Use Surges
Consumer borrowing via credit cards hits its fastest growth pace in nearly two years.
China Eases Monetary Policy
China’s central bank commits to rate and reserve cuts to support economic stability.
Amazon confirms 16,000 job cuts after accidental email
US technology giant Amazon has confirmed it will cut 16,000 jobs - hours after it told staff about a new round of global redundancies in an email apparently sent in error.
The email, which has been seen by the BBC, was sent late on Tuesday and refers to a swathe of employees in the US, Canada and Costa Rica having been laid off as part of an effort to "strengthen the company."
Trump warns Minneapolis mayor he's 'playing with fire' after immigration enforcement conversation
President Donald Trump asserted that Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey "is PLAYING WITH FIRE," issuing the warning in a Truth Social post on Wednesday morning.
"Surprisingly, Mayor Jacob Frey just stated that, ‘Minneapolis does not, and will not, enforce Federal Immigration Laws.’ This is after having had a very good conversation with him," the president said in the post.
US to conduct military exercises in Middle East as tension with Iran builds
US forces will conduct a multi-day air exercise in the Middle East as Washington bolsters its military presence in the region amid tensions with Iran.
The exercise would allow airmen to prove “they can disperse, operate, and generate combat sorties under demanding conditions — safely, precisely and alongside our partners,” said a statement from Lt. Gen. Derek France, commander of US Central Command’s Air Forces Central and Combined Forces Air Component.
Man accused of spraying Omar has criminal record as congresswoman vows 'a--holes' won't win
The man accused of attacking Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., has a criminal record, according to records reviewed by Fox News Digital.
During a town hall event hosted by Omar on Tuesday, a man later identified as 55-year-old Anthony James Kazmierczak allegedly attacked the congresswoman with an unknown chemical spray that had a foul odor. Kazmierczak was charged with third-degree assault and was booked at the Hennepin County Jail.
Current Events
Threat of US-Iran war escalates as Trump warns time running out for deal
The threat of war between the US and Iran appeared to loom closer after Donald Trump told Tehran time was running out and that a huge US armada was moving quickly towards the country “with great power, enthusiasm and purpose”.
Trump raises US tariffs on South Korea imports to 25%
US President Donald Trump has announced he is raising tariffs on South Korean imports to 25% after accusing Seoul of "not living up" to a trade deal reached last year.
Trump says US role in Venezuela could last for years
United States President Donald Trump has said that “only time will tell” how long his country will call the shots in Venezuela after the recent abduction of President Nicolas Maduro by US special forces, as the Venezuelan interior minister said 100 people were killed in the operation.
5 Things About the Latest Minneapolis Shooting
This much is not in dispute: On Saturday morning, federal agents from the Customs and Border Protection shot and killed a 37-year-old Minneapolis resident and U.S. citizen named Alex Pretti after scuffling with him on a city street.
US consumer confidence dives to a more than 11-1/2-year low
U.S. consumer confidence slumped to the lowest level in more than 11-1/2 years in January amid mounting anxiety over a sluggish labor market and high prices, which could see households becoming more cautious about spending.
EVOKE Marketplace Featured on ABC4 News Holiday Gift Guide
We’re proud to share that EVOKE Marketplace was recently featured on ABC4 News as part of a holiday wellness gift segment highlighting thoughtful and meaningful gift ideas.
The feature spotlighted the Peace Watch, a signature product from EVOKE Marketplace that represents purpose-driven design and conscious gifting. Selected for its message of peace, intention, and mindful living, the Peace Watch stood out as a wellness-inspired gift aligned with the values of balance, gratitude, and positive impact.
Being featured on ABC4 News underscores EVOKE Marketplace’s commitment to offering products that go beyond aesthetics — products that tell a story and reflect a deeper mission. The recognition reinforces the Peace Watch as not just a timepiece, but a symbol of intentional living and meaningful connection.
As EVOKE Marketplace continues to grow, we remain focused on curating products that inspire purpose, elevate everyday life, and resonate with a global community seeking more mindful choices.
Technology
TikTok US pushes back on claims it is censoring content
TikTok has denied claims that its new US operations are heavily-controlling what users post after thousands reported glitches with the video streaming platform.
