Japan has announced a comprehensive $135 billion stimulus package aimed at alleviating financial burdens on households and boosting the economy. This marks a significant move by the Japanese government to address voter concerns over economic strain, underscoring the administration's prioritization of household welfare. Observers note Japan's proactive fiscal approach as a potential model for other nations facing similar economic challenges. World Street Journal (International)

Amidst economic uncertainty and rising costs, Walmart reported a 34% profit increase in its latest quarter, driven by consumers seeking affordable goods. The retailer also raised its annual sales forecast, reflecting confidence in its ability to attract a broad spectrum of shoppers, including higher-income households. Analysts highlight Walmart’s resilience as an indicator of broader consumer trends toward cost-saving measures in uncertain financial climates. bostonglobe.com

Verizon announced a significant layoff of over 13,000 employees, representing 20% of its management workforce. CEO Dan Schulman emphasized the need to streamline operations to improve customer experiences amidst rising competition in the telecommunications sector. Analysts suggest that this restructuring reflects broader economic pressures and the challenges traditional corporations face in adapting to market shifts. bostonglobe.com

A report highlighted that 12% of Massachusetts residents are burdened with medical debt, with vulnerable populations disproportionately affected. This issue, exacerbated by potential federal policy changes, underscores systemic inequalities in healthcare affordability. Policymakers face mounting pressure to address rising out-of-pocket costs and ensure broader insurance coverage amidst looming Medicaid cuts. bostonglobe.com

President Donald Trump unveiled a 28-point peace plan for the Ukraine-Russia conflict, which includes concessions such as Ukraine ceding territory to Russia and restrictions on NATO expansion. While the plan aims to end the war, it has drawn criticism for favoring Moscow’s interests and undermining Ukraine’s sovereignty. European leaders and Ukrainian officials express concerns over the plan's implications for international law and regional security. bostonglobe.com bostonglobe.com bostonglobe.com HuffPost

A high-profile meeting between President Trump and New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani took place, offering a platform for potential bipartisan discussions on affordability in NYC. Despite their stark ideological differences, the meeting underscored both leaders’ strategic use of adversarial narratives to galvanize their respective political bases. Analysts note the broader implications for federal-local cooperation under polarized leadership. bostonglobe.com

The Massachusetts Republican Party endorsed John Deaton for the U.S. Senate race, signaling a strategic move to consolidate party resources and launch an early general election campaign. Critics within the GOP argued the decision stifles competition, while supporters emphasized Deaton’s fundraising potential and ability to strengthen the beleaguered state party. bostonglobe.com

Researchers at the University of Stuttgart achieved a world-first in quantum teleportation, successfully transferring quantum states between photons from separate sources. This breakthrough could pave the way for a quantum internet, enhancing data security and network integrity. Experts emphasize the significance of utilizing existing fiber optic infrastructure for such advances, potentially accelerating practical applications. Science Alert

A newly developed compound, L10, has shown promising results in reversing Alzheimer’s symptoms in rats by targeting beta-amyloid plaques. Researchers highlight the compound’s affordability and potential for human trials, offering hope for a transformative treatment in tackling the disease’s root causes. Science Alert

The Trump administration’s plan to wind down the Education Department has sparked widespread concern among educators and policymakers. Critics argue the move risks bureaucratic inefficiencies and undermines federal support for vulnerable students, whereas proponents view it as a step toward reducing governmental overreach. The transition’s long-term impact on education policy and funding remains uncertain. bostonglobe.com