The Federal Reserve maintained its benchmark interest rate at a 23-year high, significantly reducing its 2024 forecast to just one rate cut from three previously. This cautious stance, driven by persistent inflation and a robust labor market, signals a prolonged period of higher borrowing costs for consumers and businesses across the United States.
OpenAI has formed a new safety and security committee, co-chaired by CEO Sam Altman, to oversee the responsible development of its next-generation AI models. This strategic move, following the recent dissolution of its specialized "superalignment" team, aims to address growing AI safety concerns and will publicly share initial recommendations within 90 days.
Southern Europe is grappling with an intense and unusually early summer heatwave, with temperatures consistently soaring above 40°C across multiple countries since mid-June 2024. This extreme weather event has triggered widespread health warnings, strained infrastructure, and is unequivocally linked by scientists to the escalating impacts of climate change.
Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun faced intense scrutiny from senators on June 18, 2024, regarding the company's alarming safety record and quality control issues, including serious whistleblower allegations of prioritizing speed over safety. Lawmakers demanded immediate accountability and a clear plan to overhaul manufacturing processes, emphasizing the need to restore public and regulatory trust following recent incidents like the Alaska Airlines door plug detachment.
In a landmark 8-1 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court affirmed the constitutionality of a federal law prohibiting individuals under domestic violence restraining orders from possessing firearms, marking a significant victory for gun control advocates. This pivotal ruling clarifies the Second Amendment's scope, confirming it does not protect the right of those posing a credible threat to physical safety to own guns and offering crucial guidance for lower courts.
Russia unleashed a massive missile and drone assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure on June 20, 2024, causing widespread power outages and extensive damage across multiple regions. This eighth large-scale attack since March highlights Russia's deliberate strategy to cripple civilian life, intensifying Ukraine's urgent calls for more advanced air defense systems from Western allies.
