Marc Ross Daily | April 17
Marc Ross Daily is geopolitical business news + intelligence for senior executives + comms pros.
Geopolitics is disrupting every business and industry. I am here to help.
Always Be Communicating.
Happy Thursday.
Here’s today’s Marc Ross Daily:
*** Globalization + Geopolitics ***
WSJ: WTO sees fall in trade flows, warns against spreading conflict
FT: Trump tariff war to slash North American exports by 13%, warns WTO
FT: Trump tariffs put Fed’s jobs and inflation goals at risk, Powell says
Powell warns of ‘challenging scenario’ for Fed as trade war rages: WSJ reports sees strong likelihood that consumers face higher prices while unemployment rises because of tariff increases.
Stocks slide deeper into the red after Fed chair’s ‘stagflation’ warning reignites tariff fears: Fortune reports tech selloff led the major indexes lower, while the Fed chair's warning on tariffs accelerated trade war fears.
Donald Trump’s gift to globalisation: Not since the crash of 2008 has free trade held the moral and intellectual high ground. Janan Ganesh
AI can’t predict the impact of tariffs—but it will try WSJ
Why it’s impossible for most small businesses to manufacture in the US: American companies that make everything from keychains to mattresses say Chinese manufacturing is superior, and tariffs won’t be enough to shift production to the United States. Wired
WSJ: Omnicom gives more cautious 2025 outlook as tariffs create uncertainty about ad spending
Trump’s tariffs could make your Chinese restaurant meals pricier: WP reports business owners worry they’ll be forced to pare down their offerings, raise their prices, and hinge their futures on increasingly razor-thin profit margins.
Temu and Shein slash US ad spending as trade war hits: FT reports Chinese retailers’ retreat threatens Big Tech advertising revenues.
Cheap consumer goods are the American dream, actually: Trump’s tariffs upend a nearly century-old bargain between politicians and US consumers. Bloomberg
Tariffs or not, now is the time to break your bad shopping habits: Sorry, fast-fashion lovers. WP
US consumers rushed to buy cars ahead of Trump’s auto tariffs: FT reports vehicle sales jump in March before implementation of steep levies.
The beauty salon recession indicator: Bloomberg reports hairdressers and aestheticians report clients are opting for less expensive services and stretching out the time between appointments—signs that US consumers are retrenching.
California to sue US government over 'self-destructive' Trump tariffs: Le Monde reports the case is the latest of more than a dozen lawsuits that California has filed against the Trump administration. Governor Gavin Newsom, until recently, has spent much of the last three months trying to avoid open conflict with Trump due to the need for federal assistance after the fires swept through Los Angeles in January.
Bloomberg: DeepSeek poses ‘profound’ security threat, US House panel claims
US House panel probes whether DeepSeek used restricted Nvidia chips: FT reports lawmakers say the Chinese AI group is a ‘profound threat’ to national security.
Washington takes aim at DeepSeek and its American chip supplier, Nvidia: NYT reports China’s success in artificial intelligence has the Trump administration and lawmakers weighing rules and investigations to slow Beijing’s progress in the industry.
Nvidia blindsided by Trump’s curbs in multibillion-dollar blow to China sales: FT reports the US chipmaker reveals $5.5bn impairment, while full hit to China revenues could surpass $10bn.
Nvidia is now the biggest US-China bargaining chip: WSJ reports the ban on sales of the H20 chips calls into question the company’s ability to continually beat Wall Street’s lofty expectations.
How China took over the world’s rare earths industry: China seized mines and built factories. Japan took note and invested in Australia. But the United States did little despite concerns about control of supplies. NYT
The mine is American. The minerals are China’s. A Brazilian rare earths mine backed by American investors illustrates China’s grip over the strategic minerals that underpin the modern economy. NYT
China tries to stoke domestic demand as tariffs hit. It won’t be easy. WP reports a surge in exports before US tariffs kicked in helped China’s economy grow at the start of the year — but a slowdown is expected as the trade war takes hold.
Chinese capital of pet toys faces harsh impact of the trade war: Le Monde reports twenty years ago, Shuitou, a factory town in Zhejiang, had to close its 1,000 leather tanneries due to excessive pollution. Gradually repurposed into a global hub for pet accessories, it now faces a new threat from US tariffs.
America is turning away China’s goods. Where will they go instead? South-East Asia is exposed to both Chinese import competition and American ire. Economist
Xi fights Trump’s tariffs with global charm offensive: WSJ reports the Chinese leader is seeking to win over trade partners caught between US tariffs and oversupply by his country.
Straits Times: Xi says China stands with South-east Asia to counter ‘unilateralism’, amid US tariffs
China's Xi promises to 'safeguard' Asia amid Trump tariffs: DW reports the Chinese president's diplomatic tour has included Vietnam, Cambodia, and Malaysia — all targeted by Trump's tariffs. Experts say Xi wants to establish Beijing as a more reliable partner amid growing uncertainty.
Trump touts 'big progress' in trade talks with Japan: Nikkei reports the US president personally attends tariff-reduction negotiations with Akazawa.
Bloomberg: Trump says ‘big progress’ made in Japan talks on tariff deal
Straits Times: Singapore will help shape a more stable, resilient and inclusive global environment: PM Wong
PM Wong on relations with big powers, US tariffs and the future of the greenback Straits Times
White House expects UK trade deal ‘within three weeks’: Britain is in a good position for a fast agreement because it imports more goods from the US than it exports. Telegraph
Aligning with EU on emissions may drag UK into stand-off with Trump: The Times reports Sir Keir Starmer will host an EU-UK summit next month as he seeks to ease trade barriers with Brussels, but experts say it could provoke the US president.
The West as we knew it is dead, warns Ursula von der Leyen: The Times reports the EU chief highlighted splintering ties with the US as she praised Europe’s predictability in the face of President Trump’s tariff chaos.
As Trump tariffs loom, EU and CPTPP eye closer ties: Nikkei reports Brussels moves to promote free trade, though entry into Pacific trade bloc unlikely.
How Trump's trade war upends Germany's economic model: After Donald Trump unveiled his controversial list of countries targeted by steep punitive tariffs, the rules-based global trade order has been fundamentally shaken, with Germany scrambling to find its way. DW
Reuters: Italy's new high-speed rail line looks to reverse depopulation, lift southern economy
Chinese mafia groups in bloody turf war on streets of Rome: A battle for control of sweatshops in the Tuscan city of Prato has spread to the capital, where an alleged mob extortionist and his partner were shot dead. The Times
Kim’s forces ready to fight for Putin on Ukrainian soil: The Times reports as North Korea prepares to put boots on the ground in Ukraine, the Kremlin’s reliance on the hermit regime has become clear.
Zelensky says Ukraine and US are nearing a deal on strategic minerals: Le Monde reports Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says talks with Washington on a long-delayed minerals agreement are making 'good progress,' with a deal potentially days away.
