President Trump's intensified immigration enforcement in July 2025 saw a surprising decrease in ICE arrests by nearly 20%, despite efforts to increase them. Widespread protests against controversial raids and legal challenges restricted ICE's operations, particularly in Southern California. While arrests declined, deportations increased, highlighting the administration's shifting strategies amid logistical and legal obstacles.

Elon Musk's position as the world's richest man is in jeopardy due to an $80 billion drop in his net worth this year, primarily driven by Tesla's declining performance and a 20% stock price decrease in 2025. Despite shareholder approval of a large pay package, investor confidence has been shaken.

Apple is poised to announce a significant $100 billion expansion of its US investment, adding to its existing $500 billion commitment. This new pledge will bolster domestic manufacturing, create jobs, and foster technological innovation. The move aligns with the Trump administration's push for reshoring and aims to strengthen US leadership in key technologies like AI.

US stock market investors are bracing for a volatile August 2025, influenced by President Trump's trade policies. New import duties on goods from 69 countries take effect on August 7. The US-China trade truce expiration on August 12 could trigger renewed tariffs. Furthermore, the end of the 'de minimis' exemption on August 29 will impact e-commerce.

Donald Trump's proposal has heightened tensions between America and Taiwan. Trump wants tariff reductions tied to a major business deal. He proposes a 20% tariff on Taiwanese exports unless TSMC invests heavily in the U.S. This demand has alarmed Taiwan's business sector. Industry leaders fear a significant competitive disadvantage. The focus is on TSMC's role in reshaping the U.S.

In China, fourteen former Huawei employees faced sentencing for stealing chip technology. They used this technology to start a rival company, Zunpai. Zhang Kun, Zunpai's founder, allegedly encouraged the theft. A Shanghai court delivered jail sentences and financial penalties. The case highlights China's crackdown on corporate espionage. Huawei sued in August 2023, leading to arrests.

Mo Gawdat, ex-Google executive, predicts AI will cause job losses from 2027. White-collar workers will be affected more. He anticipates a tough 15-year period. AI's efficiency is unprecedented. Analysts, coders, lawyers may become redundant. Middle class will be most affected. He suggests Universal Basic Income and AI regulation. Experts warn of a 'white-collar bloodbath'. Inequality may rise without regulation.

Gold prices experienced a slight decrease due to a stronger U.S. dollar, despite remaining near a two-week high. Weakening U.S. economic data has increased expectations of a Federal Reserve rate cut, potentially supporting gold's appeal. Political uncertainty, including potential changes in Fed leadership and renewed tariff threats, further influences market sentiment, while other precious metals showed mixed performance.

California faces a potential energy crisis as Phillips 66 and Valero refineries plan to shut down by 2026, eliminating 17% of the state's refining capacity. Driven by stringent environmental regulations, these closures threaten to spike gasoline prices to over $8 per gallon and cause significant job losses. The move raises concerns about fuel security and economic stability in California.

Apple's iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are set to launch in September 2025, showcasing significant upgrades. These include enhanced display durability, a shift to an aluminum frame, and improved thermal management. The A19 Pro chip will power the devices, alongside major camera upgrades and increased RAM, aiming to redefine high-end smartphone performance.