Today Quick Reads
South Korean court issues warrant to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol.
A South Korean court approved an arrest warrant for impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol over his controversial martial law decision on December 3. This unprecedented action follows Yoon’s suspension from office after the National Assembly’s impeachment vote. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo now serves as acting president while the Constitutional Court decides Yoon’s fate.
Read Full StorySBI Life picks up 10% stake in Bima Sugam India Federation
SBI Life has approved a 10% stake acquisition in Bima Sugam India Federation for ₹6.6 crore. Bima Sugam, established in June 2024, aims to develop a centralized marketplace for insurance products and services. The investment will consist of 66 lakh equity shares at a face value of ₹10 each, pending an increase in Bima Sugam’s authorized share capital.
Read Full StoryMike Johnson gains Trump’s backing: What’s next for House Speakership battle?
President-elect Donald Trump endorsed House Speaker Mike Johnson, calling him a hardworking leader as Johnson prepares for a contentious speakership race. Despite Trump’s support, Johnson faces criticism from far-right Republicans over a recent spending deal. With leadership votes approaching, some GOP members express doubts about Johnson’s ability to unite the party and address spending concerns.
Read Full StorySouth Korea orders inspections of all Boeing 737-800s after Jeju Air crash
South Korea will inspect all Boeing 737-800 aircraft following a devastating crash that killed 179 people. This incident, the nation’s worst aviation disaster in decades, has raised concerns over government response amid a leadership vacuum due to recent political turmoil. Investigations are ongoing, with officials reviewing safety protocols and communication issues related to the crash.
Read Full StoryTrump’s sexual abuse verdict upheld: Appeals court affirms $5M award to Carroll
A federal appeals court upheld a jury’s decision that Donald Trump sexually abused columnist E. Jean Carroll in the mid-1990s, maintaining a $5 million award for defamation and abuse. Trump, who skipped the initial trial, has denied the allegations. The court dismissed his lawyers’ claims of trial errors, affirming the previous findings against him. Carroll expressed gratitude for the ruling.
Read Full StoryLinda Lavin, TV’s ‘Alice’, dies at 87 – Remembering her legendary career
Linda Lavin, acclaimed Tony Award-winning actress and star of the sitcom "Alice," has died at 87 from lung cancer complications. Known for her role as a waitress and working mom, Lavin’s career spanned Broadway and television. She recently promoted new projects and left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry, celebrated for her comedic and dramatic performances.
Read Full StoryCrypto has an ally in the White House. What lies ahead for digital currencies.
Bitcoin enthusiasts are optimistic about a digital asset boom under President-elect Trump, with the cryptocurrency recently surpassing $100,000. Trump plans to position the U.S. as the "crypto capital" and has appointed crypto allies to key government roles. Investors are hopeful for favorable regulations and a strategic bitcoin reserve, driving significant investment into crypto-related exchange-traded funds.
Read Full StoryCredit spreads haven’t looked this good since the 2000s. Can they get better?
In 2024, companies capitalized on favorable financing conditions, issuing record levels of debt amid tightening credit spreads. Investment-grade firms issued $1.662 trillion, a 27% increase from 2023, driven by strong corporate earnings and investor demand. However, future issuance depends on spread attractiveness and macroeconomic factors, as uncertainty looms over inflation and potential volatility in 2025.
Read Full StoryIt’s the most indispensable machine in the world—and it depends on this woman
Brienna Hall, a customer-support engineer at ASML, plays a crucial yet unseen role in the global economy by maintaining extreme ultraviolet lithography machines vital for microchip production. These complex machines, essential for devices like smartphones and computers, rely on Hall’s expertise to operate efficiently. Her work ensures the smooth functioning of semiconductor manufacturing, highlighting the significance of her role in technology.
Read Full StoryFear that China rules the waves jolts US to pursue maritime revival
Rising tensions with China are prompting the U.S. to strengthen its maritime sector, essential for national security. The Navy aims to revitalize shipbuilding and the commercial fleet through proposed legislation, the SHIPS Act. As China dominates shipping, U.S. officials stress the need for a robust maritime strategy, linking economic development with naval power to ensure future competitiveness.
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