Charles Libermant, autor en Wolkie talkie

The last-ever penny will be minted today in Philadelphia

Investments and Business

Historic Day: Final Penny Minted

After more than two centuries, the American penny will be retired, closing a 238-year chapter in the nation’s monetary history. The final coin is set to be minted today at the US Mint in Philadelphia, marking the end of an era.The last minting and the rationale behind its discontinuationThe last penny will be produced under the supervision of Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Treasurer Brandon Beach, following a directive from President Donald Trump earlier this year to halt production. The decision stems from the rising cost of manufacturing the coin—nearly four cents per penny—making it more expensive to produce than…

What role does the UN play in promoting corporate CSR?

By Charles Libermant

Social Responsibility

UN and Corporate Social Responsibility: What’s the Link?

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has evolved from a discretionary business practice into a fundamental component of global sustainable progress. Leading this transformation is the United Nations, whose diverse bodies, structures, and programs direct, stimulate, and occasionally accelerate corporate involvement in social, environmental, and ethical duties. This piece examines the crucial role the UN performs in defining, advancing, and integrating CSR worldwide, supported by comprehensive illustrations, statistics, and meticulously selected case studies.Understanding Corporate Social Responsibility within the United Nations FrameworkCSR in the context of the UN extends beyond philanthropy or compliance. It embodies the commitment of businesses to integrate human rights,…

Trump floats ,000 tariff rebate checks. What you need to know

By Charles Libermant

Investments and Business

Trump’s $2,000 Tariff Rebate Checks: Everything You Must Know

President Donald Trump is considering issuing $2,000 tariff rebate checks to Americans as a way to offset rising costs, a move that has drawn both attention and scrutiny.The proposal to issue $2,000 stimulus payments emerges as persistent inflationary forces continue to burden household finances throughout the United States. The Trump administration has characterized this initiative as a direct response to the escalating costs of essential commodities, a situation partially linked to duties imposed on imported goods. These payments are intended to offer prompt financial assistance, enabling families to manage the rising expenses associated with food, electronics, and various other consumer…

Trump’s drug pricing push sidelines Medicare negotiation program

By Charles Libermant

Health

The Impact of Trump’s Drug Pricing on Medicare Negotiation

In the growing debate over prescription drug prices in the United States, two competing approaches have emerged — one rooted in political dealmaking and the other in structured government policy. As attention turns to upcoming Medicare drug price negotiations, the tension between short-term agreements and long-term reform is becoming increasingly visible.Donald Trump, the former president, has recently drawn attention to a series of new agreements with pharmaceutical firms, designed to lower the prices of widely used weight loss and diabetes drugs, including Wegovy and Zepbound. He asserts that these voluntary arrangements will enhance the availability of these treatments for American…

Fearing vulnerability to China, Europe has a new worry: Electric buses

By Charles Libermant

Social Responsibility

Europe’s Electric Bus Concern: China Vulnerability

Growing concerns about technological dependence are reshaping Europe’s approach to public transportation and cybersecurity. What was once a quiet and efficient sector in Scandinavia is now at the center of a heated debate about national security and digital sovereignty.Growing concerns regarding Chinese-manufactured busesPublic transport providers in Denmark and Norway are facing a possible security vulnerability within their electric bus fleets, particularly in vehicles manufactured by Yutong, the globe's leading bus producer headquartered in Zhengzhou, China. The problem arises from the buses' capacity to accept remote software updates and perform diagnostic assessments – a functionality that, despite its technological sophistication, also…

United Nations Global Compact: Definition, Purpose, 10 Principles

By Charles Libermant

Social Responsibility

The UN’s Framework for Corporate Social Responsibility

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has transformed from a voluntary business approach to a critical pillar of sustainable development around the world. At the forefront of this evolution is the United Nations, whose various agencies, frameworks, and initiatives guide, encourage, and sometimes catalyze corporate engagement with social, environmental, and ethical responsibilities. This article explores the pivotal part the UN plays in shaping, promoting, and mainstreaming CSR globally, fortified with detailed examples, data, and expertly curated case studies.Understanding Corporate Social Responsibility within the United Nations FrameworkCSR in the context of the UN extends beyond philanthropy or compliance. It embodies the commitment of…

Affordability is in crisis. The solution: You’ll never own anything again

By Charles Libermant

Investments and Business

Crisis in Affordability: Preparing for a Future of No Ownership

Persistent inflation is putting a strain on American families, leading some to explore innovative methods for cost management—however, a significant number of these approaches exacerbate long-term financial obligations.The half-century mortgage propositionThe Trump administration's recent suggestion of a 50-year mortgage has rekindled discussions about extended borrowing periods. Bill Pulte, the head of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, described it as "a complete game changer" on social media. Although the concept might initially appear appealing due to reduced monthly installments, the financial ramifications over such an extended duration are considerably more intricate.A mortgage stretched over half a century could nearly double the…