Legal definition of a woman refers to ‘biological sex’, UK Supreme Court rules: FT reports the unanimous decision by judges is a blow for transgender rights campaigners.
What is a woman? Britain’s Supreme Court gives its answer: Economist reports the terms “woman” and “sex” refer to “a biological woman and biological sex.”
Who will speak for Henry? The “high earner, not rich yet” is the most overlooked voter in British politics. Economist
Is Britain heading for a summer of discontent? With the Birmingham bin strike grabbing headlines around the world, The Times looks at other sectors that could take industrial action this year. The Times
CNBC: Scale AI working with Qatar to develop AI agents for education, health care and transportation
Maryland senator unable to secure meeting with deported immigrant in El Salvador: NYT reports Senator Chris Van Hollen, a Democrat, said he had not yet been allowed to see Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran immigrant who was mistakenly deported by the Trump administration and imprisoned.
El Salvador plans to double the size of giant prison holding US deportees: WSJ reports President Nayib Bukele told DHS Secretary Kristi Noem he plans to expand the sprawling prison compound known as Cecot when she visited last month.
More BC booze in Ontario? Doug Ford unveils legislation to boost trade within Canada to fight Donald Trump’s tariffs: Toronto Star reports it would remove a number of blockages, such as restrictions that prevent Ontario wineries from selling directly to consumers in British Columbia and vice-versa, in a bid to increase competitiveness and reduce costs.
A plea from a member of the ‘51st state’: Americans don’t understand the threat Canadians face right now. Tom Green
“Canadians—40 million Canadians—are at a fever pitch right now. They’re willing to sacrifice. They’re patriotic, like patriotism I’ve never seen. We always say how Canadians are so polite. Well, they’re at a fever pitch right now and willing to do anything and sacrifice anything to protect their sovereignty.” --Ontario Premier Doug Ford, in a conversation with David Frum.
To keep Canadians coming, Palm Springs hangs love letters in its streets: WP reports that despite recent tensions between the U.S. and Canada, Palm Springs, California, hung banners with a heart-shaped Canadian flag to reassure tourists that they’re welcome.
US Army engineers decide to fast-track Great Lakes tunnel permits under Trump energy emergency order: Toronto Star reports the pipeline runs through Wisconsin and Michigan before terminating in Sarnia, Ontario.
*** US Politics + Elections ***
I have never been more afraid for my country’s future Thomas L. Friedman
It’s time to protect America from America’s president Nicholas Kristof
Donald Trump’s approval rating is dropping: He is beating his own record for rapidly annoying American voters. Economist
How Trump and his ‘gold guy’ are redecorating the White House: The president is making the world’s most famous residence more like Mar-a-Lago, his gilded Florida club. WSJ
Internal budget document reveals extent of Trump’s proposed health cuts: WP reports HHS would be asked to absorb a $40 billion cut, about one-third of its discretionary budget.
Kennedy calls autism ‘preventable,’ drawing ire from researchers: NYT reports the health secretary said he would prioritize studies into environmental causes while harshly discounting other factors scientists say are likely contributing to rising rates of the condition.
Trump administration asks IRS to revoke Harvard’s tax-exempt status: WP reports the directive is a significant escalation of President Donald Trump’s feud with the university and other Ivy League institutions and other nonprofit groups the White House views as “woke.”
Can Donald Trump tame Harvard? FT reports that the assault on America’s most venerable university is at the centre of the White House’s culture war.
Federal judge calls Trump's order targeting prominent law firm a 'shocking abuse of power': NBC News reports that Trump, three months into his term, has moved swiftly to use the powers of the presidency in unprecedented ways to punish, weaken, and silence his enemies, experts say.
NYT: Judges challenge White House over disregard for court orders
Former Trump official targeted with government probe vows to fight: WSJ reports Chris Krebs, the top cybersecurity official in Trump’s first term, resigned from his private-sector job.
WP: Hegseth suspends 3 senior political aides amid leak inquiry
Axios: Trump dashed Musk's secret Pentagon briefing on China
+ "What the f**k is Elon doing there? Make sure he doesn't go," Trump said, a top official recalled to Axios.
Musk’s team is building a system to sell ‘gold card’ immigrant visas: NYT reports the project represents something of a shift in mission for Elon Musk’s initiative, from cutting government costs toward a new goal of generating revenue.
Trump administration halts Equinor’s $5bn New York energy project: FT reports the move to pause offshore wind plan is latest in White House’s campaign to dismantle Joe Biden’s cleantech strategy.
Trump’s DC US attorney pick appeared on Russian state media over 150 times: WP reports nominee Ed Martin did not initially disclose his RT and Sputnik appearances from 2016 to 2024 to the Senate. The State Department has said the networks act like arms of Russian intelligence.
Bloomberg: DeepSeek poses ‘profound’ security threat, US House panel claims
Inside the changing White House briefing room NYT
White House shakes up press pool in apparent nod to court ruling: Politico reports reporters from the three leading wire service organizations will no longer share a rotating spot in the White House press pool.
White House restricts wire services' access to Trump: FC reports the plans, the latest attempt by the Trump administration to control coverage of its activities, sharply curtail the access of three news agencies that serve billions of readers around the world.
DNC leader announces plans to primary members of his own party: WP reports David Hogg, the first member of Gen Z to serve as vice chair of the Democratic National Committee, is putting millions toward an effort to challenge incumbent House Democrats.
Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez electrify Democrats who want to fight Trump: NYT reports Bernie Sanders and his apparent heir, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, have drawn enormous crowds on their “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, energizing a beaten-down Democratic Party.
Ro Khanna is everywhere — and he would like your attention: WP reports leaving little doubt that he is laying the groundwork for a White House run in 2028, the Silicon Valley congressman has been organizing his own rallies to rev up Democrats.
George Clooney: It was my duty to tell the truth about Joe Biden: The Times reports the actor admits his call for the Democratic president to drop out of the 2024 election split his party.
NY-GOV: Rep. Elise Stefanik (R) is considering a run for New York governor.
*** Distribution + Innovation ***
Webb telescope detects a possible signature of life on a distant world: WP reports a molecule detected on a planet 124 light-years away is produced on Earth by decaying phytoplankton and other microbes. There is no other known source.
Exoplanet K2-18b: Alien ocean world may be ‘teeming with life’: The Times reports there is a 99.7 per cent certainty that the hycean planet has at least one gas in its atmosphere that, on Earth, is produced by living things.
Astronomers detect a possible signature of life on a distant planet: NYT reports that further studies are needed to determine whether K2-18b, which orbits a star 120 light-years away, is inhabited, or even habitable.
