President-elect Trump demanded Panamanian authorities either lower fees for U.S. ships to transit the Panama Canal, or return its control to the United States.
Why it matters: The U.S. ceded one of the world's most crucial pieces of infrastructure in 1999, and China has become increasingly influential in its operations since.
Republican members of Congress took to the Sunday shows to praise Trump lieutenant Elon Musk's involvement in last week's government funding saga, with one likening him to "our prime minister."
Why it matters: The tech billionaire's influence is being fueled by threats to fund electoral challenges against those who defy him, creating a powerful incentive for Republicans to go along with his demands.
In less than a month, TikTok could be banned in the U.S. — and the fate of a multibillion-dollar creator economy is at stake.
Why it matters: The global influencer industry is worth about $250 billion, Goldman Sachs estimates. TikTok is where the big money is, and where many influencers have built their largest and most loyal followings.
James Lindsay, the founder and CEO of Rap Snacks, has carved out a unique niche in the consumer goods industry by merging his passion for snacking and hip-hop culture.
The big picture: A native of Philadelphia and an alumnus of Cheyney University, Lindsay's entrepreneurial path reflects roughly 30 years of dedication, creativity and guidance.
Party City is planning to close all of its stores, more than a year after it exited bankruptcy, the retailer confirmed Saturday in an email to consumers.
Why it matters: The New Jersey-based party supplies company has been struggling for years even before the pandemic.
Congress stopped the clock ticking toward a government shutdown early Saturday after the Senate followed the GOP-controlled House's lead in passing a stopgap measure that runs through March.
The latest: The resolution came after a Trump-backed plan to suspend the debt ceiling failed in the House Thursday and was nixed from the funding plan.
Holiday travelers fretting over how a government shutdown would affect their flights can breathe easy — now that both chambers of Congress have approved a temporary stopgap avoiding the prospect.
The big picture: An estimated40 million people are expected to fly during one of the busiest travel periods of the year, and TSA agents and air traffic controllers will continue to work.
The MAGA-verse, with President-elect Trump and Elon Musk at the helm, continues to wield unprecedented power over Congress — but it has also found its limits.
Why it matters: Three times now, the influential voices surrounding Trump — often organizing on X — have failed to get exactly what they want.
Homes listed over $1 million are taking up a larger share of the market, per Redfin.
The big picture: Wealthy people are the ones who can play in this market. Million-dollar homes grew 1 percentage point to 9.3% in 2024 from 2023, Redfin found.
