December 13, 2025

US Seizes Venezuelan Oil Tanker Skipper Amid Rising Tensions Over Maduro

The US seized the oil tanker Skipper carrying 1.85 million barrels of Venezuelan crude. The ship is headed to Houston but too large to dock there. US is stepping up pressure on President Maduro with more ship seizures expected. Chevron’s licence in Venezuela was also renewed, highlighting US strategy.

December 13, 2025

J&J Ordered to Pay $40 Million in Ovarian Cancer Baby Powder Case

A California jury has ruled that Johnson & Johnson must pay $40 million to two women who blamed their ovarian cancer on decades of using J&J’s talc-based baby powder. The company says its products are safe and plans to appeal.

December 13, 2025

Australia Triples Home Battery Subsidy to $7.2bn but Limits Discounts on Larger Systems

Australia boosts a popular home battery subsidy from $2.3bn to $7.2bn over four years. Discounts for bigger batteries will shrink, encouraging smaller, 'right-sized' systems. Thousands of households now save up to $2,000 yearly on energy bills with solar and battery combos.

December 13, 2025

Melbourne’s $10.2bn West Gate Tunnel to Open This Sunday, Promising Smoother Rides

After delays and cost overruns, Melbourne's West Gate Tunnel will open Sunday. The 16km route offers new tunnels, roads, cycling paths, and tolls to reduce city traffic.

December 13, 2025

US Labor Secretary Cracks Down on H-1B Visa Abuses to Protect American Jobs

US Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer announces a stronger clampdown on H-1B visa misuse. The Project Firewall targets wage suppression and protects domestic workers with nearly 200 investigations underway.