Lego House
Friday, February 7th, 2025
World Events — Trump Can Still Blow Up Trade
Economists
President Trump's recent trade actions and rhetoric suggest that his aggressive stance on global trade is far from over. Despite granting a temporary reprieve to Canada and Mexico from threatened 25% tariffs, Trump has already implemented a 10% tariff on Chinese imports, with China set to retaliate on February 10th. The president's belief in tariffs as a tool for American economic growth, his desire to reduce trade deficits, and the potential use of tariff revenue to offset tax cuts all point towards a continued protectionist approach. Trump's vision of re-industrializing America through tariffs or relocation of production, combined with the federal government's need for revenue, makes the implementation of broader tariffs a real possibility. This could have profound consequences for the global economy, potentially leading to retaliatory measures from trading partners and risking a significant disruption to international trade, especially if a recession were to occur.
Tech — The iPhone SE is Coming
Bloomberg
Apple is set to unveil a significant overhaul of the iPhone SE in the coming days, with an announcement expected as early as next week and sales starting later this month. The new model will feature a modern design similar to the iPhone 14, replacing the dated home button with Face ID and incorporating Apple Intelligence. This update marks a major shift for the entry-level iPhone, which was first introduced in 2016. The revamped SE is expected to include a larger screen, an A18 chip, and a USB-C port to comply with EU regulations. While the price may increase from the current $429, it's likely to remain competitive with entry-level smartphones from Samsung and Google. Apple hopes this refresh will boost iPhone sales, which declined 1% during the holiday quarter, and appeal to markets in China, India, and other parts of Asia.
Business — Amazon Comments on Data Center Demand
Amazon has warned of potential capacity constraints in its cloud computing division, echoing similar concerns raised by Microsoft. Despite plans to invest approximately $100 billion in 2025, primarily in data centers, homegrown chips, and AI-related equipment, Amazon Web Services (AWS) is struggling to keep up with the surging demand for AI services. CEO Andy Jassy indicated that growth could be faster if not for these constraints, which stem from chip supply issues and power capacity limitations. AWS reported a 19% revenue increase to $28.8 billion in the fourth quarter of 2024, marking the third consecutive quarter of 19% growth. However, this performance did not meet expectations for accelerated growth, suggesting that Amazon faces similar capacity challenges as its rivals Google and Microsoft.
Health — Argentina to Withdraw From WHO
NBC Health
Argentina has announced its intention to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), echoing a similar move made by US President Donald Trump last month. President Javier Milei ordered the withdrawal, citing "profound differences" with the UN agency, particularly regarding its management of the COVID-19 pandemic. The decision was announced by presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni, who stated that WHO guidelines led to the largest shutdown "in the history of mankind." Milei, a right-wing leader who shares ideological similarities with Trump, has been critical of lockdown measures imposed during the pandemic. While Argentina's withdrawal will further fracture global health cooperation, its financial impact on WHO is expected to be limited, as the country was projected to contribute only about $8 million to the agency's $6.9 billion 2024-25 budget.
Shots — Orange-Carrot Turmeric Ginger Shots
No need for introduction, this shot will cure you of colds and flus.
Eating Well
Song Rec — Lego House (Ed Sheeran)
Quote of the Day
“I didn’t want to wake up. I was having a much better time asleep. And that’s really sad. It was almost like a reverse nightmare, like when you wake up from a nightmare you’re so relieved. I woke up into a nightmare.” — Ned Vizzini
enjoy your weekend!!!