finance
Money talks; reviewing the global economy, government spending, taxes, and economic policy that affect our social and political future.
How Will the Finished 2 Line Impact Daily Commutes Across Lake Washington?. AI-Generated.
The long-awaited completion of the 2 Line light rail promises to significantly reshape daily commuting across Lake Washington, offering new travel options for thousands of residents in the Seattle–Eastside region. As the project moves closer to full operation, commuters, businesses, and city planners alike are assessing how the expanded transit line will change travel patterns, reduce congestion, and influence everyday life.
By Aarif Lashari15 days ago in The Swamp
Speculation Mounts: Japan to Buy Yen, Perhaps With US Help. AI-Generated.
Financial markets are abuzz with speculation that Japan may intervene to support the yen, potentially with coordination or assistance from the United States. The move would mark a rare but significant step in currency management, as Japan seeks to stabilize the yen amid volatility that has rattled investors and global trade.
By Aarif Lashari15 days ago in The Swamp
‘I Will Be Putting Families on the Dole’: Co Down Pub Owner Speaks of ‘Heartbreaking’ Rates Hike. AI-Generated.
A County Down pub owner has spoken out about the devastating impact of a sharp business rates increase, warning that the rise could force him to lay off staff and put families “on the dole.” His emotional comments have struck a chord with small business owners across Northern Ireland, many of whom say they are being pushed to the brink by rising costs and shrinking margins.
By Aarif Lashari15 days ago in The Swamp
Poundland Shuts 149 Stores, Cuts 2,200 Jobs and Refocuses on £1 Items. AI-Generated.
Discount retailer Poundland has announced a major restructuring plan that will see 149 stores close, around 2,200 jobs cut, and a renewed focus on its original £1 price point. The move marks one of the most significant shake-ups in the company’s history as it attempts to adapt to changing consumer habits and rising operational costs.
By Aarif Lashari15 days ago in The Swamp
Glenfarne Announces Major Phase One Alaska LNG Milestones. AI-Generated.
The Alaska LNG Project has long been on the horizon as one of the most ambitious energy infrastructure projects in North America. On January 23, 2026, Glenfarne Alaska LNG, LLC, the lead developer of the project, officially announced major milestones for Phase One of the project, signaling tangible progress after years of planning. This phase includes construction readiness, line pipe supply agreements, and in-state gas arrangements — all critical for delivering natural gas to Alaskans and eventually to global markets. Understanding the Alaska LNG Project Alaska’s North Slope is home to vast natural gas reserves, but bringing that gas to market is no small feat. The Alaska LNG Project aims to connect these reserves to both domestic and international consumers through a massive pipeline and liquefaction terminal. To manage risks and costs, Glenfarne has divided the project into two main phases: Phase One focuses on building a 739-mile, 42-inch pipeline stretching from the North Slope to Alaska’s domestic market. This phase prioritizes delivering natural gas to in-state consumers, including homes, businesses, and industrial users. Phase Two adds the liquefaction and export facilities, enabling Alaska to supply global markets with LNG. This phase targets delivering up to 20 million tonnes per year to international buyers. The company has set an ambitious timeline: mechanical completion of the pipeline is expected by 2028, with first gas deliveries starting in 2029. Key Milestones in Phase One Glenfarne’s announcement highlighted three major achievements: 1. Pipeline Construction Agreements A cornerstone of any mega-infrastructure project is securing reliable construction partners. Glenfarne has issued conditional awards to major construction contractors to build the pipeline. These awards follow a competitive bidding process and cover both the main pipeline and lateral lines, paving the way for physical construction once final agreements are signed. Locking in construction partners early is crucial for keeping schedules on track and mitigating cost risks. For Alaska LNG, it ensures that one of the biggest logistical challenges — building a pipeline across harsh and remote terrain — can move forward without delay. 2. Line Pipe Supply The pipeline will require about 700,000 metric tonnes of API 5L X70 steel pipe for the main route, with an additional 25,000 tonnes for lateral pipelines like the Point Thomson branch. Glenfarne has already secured two-thirds of these supply needs through preliminary agreements. Early procurement of line pipe is a major milestone because it reduces the risk of supply chain disruptions and keeps the project on schedule — especially important for a project of this scale that spans hundreds of miles in remote areas. 3. In-State Gas Supply Agreements A pipeline is only as valuable as the gas it delivers. Glenfarne has announced agreements with major North Slope producers, including ExxonMobil and Hilcorp Alaska LLC, to supply natural gas to the pipeline. Previous arrangements also include commitments from other local producers. These agreements ensure a steady supply of gas for Alaskan communities once Phase One is operational. Additionally, Glenfarne has signed a non-binding letter of intent with ENSTAR Natural Gas Company to deliver natural gas long-term to in-state consumers. This focus on local distribution addresses Alaska’s high energy costs and supports residential and industrial users alike. By prioritizing domestic energy delivery first, Alaska LNG demonstrates a commitment not just to profit, but to energy security and local benefits. Strategic Global Partnerships While Phase One focuses on in-state gas, Glenfarne is also preparing for future exports. Strategic partnerships have been formed to support Phase Two and eventual LNG shipments to international markets. Danaos Corporation, a Greek shipping company, has invested $50 million and will provide LNG carrier support for exports. Baker Hughes is providing critical equipment for the project. POSCO International is supplying steel and has signed initial LNG offtake commitments. These partnerships integrate construction, supply, and export logistics, demonstrating Glenfarne’s methodical approach to scaling Alaska LNG from a domestic infrastructure project to a global energy player. Why This Announcement Matters Glenfarne’s Phase One milestones