Is China quietly winning the AI race?
Every month, hundreds of millions of users flock to Pinterest looking for the latest styles.
US lawmaker scrutinizes Ford plan to produce batteries with technology from CATL
The Republican chair of a U.S. House committee is scrutinizing Ford's plan to repurpose its existing U.S. battery manufacturing facilities to produce lithium iron phosphate cells and grid-scale energy storage systems using technology licensed from China's CATL.
Intel, which has US government as its largest shareholder, makes a promise of 'Trump accounts'
Intel has announced that it will match the Trump administration's $1,000 payout for children of its US employees. The contribution will be made under the
530A 'Trump Accounts' programme for eligible children of US employees. The 530A program, often called "Trump accounts", is a tax-deferred savings account for children under 18, funded with a $1,000 contribution from the US government for children born between 2025 and 2028.
Salesforce (CRM) Wins $5.6 Billion U.S. Army Technology Contract
Salesforce, Inc. (NYSE:CRM) is one of the AI Stocks in Focus on Wall Street. On January 26, Salesforce announced that it has won a long-term US military technology contract. The US Army has awarded the company with a $5.6 billion, 10-year* Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract to modernize its operations.
Charity & Impact
Since launching on November 13, 2025, EVOKE Marketplace has grown into a global hub for purposeful shopping—uniting luxury, lifestyle, and measurable impact in one place. Together with our community, we have already supported 111 children through Akshaya Patra, powered by every transaction and the EVOKE Gratitude Token (EGT). With vendors worldwide and customers choosing which partner charity to uplift, each purchase becomes a visible act of kindness. EVOKE is not just a marketplace; it is a movement built on gratitude and shared responsibility.
Customers Select Causes at Checkout
Visitors now choose the charity they wish to support directly on the platform, making impact personal and transparent.
Vendors Join “Purpose Before Profit” Initiative
Marketplace sellers align products with giving commitments, from water projects to education and wellness programs.
Community Gratitude Circles Go Digital
Members share stories of impact scores, rewards, and real lives changed through commerce.
OUR CHARITY PARTNERS
Sports & Entertainment
Ex-FIFA President Sepp Blatter joins those calling for boycott of World Cup in United States
Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter on Monday backed a proposed fan boycott of World Cup matches in the United States because of the conduct of President Donald Trump and his administration at home and abroad.
Australian Open: Novak Djokovic doesn't win a set in quarterfinal match, yet advances to semifinals
The two conference championship games were very different. In the NFC, the Seattle Seahawks won a shootout against the Los Angeles Rams between two teams that looked worthy of that spotlight. In the AFC, the New England Patriots won against a backup quarterback in a snowstorm that made offense a rare commodity. Now, Seattle is favored against the Patriots in the Super Bowl.
Halle Berry to play President in gender-swapped movie adaptation of Bill Clinton novel
Halle Berry is gearing up to play the leader of the free world after landing a role in the film adaptation of former president Bill Clinton's novel The President Is Missing.
The Monster's Ball star, 59, will play the President of the United States in the gender-swapped movie adaptation of the book.
Real Estate
Apartment rents just dropped to the lowest level in 4 years
Apartment rents continued their slide into the new year, as fresh supply still makes its way through the market, and landlords strive to gain pricing power over a struggling consumer.
The national median rent in January was $1,353, a drop of 1.4% compared with one year ago, according to Apartment List. This is now the fourth consecutive winter with a “pronounced” offseason dip, and is the largest annual drop since September 2023 and the lowest January rent since 2022. Rents are now 6.2% lower than their last peak in the summer of 2022.
Finance
US dollar sinks to its lowest level in four years
The US dollar has fallen to its lowest level in four years after Donald Trump brushed off concerns over the currency’s fall, sending investors fleeing to traditional havens including gold and the Swiss franc.
US core capital goods orders rise for fifth straight month, boosting economic outlook
New orders for key U.S.-manufactured capital goods increased more than expected in November, indicating business spending on equipment maintained a steady growth pace in the fourth quarter.
UK Credit Use Surges
Consumer borrowing via credit cards hits its fastest growth pace in nearly two years.
China Eases Monetary Policy
China’s central bank commits to rate and reserve cuts to support economic stability.
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