FC: Tesla's first quarter EV registrations slump 15.1% in California
OpenAI’s Sam Altman talks ChatGPT, AI agents, and superintelligence TED2025
Fortune: OpenAI debuts new ‘reasoning’ models and coding agent as it seeks to stay at the front of the AI pack
OpenAI’s new GPT 4.1 models excel at coding: GPT 4.1, GPT 4.1 Mini, and GPT 4.1 Nano are all available now—and will help OpenAI compete with Google and Anthropic. Wired
Bloomberg: Perplexity in talks to integrate assistant into Samsung, Motorola phones
Bloomberg: OpenAI in talks to buy Windsurf for about $3 billion
An AI is going to art school — and might earn a diploma. Meet Flynn. Two students in Vienna, Austria, created a program that talks in class and turns in artwork for assignments, to test the boundaries of artificial intelligence tools. WP
B2AI is the new B2B: Why companies need to start designing products for AI agents: Businesses will need new strategies in a world where AIs chat amongst themselves, says a report from Visa and the Institute for the Future. FC
What Silicon Valley knew about tech-bro paternalism: The show anticipated what can happen when masculine entitlement and artificial intelligence meet. Megan Garber
Tokyo is reinventing the downtown—by making more than one: How Tokyo is inventing the “urban knowledge campus” by creating aa mosaic of distinct downtown districts. FC
Paris air pollution is down 50% after its radical bike-friendly transformation: FC reports cars have been banned from more than 100 streets. Tens of thousands of parking spots have been eliminated. Hundreds of miles of bike lanes have been added. And air pollution is plummeting.
*** Culture ***
How LinkedIn self-promotion became your boss’s favourite waste of time: The platform intended to make workers more productive has become a hive of humble-bragging influencers. Telegraph
Mario Vargas Llosa — endlessly versatile giant of Latin American literature: Ingenious, elegant, and inventive, the Nobel Prize-winning writer was a virtuoso storyteller of private passions and power misused. FT
NY Mag: Of course Fyre Fest 2 has been postponed
LeBron James, ASAP Rocky, and everything you need to know about the 2025 Met Gala: The co-hosts! The ticket prices! The dress code! A guide to the party of the year. NYT
*** Sport ***
DC, Commanders close to a stadium deal at RFK site: WP reports the potential agreement comes after months of talks between the administration of DC Mayor Muriel E. Bowser (D) and the team.
UEFA Champions League semi-finals:
PSG v Arsenal
Barcelona v Inter
Italy's controversial Olympic bobsled track: Italy will host the Winter Olympic Games in early 2026. Cortina d'Ampezzo, a prestigious ski resort, has become a major construction site. Critics say a planned bobsled track in the complex costs too much and will harm the environment. DW
Enjoy the ride + plan accordingly.
-Marc
Marc A. Ross | Chief Communications Strategist @ Caracal
Marc Ross Daily | April 16
Marc Ross Daily | April 16
Marc Ross Daily is geopolitical business news + intelligence for senior executives + comms pros.
Geopolitics is disrupting every business and industry. I am here to help.
Always Be Communicating.
Happy Wednesday.
Here’s today’s Marc Ross Daily:
*** Globalization + Geopolitics ***
10 days and a $10 trillion market swing: How Trump’s tariffs changed the global economy, and what comes next: In US financial history, there are weeks that live in infamy—like the “Black Tuesday” stock market crash of 1929, or the 2008 Lehman Brothers bankruptcy, or the COVID-induced shock of 2020. To this list we can add the “Liberation Day” market meltdown triggered by President Donald Trump’s successive announcements of sweeping tariffs over the past two weeks. Fortune
Investors are abandoning the dollar and Treasurys, scared by the trade war: WP reports the dollar has lost almost 10 percent of its value since Inauguration Day, with roughly half of that decline coming this month.
+ A tariff-induced meltdown of US equity and bond markets has been spooking financial circles. But stocks and Treasuries aren’t the only assets on the fritz—the US dollar is also falling, with analysts warning of a global “de-dollarization” in response to the Trump administration’s frenetic foreign policy decisions.
+ The current tariff reprieve in the tech sector is likely temporary, said Eric Compton, Morningstar's director of equity research for the sector.
Fortune: Janet Yellen says America would be ‘lucky to skirt a recession’
Trump hasn’t killed globalization. He’s killing the US economy: The president’s liberation day tariff fiasco is proving in real time why protectionism is so economically damaging. Daniel J Mitchell
Fortune: Americans want more US factory jobs—as long as they don’t have to work them
+ Survey data from the Financial Times and based on a 2024 survey from the Cato Institute, shows that while 80% of Americans believe the country would be better off with more manufacturing jobs, just 25% believe they would individually be better off working in a factory.
+ As Elon Musk claims thousands of laid-off government workers will staff new factories, others say robots will do the jobs.
Trump is killing one of our strongest exports: The president wants to balance US trade deficits? He can’t do it without this industry he hates. Catherine Rampell
+ "Colleges and universities are among America’s most competitive international exporters. In dollar terms, last year, the United States sold more educational services to the rest of the world than it sold in natural gas and coal combined."
Canadian universities report jump in US applicants amid Trump crackdown: Guardian reports the University of British Columbia and others report spike in interest from US citizens as Trump withholds funds and revokes foreign student visas.
+ Officials at the University of British Columbia’s (UBC) Vancouver campus said the school reported a 27% jump in graduate applications as of 1 March from US citizens for programs starting in the 2025 academic year, compared with all of 2024.
+ The University of Toronto, Canada’s largest university by number of students, also reported more US applications by its January deadline for 2025 programs, while a University of Waterloo spokesperson reported an increase in US visitors to campus and more web traffic originating from the United States since September.
Tariffs on chips, phones, laptops still coming, commerce secretary warns: WP reports on Truth Social, President Trump said that such electronic goods are in a different tariff “bucket” than what was announced Friday.
Trump’s tariff threat for imported medicines poses political risks: NYT reports levies on Americans’ daily prescriptions and other medicines could raise costs, spur rationing, and lead to shortages of critical drugs.
Trump presses China to make tariff offer to calm trade war: Bloomberg reports the comments indicate there is no end in sight to fight that has seen both sides raise trade barriers to staggering levels.
Trump’s trade war deepens threat to US brands in China: WP reports the tariff spat risks pushing Chinese consumers even further into the arms of domestic goods.
Pity American firms in China. Xi Jinping is hitting back: From Apple and Boeing to Nike and Starbucks, there is a lot of money at stake. Economist
Trump’s China trade war is forcing Latin America to pick a side: Intensifying battle between world’s two largest economies has left governments grappling with the reality that their days of doing big business with Beijing without serious blowback from Washington are numbered. BAT
CNBC: Trump is ‘shredding’ credibility with allies while China benefits, former national security advisor John Bolton says
Trump trade war could challenge US credibility, says Jamie Dimon: JPMorgan chief tells the FT that Washington and Beijing ‘should engage’ as tariffs escalate. FT
China’s online retailers give Trump’s tariffs a one-star review: WP reports Trump’s tariffs are complicating Chinese vendors’ efforts to become the next big thing on TikTok — or Shein or Temu. But they’re pledging to find a way through.
