Nobody Compares To You

Those Tariffs (Tuesday, November 26, 2024)

World Events and Politics — Tariff in Office

WSJ

Donald Trump has pledged to enact an executive order on his first day in office that will impose a 25% tariff on all imports from Canada and Mexico, along with an additional 10% tariff on goods from China. He described these tariffs as a consequence for the failure of these countries to effectively address the issues of illegal drug trafficking and immigration into the United States.

Science and Technology — China’s Complicated Role in Climate Change 

MIT Technology Review 

China plays a complex role in climate change, being the world's largest emitter of greenhouse gases while also emerging as a leader in climate technology. In 2023, China's carbon dioxide emissions reached over 12 billion tons, surpassing the EU's historical emissions for the first time. Although it is crucial for China to reduce its emissions to meet global climate goals, recent trends indicate progress, with expectations of a decline in emissions due to increased adoption of low-carbon energy and electric vehicles. However, discussions at COP29 highlight tensions regarding China's responsibilities in global climate finance, as it currently makes voluntary contributions but is not obligated to pay into new funding goals aimed at assisting developing nations. The ongoing negotiations are complicated by broader geopolitical issues and differing perspectives on accountability among major nations.

Business and Finance — Oh Macy!

Macy

Macy's has postponed its third-quarter earnings release while investigating an employee who allegedly concealed between $132 million and $154 million in expenses through erroneous accounting entries from Q4 2021 to November 2, 2024. The employee is no longer with the company, and Macy's stated that the accounting error did not affect cash management or vendor payments. The department store, which was expected to report a slight decline in same-store sales, saw its stock drop 3% amid concerns over the expense issue. Analysts noted that while the preliminary results were in line with expectations, the situation raises questions about internal controls. Macy's plans to provide a full-year outlook by December 11, 2024, as it continues to execute its strategy of closing underperforming stores while investing in others.

Health and Wellness — Nobody Knows Why Ultra-Processed Foods Are Bad For You

The Economists

Research is underway to understand the health risks associated with ultra-processed foods (UPFs), which have become a significant part of global diets, particularly in high-income countries. Historical food processing methods have evolved, leading to the rise of industrially produced items that contain additives and are often high in sugar, fat, and salt. Studies indicate that diets high in UPFs correlate with obesity, diabetes, and other health issues, but the reasons behind these associations remain unclear. A recent randomized controlled trial showed that participants consuming UPFs tended to overeat and gain weight compared to those on minimally processed diets. Ongoing research aims to determine whether the harm stems from the processing itself or the nutritional content. The classification of UPFs is complex, as it can include both harmful and benign foods, complicating public health messaging. Future findings could lead to more precise dietary guidelines and better understanding of how food processing affects health.

Smoothie Bar — Strawberry Banana Cucumber Smoothie 

I am always curious how a smoothie would taste when you add cucumber in it. I imagine a pinch of freshness. Give it a try and let me know.

Song Recommendation — Nobody Compares To You by Gryffin

Quote of the Day 

“I praise loudly. I blame softly.” — Catherine the Great

Enjoy your bagels and coffee.