Stories from New York · United States

A report from the New York Times states that sexual offender Jeffrey Epstein wrote a farewell letter in the weeks preceding his suicide. The letter has not been included in the US Department of Justice investigations so far.

Dolly Parton has been named one of the 30 greatest living American songwriters.

Corporate investments in the United States increased by over 10 percent during the first quarter. This growth rate is the strongest recorded since 2023. The increase is driven by investments in artificial intelligence and the construction of new data centers.

Chevron's international refining division has recorded a loss of one billion dollars. Exxon's worldwide output is also reported to be remaining offline. The financial impact is attributed to specific refining division performance.

Estee Lauder is increasing its job cut target to 10,000 positions, up from a previous target of 7,000. The company stated the cuts are part of an ongoing turnaround and restructuring effort.

New York Magazine has released a list of the 30 greatest living American songwriters to honor individuals who shaped the contemporary music industry. Contemporary stars like Taylor Swift and Jay-Z are also included in the selection.

A WNYC investigation identified more than 700 unlicensed tow trucks operating on New York City streets last year. The investigation was conducted by WNYC. The findings follow a seasonal inquiry into the city's towing industry. The city's Department of Consumer and Worker Protection is responsible for licensing operators, while the state DMV is responsible for issuing tow truck plates. This contradictory regulatory structure is described as a recipe for disaster.

Drivers in New York City are reportedly defacing or obscuring license plates to avoid camera-based speeding tickets. One individual has received more than 16 such tickets in the past year.

Exxon and Chevron both reported quarterly profits that exceeded analyst expectations on Friday. The report comes as energy markets remain volatile due to the ongoing conflict with Iran. AAA reports the average price of regular gasoline in the United States is now $4.39 per gallon. Gasoline prices increased by 33 cents per gallon over the last week, including a 9-cent increase overnight. These price increases occurred despite production disruptions caused by ongoing war. Chevron shares closed down 1% following the report. Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Vincent Piazza noted consistent upstream price appreciation during the end of the quarter. Exxon reported that approximately 15% of its worldwide output remains offline due to the war in Iran. Chevron's international refining division reported a one billion dollar loss resulting from higher transportation costs and lower margins.

The Dow Jones industrial average rose 300 points in early trading. The report was delivered by Charlie Pellet in New York. Joe Matthew reported from Washington. Crude oil prices have decreased slightly from their Monday peak, though the U.S. benchmark remains above $100 per barrel. The S&P 500 index rose 53 points to 7,254. The US dollar's exchange rates were noted against several currencies, including the Korean Won at 7.837, Japanese Yen at 157.7, and Chinese Yuan at 6.829. The US dollar showed mixed performance against other currencies, with rates including 7.837 Korean Won, 157.7 Japanese Yen, 0.782 Swiss Francs, 1.362 Canadian Dollars, and 6.829 Chinese Yuan. Currency exchange rates reported include the US dollar at 6.829 against the Chinese yuan and 1.171 against the Euro. West Texas crude oil prices dipped 3%, trading at approximately $101 per barrel.