Anna's Daybreak News

_{Just facts, you think for yourself}

Friday, 5:12 AM

May 2, 2025

Good morning news friend! Step into the now with stories that shape today and influence what’s ahead. 📰🌟

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Trump’s FY 2026 Budget

President Trump’s FY 2026 budget proposal aims to cut non-defense discretionary spending by $163 billion, totaling $557 billion, a 22.6% reduction.

In contrast, he proposes $1.01 trillion for national security, a 13% increase. Major agencies like the EPA and Department of Education face funding cuts.

Programs related to environmental justice and renewable energy may be eliminated, and the U.S. Agency for International Development is targeted for dismantling.

The budget reflects a shift towards military funding while reducing social and environmental initiatives, with Congress to decide final allocations.

Sources: AXIOS, CNBC, Bloomberg, WallStreetJournal.

Israel's Air Strikes in Syria

Recent clashes near Damascus have heightened tensions, resulting in 22 deaths, including 16 security personnel.

Israel launched airstrikes near Syria’s presidential palace to protect the Druze community following remarks by a Druze cleric about Islam. The fighting involved pro-government gunmen and Druze fighters, lasting 15 hours and causing significant damage.

Druze leader Sheikh Hikmat Al-Hijri condemned the government's actions as a "genocidal attack."

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu affirmed Israel's commitment to defend the Druze and prevent military threats in the region amid escalating sectarian violence and unrest.

Sources: AP News, Reuters, NBC, TimesOfIsrael, WallStreetJournal.

DOJ vs Health Insurers

The U.S. Department of Justice sued CVS Health (Aetna), Elevance Health, and Humana for allegedly paying illegal kickbacks to brokers eHealth, GoHealth, and SelectQuote from 2016 to 2021, totaling hundreds of millions of dollars.

Brokers prioritized profits over consumer care by directing Medicare beneficiaries to plans with higher kickbacks. Additionally, Aetna and Humana pressured brokers to enroll fewer beneficiaries with disabilities.

The lawsuit followed a whistleblower complaint under the False Claims Act, with the DOJ seeking damages.

Sources: Archive, Reuters, AXIOS, Newsweek.

Apple and Amazon Earnings Report

Apple reported record Q1 revenue of $95 billion, with a net income of $24.8 billion, but faced declining sales in China and sluggish iPhone growth.

The company anticipates $900 million in tariff-related costs while shifting production to India and Vietnam and reduced its share buyback by $10 billion.

Amazon's Q1 revenue was $155.7 billion, exceeding estimates, but its AWS growth fell short. Amazon expects Q2 revenue between $159 billion and $164 billion.

Sources: Reuters, Reuters, Bloomberg, Forbes, WallStreetJournal

Alzheimer’s Vaccine

Researchers at the University of New Mexico are developing a vaccine to prevent Alzheimer’s disease by targeting the tau protein.

The vaccine, which generates strong immune responses in mice and macaques, aims to produce antibodies against pT181, a tau region associated with the disease.

Initial studies showed reduced tau tangles and improved cognitive abilities. It requires one primary inoculation and two boosters, without adjuvants. The team plans to begin Phase 1 human trials pending funding.

This approach may provide a more effective treatment compared to current FDA-approved options focused on amyloid beta.

Sources: UNM, SciTechDaily, NSN.

Dangerous Baby Beds

Recent studies revealed that children's mattresses release harmful chemicals like phthalates and flame retardants, posing health risks including neurological issues and cancer.

One study found elevated levels of over 24 toxic substances in 25 children's bedrooms. Another examined 16 new mattresses and showed that body heat and weight increase emissions of these toxins.

Children are particularly vulnerable due to their developing bodies. Current mattress safety standards do not adequately address these risks.

Researchers call for better chemical testing and regulations, while parents are advised to choose natural fabric mattresses and maintain clean sleep environments.

Sources: SciTechDaily, Ndtv, Upi, MedicalXpress.

“You can fail to achieve any of the things you planned and still live a happy and fulfilled life, because of opportunities that come along that you never planned for. But these opportunities can be missed if you stick doggedly to your preconceived blueprint.”

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:

• How Trade Wars are Reshaping the US Treasury Market

• The End of the Easy-Money Era

• The Longevity Race

Baked with love,

Anna Eisenberg ❤️