The U.S. faces a severe egg shortage due to a significant outbreak of avian influenza, killing 17.2 million hens in late 2024, compounded by extreme weather and logistical challenges. The crisis has led to empty shelves and soaring egg prices, with no quick solution, highlighting vulnerabilities in food supply and public health concerns as the first U.S.
A wave of layoffs in the US is anticipated to continue until 2025, affecting major industries including tech, media, and finance. Microsoft, Amazon, BlackRock, and several other companies are planning significant workforce reductions. A prominent cause is the integration of AI and efforts to streamline operations. Companies are restructuring to enhance efficiency amidst economic challenges.
MacKenzie Scott has donated $16 billion to charitable causes in the last five years. Her Yield Giving initiative offers unrestricted grants to non-profits. In 2024, she awarded $640 million to more than 360 organizations. Elon Musk has criticized her donations, questioning their focus on racial equity and other causes. Scott now makes repeat donations to supported organizations.
A British minister criticized Elon Musk for his remarks on UK child sexual abuse scandals, accusing him of ignorance. Musk targeted UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Minister Jess Phillips on social media, labeling Phillips a "rape genocide apologist." Phillips dismissed Musk’s comments as baseless, while Starmer defended his record and condemned Musk’s rhetoric.
Indian-American lawyer Kash Patel, selected by Trump to lead the FBI, was notified by the bureau about being targeted by Iranian hackers. This follows a series of foreign hacking attempts targeting Trump associates. Relations between the US and Iran remain strained, exacerbated by ongoing tensions involving Israel and Gaza.
A humpback whale was spotted under the Brooklyn Bridge on Monday, the first such sighting in the East River since 2022. The whale, likely feeding on Atlantic Menhaden, ventured into the urban waters, an unusual occurrence due to heavy boat traffic. Experts believe the whale is a juvenile and urge the public to report any further sightings to monitor its safety.
