Local Business
Monday, July 20, 2026 · Cass County
Oil Prices Return to Pre-Conflict Levels as Middle East Tensions Ease
Crude oil prices have fallen back to their pre-conflict levels after a spike in February disrupted energy production and transportation across the Middle East. Analysts attribute the decline to resumed operations in the region.
U.S. Declines USMCA Renewal, Triggering Expiration Clock
The United States has informed Canada and Mexico it will not renew the USMCA trade agreement. This action starts a 10-year countdown to the pact's expiration. Negotiations to establish new trade terms are now underway.
Monday, July 20, 2026
Alan Greenspan, Former Federal Reserve Chair, Dies at 100
Alan Greenspan, who led the Federal Reserve for 18 years and wielded enormous influence over U.S. economic policy, died at age 100. His legacy remains contested, with critics pointing to his role in the events preceding the 2008 financial crisis.
Monday, July 20, 2026
Three barriers keep shipping out of Strait of Hormuz despite end to conflict
Shipping companies have not restored normal operations through the Strait of Hormuz following the conflict. Experts cite security risks, sea mines, and new toll requirements as the main obstacles to resuming full traffic.
Monday, July 20, 2026
Job Postings Featuring 'AI' in Titles Increase Significantly
Job board Indeed reports a substantial increase in job postings that include "AI" in their titles. The percentage of such listings tripled from 2022 to 2023, growing from less than 3% to more than 8%.
Monday, July 20, 2026
South Korean Tech Companies Plan $518 Billion Chip Investment
South Korea's largest technology companies announced plans to invest $518 billion in new semiconductor manufacturing facilities. Government officials said the nation has sufficient power and water resources to support the plants.
Monday, July 20, 2026
Tech Stocks Slide as Investors Question AI Investment Returns
Investors have begun selling AI-related stocks amid growing uncertainty about whether the billions spent on the technology will generate sufficient returns. The Nasdaq has experienced significant volatility as market participants reassess valuations.
Monday, July 20, 2026
Alan Greenspan, Former Federal Reserve Chairman, Dies at 100
Alan Greenspan, who led the Federal Reserve for nearly two decades and wielded enormous influence over U.S. monetary policy, died Monday from complications related to Parkinson's disease. His tenure coincided with extended economic expansion, though critics blamed his regulatory philosophy for contributing to the financial crisis.
Monday, July 20, 2026