Inflation in the United States cooled in January, with the consumer price index rising by 2.4% over the 12 months, the slowest pace since May, according to the Department of Labor. This easing, driven in part by falling prices for energy and used cars, could influence the Federal Reserve's interest rate decisions, as noted by some analysts.
The news comes as other developments unfold globally. In Cuba, fuel shortages are tightening their grip, leading to rationing and disruptions in public services, including long-haul flights, as a result of the US blockade. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates is leveraging artificial intelligence to streamline bureaucracy and expedite public services, showcasing its efforts at the World Governments Summit in Dubai.
The US inflation rate, down from 2.7% the previous month, has sparked debate about the central bank's next moves. Some analysts have cautioned that progress towards the Federal Reserve's 2% target could be hindered if companies pass on tariff costs or if labor shortages push up prices, according to BBC Business.
In the UAE, the government is actively implementing AI and related technologies to reform government services. Mohammed Bin Taliah, Chief of Government Services of the United Arab Emirates Government, told Euronews that the World Governments Summit in Dubai served as a platform for global dialogue on these advancements.
Simultaneously, Airbnb is expanding its use of AI in customer service. The company announced that its custom-built AI agent now handles roughly a third of its customer support issues in North America and is preparing for a global rollout. CEO Brian Chesky stated during the company's fourth-quarter earnings call that this initiative "is going to be massive" in terms of cost reduction and service quality.
Elsewhere, in Iran, an Iranian doctor, Yaser Rahmani-Rad, was reportedly arrested and detained after speaking out against the regime. He had accused security forces of arresting injured protesters inside hospitals, according to Sky News.
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