China could be about to teach Trump a hard economic lesson: US bonds display all the tell-tale signs of an impending financial crisis. Jeremy Warner
AP: China’s Xi Jinping says there are no winners in a tariff war as he visits Southeast Asia
Straits Times: China’s Xi arrives in Malaysia, pledges deeper ties amid escalating US trade war
Donald Trump has given BYD the edge over Tesla: Chinese carmaker’s absence from the US, once seen as a weakness, has turned into an asset. June Yoon
Reuters: South Korea unveils $23 billion support package for chips amid US tariff uncertainty
Reuters: Taiwan to simulate impact of US tariffs on semiconductor sector
Japan's negotiator Akazawa leaving for Washington for tariff talks: NHK reports Japan's Economic Revitalization Minister Akazawa Ryosei is leaving for the US for the first round of negotiations on tariff measures introduced by President Donald Trump's administration.
Race to stop Trump tariffs hitting British medicine industry: The Times reports Lord Mandelson, the UK ambassador, is ‘very focused’ on winning a reprieve for the sector.
US wants to retain key tariffs on EU, say European officials: FT reports diplomats from the bloc say American negotiators stressed the need for levies as part of efforts to repatriate industry.
Relief in ‘Honda town’ as automaker shoots down report it’s moving some production to US from Alliston: Toronto Star reports residents breathe a collective sigh as company denies Japanese newspaper report it is shifting some production to the US amid the ongoing Trump global trade war.
+ Ottawa on Tuesday offered tariff relief to automakers on condition they maintain production in Canada, fearing US President Donald Trump's policies could trigger a flight of the key manufacturing sector to the United States.
Fortune: How does a Fortune 500 company rebuild its supply chain overnight? Most are piecing together a playbook on the fly
Stellantis NV Chairman John Elkann warned Tuesday that the American and European car markets are "being put at risk" by tariffs.
Mega auto supplier Magna: Tariff impact is like every crisis all at once: Giant auto supplier Magna International views the financial and logistical threat of auto tariffs as an amalgamation of every major crisis the auto industry has faced in the past several years. Detroit Free Press
+ Magna International CEO Swamy Kotagiri believes proposed auto tariffs combine the worst aspects of recent industry crises.
+ The CEO highlighted the difficulty of long-term planning given the unclear details and potential impact of tariffs.
+ Kotagiri argues tariffs, coupled with existing supply chain issues and economic uncertainty, create a uniquely challenging situation.
Goldman Sachs chief optimistic Trump will listen to corporate America: FT reports David Solomon warns of ‘material risks’ on US and global economy posed by effects of trade war.
CNBC: United Airlines gives two 2025 profit outlooks, calling economy ‘impossible’ to predict
United Airlines is so unsure about the economy it offers two profit scenarios: Bloomberg reports the macroeconomic environment 'is impossible to predict this year with any degree of confidence,' United said in an investor update.
CNBC: Amazon emails sellers to gauge how Trump’s tariffs are impacting their businesses
Tim Cook’s ‘long arc of time’ prepared Apple for the trade war: The CEO managed to help the iPhone avoid another US battle with China. WSJ
America’s most valuable company is about to be crippled by Trump: The president’s poorly planned, poorly designed, poorly executed policies are hurting US businesses. Matthew Lynn
Reuters: Apple airlifted iPhones worth a record $2 billion from India in March as Trump tariffs loomed
Trump’s Nvidia deal lays bare the contradictions in America’s AI policy: No company has cashed in on the generative AI boom quite like Nvidia, whose chips and software help power AI used by Microsoft, Google, Meta, OpenAI, and Tesla. So it’s no surprise that as President Trump moves to impose tariffs on semiconductors—after initially carving out an exemption—Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang is looking to strike a deal to reduce the impact of potential tariffs on his company. Fortune
Bloomberg: Nvidia says new limits on China exports to cost $5.5 billion
Boeing hit from all sides in Trump’s trade war: WSJ reports China told domestic airlines not to place new orders for Boeing jets, adding new pressure to the struggling American plane maker.
+ China Southern Airlines has suspended the sale of 10 Boeing airplanes
+ US aviation giant Boeing, fresh off a crippling labor dispute and quality control crisis, has now found itself drawn into the escalating trade conflict between Washington and Beijing.
Reuters: China accuses US of launching 'advanced' cyberattacks, names alleged NSA agents
Nikkei: Trump administration pulls funding for Texas bullet train with Japan tech
+ Planned Houston-Dallas line faces uncertain future with estimated cost ballooning
The succession drama inside Singapore’s richest family: The billionaire Kwek clan was held up as a three-generation success story, until a father-son conflict revealed a surprising rift. Bloomberg
Donald Trump again blames Ukraine for starting war with Russia: FT reports the US president reignites war of words with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
+ America blocked a statement by the G7 condemning Russia’s deadliest strike on Ukraine this year, saying it wanted to keep peace talks on track.
Trump’s Ukraine ceasefire is slipping away: The American president increasingly looks like Russia’s willing dupe. Economist
Inside North Korea’s vast operation to help Russia’s war on Ukraine Reuters
Reuters: Kremlin says there is no outline yet for US-Russia deal on Ukraine, but political will is there
Reuters: Ukraine, UK, France and Turkey discuss Black Sea security, Zelenskiy says
NATO's Rutte says US-led Ukraine peace talks 'not easy': AFP reports NATO chief Mark Rutte said on Tuesday that US President Donald Trump's push for a ceasefire and lasting peace in Ukraine was "not easy" and condemned Russia's "terrible pattern" of attacks on Ukrainian civilians.
Sweden says no proof Chinese ship meant to damage cables: DW reports Swedish authorities say they have not found evidence that a Chinese vessel deliberately cut Baltic Sea cables last year. Another probe into the incident is still underway amid growing security fears in the region.
Israel has taken over about a third of the Gaza Strip: WSJ reports Israeli troops are seizing land and threatening to chip away more if Hamas doesn’t release its hostages.
Mali threatens to seize Barrick Gold’s assets, company says: FT reports the mining group also says ruling military junta has shut its office in Bamako.
Canadian academics warned to halt non-essential travel to the US amid Trump’s crackdown, border tensions: Toronto Star reports the Canadian Association of University Teachers says people in certain categories, including those who have criticized Trump, face heightened risks.
Trump’s ‘chosen one’ Giorgia Meloni heads to Washington to play delicate balancing act: Italy’s PM has demonstrated an affinity with the US president, but also needs to maintain allegiance to her EU partners. Angela Giuffrida
Reuters: US policy on stablecoins more dangerous than tariffs, Italian minister says
Ollanta Humala, Peru’s president between 2011 and 2016, was sentenced to 15 years in prison for money laundering.
Bloomberg: Brazil to lean toward granting asylum to Peru’s convicted former first lady
The White House is urging Colombia to halt the implementation of new auto safety regulations that could jeopardize American car exports to Colombia, as both nations prepare to discuss tariffs recently imposed on Colombian products including coffee, avocados, flowers and oil.
