Chinese economy beats growth expectations in first quarter

China’s economy is facing several headwinds, inluding weak consumer activity and a debilitating housing crisis (Jade GAO) China’s economy grew far more than expected in the first quarter of 2024, data showed Tuesday, even as it is buffeted by a property-sector crisis and flagging consumer spending. Beijing has set a target of around five percent … Read more

Charges against Trump and Jan. 6 rioters at stake as Supreme Court hears debate over obstruction law

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Tuesday is taking up the first of two cases that could affect the criminal prosecution of former President Donald Trump for his efforts to overturn his election loss in 2020. Hundreds of charges stemming from the Capitol riot also are at stake. The justices are hearing arguments over … Read more

US indexes reverse lower on worries of Israel-Iran escalation and spiking Treasury yields

Andrew Kelly/Reuters US stocks fell on Monday as investors worried about an escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict. The risk-off nature of Monday’s market action sent the 10-Year Treasury yield to its highest level of 2024. March retail sales data surged 0.7%, more than double consensus estimates of 0.3%. US stocks reversed their Monday morning gains … Read more

Senate Dems pad cash leads in key races

Senate Democrats are racing further ahead of their GOP rivals in fundraising as they ready for a tough battle to keep their narrow majority. Democratic candidates and incumbents outraised Republicans over the first three months of this year in six of the seven most competitive races critical to control of the chamber. Some of them … Read more

Steve Garvey is raising millions — and paying for it

SACRAMENTO, California — Steve Garvey, the former baseball superstar turned Republican candidate, has managed to raise millions in recent weeks for his longshot bid for California’s open Senate seat — and it’s costing him. Garvey raised $3.4 million from mid-February through the end of March, and, as federal filings show, it cost him over $1 … Read more

$20 Wages Has Burger Joints In This State All Heated

Not-So-Happy Meal: $20 Wages Has Burger Joints In This State All Heated California fast-food employees started earning a minimum of $20 an hour in April. Thanks to a new law, which went into effect earlier this month, California chain restaurants with at least 60 locations nationwide have to pay their employees more. For smaller restaurants, … Read more