_{ECONOMIC UPDATES}
Impending Rent Hikes Threaten Efforts to Combat Inflation

The U.S. faced a housing shortfall of 4.5 million homes in 2022, up from 4.3 million in 2021, according to Zillow. This shortage has persisted since the Great Recession, driving up rents and home prices and making it difficult for workers to move for better jobs. Economists attribute the crisis to decades of under-building and restrictive zoning laws. In 2022, builders completed 1.4 million homes, falling short of the 1.8 million new families formed that year. As a result, 50% of renter households were "cost-burdened," paying over 30% of their income in rent. Experts stress that increasing home construction and revising zoning laws are essential to alleviate the shortage. Read More.

_{WORLD NEWS}

China Nears Readiness for Conflict with the West

While Russian forces advanced towards Kharkiv, world leaders met in Bürgenstock, Switzerland, to discuss a peace deal. Notably absent was Chinese President Xi Jinping, reflecting his lack of interest amid US plans to shift military focus to the Indo-Pacific to counter China's growing assertiveness. US Admiral Paparo intends to use advanced technology to disrupt any potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan. However, China is rapidly building its military capabilities. With Europe preoccupied by Russia's war in Ukraine and US resources stretched thin, China sees an opportunity for conquest. Xi's goal for the People's Liberation Army to be ready to invade Taiwan by 2027 coincides with geopolitical instability elsewhere. The burden on the US to support European defense while preparing for conflict in the Indo-Pacific is unsustainable. Europe must increase its defense contributions to prevent a potential global conflict. Read Now.