The U.S. labor market barely expanded in 2025, according to revised data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employers added just 181,000 jobs for the entire year—dramatically lower than the previously reported 584,000 and far below the 1.46 million jobs added in 2024. The revision followed updated state-level data that significantly altered the initial estimate.

The Breakdown:

• Major revision: 2025 job gains slashed from 584,000 to 181,000
• Sharp slowdown: 2024 saw more than eight times as many jobs added
• Bright spot: December hiring rose by 130,000—well above expectations
• Sector mix: Health care, social assistance, and construction gained jobs, while federal government and financial services shed roles

The Angle: The labor market didn't collapse—but it clearly cooled. With job growth slowing dramatically year over year, policymakers and investors alike will be watching closely for signs of stabilization in 2026.

Mother and Daughter Freed in France Crypto Kidnapping

A mother and daughter held captive in a cryptocurrency-linked kidnapping in France were rescued after a passerby alerted authorities. Police say the suspects targeted victims connected to digital assets, highlighting a rise in crypto-related crimes across Europe.

Two Arrested After Armed Robbery of Security Truck in Italy

Italian authorities arrested two suspects following an armed highway robbery targeting a security vehicle transporting cash. Investigators say the brazen daylight attack disrupted traffic and sparked a nationwide manhunt.

Epstein Scandal Strains Norway's Royal Family

Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit has apologized to members of the royal family over past connections to Jeffrey Epstein, as the controversy deepens. The scandal comes as her son faces separate criminal charges, and revelations from Epstein files continue to ripple across European elites.

A Cadillac Formula 1 Super Bowl commercial has sparked legal action from director Michael Bay, who alleges the automaker used creative elements that closely resembled his signature filmmaking style without authorization. The dispute is now unfolding in court as both sides prepare their arguments.

Meanwhile, Blake Garrett, known for his role in the family film How to Eat Fried Worms, has died at 33. The former child actor passed away on February 8, prompting an outpouring of condolences from fans who remember his early on-screen performance.

Your gut microbiome influences far more than digestion—it affects immunity, inflammation, mood, metabolism, and even hormone production. Research links an unhealthy microbiome to anxiety, low energy, weight gain, and chronic disease.

Support gut health with fiber-rich foods, fermented foods, diverse plant intake, adequate sleep, and stress management. Limit excessive sugar, alcohol, and seed oils. A healthy microbiome improves not only digestion, but also cognitive performance, immunity, and long-term health.

Success is easy to forget when you're busy. Documenting your weekly wins builds confidence, provides data for performance reviews, and keeps imposter syndrome in check. It's also a powerful motivation tool—progress fuels momentum.

Every Friday, write down 3–5 wins: completed tasks, solved problems, positive feedback, or learning moments. Review monthly to track growth. Over time, this log becomes a living record of your professional evolution.

Advanced search operators turn Google into a precision tool. Finding exactly what you need becomes effortless.

Pro Tip: Use quotes to search for exact phrases.

When to go: April-June and September-November offer ideal weather (60-75°F) without summer humidity or winter chill. Avoid July-August when beaches are mobbed and humidity brutal. October brings Busan International Film Festival. Getting there: Fly into Gimhae International Airport (PUS), then take the subway (40 minutes, $2) to city center. KTX high-speed train from Seoul takes 2.5 hours ($50)—scenic and efficient.

Budget: $80-150 daily for mid-range (accommodation, food, transit). Busan is cheaper than Seoul. T-Money card works on subway, buses, taxis. Must-do's: Jagalchi Market, Gamcheon Culture Village, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Gwangalli Beach at night, dwaeji gukbap. Pro tips: Download Papago translator app—English less common than Seoul. Learn "Annyeonghaseyo" (hello) and "Gamsahamnida" (thank you). Remove shoes entering homes, temples, some restaurants. Tipping not expected. Korail Pass good for multi-city trips. Busan rewards exploration—rent bikes along beach paths, hike coastal trails, eat at markets. This isn't Seoul's shadow; it's Korea's soulful coastal heartbeat where the ocean shapes everything from food to temperament.

That's your edge for today. Now go claim it.