🚀 Supreme Court seemed skeptical of US tariff legality

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Year To Date Performances:

1. The U.S. Supreme Court appeared deeply skeptical of the legality of President Donald Trump’s sweeping global tariffs, with both conservative and liberal justices questioning whether he exceeded his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. Solicitor General D. John Sauer defended the tariffs as regulatory tools rather than taxes, but several justices, including Sonia Sotomayor and Neil Gorsuch, challenged that view, warning that Trump’s actions may have usurped Congress’s constitutional power to tax. The tariffs, which reach up to 50% on some imports, have generated a massive revenue surge but could force the government to refund up to $750 billion if struck down. Critics argue the tariffs hurt U.S. businesses and consumers, while Trump insists they protect American jobs and security. A decision in the case, seen as a major test of presidential power, is expected next year.

2. Tesla’s sales in Germany have plunged, with just 750 vehicles sold in October, less than half of last year’s figure, and total 2025 sales down 50% year-to-date, according to Germany’s federal transport authority. The decline comes even as overall EV sales in the country rose nearly 40%, highlighting Tesla’s growing struggles in Europe. Analysts point to Elon Musk’s polarizing political rhetoric, competition from cheaper European and Chinese EVs, and the phase-out of government subsidies as key factors. Tesla recently introduced a lower-cost Model Y at €39,990 in a bid to revive demand, but it remains unclear whether the move will offset its steep decline ahead of Germany’s new EV incentive program launching in 2026.

3. Starbucks Workers United has voted overwhelmingly to authorize an open-ended strike that could begin on Red Cup Day, one of the company’s busiest annual sales events. The union, representing more than 12,000 workers across 650 stores, is demanding better wages, hours, and the resolution of hundreds of unfair labor practice claims, after negotiations with Starbucks broke down last year. The strike threatens to disrupt Starbucks’ lucrative holiday season, during which the chain typically sees a surge in sales from its popular seasonal drinks and merchandise. Starbucks criticized the move, noting the union represents only about 4% of its workforce, and said it remains open to negotiations while continuing operations across its 18,000 stores. The action comes as new CEO Brian Niccol works to stabilize the company through a $1 billion restructuring and “Back to Starbucks” turnaround plan.

   Headlines

   1. Amazon is raising prices to cover the cost of tariffs.

   2. Westinghouse could be headed toward an IPO, with the US government as a shareholder, following Trump’s investment.