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Criminal investigation raises key question: Whether Chair Powell leaves Fed in May

Criminal investigation raises key question: Whether Chair Powell leaves Fed in May

By CHRISTOPHER RUGABER, Associated Press Economics Writer

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Justice Department’s investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has brought heightened attention to a key drama that will play out at the central bank in the coming months: Will Powell leave the Fed when his term as chair ends, or will he take the unusual step of remaining a governor?

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Powell’s term as Fed chair finishes on May 15, but because of the central bank’s complex structure, he has a separate term as one of seven members of its governing board that lasts until January 31, 2028. Historically, nearly all Fed chairs have stepped down from the board when they are no longer chair. But Powell could be the first in nearly 50 years to stay on as a governor. read more

Stocks waver on Wall Street and remain near records

Stocks waver on Wall Street and remain near records

By DAMIAN J. TROISE, AP Business Writer

NEW YORK (AP) — Stocks wavered in morning trading on Wall Street Friday as the first week of corporate earnings season closes out with markets trading near record levels.

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The S&P 500 was mostly unchanged after shifting between small gains and losses. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 37 points, or 0.1%, as of 11:06 a.m. Eastern. The Nasdaq composite was also mostly unchanged.

Technology stocks were the strongest forces behind the market’s moves. Most stocks within the S&P 500 were losing ground, but several big technology stocks made strong gains and countered losses elsewhere. read more

Car shopping trends and tips for 2026 from Edmunds

Car shopping trends and tips for 2026 from Edmunds

By JOSH JACQUOT

In recent years, a shortage of vehicles, rising prices, and high borrowing costs have made it challenging for some people to purchase a new or used vehicle. Thankfully, the automotive market is shifting in ways that could be beneficial if you’re planning to buy a vehicle in the next few months. The auto experts at Edmunds have identified five car shopping trends that you can expect to see in 2026 and have advice on how to take advantage of them to get the best deal.

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More holdout shoppers are returning, boosting used car selection

Many consumers delayed buying a new car over the past several years due to high prices, limited selection and expensive loans. Those deferred purchases resulted in fewer used vehicles being available for sale. But we’re seeing that trend diminish in 2026. More consumers are finally trading in their used vehicles, which is increasing supply and variety in the secondhand market. read more

Taiwan hails its ‘best’ trade deal with US, as China protests

Taiwan hails its ‘best’ trade deal with US, as China protests

By TAIJING WU and SIMINA MISTREANU, Associated Press

TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — Taiwan’s premier on Friday hailed a new trade deal with the United States as the “best tariff deal” enjoyed by countries with trade surpluses with Washington, as meanwhile a Chinese official in Beijing condemned the accord.

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The agreement cuts U.S. tariffs on Taiwanese goods to 15% in exchange for $250 billion in new investments in the U.S. tech industry. It is comparable to deals with the European Union and Japan worked out after President Donald Trump proposed sweeping tariffs for many U.S. trading partners. read more

Location revealed for Mattel’s new toy-themed waterpark

Location revealed for Mattel’s new toy-themed waterpark

The location of toy giant Mattel’s new indoor waterpark is no longer a mystery. It’s going to be 10 minutes from Disney on Vineland Road, just south of the Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores outlet mall.

The development team, which is composed of Mattel and Orlando-based Martin Aquatic, filed conceptual plans this week for the 11-acre site that will feature a 90,000-square-foot indoor water park with a retractable roof, an outdoor waterpark and event lawn, a “slide zone” and 11,400 square feet of retail space, according to a report in GrowthSpotter. The building could be up to 60 feet high, which is definitely tall enough to fit a life-sized Barbie Dream House.

The plan from Kimley-Horn shows parking for 752 vehicles, including 368 to be located in a parking garage.

The company behind such iconic brands as Barbie, Hot Wheels and Thomas the Tank Engine, announced the water park venture just before Thanksgiving. Creative and operational work is underway, led by Orlando-based Martin Aquatic. read more