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What you’ll read?

BUSINESS

1. Levi Strauss Plans Targeted Price Increases Amid Tariffs

2. A.G. Meek to Close Gloucester Branch After 60 Years

3. Global Markets React to New U.S. Tariffs

TECHNOLOGY

1. JPMorgan Advances Quantum Computing Efforts

2. Microsoft Unveils AI Enhancements at 50th Anniversary Event

3. Apple and Amazon Face Delays in AI Assistant Upgrades

OTHER

1. China Vows to 'Fight to the End' in Escalating Trade War

2. Los Angeles Rams Announce New Headquarters

BUSINESS

Levi Strauss Plans Targeted Price Increases Amid Tariffs

Levi Strauss & Co. CEO Michelle Gass announced that any price hikes resulting from new tariffs imposed by the Trump administration will be "surgical" and minimal. The company has initiated "Project Fuel," a global productivity plan aimed at enhancing profitability through structural optimization and cost reduction, which has already led to layoffs and may result in further workforce adjustments. ​ 

A.G. Meek to Close Gloucester Branch After 60 Years

Shoe retailer A.G. Meek is set to close its Gloucester branch on April 12, citing increased operational costs and declining foot traffic. Factors influencing this decision include higher employer National Insurance Contributions and reduced business rate relief. A closing-down sale is currently underway, offering discounts and £10 vouchers. ​ 

Global Markets React to New U.S. Tariffs

The implementation of new tariffs by President Trump has led to significant market volatility. U.S. stock futures declined sharply, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropping 0.8%, the S&P 500 falling 1.6%, and the Nasdaq decreasing by 2.15%. Apple's stock reached an 11-month low due to its exposure to iPhone tariffs, while Tesla's shares also fell amid CEO Elon Musk’s public dispute with trade adviser Peter Navarro. The 10-year Treasury yield surged to 4.43%, and oil prices dropped over 4%, reaching a four-year low. 

TECH

1. JPMorgan Advances Quantum Computing Efforts

JPMorgan Chase has achieved a significant milestone in quantum computing by developing an algorithm for generating certified random numbers, crucial for cryptographic security. This algorithm was successfully tested on a Quantinuum quantum computer and documented in a peer-reviewed Nature article. While commercial deployment is still on the horizon, JPMorgan's proactive investment underscores the technology's potential in areas like risk modeling and cybersecurity. ​ 

2. Microsoft Unveils AI Enhancements at 50th Anniversary Event

During its 50th Anniversary event, Microsoft introduced significant updates to its Copilot platform, emphasizing AI integration. Enhancements include a redesigned Copilot app with a native Windows interface, Copilot Memory for personalized experiences, and Copilot Vision for real-time visual interaction. These developments highlight Microsoft's commitment to embedding AI into everyday computing. ​ 

3. Apple and Amazon Face Delays in AI Assistant Upgrades

Despite promises of revolutionary AI enhancements for Siri and Alexa, Apple and Amazon have yet to deliver the anticipated features. Amazon's Alexa+ and Apple's Siri improvements, announced for early 2025, have experienced delays, leading to concerns among users and analysts about the challenges of deploying advanced AI at scale. ​ 

Other

China Vows to 'Fight to the End' in Escalating Trade War

In response to the U.S. imposing up to 104% tariffs on Chinese imports, China has implemented 34% tariffs on all U.S. imports and export bans on rare earth materials. The Chinese Commerce Ministry has pledged to "fight to the end," raising concerns about a prolonged and intensified trade conflict. ​ 

Los Angeles Rams Announce New Headquarters

The Los Angeles Rams have unveiled plans to construct a new headquarters and training facility named Rams Village at Warner Center in Woodland Hills, Los Angeles. This 52-acre development aims to serve as a permanent base for the team and a dynamic community hub, featuring open spaces, entertainment venues, residential areas, and retail establishments. Construction is expected to span multiple years. ​ 

It's a Wrap!

Thank you for joining us in this journey through the latest updates and insights. Your engagement and support mean the world to us. We hope you found this newsletter both informative and inspiring. Stay tuned for more exciting news and stories in our next edition.

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Warm regards,
Garry