Stories from United States

Former congressional representative and gubernatorial candidate Eric Swalwell utilized $40,000 of campaign money to pay for legal counsel following sexual misconduct allegations. Financial records indicate payments were made to attorney Sarah Azari shortly after the accusations surfaced. Additionally, the campaign paid a law firm over $121,000 between January and April 18, though the direct link to the allegations remains unconfirmed.

Financial advisors are encouraging US investors to enhance their portfolios by incorporating specialized funds, such as energy and hedge funds. While some investors manage their core assets independently, integrating these alternative investment vehicles is seen as a significant way to improve overall portfolio performance.

A discussion on WLS-AM 890 highlighted the financial thresholds for family offices. The segment noted that $15,000,000 represents the very low end for a potential family office, often falling into the category of a multi-family office. Amounts in the $2 to $3,000,000 range are typically still receiving investment advice from external advisors.

The United States reported a GDP growth rate of only 1.4% for the fourth quarter.

A court has upheld the conviction of a man found guilty of illegally accessing and leaking the medical records of the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. The defendant claimed the access was accidental and blamed a software error. The ruling reinforces legal protections for sensitive judicial medical data.

Amazon has officially commenced drone delivery services in select parts of the United States. The delivery method involves dropping packages from a height of approximately 10 feet. While operational, the method has drawn public attention due to the noise and impact of the drop. The company is reportedly concerned about drones bumping into people. This method was discussed on NPR's Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me quiz show.

The FDA has denied approval for a New Jersey-based company's injectable medication designed to treat strokes caused by ruptured brain aneurysms. The agency cited issues with the drug's chemistry, manufacturing, and controls. This denial comes after previous research indicated the drug could prevent sudden cardiac death.

Two wildfires in Georgia destroyed 120 homes after being sparked by a balloon landing on a power line.

Shareholders have approved the $81 billion Warner Paramount mega merger, moving the Paramount Skydance bid closer to completion. This deal is expected to significantly reshape the Hollywood media landscape and expand media holdings. The approval represents one of the final major hurdles for the transaction.

Southern California is experiencing windy conditions, with gusts up to 60 miles per hour, particularly through mountain passes. Temperatures will be cooler, staying in the 60s with cloudy skies and a chance of rain. Desert areas will see strong west winds.