News

WHO takes aim at big tobacco’s vaping pivot

Published

2 years ago

December 15, 2023

The World Health Organisation (WHO) is setting its sights on Big Tobacco’s evolving tactics as it seeks to curb the growing popularity of vaping.

This unexpected shift in focus comes as a response to mounting concerns about the health implications of vaping and its appeal to younger generations.

As vaping has gained traction as a supposed safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, tobacco giants like Philip Morris and British American Tobacco have been quick to adapt, investing heavily in e-cigarette and vaping products. However, the WHO’s recent announcement threatens to disrupt their carefully crafted strategies.

The question now is whether the WHO’s campaign will succeed in stemming the tide of vaping’s popularity and if it will force these tobacco giants to rethink their approach.

While public health advocates applaud the WHO’s initiative, it remains to be seen whether it will be enough to counter the deep pockets and lobbying power of Big Tobacco.

In the coming months, the battle between the WHO and Big Tobacco is poised to intensify, with significant implications for the future of vaping and tobacco-related health concerns.

As the world watches, the showdown between these two powerful forces could reshape the landscape of the tobacco industry and public health policies.

News

Big Tech earnings spark investor unease over AI spending

Investors monitor Big Tech’s AI investments, with Meta thriving while Microsoft and Tesla face uncertainty over growth and returns.

Published

2 days ago

January 30, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Investors monitor Big Tech’s AI investments, with Meta thriving while Microsoft and Tesla face uncertainty over growth and returns.

Investors are reacting sharply to Big Tech earnings this week, sending a clear signal that massive spending must translate into real growth. Markets are becoming less forgiving as companies pour billions into artificial intelligence, data centres and future tech while returns remain uncertain.

Meta has delivered a standout performance, posting a 24 percent jump in revenue for the December quarter, fuelled by AI-powered advertising. The company is doubling down on its strategy, with aggressive investment in AI and infrastructure expected to drive a further 33 percent growth this quarter.

Microsoft and Tesla tell a more cautious story. Microsoft reported only modest growth in its Azure cloud business, raising questions about its exposure to OpenAI, while Tesla plans to double spending on AI and autonomous driving. Analysts warn of a widening gap between bold AI ambitions and what investors expect in returns.

Subscribe to never miss an episode of Ticker – https://www.youtube.com/@weareticker

News

Federal Reserve holds interest rates amid economic uncertainty

Federal Reserve holds interest rates steady, balancing inflation and jobs, as some governors advocate for a cut. #FederalReserve #InterestRates #Economy

Published

3 days ago

January 29, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Federal Reserve holds interest rates steady, balancing inflation and jobs, as some governors advocate for a cut.

The Federal Reserve has opted to keep interest rates unchanged, marking the first pause since July. Officials are showing little urgency to resume cuts, even after previous rate reductions.

Two Fed governors opposed the decision, calling for a quarter-point cut, highlighting ongoing debates within the rate-setting committee, which includes both appointed governors and regional bank presidents.

Concerns over the job market and persistent inflation continue to weigh heavily on the Fed’s policy decisions, leaving economists and investors closely watching the next moves.

Subscribe to never miss an episode of Ticker – https://www.youtube.com/@weareticker

#FederalReserve #InterestRates #Economy

News

Trump warns Iran as U.S. naval forces approach amid rising tensions

Trump urges Iran to resume nuclear talks or face stronger U.S. military response amid economic struggles and tensions rise.

Published

3 days ago

January 29, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Trump urges Iran to resume nuclear talks or face stronger U.S. military response amid economic struggles and rising tensions.

U.S. President Donald Trump has urged Iran to return to nuclear negotiations, warning that failure to do so could result in a far more severe military response. Posting on Truth Social, Trump signalled a hardening stance as tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to rise.

Trump confirmed that a U.S. naval strike group led by the USS Abraham Lincoln is moving towards Iran, as protests grow inside the country over alleged government repression.

The show of force comes amid heightened regional instability and mounting pressure on the Iranian leadership.

#Trump #Iran #USForeignPolicy