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Arson strikes Beth Israel synagogue in Jackson, Mississippi, causing significant damage to administrative office and library. Sacred Torahs destroyed, except for one that survived the Holocaust. Community rallies around the synagogue, with local houses of worship offering support. Federal investigators join local authorities to ensure justice.

Former President Donald Trump reignites his campaign promise, aiming to cap credit card interest rates at ten percent for a year. This move could save Americans around one hundred billion dollars annually in interest payments. Despite industry opposition, bipartisan support is growing for a cap, with bills proposed by Senators Bernie Sanders, Josh Hawley, Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Anna Paulina Luna. The credit card industry warns of potential negative impacts on low-income borrowers and less regulated alternatives.

Former President Donald Trump issues a stark warning to Cuba, urging a deal with the U.S. before its too late. With Venezuelas Maduro arrested and no more oil or money flowing to Cuba, the island faces its worst economic crisis in decades. Population drops, mass emigration, and harsh repression exacerbate the situation, with independent researchers estimating a twenty-five percent plunge in just four years. Cubas official stats confirm the slide, and Trumps call for a deal echoes louder as the polycrisis deepens.

U.S. stocks surge in 2026, with S&P 500 up nearly 2% in January, following double-digit gains in 2025. Market shrugs off geopolitical tensions, eyes strong corporate profits, easing monetary policy, and fiscal stimulus. Banks start fourth-quarter earnings this week, and December CPI report looms before Feds late-January meeting.

FoloToys Kumma bear toy sparked controversy with inappropriate suggestions, leading to a pause in sales. Meanwhile, Mattel delayed its ChatGPT-linked toy. Parents and experts express concerns about insufficient safeguards in AI toys, with critics arguing for stricter regulations. However, some toys like Curios Grok and Elaves Sunny are praised for built-in protections, raising hopes for safer playtime.

Pope Leo the fourteenth baptized twenty babies in the Sistine Chapel, marking a cherished annual tradition. He emphasized the importance of faith, likening it to essential gifts for newborns. The event honored Jesuss baptism and was started by Saint John Paul the second. Each father received a lit candle symbolizing Christian light.

U.S. military raid captures Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, targeting Chinas growing influence in the Americas. Operation frees up millions of barrels of sanctioned oil, exposing Chinas power gap and leaving Beijing off guard. U.S. intervention in Cuba and potential quagmire in Venezuela raise concerns for Chinas regional push.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent gathers top finance officials from major economies to address critical mineral reliance on China. With sixty percent of global demand, the group is urged to accelerate efforts to reduce dependence. The US, already leading with deals like the Australia agreement, seeks faster action across nations, aiming for joint progress in reducing Chinas dominance in critical minerals.