represent real progress, not just planning or proposals. After years of delays in the global energy market and the complexities of building in Alaska’s remote regions, these milestones indicate that the project is moving from concept to execution. For Alaska, the impact could be transformative: Energy Security: Local communities will gain access to reliable natural gas, potentially lowering energy costs for homes and businesses. Economic Growth: Construction and operation of the pipeline will create thousands of jobs, boost local suppliers, and stimulate investment in the state. Global Market Position: While domestic supply is prioritized first, Phase Two will allow Alaska to compete in the global LNG market, diversifying revenue streams and increasing U.S. LNG exports. In essence, Phase One is both a critical step for Alaskan energy independence and a foundation for international market expansion. What’s Next for Phase One Looking ahead, Glenfarne will focus on several key objectives: Finalizing construction contracts with pipeline builders. Completing the procurement of line pipe and essential equipment. Securing regulatory and environmental approvals, including federal and state permits. Advancing gas supply agreements with additional producers and finalizing long-term in-state delivery contracts. Building strategic partnerships for exports, ensuring that Phase Two can follow smoothly once Phase One is operational. If these steps are successfully executed, Alaska LNG could become one of the most significant energy projects in North America, benefiting local communities while securing a place in the global LNG market. Conclusion Glenfarne’s announcement marks a pivotal moment for the Alaska LNG Project. The combination of construction readiness, line pipe agreements, and in-state gas supply deals shows that the project is no longer just an ambitious plan — it is actively moving toward execution. For Alaskans, this could mean cheaper, more reliable energy. For global markets, it signals future LNG supply from a stable, strategic source. And for Glenfarne, these milestones are the first step in realizing a multi-billion-dollar infrastructure vision that spans miles of pipeline, partnerships, and global ambitions. The next few years will be crucial as the project transitions from planning to action. But with these milestones, Alaska LNG has proven that ambitious energy projects can still succeed, even in the face of logistical, financial, and environmental challenges.
By Muhammad Hassan16 days ago in The Swamp
Global Allies in a US (Trump) Vs Iran Crisis Who Stands With Whom?”
As tensions between the United States and Iran escalate in early 2026, global leaders and analysts are weighing the potential fallout of an outright war. Around January 23, 2026, Iran’s clerics publicly warned that any U.S. military action would prompt retaliation targeting U.S. investments across the region. At the same time, the United States deployed a naval “armada” — including an aircraft carrier strike group — toward Iranian waters while publicly hoping to avoid direct conflict.
By USA daily update 16 days ago in The Swamp
Glenfarne Announces Major Phase One Alaska LNG Milestones, with Construction, Line Pipe Supply, and In-State Gas Agreements. AI-Generated.
Glenfarne Group has announced a series of major milestones for Phase One of the Alaska LNG project, marking a significant step forward for one of the most ambitious energy infrastructure developments in the United States. The company confirmed progress across construction planning, line pipe supply contracts, and in-state gas agreements, signaling growing momentum for a project long viewed as critical to Alaska’s energy future.
By Aarif Lashari16 days ago in The Swamp
British Retail Sales Jump as Online Jewellery Firms Offer Surprise Christmas Sparkle. AI-Generated.
British retail sales received an unexpected boost in December as online jewellery firms delivered a surprise Christmas sparkle, helping lift overall consumer spending during the crucial festive period. New data shows that while many traditional retail sectors continued to struggle with inflation and cautious shoppers, jewellery sales—particularly online—stood out as a rare success story.
By Aarif Lashari16 days ago in The Swamp
Royal Mail Warns Customers It May ‘Suspend Deliveries to Your Address’. AI-Generated.
Royal Mail has issued a warning to certain customers, indicating that it may temporarily suspend deliveries to specific addresses under certain circumstances. This announcement has raised concerns among residents and businesses alike, highlighting the challenges facing postal services in the UK amid rising operational pressures.
By Aarif Lashari16 days ago in The Swamp
The Australian Dollar Is (Oddly) Rising – What Does ‘Sell America’ Sentiment Have to Do With It?. AI-Generated.
The Australian dollar (AUD) has been on an unexpected upward trajectory, surprising economists, traders, and investors alike. While the AUD’s strength has typically been tied to domestic factors such as interest rates, commodity exports, and economic growth, recent market movements suggest that global sentiment, particularly towards the United States, is playing a surprising role. Analysts now point to a so-called “sell America” sentiment as a key driver behind the currency’s performance.
By Aarif Lashari16 days ago in The Swamp
Buy-to-Let Repossessions Jump More Than a Quarter, Lenders Reveal. AI-Generated.
The UK property market has witnessed a significant shift as buy-to-let repossessions have surged by over 25%, according to recent data from major lenders. This rise highlights the mounting pressures on landlords, changes in interest rates, and broader economic challenges affecting the property rental sector.
By Aarif Lashari16 days ago in The Swamp
Unethical Medical Practices: Nurse Carries Out Unnecessary Exams on Children. AI-Generated.
Introduction: In the world of healthcare, medical professionals are expected to uphold the highest standards of care and ethics. However, recent reports of a nurse performing unnecessary exams on children have raised serious concerns regarding medical malpractice, the abuse of trust, and the long-term implications for child health. These actions not only violate ethical guidelines but also compromise the integrity of the healthcare system. In this article, we explore the gravity of such practices, the potential reasons behind them, and the lasting consequences for both the affected children and the medical community as a whole.
By Ayesha Lashari16 days ago in The Swamp
