February 19, 2026

California Proposes Billionaire Tax Amid Medicaid Cuts; Billionaires Threaten to Leave

California plans a 5% one-time billionaire tax to offset Medicaid funding cuts. Billionaires resist, moving assets out. Bernie Sanders backs the tax campaign.

February 19, 2026

Brazil Imposes High Duties on Chinese Steel Amid Dumping Probe

Brazil hits Chinese steel imports with duties up to $670 per tonne after finding they are sold below fair prices. The move aims to protect local steelmakers from financial losses.

February 19, 2026

Nearly 200,000 UK Students Demand Compensation Over Pandemic Tuition; UCL Settlement Reported at £21m

Nearly 200,000 students from UK universities claim compensation for disrupted education during COVID-19. University College London reportedly pays £21m in a confidential settlement, sparking a wider legal fight.

February 19, 2026

US Factory Output Rises 0.6% in January, Biggest Gain in Nearly a Year

US factory production jumped 0.6% in January, the strongest monthly rise since February 2025. The boost brightens prospects for a manufacturing sector hit by tariffs and interest rates.

February 19, 2026

Trump Administration Releases Final Funds, Gateway Tunnel Construction to Resume Next Week

The Trump administration released $127 million owed to the Gateway Tunnel project, enabling construction to restart next week. This clears delays in the $16bn rail link between New York and New Jersey damaged since Hurricane Sandy.