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- U.S. Captures Former Venezuelan Leader Maduro — and the Global Oil Map Is Being Redrawn
U.S. Captures Former Venezuelan Leader Maduro — and the Global Oil Map Is Being Redrawn
A historic intervention in Caracas resets America's energy dominance, the Trump administration targets California over trans sports, tech momentum lifts the Nasdaq, and a massive $240M deal rocks the Dodgers.
Haleigh Rice & American Centrist
January 16, 2026
In partnership with
Today’s newsletter in 2 lines:
U.S. forces have captured former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a move that’s sent shockwaves through global energy markets. Back home, the White House is opening new fronts on education policy while Wall Street rides a fresh wave of AI-driven optimism.
Hey friends — happy Friday!
We finally made it to the end of the first full work week for many of us. If you’re feeling a bit wiped, you’re in good company. The news cycle isn't exactly offering a "soft landing" into the new year, but we’ve got you covered with the simple versions of what’s actually going on. Grab a coffee, take a breath, and let's get into it.
Joke of the day:
I told my boss I needed a raise because three other companies were after me. He asked which ones.
I said, "The electric company, the gas company, and the water company."
LET’S MAKE THIS EASY FOR YOU
Keeping up with America - Latest news on what happening in America
Around the 🌎 in 80 Seconds - Yeah we are fast at getting you the latest global news.
Lets Talk Business 💼 and Tech 🤖 - No AI is not taking over (YET)!
Rich, Wiser, Happier - This is a must read if you want any of that!
Sports and Showbiz Shenanigans - Trust me this will keep you entertained
Life Hack to Hack Your Life - What kinda tips and tricks do you have?
Keeping up with America
In a move that has stunned the world, the U.S. has captured the former Venezuelan leader. The administration is framing this as a win for American economic primacy and a way to check China and Russia’s influence in the Western Hemisphere.
The Department of Education has named 18 school districts and colleges in a widening investigation, alleging that allowing transgender girls to play in female sports violates Title IX.
Following intense protests against immigration enforcement, the President signaled he may deploy federal troops, a move that has local leaders and civil rights groups on high alert.
A new "digital-first" communication strategy is using friendly influencers to bypass traditional media and explain the surge of federal agents to the Midwest.
The U.S. Commerce Department announced late Thursday that Taiwanese tech giants will invest a quarter-trillion dollars in America. In return, the U.S. is slashing tariffs on Taiwanese goods from 20% to 15%.
The President took to social media to declare an end to funding for states protecting undocumented immigrants. Mayors from New Haven to San Francisco are already signaling immediate legal challenges.
A legal blow to the administration's energy policy: A federal judge ruled that work on a major wind project can continue, overturning a previous executive pause.
Around the World
The Matilda, a Malta-flagged bulk carrier, was hit during the attack, highlighting the ongoing risks to global grain and shipping routes.
While Washington pulls away, Ottawa is leaning in. Prime Minister Carney is emphasizing a new trade reality that contrasts sharply with the U.S. "America First" posture.
The "Brave Pioneer" marks a massive step in green shipping, designed to cut $CO_2$ and sulfur emissions significantly as the maritime industry tries to decarbonize.
He Lifeng will attend the 2026 summit next week, signaling China's intent to remain a central player in global economic governance despite trade tensions.
A diplomatic "rocky start" in Copenhagen: Denmark’s foreign minister warns that if the U.S. only wants to talk about buying the island, the meetings will be "very, very short."
Beijing expressed "stern opposition" to the new semiconductor pact, calling it a provocative move that undermines regional stability.
Do you think the U.S. should prioritize domestic chip production or continue relying on a "silicon shield" partnership with Taiwan?Reply A / B / C / D — we’ll share results in the next issue. |
Business & Tech
Tech stocks are surging after Taiwan Semiconductor (TSMC) announced it could boost equipment investment to $56 billion this year to feed the AI boom.
U.S. crude dropped to $59.19 as investors bet that the removal of Maduro could eventually lead to a more stable flow of Venezuelan oil to global markets.
Samsung remains the #1 patent holder for 2025, followed by TSMC and Qualcomm, but Canon’s longevity in the top tier of tech innovation is unmatched.
The brain-computer interface (BCI) war is heating up. Altman’s massive investment signals a major push to integrate human thought with AI processing.
Energy markets are reacting to the capture of Maduro, with traders anticipating a more predictable flow of South American crude to the Gulf Coast.
The Philadelphia-based startup is entering 2026 with a fresh CEO and a new mission to use their molecules to treat diseases rather than just detect them.
Richer, Wiser, Happier
Investors are piling into "junk" notes, but experts warn this complacency could be a trap if the economy slows down unexpectedly.
suggests pairing a difficult task (like checking your spending) with a small reward (like a favorite coffee) helps build a sustainable financial habit.
Psychologists say frequent checking leads to emotional decision-making. If you have a long-term plan, the daily "noise" of the market shouldn't change your strategy.
Early in the year, focus on skill acquisition over minor market gains. Sahil Bloom argues that a 2% extra return on your 401k is nothing compared to a 20% bump in your earning power.
Don't just toss your old toiletries. Retailers like Boots are offering advantage points for recycling makeup and packaging, which you can save up for luxury purchases.
From negotiating with your employer to tracking expenses like an athlete, these fundamentals are the "boring" way to build a massive emergency fund by December.
You Can't Automate Good Judgement
AI promises speed and efficiency, but it’s leaving many leaders feeling more overwhelmed than ever.
The real problem isn’t technology.
It’s the pressure to do more with less — without losing what makes your leadership effective.
BELAY created the free resource 5 Traits AI Can’t Replace & Why They Matter More Than Ever to help leaders pinpoint where AI can help and where human judgment is still essential.
At BELAY, we help leaders accomplish more by matching them with top-tier, U.S.-based Executive Assistants who bring the discernment, foresight, and relational intelligence that AI can’t replicate.
That way, you can focus on vision. Not systems.
Sports & Showbiz Shenanigans
The Los Angeles juggernaut adds another superstar. The deal includes opt-outs that give Tucker massive flexibility, making the Dodgers the clear 2026 favorites.
Despite the win, the "Kuminga Cloud" looms over Golden State. Rumors suggest the Mavericks and Kings are the top suitors for the disgruntled young star.
Ball’s nine 3-pointers silenced the Los Angeles crowd, proving the Hornets are a force to be reckoned with as they climb the Eastern Conference standings.
Universal is doubling down on the franchise, bringing back the Oscar winner for a sequel before the first live-action film even hits theaters.
The K-pop icon rang in the new decade with a viral Instagram post and a special event for fans, showcasing never-before-seen photos from her career.
Fans are buzzing after the high-profile couple wiped their digital traces of each other, fueling rumors of a New Year's breakup.
Life Hack to Hack Your Life
(Specific titles • Every link is stable and email-safe — no 404s)
The "first hour" rule: Don't touch your phone for the first 60 minutes of your day. It prevents your brain from starting in a "reactive" state.
Stop feeling guilty about not folding laundry. Designate a "middle ground" spot for clothes that aren't dirty but aren't put away yet to reduce visual clutter.
Small social cues like head nods and verbal acknowledgments make people feel heard and significantly lower tension during difficult conversations.
Sync your smart lights with your alarm to simulate a natural sunrise, making it easier to wake up during these dark winter mornings.
Reduce "friction" in the morning. If you don't have to think about what to wear, you're 40% more likely to actually make it to that 6 AM workout.
It sounds simple, but it stops "temptation buys." Buying in bulk only works for staples—don't let the sales convince you to buy things you don't need.
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