Stocks plummeted as President Trump confirmed 25% tariffs on Mexican and Canadian imports, raising concerns over U.S. economic growth and inflation. Market indices saw significant losses, with the S&P 500 down 1.8%. Economic forecasts predict a 2.8% decline in GDP for the first quarter amid escalating trade tensions and consumer price increases. (CBS News)
Rodney McMullen, chairman and CEO of Kroger, has resigned following an investigation into his personal conduct that violated the company’s Business Ethics Policy. The company emphasized that the issue was unrelated to financial performance or involving other associates. The board named Ronald Sargent as chairman and interim CEO. (UPI)
Over 60,000 Volkswagen and Audi electric vehicles are being recalled due to a faulty gear display causing the risk of vehicles rolling away. Affected models include Audi Q4 e-Trons, Q4 Sportback e-Trons, and Volkswagen ID.4s. Owners will receive software updates at no cost to prevent potential accidents. (NBC News)
Colombian President Gustavo Petro urged his country’s Congress to legalize marijuana to curb violence from cartels. He also called for coca leaves’ legalization and highlighted the multi-nationalization of drug trafficking. Petro advocates for regulation over prohibition, suggesting it would weaken cartel influence and help fight drug trafficking. (UPI)
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signed a bill eliminating civil rights protections for transgender individuals, citing the need to distinguish based on biological sex. This move makes Iowa the first state to strip such protections, affecting areas like housing, education, and public services. Iowa adopted civil rights protections for trans people in 2007. (UPI)
