Stories from United States

Duke's plans to open a burger kiosk near the VRE station in Crystal City. The opening is expected to occur in late spring or during the summer. The report was provided by WTOP News.

Spending on data centers and computers to run artificial intelligence applications is currently driving economic growth in the U.S. Charlie Wise, a senior vice president at credit reporting firm TransUnion, noted that the average credit card user is carrying a balance of approximately $6,500. High earners appear able to maintain spending despite gas prices potentially reaching four to six dollars a gallon. Conversely, lower-income consumers are expected to make trade-offs due to these costs. Michael Pierce of Oxford Economics stated that business investment in AI is boosting the stock market. This strong stock market performance is subsequently supporting the top contributor to the US economy. The growth is driven by both direct business spending and broader market effects.

Bitcoin ETF inflows have surpassed their previous March streak, reaching a total of $1.9 billion.

The US economy grew by 2 percent in the first quarter of the year. The increase was partially driven by investment in artificial intelligence equipment, such as data centers, and AI software. This economic data provided a boost to Wall Street on Thursday. The S&P 500 added 73 points, while the NASDAQ rose by 200 points. Following the report, the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 790 points, a 1.6 percent increase. The NASDAQ rose 219 points and also achieved a record closing high. Preliminary data from the US Department of Commerce released on April 30 shows US GDP grew at a 2 percent annual rate in the first quarter. High gas prices may lead to cuts in discretionary spending, potentially acting as a drag on the broader economy. The Bureau of Economic Analysis reported this morning that US gross domestic product grew at an annualized rate of 2 percent from January to March.

The US President is considering three primary military options regarding tensions in the Middle East. The discussion follows shifting deadlines for military action, according to the report. Bitcoin ETF inflows have surpassed the March inflow streak, reaching $1.9 billion. The Iranian narrative suggests the use of hundreds of very fast boats equipped with weapons capable of causing losses to US warships and naval vessels. The president has discussed a potential short and intense air campaign that might be aimed at power plants and Hellenization plants, according to ABC News. Retired Colonel Mark Kansian of the Center for Strategic and International Studies stated the US has three primary military options if the president decides to act. The source noted the campaign might exclude targets at the bottom of waters.

At least three sources indicate Washington may conduct limited military operations in the Middle East. This occurs amid reports of Iranian air defenses being activated. The deadline was part of a specific congressional mandate regarding military engagement timelines. The deadline marks the conclusion of the specific mandate granted by Congress for such military actions. The US Senate Republican majority rejected a resolution proposed by two Democratic members that called for the termination of US military operations. The mechanism is intended to serve as a diplomatic hub and bring together partners in the maritime transport sector. Secretary Pete Hegseth testified for a second day, engaging in an exchange with Democratic Senator Kirsten Gillibrand regarding national security threats. Gillibrand questioned Hegseth's assessment of safety and his failure to seek public support.

Tens of thousands of Chinese citizens are risking everything to reach the United States. The migration process has resulted in zero border crossings for some groups. The cost of living in the US is described as expensive for customers and migrants.

Auckland golfer Ryan Fox is tied for 22nd place midway through his opening round at the PGA Tour's Cadillac Championship in Miami. Fox is currently seven shots off the lead.

Forecasters project a warm and dry summer in the western United States. High fuel consumption for planes and helicopters used in firefighting is expected despite jet fuel price increases. Former wildland firefighter Willis Kurti noted that climbing through the air requires power and fuel. The upcoming fire season may prove costly due to these conditions.

Advocacy groups Fair Fight Action and Black Voters Matter Fund estimate that new redistricting could eliminate nearly 200 state legislative seats held by Democratic lawmakers. These seats mostly represent majority Black districts.