Simply

• The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) released proposed rules in May to modify the US Code of Federal Regulations regarding federal financial assistance and grants. • These changes would undermine the long-standing scientific peer review process by codifying the ability of political appointees to oversee and influence award decisions. • The shift is viewed as a strategic effort to obstruct scientific work through administrative burdens, described as "death by a thousand cuts" for researchers.

• Philippine inflation is projected to decrease slightly to 6.6% in June, down from 6.8% in May. • Despite the dip, inflation remains significantly above the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas target range of 2% to 4%. • Persistent pressures from food costs, electricity, and wages are expected to keep interest rates "higher for longer."

• Asian technology stocks in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan are seeing renewed investor interest following a rebound in AI infrastructure. • The shift is driven by weaker US jobs data, which has eased immediate concerns regarding interest rate hikes and led to a softer US dollar. • This change in market sentiment is altering how investors balance risk and opportunity across the region's major tech sectors.

• RBC Bearings (RBC) is facing investor scrutiny as its stock recently closed at $648.89, sparking a debate over whether its current valuation is justified. • The company's bullish outlook is driven by a narrative of accelerated earnings growth, increased profitability, and a strong position within the aerospace sector. • This premium valuation is contingent on smooth operational execution, as supply chain disruptions or failures in acquisition integration could negatively impact the stock.

• The death of former Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan has reignited critical debates regarding interest rates, deregulation, and overall financial stability. • This shift in focus is prompting investors to re-evaluate the Federal Reserve's role in credit growth, labor power, and risk-taking within the financial sector. • The renewed scrutiny directly impacts US bank and insurance stocks, as different business models and balance sheets may now appear more appealing or exposed.

• Simply Wall St identifies three cryptocurrency stocks linked to AI infrastructure as potential investment opportunities amidst current market volatility. • The analysis highlights how these stocks operate at the intersection of finance and technology, offering a hedge against fluctuating inflation trends and interest rate decisions. • This focus matters because investors are increasingly seeking exposure to long-term structural changes in technology rather than reacting to short-term economic data noise.

• Major brands are launching ambitious advertising campaigns featuring high-profile stars like Kim Kardashian, Timothée Chalamet, and Susan Boyle ahead of the World Cup. • Rather than focusing on athletic heroism, some campaigns are pivoting toward humor and relatability, highlighting the "ridiculous" logistical struggles and financial irresponsibility of fans. • This shift reflects a broader strategic move by advertisers to prioritize entertainment and cultural connection over traditional direct sales pitches.

Former DUP leader also rejects suggestion wife knew about or witnessed abuse, saying ‘there was nothing to know’Jeffrey Donaldson is “crystal clear” that an allegation he raped a girl several years ago is “simply not true”, the former Democratic Unionist party leader has told a court.Giving evidence in the third week of his trial on sexual abuse charges, the ex-MP said an allegation that he had touched the same girl’s breasts was “just unbelievable”. Continue reading...

• Simply Wall St has identified three top Asian dividend stocks as attractive options for investors seeking a balance of stability and returns. • The recommendations come as global markets face a complex landscape of economic resilience and ongoing inflationary pressures. • These equities are highlighted for their potential to provide both growth and consistent income within the dynamic Asian market.

• Simply Wall St identifies high-growth technology stocks in Asian markets, specifically highlighting Damai Entertainment Holdings and two other companies. • The analysis comes as Asian markets navigate a complex environment shaped by global geopolitical developments and key economic indicators. • These stocks are positioned to benefit from strong investor optimism surrounding advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and general technology trends.

• The provided text discusses the violent legacies of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte and makes a critical comparison to Donald Trump. • Duterte is accused of deploying police death squads to conduct a campaign of extrajudicial killings, which Catholic leaders and global rights groups labeled a “reign of terror.” • The passage highlights Duterte's own admissions of violence, including bragging about stabbing someone and expressing a desire to slaughter three million drug addicts.

Hundreds of cases reported in the DRC after USAID has been dismantled and key scientific research canceledA previously undetected outbreak of Ebola is coursing through parts of central Africa, and the US appears to be doing little to help stop it, after massive cuts to global and domestic public health efforts.There is no cure and no vaccine for the rare Bundibugyo variant of Ebola, which has caused two outbreaks in recent decades. Health leaders and scientists are now racing to understand where the virus is spreading and attempting to stop it – but the US is notably absent in these efforts. Continue reading...

• Over the last 7 days, the US market rose 3.2% and is up 31% over the past year, with earnings forecast to grow 16% annually, spotlighting undiscovered gems based on debt-to-equity, revenue growth, earnings growth, and health ratings. • Top picks include First Bancorp (68.27% debt/equity, 1.25% revenue growth, -3.09% earnings growth, ★★★★★★), Southern Michigan Bancorp (108.80% debt/equity, 7.38% revenue growth, 0.84% earnings growth, ★★★★★★), and Cashmere Valley Bank (31.63% debt/equity, 5.07% revenue growth, 1.43% earnings growth, ★★★★★★). • Other notables are ASA Gold and Precious Metals (12.65% revenue growth, 41.20% earnings growth, ★★★★★★), Anbio Biotechnology (-30.09% revenue growth, -3.45% earnings growth, ★★★★★★), and Affinity Bancshares (41.71% debt/equity, 1.36% revenue growth, -0.22% earnings growth, ★★★★★★).

• Rep. Adam Schiff has publicly declared the war with Iran 'simply unsustainable,' marking significant Democratic opposition to the administration's military strategy and escalation decisions. • Schiff has criticized President Trump's continued downplaying of the war's impacts, arguing that the costs—both economic and human—are becoming untenable for the American public and global markets. • Key Congressional figures from both parties are expressing concerns about the war's trajectory, with worries that if operations extend beyond a four to six week timeframe, the conflict could spiral out of control.