Japanese officials, led by Trade Minister Yoji Muto, visited Washington to advocate for tariff exemptions but were unsuccessful in securing any commitments from the Trump administration.

The 2-year Treasury yield has hit its lowest level since October amidst fears of a recession affecting the U.S. economy, following recent comments from President Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, while some experts believe concerns about a recession may be exaggerated.

The U.S. power grid saw the highest addition of solar energy capacity in over twenty years, as reported by the Solar Energy Industries Association. This announcement follows criticism from U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright and former President Donald Trump regarding the effectiveness and costs of renewable energy.

Volkswagen reports a 15% drop in annual operating profit for 2024 but expects revenue growth in 2025 despite facing challenges from tariffs and competition.

Southwest Airlines will begin charging customers to check bags, marking the first time in its history that it will impose such fees, a change influenced by activist shareholder Elliott Investment Management. Customers will have to pay for checked bags unless they hold elite status or have certain credit cards.