The continuing AI boom saw OpenAI raise record funding and BMW implement humanoid robots in production, while the Pentagon's standoff with Anthropic sparked debate on military AI, and Instagram rolled out self-harm search alerts to protect teens, reflecting AI's pervasive impact.
The high-stakes battle for Warner Bros. Discovery concluded with Paramount clinching the deal after Netflix withdrew its bid, raising uncertainty for CNN's future, while Trump Media explored spinning off Truth Social and Advent International eyed an aerospace supplier.
US-Iran tensions flared with diplomatic withdrawals and military concerns, while President Trump proposed a "friendly takeover" of Cuba and addressed midterm election implications, alongside a shift in American sympathy towards Palestinians and ongoing Pakistan-Taliban conflict.
A Green Party by-election victory delivered a "severe setback" to Labour, challenging Britain's political duopoly, as debates continued over UK visa policies and competition watchdog recommendations on non-compete clauses, with HMRC reporting increased tax collection from large businesses.
US bank stocks experienced a significant slide amidst worries over private credit, while **Blackstone's chief received a $1.2bn income, and earnings reports from Intuit and British Airways owner IAG showed varied results, alongside Lululemon's founder intensifying a board battle**.
**OPEC+ was expected to resume oil output hikes, while Germany's oil and gas production dwindled, India cemented its status as a major economy, and the EU pursued a South American trade deal, with China's central bank moving to slow the renminbi's advance**.
The Trump administration's proposed ACA changes could significantly increase deductibles, while Ken Paxton's "anti-business" policies drew criticism, and small companies lamented lost tariff refunds, alongside a Nebraska auditor's vigorous oversight of state workers.
Target committed to removing artificial dyes from cereals, Gucci's creative director faced scrutiny over his debut collection, and Bloomingdale's defied department store trends, reflecting evolving consumer preferences and retailer adaptation.
Guidance was offered on business debt consolidation loans and healthier financial habits, while the IRS provided free tax filing options, and a Bitcoin baron pursued a libertarian paradise in Nevis.
London prepared for diverse exhibitions, the Bayeux Tapestry secured sponsorship from a billionaire, a vintage dealer's legacy was celebrated, and the Berlinale chief's future faced uncertainty amid a Gaza controversy.