Anna's Daybreak News

_{Just facts, you think for yourself}

Wednesday, 5:23 AM

June 4, 2025

Good morning news friend! Follow the pulse of today’s world as it shapes the path to tomorrow. 📰🌟

Click here to read the poll results and comments from our previous edition. Over 5,083 people gave their opinion about China’s manufacturing slump, credit card fees and more!

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Trump's Steel and Aluminum Tariffs Double

President Trump announced a tariff increase on steel and aluminum imports from 25% to 50%, affecting nearly all trading partners except the UK.

The U.S. seeks proposals from partners to avoid further tariffs by July 8. Canada and Mexico, major steel suppliers, will be impacted. About 25% of U.S. steel is imported, primarily from Canada.

The aluminum industry anticipates rising costs, with price premiums doubling this year. As of March 2025, U.S. steel prices reached $984 per metric ton, much higher than in Europe or China.

Sources: Reuters, AP News, Bloomberg, FinancialTimes.

China's Export Restrictions on Critical Minerals

China's export restrictions on critical minerals are disrupting global supply chains for automakers and manufacturers.

As of June 2025, around 90% of these supplies come from China, raising concerns among automakers in Germany, Japan, India, and the U.S. Ford has halted Explorer production due to magnet shortages, with GM, Toyota, and Volkswagen also warning of risks to critical component manufacturing.

President Trump is discussing the situation with Chinese President Xi Jinping and plans to use emergency powers to enhance U.S. critical mineral production.

Sources: Reuters, Reuters, JapanTimes, Scmp, WallStreetJournal.

Wells Fargo Breaks Free

Wells Fargo has had its seven-year Federal Reserve asset cap lifted, allowing it to grow beyond the $1.95 trillion limit.

This decision, effective June 3, signals a recovery for the bank after its fake-account creation scandal. CEO Charlie Scharf emphasized the importance of improving governance and corporate culture.

Following the cap's removal, the bank aims to expand its credit card, wealth management, and commercial banking services.

Wells Fargo shares rose 2.7% after-hours, and Scharf announced a $2,000 award for all employees to acknowledge their contributions during the recovery period.

Sources: AP News, WallStreetJournal, Reuters, Bloomberg.

Labor Market Update

The U.S. labor market displayed mixed signals in April 2025, with job openings rising by 191,000 to 7.391 million, while layoffs surged by 196,000 to 1.786 million, the largest increase in nine months.

Hiring rose by 169,000 to 5.573 million. The quits rate fell by 150,000 to 3.194 million. Job openings were mostly in small to medium enterprises, with healthcare and social assistance leading sectors.

Despite rising layoffs, overall job retention remains relatively stable. Economists expect slower job growth in May with the unemployment rate steady at 4.2%.

Sources: Reuters, Bloomberg, AP News, Fxstreet.

Berries to the Rescue

A study involving 86,430 participants over 24 years found that high flavonoid intake reduces the risk of frailty, impaired physical function, and poor mental health, particularly in women.

Men also benefit, especially regarding mental health. Increased intake of three servings of berries per day correlates with an 8% to 11% lower risk of aging-related issues for women and a 15% reduction in men’s mental health risks.

Another study with 120,000 participants confirmed that diverse flavonoid (tea, berries, dark chocolate, apples) consumption lowers the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and neurological disorders.

A daily intake of around 500 mg, roughly two cups of tea, is linked to a 16% lower mortality risk.

Sources: SciTechDaily, Medicalxpress, News-Medical, DiscoverMag.

Saharan Dust Cloud Headed to America

A large Saharan dust cloud is headed for the southeastern U.S., covering 2,000 miles and expected to reach Florida, Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi by Wednesday and Thursday.

The dust, which can be up to 4 kilometers thick, may impact air quality for those with respiratory issues but could also create vivid sunrises and sunsets. Its high aerosol optical depth of 0.55 indicates a significant concentration.

The dust may reduce hurricane formation, aligning with NOAA's prediction of an active hurricane season. Residents are advised to take precautions as the dust arrives, particularly those vulnerable to respiratory conditions.

Sources: Sciencealert, NYTimes, AP News, Scientificamerican.

“Knowledge is the eye, courage the hand; greatness demands both, the only true path to outlasting your own demise.”

Did you know we also write in-depth deep dives? They are long, packed with insights, and have received rave reviews. If you’re up for a detailed, action-packed read, check them out:

• Private Equity, Unpacking the Engine Room of Modern Capitalism

• Ethanol: Hype, Hope or the future of Fuel?

• AI Chip Cold War

Baked with love,

Anna Eisenberg ❤️