Franklin Templeton has filed with the SEC to launch two ETFs that reinvest dividends from U.S. stocks into Bitcoin. The funds, named Franklin U.S. Equity Bitcoin DRIP Index ETF and Franklin U.S. Innovation Bitcoin DRIP Index ETF, will initially have a 5% Bitcoin weighting, capped at 20%. This move follows a trend of crypto-linked ETF launches.
The U.S. Department of Defense is requesting $80 billion to cover costs related to the Iran conflict and other non-war expenses, according to Deputy Defense Secretary Stephen Feinberg. A broader funding request including non-defense priorities may follow soon.
International soccer fans attending the World Cup in the U.S. are sharing their fascination with everyday American culture, from unlimited soda refills and large portion sizes to unique roadside attractions like Buc-ee's. Despite political tensions, fans express positive experiences with American hospitality, highlighting a 'people-to-people' connection that builds U.S. soft power.
The U.S. has launched an investigation into Germany's pharma policies, citing "persistent underpayment" for medicines as Germany seeks to control rising healthcare costs. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer expressed concern over proposed legislation to reduce drug spending, calling it a "serious step backwards."
Direct talks between the US, Iran, Qatar, and Pakistan to finalize a tentative agreement to end the war in Iran have been postponed by Switzerland's Foreign Ministry. The agreement includes sanctions relief for Iran and a halt to military operations in Lebanon.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung told U.S. President Donald Trump at the G7 summit that the North Korean nuclear issue requires a unique approach, distinct from other global conflicts. Lee proposed a phased strategy, starting with halting nuclear material production and exporting existing materials, which Trump agreed to consider.
President Lee Jae Myung stated he advised U.S. President Donald Trump at the G7 summit that the North Korean nuclear issue requires a distinct strategy, differing from how other regional conflicts are handled. Lee proposed a phased approach, focusing first on halting nuclear material production and overseas shipment before long-term denuclearization.
The U.S. Department of Defense is requesting $80 billion to cover costs related to the Iran conflict and other non-war expenses, according to Deputy Defense Secretary Stephen Feinberg. A broader funding request including non-defense priorities may follow soon.
The U.S. military struck a boat in the eastern Pacific Ocean, killing three individuals accused of drug smuggling. This incident is part of a broader campaign by the Trump administration against alleged "narcoterrorists," bringing the total killed in such strikes to at least 211 since September. Critics question the legality and effectiveness of these actions, particularly as fentanyl is often trafficked overland.
The U.S. military struck a boat in the eastern Pacific Ocean, killing three people, in its ongoing campaign against alleged drug traffickers. This incident brings the total killed in such strikes to at least 211 since September. Critics question the legality and effectiveness of these actions, especially concerning fentanyl trafficking.
Donald Trump rejected claims that the conflict with Iran exposed limits to US power, stating there are 'no limits' to what the US can achieve. The US and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding to end hostilities and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
President Trump rejected claims of limited US power after a peace deal with Iran, stating 'no limits' to US capabilities. The agreement, which reopened the Strait of Hormuz, was framed by Trump as a military victory and unconditional surrender by Tehran, despite analysts noting a retreat from original US demands.
President Trump rejected claims of limited US power after a peace deal with Iran, stating 'no limits' to US capabilities. The agreement, which reopened the Strait of Hormuz, was framed by Trump as a military victory and Tehran's 'unconditional surrender'.
Oil prices experienced volatile trading as U.S.-Iran talks in Switzerland were canceled due to logistical issues. Vice President JD Vance noted Iranian ships honored commitments. OPEC anticipates continued oil demand, rejecting IEA's supply glut forecasts. Analysts predict near-term prices between $75-$82.
President Lee Jae Myung stated he informed U.S. President Donald Trump that the North Korean nuclear issue requires a distinct approach compared to other nations' nuclear challenges. This discussion occurred during the G7 summit in France.
Talks for a US-Iran peace agreement in Switzerland were cancelled after US VP JD Vance withdrew. Former President Trump described the deal as 'unconditional surrender' by Tehran. Meanwhile, stock markets remain near record highs despite uncertainty, and crude prices have steadied.
Oil prices experienced volatile trading as markets weighed an interim U.S.-Iran deal and increased shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Vice President JD Vance noted a recovery in tanker activity and adherence to commitments by Iran. OPEC's Haitham Al Ghais rejected IEA's supply glut forecasts, expecting continued demand growth.
U.S. officials defended an interim deal with Iran, including a proposed $300 billion reconstruction plan, against criticism of giving "too much." Oil markets reacted with restraint as investors focused on potential U.S. interest rate hikes and OPEC's outlook on oil demand.
The Middle East is showing early signs of post-war recovery after the U.S. and Iran signed a memorandum to end the conflict. The Strait of Hormuz has reopened to oil tankers, and daily life is returning to Tehran. U.S. VP JD Vance stated Iran will not receive direct U.S. funding.
The U.S. military struck a boat accused of drug smuggling in the eastern Pacific, killing three people. This incident is part of a broader campaign against alleged traffickers, bringing the total killed in such strikes to at least 211 since September. Critics question the legality and effectiveness of these operations.
A Senate version of the U.S. defense bill for fiscal year 2027 includes a provision requiring the defense secretary to report on the road map for transferring wartime operational control (OPCON) to South Korea. The reports are to be provided to Congress every 90 days through 2030.
A U.S. diplomat stated that North Korea's denuclearization is a "very high" priority for the Trump administration, despite Pyongyang's insistence on its nuclear status. The diplomat also discussed the transfer of wartime operational control to South Korea, emphasizing reliance on military opinion.
The US has lifted its blockade on Iranian ports as part of a ceasefire agreement, allowing oil tankers safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz for 60 days. Negotiations continue on sanctions relief and a reconstruction fund.
Oil prices saw minimal change as VP Vance reported a significant increase in tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. This follows a US-Iran deal to end a conflict, which includes lifting a naval blockade and allowing toll-free transit. Analysts remain cautious about the long-term impact on supply disruptions.