Trump resurrects ghost of US military bases in Panama: AFP reports US President Donald Trump's bid to take back control of the Panama Canal has put his counterpart Jose Raul Mulino in a difficult position and revived fears in the Central American country that US military bases will return.
I’m in Denmark’s parliament. Here’s why America has us so stunned. Ida Auken
World travelers are rethinking vacation plans to the US: As anecdotes of detentions and deportations reverberate, early signs point to a worrying spending slump from Europeans and Canadians. Bloomberg
*** US Politics + Elections ***
The economic consequences of a mad king: Trump’s delight in doing whatever he wishes in the moment is incompatible with stability and sustained dynamism. Martin Wolf
Inside Trump’s plan to halt hundreds of regulations: The White House will soon move to rapidly repeal or freeze rules that affect health, food, workplace safety, transportation, and more. NYT
This company’s surveillance tech makes immigrants ‘easy pickings’ for Trump: Geo Group, a private prison firm that makes digital tools to track immigrants, becomes one of the Trump administration’s big business winners as its tech is increasingly used in deportations. WP
Memphis Commercial Appeal: Did Elon Musk leave DOGE? Why White House press secretary says he hasn't left his position
A whistleblower's disclosure details how DOGE may have taken sensitive labor data: NPR reports according to an official whistleblower disclosure shared with Congress and other federal overseers that was obtained by NPR, subsequent interviews with the whistleblower and records of internal communications, technical staff members were alarmed about what DOGE engineers did when they were granted access, particularly when those staffers noticed a spike in data leaving the agency. It's possible that the data included sensitive information on unions, ongoing legal cases and corporate secrets — data that four labor law experts tell NPR should almost never leave the NLRB and that has nothing to do with making the government more efficient or cutting spending.
Elon Musk gets government policy ideas from X. Here’s how. A look at which accounts — big and small — have Musk’s ear, and how some appear to have sparked action from Musk and the Trump administration. WP
Top Hegseth adviser Dan Caldwell put on leave in Pentagon leak probe: Reuters reports one of US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's leading advisers, Dan Caldwell, was escorted from the Pentagon on Tuesday after being identified during an investigation into leaks at the Department of Defense.
WSJ: USDA is fast-tracking requests to yank soda from food-stamps program
NYT: More than 20,000 IRS employees offer to resign
Trump’s AI infrastructure plans could face delays due to Texas Republicans: Republican-controlled state house poised to pass legislation that imposes regulatory hurdles on data centers. Guardian
Trump tech aide calls for ‘creative’ R&D push after budget cuts: White House science and technology director Michael Kratsios said the US will need to make “smart choices” with public research funding to stay competitive in areas like artificial intelligence as the Trump administration’s sweeping budget cuts spread to research organizations. Bloomberg
US Republican senators ask Trump administration to reject Biden's AI chip rule: Reuters reports seven Republican US senators have sent a letter to US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, urging him to scrap a Biden administration rule restricting global access to AI chips before it kicks in next month. The letter, signed by senators Pete Ricketts, Tommy Tuberville and Thom Tillis, argues that the AI diffusion rule will damage US leadership in artificial intelligence and calls for "immediate action" to halt it before it takes effect on May 15. The letter, whose contents were made public on Monday, was sent on Friday.
Fortune: With defense tech booming and Palantir stock up 323% over the past year, CEO Alex Karp has finally been vindicated
Breaking his silence, Biden to speak out on Social Security: WP reports Trump has repeatedly disparaged his predecessor since taking office. Biden has not spoken out publicly — until now.
Biden returns to the spotlight to address the issue that could define the 2026 midterms: FC reports the former president will address the national conference of Advocates, Counselors, and Representatives for the Disabled.
The Hill: Alexandria Ocasio Cortez raises nearly $10M in first quarter of 2025
CNBC: AOC fundraising soars as the New York rep and Bernie Sanders barnstorm US against Trump
MI-GOV: Former Attorney General Mike Cox (R) announced today his campaign to be Michigan's next governor. Cox joins a growing field of GOP gubernatorial candidates, including Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt and US Rep. John James. Former gubernatorial candidate Tudor Dixon is said to be considering a run, along with Oakland County businessman Kevin Rinke.
Politico: Trump backer Bill Ackman supports Cuomo’s mayoral bid with $250K donation
Mark Zuckerberg tells court Meta faces broader competition than FTC says: WP reports the agency and the social media company face off over a landmark antitrust case that seeks to rein in the power of a Silicon Valley giant.
Inside Mark Zuckerberg’s failed negotiations to end antitrust case: The FTC wanted $30 billion to drop its case. Zuckerberg offered much less and hoped Trump would back him up. WSJ
How Wall Street got Donald Trump wrong: Titans of finance and business are beginning to realise they misread the president’s second-term priorities. FT
*** Distribution + Innovation ***
A It took a century to find this colossal squid: NYT reports an expedition spotted a baby of the species in the South Sandwich Islands. This cephalopod can grow to more than 20 feet and has proved elusive in its deep-sea environs.
Barnes & Noble is opening 60 new stores in 2025.
Twinkies’ new owner courts a novel group of snackers: Stoners: WSJ reports that JM Smucker is hoping to boost sales of Hostess snacks by connecting them to modern cultural moments, like 4/20 cannabis celebrations.
Starbucks's small dress code update is part of its bigger branding play: FC reports Starbucks has brand guidelines about its signature green color. Now that extends to employee dress.
Worldwide consumption of wine fell in 2024 to its lowest level in more than 60 years, the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) said Tuesday, raising concerns about new risks from US tariffs.
Japan automakers make joint chip push to rival China's smart cars: Standardized 'chiplets' could save manufacturers both time and money. Nikkei
Hermès overtakes LVMH as world's most valuable luxury group: Le Monde reports the French group topped LVMH's value, reaching €248.6 billion ($280.5 billion) at the close of trading in Paris on Tuesday.
Hermès overtakes LVMH for luxury’s top spot after weak sales spark sell-off: FT reports the maker of Birkin bags is now the world’s most valuable luxury company, as investors bet on continued struggles at LVMH.
Fortune: LVMH says Sephora sales are slowing down in the US because Amazon is ‘very aggressive’ in lowering prices ‘and we try to avoid this technique’
Reuters: Microsoft signs large carbon removal deal backing AtmosClear's Louisiana project
This therapist helped clients feel better. It was AI: In the first clinical trial of its kind, an AI chatbot eased mental health symptoms among participants. The technology may someday help solve the provider shortage. NYT
OpenAI has updated its Preparedness Framework — the internal system it uses to assess the safety of AI models and determine necessary safeguards during development and deployment. In the update, OpenAI stated that it may “adjust” its safety requirements if a competing AI lab releases a “high-risk” system without similar protections in place.
AI industry ‘timelines’ to human-like AGI are getting shorter. But AI safety is getting increasingly short shrift Fortune
OpenAI is reportedly developing a social media platform that mirrors functionalities similar to X, with a focus on integrating ChatGPT's image generation capabilities into a social feed.
