While you’ve been sleeping (or perhaps scrolling in bed), I’ve been crafting today’s newsletter filled with critical minerals, economic jitters, and the most burning question of our digital age: Could 100 average dudes really take down one gorilla?
Spoiler: Elon Musk thinks so, but the gorilla begs to differ.
As always, your neatly organized daily briefing awaits just below—so grab a cup and let’s dive in.
Fatih Taskiran
In this issue:
Economy
Reverse Gear
Tech
Monkey Business
Asia
Digging for Peace
Beyond the Core
Met Gala 2025
Economy
Reverse Gear
Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis / Bloomberg
If you're feeling a little uneasy about the future, you're not alone. The U.S. economy just hit an unexpected speed bump, shrinking 0.3% in the first quarter—its first contraction since early 2022. The main culprit? President Trump’s heavy tariffs hit.
Businesses scrambled to stock up imports ahead of the hikes, causing GDP to drop the most ever. Adding to recession worries, consumer spending slowed to its weakest pace in two years. Economists warn things might get worse before they get better—so, get ready for a bumpy ride over the next few months.
The internet's latest viral obsession isn't about politics, AI, or even Taylor Swift—it's about whether 100 people can beat one gorilla in a fight. Yes, really. It's sparked fierce debate online, with MrBeast (who jokingly asked for volunteers) and even Elon Musk asking, "What's worse that could happen?"
Primatologists have weighed in, pointing out that while gorillas are far stronger than humans—pound for pound—they are usually gentle giants who tend to avoid confrontation. Thanks to gorillas, we'll never find out — they're apparently too busy napping to engage in such internet nonsense.
Trump says the deal protects American interests and prevents the U.S. from looking foolish, but Ukrainian officials say they still have the power. Both sides celebrate, but critics say this deal could spark new geopolitical tensions, turning Ukraine's underground treasures into the next frontline.
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