Axios

DAVOS, Switzerland — In an age of populism and growing insularity, the World Economic Forum defied the odds this year by reclaiming its lost currency: relevance.

Why it matters: Thanks to a transformative technology and a hurricane of American power, Davos truly was the locus of global events.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected a request by the White House to allow President Isaac Herzog to attend the launch ceremony of President Trump's Gaza Board of Peace on Thursday in Davos, according to two sources familiar with the details.

Why it matters: The White House saw the launch of the Board of Peace as a key element in implementing the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal and a one of they key action items for Trump in Davos.

The trilateral talks between the U.S., Russia and Ukraine in Abu Dhabi were "productive" and made progress, U.S. officials said.

Why it matters: The talks were a new phase in the U.S. mediation efforts aimed at ending the war. President Trump's advisers were very optimistic after the talks on Saturday and felt they managed to go on a path that will allow them to narrow the gaps on the key sticking point — the territorial control in eastern Ukraine.

President Trump on Saturday reverted to a favored insult for Canadian leadership, calling Prime Minister Mark Carney "governor" and threatening a 100% tariff against the key U.S. trading partner.

Why it matters: After a period of warmer relations following Carney's election, the gloves have come off in the last week.

The number of living Holocaust survivors has dropped below 200,000 for the first time, a new demographic study has found.

Why it matters: The stark milestone comes as antisemitism rises globally and Holocaust denial spreads online.

Vice President Vance on Friday announced plans to block foreign aid for groups supporting gender identity and diversity programs, expanding an existing ban on organizations providing abortion-related services.

Why it matters: The broadened "Mexico City" policy — referred to as a global gag rule — affects more than $30 billion in foreign assistance to both foreign and domestic organizations.

President Trump on Thursday rescinded Canada's invitation to his "Board of Peace" for Gaza, deepening a feud with Prime Minister Mark Carney that reignited at the World Economic Forum in Davos this week.

Why it matters: It's the latest sign of a splintering partnership between the U.S. and one of its longest-standing allies.

The Oscars' recent support of foreign-language cinema marks one of the most rapid taste turnarounds for the awards body in recent history.

By the numbers: Before "Parasite" broke the foreign-language barrier and took home Best Picture in 2020, only 11 non-English films were nominated for the top award. In the six years since, 10 have been in contention for Best Picture.

World powers see space as a future battlefield. The consequences are enormous.

The big picture: Tomorrow's wars will be fought in the stars above as well as on the ground below. Preparations are happening today.