OpenAI wants to be more like Apple and Google: FC reports after expanding into internet search and exploring consumer gadgets, the company is now reportedly working on a social network.
What does OpenAI want with a social network? First, the social networks added chatbots. This time, it’s the other way around. John Herrman
OpenAI can’t afford to ignore Hollywood’s warning: In February, executives from OpenAI visited Los Angeles, hoping to strike deals with major Hollywood studios. They left empty handed. The studios declined partnerships to use Sora, the company’s AI–powered video generation tool, Bloomberg reported, citing concerns over how OpenAI would use their data and potential backlash from unions worried about job losses following the 2023 Hollywood strikes. Matt Steinberg
+ Matt Steinberg is a Tech and Public Policy Scholar at Georgetown University. He was previously a film and television development executive.
Anthropic is nearing the launch of a new voice assistant product for its Claude chatbot, nearly a year after rival OpenAI began rolling out a similar option for ChatGPT users.
Anthropic announced on Tuesday that its AI chatbot, Claude, now integrates with Google Workspace. This allows it to search and reference your emails in Gmail, scheduled events in Google Calendar, and documents in Google Docs.
Apple will begin analyzing data on customers’ devices in a bid to improve its artificial intelligence platform, a move designed to safeguard user information while still helping it catch up with AI rivals.
The debate over AI and copyright law is coming to a head in Silicon Valley: WP reports the tech industry is recoiling, arguing that without the fair-use exception, developing new AI products will be too time-consuming and expensive, or even impossible.
What can workers do if they’re fired by AI? Automated decisions are a source of under-appreciated tension in the UK government’s approach to low-paid employees. Sarah O’Connor
Hertz is alerting customers to a data breach involving drivers’ license numbers and other personal information following a hack in its supply chain.
*** Culture ***
India’s destination weddings fuel a new tourist economy: With growing affluence, more couples are choosing celebrations abroad. Bloomberg
A scientific formula for the perfect day: Four hours of exercise, six hours with family, and no doomscrolling – what could possibly go wrong? Telegraph
See how a Michigan town moved 9,100 books one by one to their new home AP
*** Sport ***
China accuses US spy agency of Winter Games cyberattacks: WSJ reports while the two superpowers are locked in a trade standoff, Beijing is growing increasingly aggressive in pushing back in other ways against perceived efforts to prevent China’s rise.
Universal Studios, Venice Beach to host LA 2028 events: AFP reports an iconic Hollywood studio lot and the golden sands of Venice Beach are among an array of Los Angeles landmarks that will stage events for the 2028 Olympic Games, organisers said Tuesday.
+ The venue for surfing was also confirmed, with the competition taking place at Trestles Beach in the coastal town of San Clemente.
Can Arsenal survive 90 minutes in European soccer’s torture chamber? The club is taking a 3-0 lead into the second leg of its Champions League
quarterfinal against Real Madrid. But now comes the hard part: It has to play in the Bernabéu Stadium. WSJ
CONCACAF President Victor Montagliani voiced his opposition to the recent proposal to expand the 2030 FIFA World Cup to 64 teams.
French Ligue 1 clubs on Tuesday voted in favour of breaking their domestic television deal with DAZN at the end of this season, leaving them facing an uncertain future.
Saints win fleur-de-lis trademark case over alleged descendant of French royalty: Guardian reports a man who claims to be a “direct descendant of the Kings of France” has lost his legal bid to wrest control of the fleur-de-lis symbol from the New Orleans Saints, after a US appeals court found he had no standing to challenge the team’s decades-old trademark.
How involved is Bill Belichick’s girlfriend at UNC? New emails show a glimpse inside her role TA
+ North Carolina football coach Bill Belichick drew headlines last month with an unusual request: The six–time Super Bowl-winning head coach wanted a Tar Heels administrator to copy his girlfriend on certain emails.
The long, expensive race to bring F1 back to Africa: It’s been more than 30 years since the last race on the continent. Bloomberg
Enjoy the ride + plan accordingly.
-Marc
Marc A. Ross | Chief Communications Strategist @ Caracal
Marc Ross Daily | April 15
Marc Ross Daily | April 15
Marc Ross Daily is geopolitical business news + intelligence for senior executives + comms pros.
Geopolitics is disrupting every business and industry. I am here to help.
Always Be Communicating.
Happy Tuesday.
Here’s today’s Marc Ross Daily:
*** Globalization + Geopolitics ***
Trump is right about unfair trade, but tariffs aren’t the right fix: Protectionism makes industries less competitive. Allison Schrager
Trump is pursuing a radical agenda. Does he have a strategy, or is he winging it? The haphazard execution of the administration’s initiatives is leading to chaos and confusion for the American public and U.S. trading partners. Dan Balz
The reality is the US is losing control of the world: The American president wants the 'Pax Americana' to be sustained by tribute payments from the rest of the world in order to endlessly fund US deficits. But with American power already in decline, we must begin to imagine a world without it. Thomas Piketty
Short-term pain will lead to long-term gain, says Trump. Really? America will be a country with shabbier roads, older airports and more dated factories. Economist
The dollar keeps falling as its ‘safe haven’ status is questioned: NYT reports President Trump’s tariff blitz has rattled investors and shaken their faith in one of the most reliable and ubiquitous assets in the world economy.
Xi calls on China, Vietnam to oppose 'bullying' amid trade friction with US: NHK reports Xi Jinping has said in his talks with Vietnam's Communist Party General Secretary To Lam that the two countries should jointly oppose unilateral bullying.
‘No winners in a trade war’ says China’s leader Xi Jinping amid tariff anxiety in Southeast Asia: FC reports Xi Jinping looked to distance China from Trump’s tariff blitz while on a diplomatic tour that will cover Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia.
Donald Trump’s China trade war a ‘boon’ for Brazil but sends US farmers reeling: FT reports Latin America’s largest economy is poised to extend its lead as China’s top food supplier.
Trump’s policy on China is a strategic blunder: US will pay a high price in both wealth and influence after underestimating Beijing’s resolve not to be pushed around. William Hague
Xi Jinping has something Trump doesn’t Benjamin Hart
Why Xi holds a stronger hand than Trump: The White House has miscalculated the balance of power in its tariff war with China. Gideon Rachman
America the unstable: The US will pay a market penalty for Trump’s turmoil. Rana Foroohar
+ Flexport ocean freight bookings from Vietnam passed bookings from China for the first time last week.
+ The US will begin imposing tariffs of more than 20% on most imports of tomatoes from Mexico, citing “unfairly priced” shipments from the country.
LVMH sales fall sharply in warning sign for the luxury industry: FT reports that slowing demand in the US and ongoing struggles in China will raise concerns for an industry grappling with Trump’s tariffs.
At China’s wholesale hub, US orders have suddenly halted. One example: Socks. Chinese sellers remain confident despite higher tariffs, saying it no longer makes sense to sell everyday goods to Americans. WSJ
‘It’s going to be messy’: Americans on how Trump’s tariffs are shaping their spending: Fallout from Trump’s trade war is forcing some Guardian readers to cut back or stock up on items from food to cars. Guardian
+ @FT: Since 1990 America has lost over 5mn manufacturing jobs. In that time, it has gained 11.8mn roles in professional and business services, and 3.3mn in transportation and logistical activities, linked to multinational supply chains.
+ A group of American businesses sued the Trump administration to block its sweeping tariffs from taking effect, arguing that it overstepped its authority in imposing the levies.
US tech tariff exemption will be temporary, says Trump: FT reports the US president says products given reprieve will fall under separate regime.
+ Apple has increased its iPhone production in India by almost 60%.
+ “The mass confusion created by this constant news flow out of the White House is dizzying for the industry and investors and creating massive uncertainty and chaos for companies trying to plan their supply chain, inventory, and demand.” -- Dan Ives, a senior analyst for Wedbush, sums up the latest twists and turns in the Trump administration’s tariff plans.
Global stocks lifted by US reprieve for Donald Trump’s tech tariffs: FT reports that the president suggests need for ‘flexibility’ but insists smartphone exemption is temporary.
Reuters: Nvidia to produce AI servers worth up to $500 billion in US over four years
CNBC: Nvidia to mass produce AI supercomputers in Texas as part of $500 billion US push
Bloomberg: Nvidia says it will build up to $500 billion of AI gear in US
Nvidia’s Made-in-the-USA move follows a familiar Trump pattern: WSJ reports the chip maker’s plan to build AI tech in Texas comes on the heels of a new tariff threat.
Reuters: Tariffs on imported semiconductor chips coming soon, Trump says
Toronto Star: Trump says he might give tariff exemption to Canadian auto parts
Trump tariffs: EU pauses countermeasures until July: DW reports the EU said the bloc would hold off on retaliatory tariffs to allow "time" for negotiations. Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping said there are "no winners" in trade wars.
China halts critical exports as trade war intensifies: NYT reports Beijing has suspended exports of certain rare earth minerals and magnets that are crucial for the world’s car, semiconductor and aerospace industries.
How India’s middle-class debt crisis is threatening growth: A rise in unsecured credit among a consumer group that symbolises the country’s investment potential is hurting its economic ambitions. FT
Sudan: 400,000 forced to flee Zamzam camp in Darfur: DW reports The United Nations has reported that fighting in Darfur has forced hundreds of thousands to flee the region's largest displacement camp. An upcoming international aide conference hopes to open the door for more support.
Russia continues to rain down death on Ukrainian cities: Economist reports soldiers can hold the line, but drones and missiles are killing civilians.
Ukraine, allies decry deadly Russian strike on Sumy: DW reports after more than 30 civilians in Ukraine were killed by a Russian missile strike, US President Donald Trump called the attack a "horrible thing." Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged for more pressure on Russia to end the war.
EU issues US-bound staff with burner phones over spying fears: FT reports that European Commission officials heading to IMF and World Bank spring meetings advised to travel with basic devices.
Why this French tech company wants to build an internet that doesn’t have to rely on Donald Trump’s America Toronto Star
The challenge of reindustrialization in France: Factories, yes, but 'not in my backyard': Le Monde reports a number of industrial projects are being challenged by groups of local residents and environmental opponents. These tensions raise the question of the social acceptability of factories at a time when France is seeking to reindustrialize.
Ecuador imposes state of emergency before razor-close election: BAT reports on the eve of a too-close-to-call presidential run-off and reacting a dramatic rise in drug-linked violence, Ecuador declares a state of emergency in seven of its 24 provinces, including the capital.
Javier Milei’s big move to normalise Argentina’s economy: A gob of IMF cash will help partially float the peso, but political and market risks abound. Economist
Trump, Milei and how to lose the trust of markets and voters: Trump stepped back from the edge, at least momentarily, even though he is keeping his finger on the trigger. Agustino Fontevecchia
What the polls in Canada are really saying: A top Canadian pollster explains how Trump completely upended the election. Politico
‘Sometimes the truth hurts’: Doug Ford weighs in as polls suggest Carney’s Liberals remain ahead of Poilievre’s Conservatives: Toronto Star reports Mark Carney's Liberals are solidifying their lead over Pierre Poilievre's Conservatives, according to Star's election predictor, the Signal.
Can Mark Carney stand up to Donald Trump? Supporters say the former central bank governor is the man for the moment as he campaigns to be Canada’s PM. FT
Canadians are cashing out their American vacation homes: WSJ reports political uncertainty, coupled with a weak Canadian dollar, is driving owners to sell properties they’ve had for decades.
As trade war tensions rise, one US city sends love to Canadian tourists: ‘We’re with you’: Toronto Star reports the city that is heavily reliant on Canadian tourism is trying to show appreciation for its northern visitors — and hopefully, stave off a boycott.
Army to control land on Mexico border as part of base, migrants could be detained, officials say: AP reports a long sliver of federal land along the US-Mexico border that President Donald Trump is turning over to the Department of Defense would be controlled by the Army as part of a base, which could allow troops to detain any trespassers, including migrants.
Trump official who oversaw closure of USAID has left State Department: WSJ reports Pete Marocco led the foreign-assistance mission at the State Department.
Trump plan would slash State Dept. funding by nearly half, memo says: WP reports funding for the United Nations, NATO, and 20 other organizations would be ended, the internal document states. It also describes a total cut in funding for peacekeeping missions.
AP: Trump criticizes Iran for ‘tapping us along’ with second round of nuclear talks set for Saturday
*** US Politics + Elections ***
How to turn Trump’s economic chaos against him James Carville
Voters are not happy with Trump’s trade war: The economy was a longtime polling asset for the president. Now, it’s a liability. Leon Sit + Max McCall
Trump’s tariffs war is sparking uncertainty for North Carolina farmers: “It’s always been a guessing game here on the farm, but I think it’s more of a guess now than it’s ever been in my lifetime,” one North Carolina farmer said last week. WP
Trump throws another Hail Mary: Coach Woody Hayes’s warning could apply to the ambitious and confident president. Walter Russell Mead
YouGov: President Trump approval:
Approve: 41%
Disapprove: 54%
Republicans set to largely avoid town halls during the congressional recess: NBC News reports as lawmakers head home for two weeks, Democrats are again taunting Republicans about the anger they’ve faced at town halls.
The Hill: Republicans fear Trump’s trade war could lead to political wipeout
Risk of failure looms large as GOP starts drafting the ‘big, beautiful bill’: Politico reports Republicans are hoping that speed and a push from Donald Trump can keep their legislative agenda afloat.
White House to ask Congress to claw back funding from NPR and PBS: NYT reports the plan is to request that $1.1 billion in federal funding be rescinded for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, a person briefed on the matter said.
Kristi Noem’s made-for-TV approach to homeland security: WSJ reports the agency’s chief has put her focus on messaging as much as action.
A podcast star rallied Silicon Valley to back Trump. Now he’s the nation’s tech czar. David Sacks led the tech elite’s rightward shift. Now the investor and longtime Musk associate is helping Trump unchain the crypto industry. WP
MAGA’s class warfare against knowledge workers is personal Ed Kilgore
AP: Suspect arrested in arson fire that forced Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, family to flee residence
Harrisburg man to be charged with attempted murder for allegedly setting fire to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s Harrisburg residence: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) and his family were uninjured, but the fire caused a "significant amount of damage" to parts of the governor's mansion, according to state police.
Suspect in Pennsylvania governor’s mansion fire charged with terrorism: WSJ reports Gov. Josh Shapiro and his family were asleep in the house when Cody Balmer broke in and lit several fires, according to authorities.
New Mexico man arrested for ‘hurling firebombs’ at Teslas: WSJ reports Attorney General Pam Bondi says she is seeking up to 40 years in prison.
Greene bought market dip before Trump paused tariffs, profiting from the rally: NYT reports the Georgia congresswoman purchased at least tens of thousands of dollars in stock the day before and the day of President Trump’s pause of a sweeping set of tariffs that sent the market soaring.
Whitmer says she didn't want her picture taken when she hid her face in the Oval Office Detroit News
Whitmer makes light of viral Trump moment in Detroit speech to business leaders Detroit Free Press
Detroit Free Press: Duggan talks 2-party 'death grip' on Michigan, predicts 'nastiest' campaign cycle in 2026
Detroit Free Press: Mike Rogers makes it official, he's running again for Michigan's next open US Senate seat
US prepares to challenge Meta’s social media dominance: NYT reports on Monday, Meta will face off against the federal government in a landmark antitrust trial over claims that it illegally quashed competition by buying Instagram and WhatsApp.
Reuters: Facebook owner Meta bought Instagram, WhatsApp instead of competing, FTC says at trial
Meta fights to keep Instagram and WhatsApp, as antitrust trial begins: WSJ reports the Federal Trade Commission says Meta has monopolized the social-media market—and should be broken up.
Zuckerberg takes stand to defend Meta against antitrust suit: NYT reports Mark Zuckerberg went to court on Monday in a trial focused on his company’s acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp. The case could reshape Meta’s business.
Elon Musk and Jack Dorsey want to kill IP law. That would be a huge mistake: As the two tech moguls call for the abolition of intellectual property law, experts warn that such a move could gut innovation and dismantle decades of legal protections. FC
GM’s Mary Barra has to make a $35 billion EV bet work in Trump’s America: The US automaker is up against tariffs, an oil-loving president and Elon Musk in the White House. Bloomberg
Bloomberg: Harvard hit with $2.2 billion freeze after defying Trump
Harvard says it will fight demands from Trump administration: WSJ reports the university will resist demands from the government, which has threatened to withhold nearly $9 billion in funding.
Harvard rejects Trump administration’s demands with federal funding at risk: WP reports the university’s response comes after the government announced a federal review of nearly $9 billion in funding for Harvard and its affiliates.
Uber and Lyft drivers in California could get the right to unionize under this bill: FC reports Assembly Bill 1340 would give rideshare drivers in California the right to unionize and negotiate for better pay, protections, and transparency—setting up a likely clash with Uber and Lyft.
*** Distribution + Innovation ***
A Blue Origin rocket sent pop star Katy Perry and company founder Jeff Bezos’ fiancee Lauren Sánchez on a trip to the edge of space and back, the first time an all-female crew went to space in more than 60 years.
Honda Motor Co. has created a space business unit in the US to promote its technology and spur more collaboration with American companies.
Self-driving truck startup Kodiak to go public in $2.5 billion SPAC deal: WSJ reports the deal comes amid slow market for US IPOs as several firms work—and sometimes struggle—to automate long-haul trucking.
Beyond BP: John Browne on the oil company’s green U-turn: Former CEO reflects on renewables backlash as he prepares to stand for election as Cambridge university chancellor. FT
60%: The percentage of general admission ticket buyers at Coachella who used "Buy-Now-Pay-Later" to finance their tickets, per Billboard.
Movie and TV filming in the greater Los Angeles area declined 22% in the first quarter, reflecting a worldwide slump in production and California’s continued loss of business to other areas.
When will AI be smarter than humans? Don’t ask: The term “artificial general intelligence” is being bandied about by some of tech’s smartest people, but nobody knows what it really means. Gideon Lichfield
Khosla-backed energy startup nabs $258 million to help power data centers: Mainspring Energy’s generators are able to run on different types of gas, including carbon-free hydrogen. Bloomberg
Netflix is testing new search technology for subscribers that employs artificial intelligence to help them find TV shows and movies, expanding its use of the technology. The OpenAI-powered search engine lets customers look for shows using far more specific terms, including the subscriber’s mood, for example.
Netflix aims to join the $1 trillion club: WSJ reports the streaming service has shared financial performance targets with staff that underscore its dominance.
AI+EQ is transforming healthcare, not just for doctors: As doctors use AI to rehumanize patient care, the systems below the surface need a human touch, too. FC
AI weather models promise super granular, specialist forecasts: The insurance industry is helping develop a new way to predict flooding down to the neighborhood level and warn communities. Bloomberg
Google is searching for an answer to ChatGPT: Big changes are underway for the internet’s most popular product, and Google (and the web) may never be the same. Bloomberg
Cyberattacks by AI agents are coming: Agents could make it easier and cheaper for criminals to hack systems at scale. We need to be ready. Rhiannon Williams
The most dangerous hackers you’ve never heard of: From crypto kingpins to sophisticated scammers, these are the lesser-known hacking groups that should be on your radar. Wired
*** Culture ***
A celebration of curiosity: David Hockney's greatest hits at the Fondation Louis Vuitton: The Paris institution has dedicated a major retrospective to the 87-year-old British painter. Le Monde
What makes Wes Anderson's style so unique? The American filmmaker has created around 20 short and feature films with his own colorful and poetic touch. But what makes his films so distinctive? After 19 hours of viewing, Le Monde's Les Décodeurs offer you a brief guide to the world of Wes Anderson. Le Monde
*** Sport ***
The lunch with Jack Nicklaus that won Rory McIlroy the Masters: Rory McIlroy burst onto the scene as a powerful dynamo. He finally won the career grand slam by evolving his game to navigate courses like a wily veteran. WSJ
Rory McIlroy’s messy masterpiece at Augusta: After a hectic, near-disastrous collapse, a golfing giant finally seals the deal. Jason Gay
NYT: Dallas Wings select Paige Bueckers with No. 1 pick in WNBA draft
Detroit Free Press: Joe Dumars, former Piston, a 'serious frontrunner' to become head of Pelicans basketball ops
Enjoy the ride + plan accordingly.
-Marc
Marc A. Ross | Chief Communications Strategist @ Caracal